Thinking of leaving TalkTalk? Here’s what to check first

If you’re a TalkTalk customer, you’ve probably seen the big news that BT is buying the company. For now, nothing changes: TalkTalk customers have been told they don’t need to do anything while the deal goes through a regulatory review, and your broadband and landline should carry on as normal.

But if the news has prompted you to review your broadband options, that’s a fair question to ask. Before you make any decisions, here are the 3 things worth checking first.

1. Your contract end date

This is the single most useful thing to find out, because it tells you whether you’re free to go now or whether leaving would cost you.

You’ll usually find your end date on your latest bill, in your online account or in the TalkTalk app. Look for the “minimum term” or “contract end” date. If you’re already out of contract, you can switch whenever you like.

If you’re nearing the end, Ofcom rules require providers to tell you before your contract finishes and what deals are available. That’s a good moment to compare your options, so keep an eye out for that message.

2. Exit fees

If you’re still in contract, leaving early can mean paying early termination charges. Different providers calculate these charges in different ways, so it’s worth checking directly with your provider to understand what would apply in your situation. As a starting point, it’s worth looking at:

• how many months remain on your contract

• what you’d be charged for each of them

• whether any equipment charges or discounts apply

Speak to your current provider and then compare it with what you’d save by switching.

3. Your phone line and landline number

Many people forget this one until the last minute.

• Do you actually use your landline? If not, you may not need to replace it.

• Do you want to keep your number? In most cases you can keep it when you switch. Ask before you cancel anything.