Skype-Shuts-Down-Today,-But-What-Happens-to-Your-Contacts-and-CreditSkype Numbers Can Still Be Saved—But Only If You Port Them to a Third-Party Provider Before Time Runs Out

 

Microsoft is officially retiring Skype today, closing a major chapter in digital communication history. Once a pioneer in voice and video calling, Skype now makes way for Microsoft Teams, a platform the tech giant considers better suited for modern communication needs.

This shift impacts everything tied to the Skype service, especially Skype Numbers and Skype Credit.

 

End of the Line for Skype Numbers

 

All active Skype Numbers will remain usable only until their current billing cycle ends. Microsoft will not renew or allow any new purchases. Users won’t find an option to reactivate expired numbers or shift them into Microsoft Teams. Once expired, these numbers vanish entirely from Microsoft’s ecosystem.

 

Porting Numbers to Third-Party Providers

 

There’s a small window to keep these numbers alive through third-party service providers. Microsoft has confirmed that porting Skype Numbers to other carriers remains possible. But this must be done directly with the new provider.

 

Skype Credit Usage and Restrictions: Topping Up Is No Longer Possible

 

The shutdown also impacts Skype Credit. Any remaining balance can still be used, but only for a short time. Users with credit in their account may place outbound calls through the Skype web portal or within Microsoft Teams Free, using the familiar Skype Dial Pad. These features remain open only to paid accounts.

However, from today onward, no one can top up their Skype Credit or buy more. Microsoft disabled all auto-recharge features on April 3. Once the existing balance runs out, it's gone for good.

 

Refunds Only Under Specific Conditions

 

Microsoft does mention a chance for refunds, but only under specific conditions. These include cases where access is lost or consumer laws mandate compensation. Refunds do not happen automatically. Requests must go through Microsoft Support.

 

Discontinued Features and Services

 

SMS features, call forwarding, and the option to gift Skype Credit are no longer available. Microsoft has removed all such tools to streamline the Skype-to-Teams transition.

 

Switching To Microsoft Teams Free

 

During this shutdown, one vital choice is still timely available: Skype users will still be able to sign into Microsoft Teams Free using their old login. Contacts and chats will migrate from Skype directly onto Teams. Users also have the option to export their Skype data—chat logs, contact lists, and settings—until January 2026.

 

Skype's Legacy Ends as Teams Takes Over

 

Skype's retirement underlines a clear message from Microsoft. Teams is now the centerpiece for communication, and Skype's chapter ends here. Users still holding on to Skype Credit or an active Skype Number should act fast before access vanishes completely.