Title: Does the Activation Date on a SIM Card Packet Matter After Insertion?

Question:
Does the “must activate by” date on a SIM card packet affect when I need to top up after inserting the SIM?

Background:
I know O2 requires a chargeable call or top-up every 6 months to keep the number active. However, does this requirement relate to the “must activate by” date printed on the SIM card packet?

Here’s my scenario:

1. Example 1: My SIM card states “must activate by 1st February 2025.”

• If I insert the SIM on 1st June 2024 and receive the “Welcome to O2” message, do I need to top up by 1st December 2024 (6 months after activation) or am I fine until 1st February 2025?

1. Example 2: If I insert the SIM on 1st January 2025, do I only have a month to top up (before the activation deadline) or does the 6-month countdown start from the date of insertion (giving me until 1st July 2025)?

Simple Answer:
The 6-month rule starts from the date of activation (when you insert the SIM and receive the welcome message). The “must activate by” date becomes irrelevant once the SIM is activated.

Detailed Explanation:
In your scenarios:

1. Example 1:

• If you insert the SIM on 1st June 2024, the countdown begins on that day. You must top up or make a chargeable call by 1st December 2024 (6 months after activation).

1. Example 2:

• If you insert the SIM on 1st January 2025, the 6-month countdown starts from that date. You’ll need to top up or make a chargeable call by 1st July 2025.

The “must activate by” date only matters if you haven’t yet inserted the SIM by that deadline. Once you insert and activate the SIM, the activation date overrides the printed deadline.

Key Takeaway:
The 6-month rule always starts from the activation date, not the “must activate by” date. Ensure you insert and activate the SIM before the printed deadline to avoid issues.