It's an exciting time, isn't it? Getting a new phone is like unwrapping a gift, and with Verizon, the upgrade process can be surprisingly smooth. Whether you're eyeing the latest flagship or just need a reliable refresh, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of upgrading your phone with Verizon, from checking eligibility to activating your shiny new device. Let's dive in!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Upgrade Your Phone with Verizon
Upgrading your phone with Verizon involves a few key considerations: your eligibility, what kind of deal you're looking for, and how you want to handle your old device. We'll break down each of these areas to make your upgrade journey as straightforward as possible.
 |
| How To Upgrade Phone With Verizon |
Step 1: Are You Ready for a New Phone? (Checking Your Eligibility)
Before you even start Browse the latest smartphones, the first and most crucial step is to determine your upgrade eligibility with Verizon. This can save you a lot of time and potential disappointment.
Sub-heading: Understanding Verizon's Upgrade Programs
Verizon offers a few different ways to upgrade, each with its own criteria:
Device Payment Program: This is the most common method. You pay for your phone in monthly installments over a set period (often 36 months) with 0% APR. You're eligible to upgrade when your device is 100% paid off or if you qualify for an early upgrade.
Early Upgrade Program: If you're eager for the newest tech, Verizon's early upgrade option might be for you. Generally, you can upgrade an eligible device after 30 days if you've paid at least 50% of its retail price under your device payment agreement. The key here is that you'll need to return your current device in good working condition to Verizon. If you don't return it or if it's not in good condition, the remaining balance on your original device payment agreement will be due on your next bill.
Outright Purchase: If you bought your current device at retail price, you can upgrade to a new device any time without any restrictions related to a payment plan.
Sub-heading: How to Check Your Eligibility
There are several convenient ways to check if you're eligible for an upgrade:
My Verizon App: This is often the quickest and most popular method.
Open the My Verizon app on your smartphone.
Log in to your account.
Navigate to the "Shop" or "Devices" section. You should see an option to "Upgrade device" or "Manage devices."
The app will typically show your current device payment status and whether you're eligible for an upgrade.
Verizon Website:
Go to the official Verizon website (
verizon.com Log in to your My Verizon account.
Look for sections like "Shop," "Devices," or "Upgrade."
You'll be able to view your lines and see their upgrade status.
Dial #UPG: From your Verizon phone, you can simply dial #UPG (that's #874) and send. You'll receive a text message with your upgrade eligibility information.
Visit a Verizon Store: If you prefer in-person assistance, a Verizon representative at a Verizon Company Store can check your eligibility and explain your options. Use the
Verizon Store Locator Call Customer Service: You can call Verizon customer service at 1-800-922-0204 for wireless inquiries.
Pro Tip: Always check your eligibility directly with Verizon, as promotions and eligibility criteria can change.
Step 2: Choosing Your New Device and Plan
Once you know you're eligible, the fun begins! This step involves selecting your new phone and ensuring your plan aligns with your needs.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Sub-heading: Browse Phones and Deals
Verizon frequently offers promotions on new devices, especially with trade-ins or when adding new lines.
Online Shopping: The Verizon website is an excellent resource for Browse phones. You can filter by brand, features, price, and even compare different models side-by-side. Look out for banners and dedicated "Deals" sections, as these often highlight significant savings.
In-Store Experience: Visiting a Verizon store allows you to physically handle devices, ask questions to sales representatives, and get a better feel for your options.
Consider Your Needs: Think about what you use your phone for most. Are you a heavy gamer? A photography enthusiast? Do you need a super long-lasting battery? Match the phone's features to your lifestyle.
Sub-heading: Understanding Device Payment Plans
Most new phones are purchased through Verizon's device payment program.
Monthly Installments: The total cost of the phone is divided into monthly payments over a period, typically 36 months.
0% APR: There are no interest charges on the device payment plan.
Bill Credits: Many promotional offers involve bill credits over the device payment term. For example, if you trade in an eligible device, you might receive a credit each month that offsets a portion of your new phone's monthly payment. Important: If you leave Verizon or pay off your device early, these bill credits may stop, and you'll be responsible for the remaining balance.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Current Plan
While upgrading your phone, it's a good opportunity to assess your current Verizon plan.
Data Usage: Are you consistently running out of data, or do you have more than you need? Consider if a different unlimited plan might be more cost-effective.
Features and Perks: Do you use all the perks included in your current plan (e.g., streaming services, cloud storage)? Verizon offers various "myPlan" options that let you customize your perks.
Cost Impact: Understand how the new device payment will affect your overall monthly bill. Factor in any trade-in credits or promotional discounts.
Step 3: Trading In Your Old Phone (Optional, but Recommended!)
Trading in your old device can significantly reduce the cost of your new phone. Verizon's trade-in program is generally straightforward.
Sub-heading: Eligibility and Condition for Trade-In
Eligibility: Most smartphones are eligible for trade-in. The value you receive depends on the make, model, and condition of your device.
Condition Matters: Verizon will assess your phone's condition. Key factors include:
Does it power on and off?
Is the screen cracked or damaged?
Are there any significant physical damages?
Are all password-protected security features (e.g., Find My iPhone) turned off?
Is the battery swollen or leaking? (Damaged batteries typically disqualify a device unless a specific promotion allows it.)
Promotional Value vs. Market Value: Verizon offers two types of trade-in values:
Market Value: This is the actual cash value of your device based on its condition.
Promotional Value: Many new device promotions require a trade-in and offer a higher promotional value, which is applied as recurring bill credits over the device payment term.
Sub-heading: Preparing Your Device for Trade-In
Backup Your Data: This is critical! Before doing anything else, back up all your photos, contacts, apps, and other important data. Use cloud services (Google Drive, iCloud), a computer, or Verizon's Content Transfer app.
Factory Reset: Perform a factory reset on your device to wipe all personal data. This protects your privacy.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. Make sure to sign out of your Apple ID/iCloud first.
For Androids: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Make sure to remove your Google account first.
Remove SIM Card and SD Card: Take out your SIM card (you'll likely need it for your new phone or a new one will be provided) and any external SD cards.
Disable Find My iPhone/Android: Crucially, turn off any "Find My" features (like Find My iPhone or Find My Device for Android). If these are active, Verizon cannot process your trade-in, and you may not receive credit.
Charge Your Phone: Ensure your device is charged so Verizon can power it on and assess its condition.
Sub-heading: Sending in Your Trade-In
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
Shipping: Verizon will provide a prepaid shipping label for your trade-in. Package your phone securely. You might also be given a QR code to take to a UPS store, where they'll pack and ship it for you.
In-Store Drop-off: Some Verizon Company Stores accept trade-ins directly, eliminating the need for shipping. Confirm this with your local store first.
Confirmation: You'll receive an email when Verizon receives your device and after it's appraised.
Step 4: Placing Your Order
Once you've chosen your device and decided on a trade-in (if applicable), it's time to place your order.
Online:
Add your chosen phone and any accessories to your cart on the Verizon website or My Verizon app.
Follow the prompts to select your plan (if changing), and confirm trade-in details.
Review your order carefully, including the total cost, monthly payments, and any promotional credits.
Enter your shipping address and payment method.
Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Place your order. You'll receive an order confirmation email.
In-Store: A sales representative will guide you through the process, confirm your choices, and help you finalize the purchase. You'll sign agreements electronically.
Activation Fee: Be aware that a one-time $35 activation or upgrade fee typically applies when activating or upgrading to a new device.
Step 5: Receiving and Activating Your New Phone
The moment you've been waiting for! Getting your new phone in hand is exciting, and activation is usually a breeze.
Sub-heading: What to Expect When Your Phone Arrives
New Device: Your new phone, often with a pre-installed SIM card (or a new SIM card included in the box).
Shipping Documents: Packing slip and potentially return labels if you're doing a trade-in by mail.
Instructions: Basic activation instructions.
Sub-heading: Activating Your Device
Verizon aims to make activation as seamless as possible. Most modern smartphones will activate automatically or with minimal input.
The My Verizon App Method (Recommended):
Ensure your new phone is fully charged.
Power on your new device.
If a SIM card isn't pre-installed, insert the new SIM card into the phone.
Connect to Wi-Fi (this helps with any software updates).
Download and open the My Verizon app.
Sign in with your Verizon account credentials.
Navigate to the "Devices" section and look for an option like "Activate or Switch Device."
Follow the on-screen prompts, which may ask for the phone's IMEI number (found on the box or in the phone's settings).
The app will guide you through the activation. It usually takes a few minutes.
Online Activation (Verizon Website):
Go to the
Verizon Activation Page Sign in to your account.
Select "Activate or Switch Device" and follow the instructions.
You'll likely need your new phone's IMEI number.
Activating by Phone:
If the above methods don't work, you can call Verizon's automated activation line at 1-877-807-4646 from another phone.
Follow the automated prompts and provide your phone's IMEI number when requested.
Troubleshooting:
Restart your new phone if activation doesn't complete immediately.
Ensure the SIM card is correctly inserted.
If issues persist, contact Verizon customer support (1-800-922-0204) or visit a Verizon Company Store.
Sub-heading: Transferring Data to Your New Phone
After activation, you'll want to get all your precious data onto your new device.
Cloud Backups: If you backed up to iCloud (for iPhones) or Google Drive (for Androids), you'll be prompted to restore your backup during the initial phone setup. This is the easiest method for most users.
Manufacturer Tools: Many phone manufacturers offer their own data transfer tools (e.g., Apple's Quick Start for iPhones, Samsung Smart Switch for Galaxy phones).
Verizon Content Transfer App: Verizon offers an app to help transfer contacts, photos, and videos between devices.
Manual Transfer: For specific files, you can always connect your phone to a computer and manually transfer them.
Step 6: Enjoy Your New Device!
Congratulations! You've successfully upgraded your phone with Verizon. Take some time to explore your new device, customize settings, download your favorite apps, and make it truly yours. Remember to keep an eye on your first bill after the upgrade to ensure all credits and changes are applied correctly.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
Don't forget to recycle your old phone responsibly if you didn't trade it in! Verizon has recycling programs available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to upgrading your phone with Verizon, with quick answers:
How to check my Verizon upgrade eligibility?
You can check your eligibility via the My Verizon app, by logging into your account on the Verizon website, by dialing #UPG from your Verizon phone, or by visiting a Verizon Company Store.
How to trade in my old phone with Verizon?
You can initiate a trade-in online via the Verizon website or My Verizon app, or in person at a Verizon Company Store. Prepare your device by backing up data, performing a factory reset, and turning off "Find My" features before sending it in or dropping it off.
How to get the best deals on phone upgrades with Verizon?
Look for promotional offers on the Verizon website, especially those requiring trade-ins or new lines. Consider upgrading during major sales events (e.g., Black Friday, holiday seasons, new phone launches) and ensure you're on an eligible unlimited plan for maximum savings.
How to pay off my Verizon device payment agreement early?
You can pay off your device payment agreement early by logging into My Verizon online, through the My Verizon app, or by visiting a Verizon store. Be aware that any monthly promotional credits associated with that device will stop once it's paid off.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
How to activate my new Verizon phone?
Most new Verizon phones activate automatically when powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. You can also activate through the My Verizon app, on the Verizon activation website, or by calling 1-877-807-4646.
How to transfer data to my new Verizon phone?
Use cloud backups (iCloud, Google Drive), manufacturer-specific transfer tools (e.g., Samsung Smart Switch, Apple Quick Start), or the Verizon Content Transfer app to move your data to your new device.
How to find a Verizon store near me?
Use the Verizon Store Locator on the official Verizon website by entering your city, state, or ZIP code. Remember that only Verizon Company Stores handle trade-ins for promotional value.
How to contact Verizon customer service for upgrade questions?
You can call Verizon Wireless customer service at 1-800-922-0204, use the chat feature on the Verizon website, or visit a local Verizon Company Store.
How to know if my old phone is in "good working condition" for trade-in?
"Good working condition" typically means the device powers on and off, has no cracked screen, no significant physical damage (beyond normal wear and tear), and all password-protected security features (like Find My iPhone/Android) are disabled.
How to avoid activation fees when upgrading with Verizon?
Generally, a one-time $35 activation or upgrade fee applies to most new device activations or upgrades. There are rarely ways to avoid this standard fee directly from Verizon, though some third-party retailers might occasionally absorb it as part of their own promotions.
 |
