Joining giffgaff: the step-by-step guide
1. Get a giffgaff SIM card
The only things you need to join giffgaff are an unlocked phone and a giffgaff SIM. You can order a Free SIM card online right now.
We now send out marvellous 3-in-1 SIMs that incorporate a standard SIM, micro SIM and nano SIM in one card. Pretty handy, right? Our SIMs are also now sent out First Class, so you should receive your free SIM in 2 business days from when you place your order.
2. Unlock your phone
If when you put a giffgaff SIM card in your phone and get an error message and no coverage sign, it's likely that your phone is locked to your previous network.
There are many different ways to unlock your phone, go to giffgaff's Unlockapedia to find out which one works best for you.
3. Make your first top-up when you activate your SIM
Got your SIM card and an unlocked phone? Now you need to activate your SIM online. You'll be asked to insert the code that's printed on your SIM card, create a username and you'll have to make your first top-up or goodybag purchase (£10 minimum).
You can top up using a credit/debit card online or use a top-up voucher online which can be purchased anywhere you see the logos below. More info on SIM activation.
Handy tip: Ask your local store for a giffgaff voucher. If they can't find it, an O2 top-up voucher will also work.
Making the most of giffgaff
Bring your existing phone number to giffgaff
Once you've activated your SIM, you can bring your existing phone number to giffgaff. It's a quick and simple transfer process. You first need to ask for a PAC code from the network you're leaving and then fill in our form to transfer your number.
More on transferring your number to giffgaffWays to top up at giffgaff
Remember: Your first top-up needs to be online in SIM activation (step 3 above).
Online credit/debit card top-up
You can use a credit/debit card to top up online or buy a goodybag. The minimum top-up is £10 and the maximum £30
Top-up by voucher
You can top up by a voucher and use it online or by dialling 43430. Note: only online voucher redemption is accepted on SIM activation (step 3).
Recurrence & auto top-up
Set your goodybag to recur each month, so it automatically renews itself. The easiest way to top up is to set up auto top-up. You'll be able to configure the amount you want to top up and maximum amount of top-ups per month.
Need help?
If we haven't solved your doubts on the process of joining giffgaff try asking the giffgaff community.
If you are having issues activating a SIM card, transferring your number or topping up, visit our support page to ask a giffgaff agent.
If you have already asked a question to an agent, check your inbox for their answers.