Transferring domestic landline number owner

[22s]

Hi all,

My parents are moving area and for the last 30 years have had a BT line with a very distinctive local number.

I'm starting a new business and they've suggested that I take the number, which seems like a good idea.

So, I'd like to transfer into my name, then make it a virtual landline number through which I can receive calls directly to my mobile (I don't have an office landline and don't intend to get one any time soon, as the business involves lots of moving around).

As far as I can tell, the process is that I simply tell the virtual landline provider I want to 'port' the number, and they take care of the admin. However, I'm not sure it's that simple as the providers seem to be getting confused because the number 'belongs' to my dad, not me, but the virtual landline account would be in my name.

My questions are:

- Can I transfer a BT number into my name before porting it? If so, how?
- If I transfer the number to a virtual landline provider, does it still belong to me or will they then control the number? This is important in case I want to change provider at any point in future.

Thanks!

[Paul Drawmer]

Why not get your Dad to inform the landline provider that you are now responsible for the bill.

Then you become 'owner' of the number.

Then port it to wherever.

[akirk]

I ported a BT number to voipfone last summer - BT in my name, voipfone in the business name... from memory it was an easy process - give them a call, they are very helpful... if you and your father are both on the call, can’t see why there would be an issue...

I would stay away from letting BT complicate things, if you put it in your name they will probably make you liable for another year’s contract before you can port it!

[22s]

Thanks guys. I'll speak to the virtual providers again to see if they can do it.

Any ideas on how easy it is to transfer a number from a reputable virtual landline provider to another? I assume it's easy, but don't know if they tend to charge some sort of hideous fee if you want to keep your number when you leave.