The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, and broadband has become a necessity for many households. From streaming movies to working from home, the internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, work, and entertain ourselves. But for many customers, the thought of switching broadband providers can be daunting, mainly because of the fear of losing their email address.

Email addresses are an essential aspect of our digital identity. They are used to sign up for various services, communicate with friends and family, and even for job applications. Losing an email address can be a massive inconvenience, and for some, it can even be detrimental to their personal or professional life. Unfortunately, some internet providers delete linked email accounts when customers switch away, leaving many feeling like they have no option but to stay put.

Virgin Media, one of the leading broadband providers in the UK, is known to close email accounts within 90 days of a customer leaving the company. TalkTalk, on the other hand, gives customers 12 months before closing their email accounts. This practice can leave customers feeling trapped and unsure of their options. For some, it may even be the deciding factor in choosing not to switch providers, despite the potential cost savings.

According to a report by Uswitch, not switching broadband providers can cost customers £162 per year. This figure takes into account the savings that customers could make by switching to a better deal. It’s a significant amount of money that many households could benefit from, particularly in today’s economic climate.

So, what can customers do to avoid losing their email address when switching broadband providers? The best course of action is to consider using a third-party email provider such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook. These services are free and offer a range of features, including excellent spam filtering and cloud storage.

Before switching providers, it’s also crucial to check with the new company to see if they offer an email service. Some providers may offer a free email account as part of their broadband package. If this is the case, customers can transition to their new email address seamlessly.

In conclusion, while the fear of losing an email address may seem like a significant barrier to switching broadband providers, it should not be the deciding factor. With the availability of third-party email providers and the option of checking for email services with new providers, customers can take advantage of better deals and potentially save money. It’s time to break free from the fear and take control of our broadband and finances.