AT&T is retiring the copper network that carries traditional landline phone service. It's happening area by area, not all at once, and AT&T says it expects to stop providing copper-based service across most of its footprint by the end of 2029. If you still have an AT&T landline, the date that applies to you is on the notice letter AT&T sends.
The timeline so far
| Date | What happened |
|---|---|
| October 15, 2025 | AT&T stopped accepting new orders, moves and changes for copper service in affected areas. |
| November 2025 | Customers in the next wave were told their service could be discontinued from November 15, 2026. |
| January 2026 | AT&T said it had FCC approval to start retiring more than 30% of its copper footprint, outside California. |
| July 2026 | The FCC approved AT&T's plan to end copper landline service in parts of California. |
| November 15, 2026 | Copper service for about 90,000 customers in parts of 18 states can be discontinued from this date. |
| End of 2029 | AT&T's target for ending copper service across most of its footprint. |
What replaces your landline
AT&T is offering affected customers a landline replacement service that runs on its newer networks, or a regular mobile line. You can also move your number to another provider, including a cable company's home phone service or an internet phone service. Do this before your cutoff date, because a number on a disconnected line can be lost.
Check these before the cutoff
- Alarm systems and medical alert devices that dial out over the phone line
- Fax machines
- Elevator emergency phones and building entry or gate systems
- Any second line you've forgotten is still active
Ask the company behind each device whether it works over a cellular or internet connection. Many alarm companies offer a cellular communicator for this.
Frequently asked questions
When will my AT&T landline be shut off? +
Can I keep my landline number? +
Will my home alarm still work? +
Keep reading
All guides
One email when a carrier raises rates, drops a plan, or launches a deal worth switching for. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Jean Gilles has researched personal finance, consumer technology, and wireless pricing for over a decade. He founded ShopCellPlans in 2019 and writes every review on the site.