what if my carrier says my imei doesnt match the device but i have the same imei on box and in phone

Instead of a “what if”, I suggest you provide your precise scenario l Here’s an example:

”I purchased my iPhone new from ... . I had it locked to (this carrier). I pre-registered this device, supplying my mobile telephone number and billing information when I ordered it. The iPhone arrived today. I used the SIM enclosed in the iPhone, and at activation time, I saw the following message:”

Well, perhaps the carrier he did use (originally) may be able to help.

So was your husband using AT&T as his cellular carrier? You said “not on any contract”. What carrier was this iPhone associated with when it was new?