How do you reactivate a Total Wireless phone that was unused for months?
Answer
After a long idle period the old number is often released, so reactivation usually works by SIM or IMEI on Total Wireless activation or account support—not by trying to reload the former phone number.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not buy “unlock” or reactivation codes from unofficial sellers who contact you first.
Follow these steps
Collect the SIM and IMEI
Write down the ICCID from the SIM card or account paperwork and the IMEI from Settings > About phone, the SIM tray sticker, or *#06#.
You should see: You have the identifiers Total Wireless needs when the old phone number is no longer valid.
Sign in on the official Total Wireless site
Open the official Total Wireless website or app and sign in with the account email or phone login you still control. Avoid random search-ad links.
You should see: You reach your account, activation, or support area on the official service.
Start activation with SIM or IMEI
Choose activate or bring-your-own-device style reactivation and enter the SIM ICCID or IMEI instead of forcing the old phone number.
You should see: The system accepts the device identifiers and continues activation, possibly assigning a new number.
Restart the phone and test service
After activation finishes, restart the phone, confirm mobile data and calls work, and only then add a plan or credits to the active line.
You should see: No Service clears and you can place a test call or send a test text.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A No Service status, failed top-ups tied to the old number, and whether Total Wireless activation asks for SIM or IMEI instead of the previous phone number.
Before you change anything: Find the SIM card number (ICCID) and the phone’s IMEI from the SIM tray, Settings About screen, or the *#06# code if your phone supports it. Have the account PIN or email used for Total Wireless ready. Confirm you are on the official Total Wireless site or app. Never share account passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers.