How do I unlock an AT&T iPhone to use with another carrier?
Answer
AT&T usually unlocks a phone only after it is paid off, not reported lost or stolen, and on an account in good standing. Closing the AT&T account is a separate action and does not by itself unlock the phone.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Avoid third-party unlock sites that ask for payment or remote access; use AT&T’s official process.
Follow these steps
Check the current carrier lock status
On the iPhone, open Settings > General > About and look for Carrier Lock. Note whether it says No SIM restrictions or that a SIM restriction is present.
You should see: You know whether the phone already appears unlocked on the device.
Confirm AT&T unlock eligibility
Sign in to the official AT&T unlock or device tools page, or contact AT&T support, and check that the phone is paid off, not blacklisted, and eligible under AT&T’s unlock policy.
You should see: AT&T confirms whether the phone can be unlocked now or what is still blocking it.
Request the unlock before closing the account
Submit AT&T’s unlock request and wait for the confirmation. Keep the AT&T SIM in the phone and restart after AT&T says the unlock is complete.
You should see: AT&T sends unlock confirmation and Carrier Lock later shows No SIM restrictions.
Handle account closing separately
Only after unlock confirmation, schedule or complete closing or transferring the AT&T line if that is still needed. Port the number first if you want to keep it.
You should see: The phone remains usable and the account change follows the unlock in the right order.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether Settings > General > About shows Carrier Lock as No SIM restrictions, or whether AT&T still lists the phone as locked.
Before you change anything: Confirm the phone is fully paid off and not reported lost or stolen. Have the IMEI ready from Settings > General > About. Keep active service on the phone until AT&T confirms the unlock when possible. Do not share account passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers.