Tired of your current Verizon service and ready for a change? You're not alone! Many people choose to switch carriers for a variety of reasons – better deals, improved coverage in certain areas, or simply a desire for something new. Whatever your motivation, porting your number out of Verizon is a straightforward process, but it requires a bit of preparation to ensure a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, making your move as painless as possible.
The Great Escape: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Porting Out of Verizon
Porting out, or "local number portability," is your right as a consumer, guaranteed by the FCC. It allows you to keep your existing phone number even when you switch providers. This means no more updating all your contacts or business cards – your number stays with you.
Step 1: Are You Ready for Freedom? The Pre-Porting Checklist
Before you even think about contacting your new carrier, let's get organized. This is the most crucial step to prevent headaches later on!
Verify Your Verizon Account Status:
Active Account is Key: Your Verizon account must remain active throughout the porting process. Do NOT cancel your service before your number has successfully ported to your new carrier. Doing so can cause your number to be lost permanently.
Outstanding Balances: While the FCC states a carrier cannot refuse to port your number due to an outstanding balance or early termination fee, you are still responsible for these charges. Be prepared to pay them.
Contractual Obligations: Check if you have any remaining contractual obligations, such as a device payment plan or an early termination fee (ETF). Verizon will bill you for these amounts after your port is complete. You are responsible for paying off any remaining device payments.
Number Lock: Verizon offers a "Number Lock" feature to protect against unauthorized port-outs. If you have this enabled, you must disable it before initiating the port. You can usually find this in your My Verizon app or online account under security settings.
Gather Essential Verizon Account Information:
Your Verizon Account Number: This is a critical piece of information. You can find it on your Verizon bill, by logging into your My Verizon online account, or by calling Verizon customer service.
Your Number Transfer PIN (NTP): This is a special, temporary PIN specifically used for porting your number. It's distinct from your regular account PIN or security code.
How to get your NTP:
Dial #PORT (#7678): From the Verizon phone number you wish to port, dial
#PORTand press call. Verizon will send you a text message with a link. Click the link to generate your NTP within the My Verizon app.My Verizon App: Log in to the My Verizon app. Navigate to the "Account" or "My Profile" section. Look for an option like "Number Transfer PIN" or "Create Your Number Transfer PIN."
My Verizon Website: Log in to your My Verizon account online. Go to your account profile, then look for "Number Transfer PIN" and click "Generate PIN."
Important Note: Your Number Transfer PIN is typically valid for 7 days. Make sure you use it promptly. If it expires, you'll need to generate a new one.
Your Billing Address: Ensure you have the exact billing address associated with your Verizon account. Any discrepancies can delay the porting process.
Your Account PIN (if applicable): While the NTP is most important for porting, some new carriers might also ask for your regular Verizon account PIN for verification. Have it handy.
Step 2: Choosing Your New Home (Carrier)
Now that you're armed with your Verizon details, it's time to find your next mobile provider.
Research and Compare:
Coverage: Check the new carrier's coverage maps to ensure they have strong service in the areas you frequent.
Plans and Pricing: Compare plans, data allowances, unlimited options, and any promotional deals. Look for hidden fees.
Features: Do they offer features important to you, like international calling, mobile hotspot, or specific streaming perks?
Device Compatibility: Will your current phone work with the new carrier? Most modern unlocked phones are compatible, but it's always best to double-check. If you need a new phone, consider their device deals.
Contact Your New Carrier: Once you've chosen your new provider, reach out to them. This can be done online, by phone, or in person at one of their retail stores. Inform them that you want to port your existing Verizon number to their service.
Step 3: Initiating the Porting Process with Your New Carrier
This is where the magic happens! Your new carrier will handle the heavy lifting.
Provide Required Information: Your new carrier will ask for the Verizon account information you gathered in Step 1. Be precise and provide accurate details, including:
Your Verizon phone number(s) to be ported.
Your Verizon Account Number.
Your Verizon Number Transfer PIN.
The exact billing address associated with your Verizon account.
Your full name as it appears on your Verizon account.
The last four digits of your Social Security Number or date of birth (for verification purposes).
Do NOT Cancel Verizon Service: We cannot stress this enough! Your new carrier will submit the port request to Verizon. Verizon will then release your number. If you cancel your Verizon service before the port is complete, your number could be lost.
Activation and Temporary Service: Your new carrier will likely provide you with a new SIM card or activate an eSIM. They might also give you a temporary number for outgoing calls and texts while the port is in progress. During this period, calls and texts to your Verizon number might still go to your Verizon device until the port fully completes.
Step 4: Monitoring and Confirmation
The waiting game begins, but usually not for long!
Porting Timeline:
Mobile Numbers: For most mobile-to-mobile ports, the process typically takes anywhere from 15 minutes to 24 business hours. Some can even be as fast as 5 minutes!
Landline Numbers (including Google Voice): These can take longer, generally 2-10 business days.
Factors Affecting Time: The exact time can vary depending on the carriers involved, the accuracy of the information provided, and the type of number.
Stay Connected: Keep both your Verizon phone (if it's still active) and your new phone handy. Your new carrier will usually notify you when the port is complete via text message.
Test Your Service: Once you receive confirmation that your port is complete, thoroughly test your new service:
Make outgoing calls.
Receive incoming calls.
Send and receive text messages (SMS and MMS).
Check data connectivity.
Troubleshooting: If you experience any issues, immediately contact your new carrier's customer support. They initiated the port and are responsible for its completion.
Step 5: Tying Up Loose Ends with Verizon
Once your number is successfully ported to your new carrier, your Verizon service for that line will automatically cancel.
Final Verizon Bill: Expect a final bill from Verizon. This bill will include:
Prorated charges for service up to the port date.
Any remaining device payment balances.
Any applicable Early Termination Fees (ETFs).
Return Equipment (if applicable): If you were leasing equipment from Verizon (like a mobile hotspot or specific phones), ensure you return it according to their instructions to avoid further charges.
Cancel Associated Lines: If you ported out your last phone line on a Verizon account, remember to cancel any associated device lines (e.g., smartwatches, tablets, hotspots) to prevent continued billing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about porting out of Verizon, with quick answers:
How to get my Verizon Account Number? You can find your Verizon account number on your monthly bill, by logging into your My Verizon online account, or by calling Verizon customer service.
How to get a Number Transfer PIN (NTP) from Verizon?
Dial #PORT (#7678) from the phone number you want to port, or generate it through the My Verizon app or My Verizon website under your account profile.
How long is the Verizon Number Transfer PIN valid? Your Verizon Number Transfer PIN is valid for 7 days from the time it's generated.
How to turn off Number Lock on Verizon?
You can turn off Number Lock via the My Verizon app or the My Verizon website under your security settings. Alternatively, you can dial *611 for assistance.
How long does it take to port a mobile number from Verizon? For most mobile-to-mobile transfers, it typically takes 15 minutes to 24 business hours, though it can sometimes be almost instantaneous.
How long does it take to port a landline number from Verizon? Porting a landline number from Verizon usually takes 2-10 business days.
How to know if my Verizon number port is complete? Your new carrier will typically send you a text message notification, and your Verizon service for that line will cease to function, indicating the port is complete.
How to avoid losing my number when porting out of Verizon? NEVER cancel your Verizon service before your number has successfully ported to your new carrier. The new carrier initiates the transfer.
How to check for Early Termination Fees (ETFs) with Verizon? Review your original Verizon contract or contact Verizon customer service to understand any potential Early Termination Fees or remaining device payment balances.
How to ensure a smooth porting experience from Verizon? Gather all required information accurately (Account Number, Number Transfer PIN, Billing Address), do not cancel your Verizon service prematurely, and communicate clearly with your new carrier.