You might not be too keen on the unexpected charge and may decide to switch on principle alone, or due to the very real possibility of future price increases. Transitioning to a "free" email isn't entirely cost-free at the outset, as there's quite a bit involved in switching emails. If you're comfortable handling it yourself, here are the three steps you'll need to take:

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Step One: Register with a New (and free) Email Service Provider

Visit Google, Hotmail, Outlook, or another email service of your choice, and sign up for a plan. Ensure accuracy when entering your information, and opt for two-factor authentication. Choose a password that's sufficiently secure, preferably a lengthy phrase. You can check its security status on websites like https://haveibeenpwned.com/Passwords. Once registered, notify your contacts of your new email address and request them to update their records accordingly.

Step Two: Transfer Your Old Emails to the New System

Transferring old emails can be complex, depending on your setup. If using an email client, consider archiving old emails for reference, but note that replying to them won't be possible. Setting up the new email address on your email client and copying emails over is typically the process. This switch to a cloud-based system like Gmail offers added security.

Step Three: Update Associated Websites

Many websites may be linked to your old email address for login purposes. Updating these to your new address is crucial to maintaining access. Compile a list of frequently visited sites, sign in, and change the email address associated with each. Some sites may require confirmation through your old email. If you're using Xtra Mail, remember to cancel the service to avoid further charges, either online or by contacting them directly.

If handling this seems overwhelming, Computer Help NZ is available to assist with any or all of these steps, offering tiered pricing to suit your needs. Contact us today for more information.