Ever stared at your Verizon bill and thought, "Do I really need this many lines?" Or perhaps you're switching carriers, moving a number to a family member, or simply want to simplify your mobile life. Releasing a number from your Verizon account might sound daunting, but don't worry, it's a perfectly manageable process! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth transition.
Ready to take control of your Verizon lines? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand Your Goal – Are You Transferring, Disconnecting, or Releasing to Another Verizon Account?
Before you do anything, it's crucial to identify why you want to release the number. This will dictate the specific path you need to take.
-
A. Transferring to a New Carrier (Porting Out): This is the most common scenario. You want to keep your current Verizon number but use it with a different mobile provider (e.g., AT&T, T-Mobile, Mint Mobile). This is called "porting out."
-
B. Disconnecting a Line (No Longer Need the Number): You no longer need the phone number at all. You want to cancel service for that specific line and aren't concerned about keeping the number.
-
C. Transferring to Another Verizon Account (Transfer of Service): You want to give ownership of a specific line (and its number) to another Verizon customer. This is common for family plans or transferring responsibility.
Each of these scenarios has a slightly different process. Let's explore them in detail!
 |
| How Do I Release A Number From My Verizon Account |
Step 2: Gathering Your Essential Information (Crucial for a Smooth Process!)
Regardless of your goal, having the right information readily available will save you a lot of time and potential headaches.
-
A. Your Verizon Account Number: This is a unique identifier for your entire account. You can find it on your Verizon bill, by logging into your My Verizon online account, or by contacting Verizon customer service.
-
B. Your Account PIN or Last Four Digits of Account Owner's SSN: This is for verification purposes. The account PIN is typically set up when you create your account.
-
C. The Specific Phone Number(s) You Want to Release: Double-check these numbers to ensure accuracy.
-
D. Account Owner's Name: Only the account owner or an authorized account manager can initiate most of these changes.
-
E. Billing Address Associated with Your Verizon Account: This is another common verification point.
It's highly recommended to have these details written down and easily accessible before proceeding.
Step 3: Specific Steps for Each Scenario
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to release your number based on your objective.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
Sub-heading: Scenario A: Transferring Your Number to a New Carrier (Porting Out)
This is a multi-step process that primarily involves your new carrier. Do NOT cancel your Verizon service before the transfer is complete! Doing so could cause you to lose your number.
-
Generate Your Number Transfer PIN (NTP):
-
Why you need it: This is a special, temporary PIN that Verizon requires to authorize the transfer of your number to another carrier. It's a security measure to prevent unauthorized port-outs.
-
How to get it:
-
Dial #PORT (7678) from the phone you wish to port. You will receive a text message with a link. Clicking this link will direct you to the My Verizon app (you might need to download it if you don't have it) where you can generate the PIN.
-
Through the My Verizon App: Open the My Verizon app, navigate to the "Account" or "My Profile" section, look for options related to "Transfer Number" or "Number Transfer PIN," and select "Create Your Number Transfer PIN."
-
Through the My Verizon Website: Log in to your My Verizon account on a computer. Go to your account profile or settings, look for options like "My Devices" or "Manage Numbers," and then find "Generate PIN" or "Number Transfer PIN."
-
-
Important Note: Your Number Transfer PIN is usually valid for 7 days. Generate it when you are ready to initiate the porting process with your new carrier.
-
Also, ensure "Number Lock" is disabled on your line. This is a feature designed to prevent unauthorized port-outs. You can usually disable it in the My Verizon app or website under "Security" or by calling *611.
-
-
Contact Your New Carrier:
-
This is the most important step in the porting process. Your new carrier will initiate the transfer on their end.
-
Provide them with your Verizon Account Number and the Number Transfer PIN you just generated.
-
Inform them of the exact phone number(s) you wish to transfer.
-
They will guide you through their sign-up process and collect any other necessary information (like your name, billing address, and last four digits of your SSN).
-
-
Wait for the Porting Process to Complete:
-
The transfer typically takes 1-3 business days for mobile numbers. Landline or VoIP numbers can take longer (7-10 business days).
-
Do not cancel your Verizon account or line yourself! Your new carrier will communicate with Verizon to complete the transfer and automatically disconnect your line from Verizon once the porting is successful.
-
You will usually receive a notification from your new carrier once the transfer is complete.
-
-
Confirm and Test:
-
Once you receive confirmation, test your number thoroughly. Make calls, send texts, and receive calls/texts to ensure everything is working correctly with your new carrier.
-
Only after confirming successful porting should you address any remaining Verizon account aspects, such as final bills or returning equipment.
-
Sub-heading: Scenario B: Disconnecting a Line (Not Transferring the Number)
If you simply want to stop service for a line and don't care about keeping the number, this process is more direct.
-
Consider Contractual Obligations and Device Payments:
-
Important: Before disconnecting, be aware of any Early Termination Fees (ETFs) if your line is under contract and the term hasn't been completed.
-
You will also need to pay off any remaining device payment balances associated with that line. Verizon will bill you for these outstanding balances on your final statement.
-
If you're disconnecting all lines, also consider any connected devices (smartwatches, tablets, hotspots) that might incur separate charges.
-
-
Contact Verizon Customer Service:
-
This is generally the most reliable way to disconnect a line.
-
*Call 1-800-922-0204 (or dial 611 from your Verizon phone).
-
Be prepared to provide your account owner's name, the phone number you wish to disconnect, and your account PIN or the last four digits of the account owner's SSN.
-
Be prepared for retention efforts. Verizon representatives may offer incentives to keep you as a customer. Be firm but polite in your decision to disconnect.
-
Request a cancellation ticket number for your records.
-
-
Online via My Verizon (Limited Options):
-
You might be able to initiate a disconnection online for certain lines.
-
Log in to My Verizon and look for a "Disconnect Service" page or a "Chat with us" option where you can type "Cancel" into the question box.
-
Follow the prompts. However, for a complete disconnection, especially with multiple lines or complex scenarios, a phone call is often required.
-
-
Final Bill and Equipment Return:
-
Your disconnection is typically effective on the last day of your current billing period. You've already paid for the full month of service.
-
You will receive a final bill that includes any prorated charges, outstanding device payments, or ETFs.
-
If you're renting any equipment (e.g., Fios router, cable boxes if applicable to your combined services), you must return it within 30 days to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
-
Sub-heading: Scenario C: Transferring to Another Verizon Account (Transfer of Service)
This process allows you to transfer billing responsibility for a line to another Verizon customer. Both the current account owner and the new account owner need to participate.
-
Eligibility Requirements:
-
The new account holder must be 18 or older (19 in Alabama).
-
They must pass a soft credit check.
-
They must be eligible to assume any device payment agreements on the line.
-
Existing Verizon customers assuming a line must be an account owner or manager on their own account.
-
The line being transferred must have been active on the account for at least 30 days (5 days for Business accounts).
-
Both accounts must be up-to-date on payments.
-
-
Initiating the Transfer (Relinquishing Party):
-
Via My Verizon Website: Log in, navigate to "Manage" > "Account" > "Transfer Service." Select the option to "Relinquish line." You'll enter the first name, last name, and email address of the new customer.
-
Via My Verizon App: From the "Account" tab, go to "Devices," select the mobile number, and tap "Transfer your service." Follow the prompts to start a new transfer.
-
An email with instructions will be sent to the person assuming responsibility for the line.
-
-
Accepting the Transfer (Assuming Party):
-
The new account holder will receive an email from Verizon with instructions to complete the transfer.
-
They will need to accept the terms and conditions, select a plan for the transferred line, and provide any necessary personal information.
-
They might need to log in to their My Verizon account or call Verizon Customer Service (800-922-0204) to complete their portion.
-
-
Completion and Billing:
-
The transfer request is active for 15 days. If not completed within this time, it will be automatically canceled, and a new request must be submitted.
-
Once completed, prorated credits or charges may appear on both parties' next bills. The new account holder will assume responsibility for all future charges, including any remaining device payments on the line.
-
Step 4: Important Considerations & Potential Roadblocks
Even with a step-by-step guide, some situations can complicate the process. Be aware of these:
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
-
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): As mentioned, if you're canceling a line before its contract term is up, you'll likely face an ETF. Always check your contract details.
-
Outstanding Device Payments: Any device payment agreements must be paid off or transferred (if applicable) when a line is released.
-
Number Lock Feature: This security feature on Verizon accounts prevents unauthorized port-outs. If enabled, you must disable it before porting a number. You can usually do this in My Verizon or by dialing *611.
-
Account Owner vs. Account Manager: Only the account owner or an authorized account manager can make significant changes like releasing or transferring lines. If you're not the account owner, you'll need their involvement or authorization.
-
Disconnected Numbers: If a number has already been disconnected for a period of time, it might not be possible to port it. Active numbers are required for porting.
-
Fraud Prevention: Verizon employs measures to prevent unauthorized number transfers. If you receive a text about a transfer you didn't initiate, contact Verizon immediately by dialing *611 or 1-800-922-0204.
-
Waiting Periods: Sometimes, there might be brief waiting periods, especially after disabling "Number Lock" (e.g., 15 minutes for prepaid accounts).
-
Multiple Lines: If you're releasing multiple lines, ensure you specify each one correctly to your new carrier or Verizon.
Step 5: What Happens After You Release a Number?
-
Final Bill: You will receive a final bill from Verizon, usually at the end of your billing cycle. This will include any remaining charges, prorated service fees, outstanding device payments, or ETFs.
-
Account Closure (if applicable): If you've ported out all your lines, your Verizon account should close automatically once the last line is successfully transferred. If you disconnected all lines without porting, you might need to confirm the account closure.
-
Equipment Returns: If you had any rented equipment (e.g., Fios routers), ensure you return them within Verizon's specified timeframe (typically 30 days) to avoid charges.
-
Unlinking Accounts: Remember to unlink the released number from any online accounts or services that use it for authentication (e.g., banking, social media). Verizon recommends doing this within 45 days after a number is disconnected.
-
Security Deposits: If you paid a security deposit, allow 30-60 days for its return after your account is fully closed.
By following these detailed steps and understanding the nuances of each scenario, you can confidently navigate the process of releasing a number from your Verizon account. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to releasing a number from Verizon, with quick answers:
How to get my Verizon Number Transfer PIN?
Dial #PORT (7678) from the phone you want to port, use the My Verizon app, or log in to the My Verizon website and look for the "Number Transfer PIN" option in your account settings.
How to transfer my Verizon number to a new carrier?
First, get your Number Transfer PIN from Verizon. Then, provide your Verizon Account Number and this PIN to your new carrier, who will initiate the porting process. Do NOT cancel your Verizon service until the transfer is complete.
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
How to cancel a single line on my Verizon account?
Call Verizon Customer Service at 1-800-922-0204 (or *611 from your Verizon phone). Be prepared to pay any outstanding device balances or early termination fees.
How to avoid losing my number when leaving Verizon?
To keep your number, you must port it to a new carrier. Do not disconnect your Verizon service before the new carrier has successfully transferred your number.
How to find my Verizon account number?
Your Verizon account number can be found on your monthly bill, by logging into your My Verizon online account, or by contacting Verizon customer service.
How to disable Number Lock on my Verizon account?
You can disable Number Lock through the My Verizon app or website in the "Security" section, or by dialing *611 from your Verizon phone. This must be done before porting a number.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
How to transfer a line to another person on a Verizon account?
This is a "Transfer of Service." The current account owner initiates the transfer through My Verizon, providing the new recipient's details. The new recipient then accepts responsibility for the line.
How to know if I have an Early Termination Fee (ETF) from Verizon?
Check your original contract terms or contact Verizon customer service directly. ETFs typically apply if you cancel a line before its contract term is complete.
How to return equipment to Verizon after canceling service?
Verizon typically sends instructions on how to return rented equipment (like routers). You usually need to return it within 30 days to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
How to get my final bill from Verizon after releasing a number?
Verizon will send your final bill to your registered billing address or make it available in your My Verizon online account (which you can usually access for up to 6 months after cancellation).
 |
