Activating a PAYG sim and setting up an account.

[Anonymous]

I have received my O2 PAYG sim and need to :

1. Activate it - I believe this has to be done for a new sim by buying a token from an O2 shop (or other facility) - which seems a bit of a unique and restrictive requirement.

2. Register an account so I can do future top ups for the sim on line.

As setting up of an account requires the sending of a code by text to the number entered, would I be right that this cannot be done until I make my first top up - or is there another way of doing it.

I live out in the sticks and will not be near a facility to obtain a voucher for another few days - hence my question.

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

Yes, that is the correct process which should all be outlined on the sim packaging.
You may also be able to call 4444 to top up but usually the first top up requires a voucher.
https://community.o2.co.uk/t5/Pay-Monthly-Pay-and-Go/How-can-I-pay-my-bill/ba-p/1014090

[Anonymous]

Thanks MI5.

I had seen the link you refer to, but was hoping someone may have an alternative method so I didn't have to make a special trip to the town or wait until next time we visit town - which may be after the weekend.

Thanks again.

[MI5]

Try 4444 first - it does work sometimes.

[Anonymous]

Will do

Thanks

[Cleoriff]

Was working fine yesterday. I topped up my sons mobile

[jonsie]

The sim should receive texts before you top up. 

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone.

I walked the dog this morning and whilst out passed through a decent signal area - and the text with the sign up code arrived - so all sorted.

I do have one other question though.

On the sim card leaflet it states costs for calls in the UK as being 5p/min, but when I look at roaming charges for Europe (Say Spain) it says calls to the UK are 4p/min.

Assuming this is correct it is puzzling as to why roaming is cheaper than home calls.

Does anyone: 

- know why this is ?

- think this will change in June when new EU roaming contol comes in to play? 

[jonsie]

It's an anomaly that been apparent since the EU reduced calls and texts a couple of years ago, but yes, expect changes again this summer. 

[Anonymous]

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@jonsie wrote:

It's an anomaly that been apparent since the EU reduced calls and texts a couple of years ago, but yes, expect changes again this summer. 

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Hopefully not up - one of the factors considered for deciding to use O2 was the low roaming rate without restrictions.