How to Activate a Prepaid Mobile

Prepaid mobile phones work differently then traditional cell phones with service contracts. When you buy a prepaid mobile phone, you will be given a sealed cell phone package that you must take home and activate through the wireless provider before using the device. The major wireless providers have made this a fairly straightforward and quick process.

How to Activate a Prepaid Mobile Phone with T-Mobile

• 1

  Place your thumb on the top of the back cover on the device and push upwards to remove the cover.

• 2

  Write down the IMEI number located next to the bar code on the inside of the device.

• 3

  Gently pop the SIM card out of the plastic holding case. Write down the SIM card serial number listed on the case.

• 4

  Insert the SIM card into the device by gently lifting the metal lever upwards and sliding the SIM card into the slot until you hear a click.

• 5

  Insert the battery by aligning up the exposed prongs on the battery with the exposed prongs on the inside of the device and pressing down firmly until you hear a click.

• 6

  Replace the back cover on the device and hold the "End" key down until the device powers up.

• 7

  Dial 1-877-778-2107 from a separate phone. Follow the automated prompts to enter in your IMEI number and serial number. Complete the call to activate your phone.

How to Activate a Prepaid Mobile Phone with AT&T

• 1

  Insert the SIM card into the SIM card slot located on the back of the device. Press the battery into the battery slot, and slide the back cover over the phone and press down to secure it into place. Press and hold the "End" key to power up the device.

• 2

  Log on to att.com/activations.

• 3

  Select your activation type from the list of options and press the "Next" icon to begin activating your phone.

• 4

  Enter in your wireless number, your verification method and your verification number in the appropriate text boxes and press the "Next" icon.

• 5

  Follow the prompts on the screen to activate your phone.

How to Activate a Prepaid Mobile Phone with Verizon

• 1

  Insert the battery into the battery slot on the back of the device. Press down gently until you hear a click.

• 2

  Slide the back cover over the battery and press down to secure the cover on to the device.

• 3

  Press and hold the "End" key to power on the device.

• 4

  Use the number pad on the cell phone to dial *22888 and press the "Send" key.

• 5

  Respond to the questions in the automated activation message by speaking into the phone or using the number pad. Complete the call to activate your phone.