Can I take VoIP service with me?

Posted by kent on December 29th, 2009

The following post in our Reader Question series is an actual user submitted question.

Q: I live in Florida for 6 months, and go home to Canada for 6 months. Can I take VoIP service with me?

A: Yes, you can. Once you sign up and have the equipment you can take it anywhere (anywhere you have a high speed connection, that is). You can even send VoIP equipment to a friend or relative overseas, so they can use it—even in countries that the VoIP provider doesn't directly sell too.

You should be aware that 911 calls work a bit differently than with regular phone service. When you set up your VoIP service, you register a physical address that emergency personnel will be directed to in case of emergency (assuming your municipality has the Enhanced 911 technology—not all areas of the country have it). If that's set up for Florida, and you dial 911 in Canada, direct responders would show up at your Florida address. In the case of Vonage, you should register a change of address using their website:

You must register with Vonage the physical location where you will utilize Vonage phone service (Service) for each phone line. Also note that if you move your device to another location, you must register your new location – it's easy – just log into the features section of your Online Account and follow the instructions.

Make sure to check with your specific VoIP provider to understand how 911 calling locations may affect you.