Can you buy a phone in US Cellular without buying a contract?

[Sweet Pea]

I lost my phone and now I need a replacement. I didn't have insurance on it because my dad thinks thats pointless..
Is it possible just to like, go in, buy a phone, and have them switch your number onto it?
I know you can bring in any old US cellular phone and they can switch your number and info to the phone you bring in.. but im not sure if you can buy one and have them do that without having to pay for the old/broke/lost one..

[lostigresfv]

you can buy a phone that will work in your provider.

[Mario]

you can buy a phone from retail stores some times they will have new ones bring your old one and ask them if they can flash it I did that with my chocolate lg touch because I had cricket and I didn't like any of their phones

[LadyGreenEyes]

With most phone companies, a contract is required only if they are offering a discount on the phone with one. If you are willing to pay full price, you would not need a contract. I would recommend insurance. It's far too easy to have one damaged/lost/stolen, and the replacement cost with insurance is far smaller than that of most phones. My husband disagreed, but I prevailed, and he was glad when he dropped his in the sink.)

[Leticia C]

Yes, for instance, you can buy a GO phone from Wal-Mart or Target and take it to _ _ & _ . They will give you a new SIM card and switch your account and number over to the new phone for you. You also can tell your dad to add a line to a Family plan. If he qualifies, you can get a new phone for the new service plan price or even one of the free ones that they offer in the store, and the phone bill will only increase by $10.
I know, my family has had to do it plenty of times...(: