Portability of Telephone Numbers in the VI

Yes.

I had my personal landline phone number ported from Innovative to AT&T last year with almost no problem when I switched to AT&T's WHP (Wireless Home Phone). AT&T handled the paperwork, and I just had to sign.

The only problem was: No Innovative customers could call me after that. It would say: "The number you have reached is not in service, please check and dial again," then a busy signal. Innovative said it was AT&T's fault, and vice versa. It turned out to be Innovative's fault. Who would've guessed, right?!

AT&T's WHP is OK. It's only $20/month and includes unlimited nationwide calling (incl. PR, USVI, Guam), voice mail, caller ID and call forwarding. Since it is cell-phone based, you can take the number with you when you move, even to the states, I assume. But the voice quality is not great, and sometimes incoming calls are lost (making the caller think the number is dead), or they go straight to voicemail.

This is great information and thanks for responding.

Interestingly, I reached out to BBVI about telephone options this morning and someone called me shortly thereafter. He suggested that BBVI was working with a provider in the states to offer voice services but the big issue was local number portability.

He went on to say that Innovative is refusing to give up 340 numbers and this is the main stumbling block to them offering voice services.

Are you happy with it now and did they get the issue with Innovative customers not being able to call you straightened out?
I've been considering switching but not if these are the issues.

Isn't it illegal for innovative not to allow 340 numbers to be switched?

We switched to the ATT Home. Works pretty good. Even with our sometimes spotty cell service. Innovative has to "release" your number before you get those incoming calls. ATT said it could take a week or 2. The next day it had been released. Like Bob said, (we asked), you can take this device anywhere ATT works and have your number. Just like taking your cell phone. The "answering machine" built in leaves a bit to be desired but we are happy with it so far.

When BBVI offers phone service, it would be VOIP, where the ATT service is strictly over cell.

Sorry for stupid question but what's the difference?
Y'all know by now I'm not the slightest bit tech savvy, tho I can cut and paste with the best of them!;)

Are you happy with it now and did they get the issue with Innovative customers not being able to call you straightened out?
I've been considering switching but not if these are the issues.

I'm happy enough with AT&T's WHP. The low cost makes up for the not-so-great voice quality and the sometimes lost incoming calls. If I used the phone more, especially for business, I'd look for something better, even if it cost more.

When BBVI offers phone service, it would be VOIP, where the ATT service is strictly over cell.

Sorry for stupid question but what's the difference?

(I hope I'm connecting the relevant text)

VOIP = Voice Over Internet Protocol. It's phone calls (like Skype) over an Internet connection (however you get Internet: cable, DSL, EVO, WiFi/BBVI, possibly over a cell signal)

Cell = Cell/mobile/wireless signal

Thank you.

Isn't it illegal for innovative not to allow 340 numbers to be switched?

Yes it puts them in violation of federal law. The issue goes back as far as Ackley Communication days when they were trying to do a local phone company to compete with Innovative. I dont remember what year, but number portability rule is federal. Innovative for several years made excuses to PSC about why they couldnt do it blah blah blah. They were eventually forced by PSC to comply with they have, kinda. AT&T has had the best luck of any getting numbers switched in a timely fashion, then again Innovative doesnt like to mess with them. This is something that PSC has needed to look into for longest, as it is just a attempt by Innovative to continue their monopoly.

I has no problem keeping my number on a Sprint home system. My mother also had no problem keeping her STX home number and transferring it to a stateside cellular plan.