how can i check to see if my old cell phone will work on the new networks?

Answer 1

Actually your best bet is this: Providers slap their brand on the phones they sell depending on where you or the original purchaser got it. Call that provider. I work for VZW and can tell you based on the model number (and if it has our brand on it) if it is compatible. Even if it doesn't you can still try me...

Good luck.

Answer 2

Take your phone to the cellphone provider you want to use and ask if your model is compatible. Or call their customer service. More than likely you will need an unlock code which you can get for free on the net, just Google "Nokia unlock codes" or whatever model your phone is. Then you will need to purchase a SIM card for your phone - which you can probably talk customer service into sending you for free, or crediting what you paid for it to your account.
If you are on the same service you had with the old cell phone, you just need to call in your serial numbers and SIM card number and they will activate it.