Seamlessly Transferring Your Verizon Internet Service: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you moving, or perhaps letting someone else take over your internet responsibilities? Transferring your Verizon internet (Fios or 5G/LTE Home Internet) to another person can seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, it's quite manageable. This lengthy guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Step 1: Let's Get Started! Are You Ready to Pass the Torch?
Before you even think about contacting Verizon, let's confirm a few things. This isn't just about handing over a router; it's about transferring an entire account's responsibility.
Are you the current Account Owner? Only the primary account holder can initiate or authorize a transfer of service. If you're not, you'll need to involve the account owner.
Is your account balance current? Verizon typically requires the existing account to be in good standing with no outstanding balances. Clear any pending bills to avoid delays.
Do you have the new account holder's information handy? You'll need their full name and email address. For business accounts, you'll also need the business name.
Are they willing to undergo a credit check? The new account holder will need to pass a soft credit check to assume responsibility. This doesn't usually impact their credit score significantly.
Are there any device payment agreements on the account? If you have any equipment being paid off (like a Fios router), you'll need to decide if the new owner will assume that agreement or if you'll pay it off.
Once you've confirmed these points, you're in a good position to proceed!
Step 2: Initiating the Transfer of Service
There are a couple of primary ways to start the transfer process, depending on your comfort with online platforms and direct communication.
Sub-heading 2.1: Through the My Verizon Website (Recommended for Ease)
This is often the most straightforward method.
Sign in to My Verizon: As the current Account Owner or Account Manager, go to the Verizon website and sign in to your My Verizon account.
Navigate to Transfer Your Service:
Look for "Account" or "My Devices" in the main navigation.
Then, find and select "Transfer your service." This option is specifically designed for transferring lines or entire services to another person.
Review Eligibility and Start New Transfer: Verizon will present you with some eligibility requirements and information. Review these carefully, then select "Start a new transfer."
Select the Services to Transfer:
You'll likely see a list of your active services. Select (check) the internet service you wish to transfer.
Click "Continue."
Provide New Account Holder's Information:
Choose whether you're transferring to a Personal Account or a Business Account.
Enter the First Name, Last Name, and Email address of the person who will be taking over the service.
Click "Continue."
Review and Accept Disclosures: Read through the applicable disclosures and terms. This is important as it outlines the responsibilities being transferred. Check the box to "Accept & Acknowledge."
Confirm Transfer Request: Review all the details of your transfer request one last time to ensure accuracy. Then, select "Continue."
An email will now be sent to the new Account Owner with instructions on how to complete their part of the transfer. They typically have 15 days to accept the service transfer (30 days for business lines).
Sub-heading 2.2: Using the My Verizon App
The My Verizon app offers a similar, convenient process.
Open My Verizon App: Launch the My Verizon app on your smartphone or tablet (ensure it's the latest version).
Access Transfer Service:
Tap on the "Mobile" tab (even for internet services, the transfer function might be grouped under mobile devices).
From the "Devices" section, you may need to tap on your internet service line. If not, navigate to "Devices" -> "Manage all devices" and then "Manage" below your internet service.
Look for and tap "Transfer your service."
Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through steps very similar to the website: "Start a new transfer," selecting lines, entering recipient information, and accepting disclosures.
Confirm and Send: Once confirmed, an email will be sent to the new account holder.
Sub-heading 2.3: Contacting Verizon Customer Service (If Other Methods Fail)
While the online and app methods are preferred, sometimes a direct conversation is best, especially if you encounter issues or have complex circumstances.
Call Verizon Customer Service: You can reach Verizon's customer service for residential services at 1-800-837-4966.
Be Prepared: Have your account information ready, including your account number and PIN. Also, have the new account holder's information readily available.
Joint Call is Best: For Fios internet transfers, Verizon often requires both the existing (outgoing) account holder and the person assuming (incoming) ownership of the account to be on the phone together during the entire change of account ownership process. This ensures both parties agree to the terms.
Step 3: The New Account Holder's Acceptance
This is the crucial next step, where the person taking over the Verizon internet service officially accepts responsibility.
Check Email for Transfer Request: The new Account Owner will receive an email from Verizon titled "You have a line transfer request to complete" (or similar). They should check their inbox, and even their spam folder, for this email.
Click "Transfer Now": Inside the email, there will be a link or button that says "Transfer now." They need to click this to proceed.
Verify Request Details: On the "Start or resume your transfer request" screen, they'll need to verify that the auto-populated Request number matches the details from the email.
Complete the Transfer:
If setting up a new Verizon account: They will select "Set up a new account." They will then need to provide their credit information, create a PIN for their My Verizon account, and select a suitable plan for the internet service.
If adding to an existing Verizon account: They will select "Sign in" and follow the prompts to log in as the receiving Account Owner or Account Manager.
Review and Accept Service Transfer: On the "Review and accept service transfer" screen, they need to carefully review all the request details, including any prorated charges or plan changes. Then, they will select "Accept."
Accept Disclosures and Authorizations: They must also review and accept the "Disclosures and authorizations" by selecting "Accept & Acknowledge."
Finalize (if setting up new account): If they are setting up a new account, they will go through steps to:
Provide credit information and consent to a soft credit check.
Create their account and PIN.
Select a plan (they can often "Keep the plan" if it's compatible, or "Pick a new plan").
Review estimated monthly cost, terms and conditions.
Finally, "Accept & Complete transfer."
The new account holder typically has 15 days to complete this acceptance process. If they don't, the transfer request will automatically be canceled, and you'll have to start over.
Step 4: Post-Transfer Considerations and Equipment
Once the transfer is complete, there are a few things to keep in mind for both the outgoing and incoming parties.
Sub-heading 4.1: For the Outgoing Account Holder
Final Bill: You will receive a final bill that includes any prorated charges up to the effective date of the account transfer. You may also receive a prorated credit if you've already paid for service beyond the transfer date.
Equipment Return (if applicable): If the new owner is not using your existing equipment (e.g., they have their own, or Verizon requires a new setup), you will need to return your Verizon-provided equipment (router, ONT, etc.) within 30 days to avoid charges. Verizon usually provides a prepaid shipping label.
Data and Settings: If you had Fios TV or other services tied to the internet, any recorded DVR content or parental controls on the equipment will transfer with the device. If you wish to clear these, you should factory reset your router and set-top boxes before the transfer is complete.
Account Closure (for you): Your Verizon internet account, specifically that service line, will be closed under your name.
Sub-heading 4.2: For the Incoming Account Holder
Prorated Charges: Your first bill may include prorated (partial) charges for the days the internet was active on your account during the previous billing cycle, plus charges for the next full month (as Verizon bills one month in advance).
No Activation Fee (for transfer): Generally, Verizon does not charge an activation fee for transferring a line of service to an existing or new account.
Plan Changes: While often the existing plan can be kept, in some cases, the transferred line may require switching to a currently available plan.
Device Payment Agreements: If a device payment agreement was transferred, you are now responsible for those payments.
Setting Up Equipment: If the equipment is staying, you likely won't need a technician. If new equipment is required, Verizon will guide you on self-setup or schedule a professional installation if necessary (especially for Fios where new wiring might be needed). For 5G/LTE Home Internet, self-setup is common.
Updating Billing Address: Remember to update your billing address separately in My Verizon if it's different from the service address.
Important Notes:
Fios vs. 5G/LTE Home Internet: The process is largely similar, but Fios (fiber optic) might involve more considerations around physical wiring and technician visits for new installations compared to the wireless 5G/LTE Home Internet which is often self-install. However, for a direct account transfer, the steps remain consistent.
Timing: It's best to initiate the transfer when both parties are available and can respond to Verizon's prompts in a timely manner. The 15-day acceptance window is critical.
Documentation: Keep records of all communication with Verizon, including reference numbers for transfer requests.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transfer of your Verizon internet service to someone else, allowing both parties to move forward with their connectivity needs seamlessly.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if my Verizon account balance is current before transferring service?
You can check your current Verizon account balance by signing into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Look for "Bill" or "Account Balance" sections.
How to find the "Transfer Your Service" option on the My Verizon website?
After signing in to My Verizon, look for "Account" or "My Devices" in the main navigation menu. Under those sections, you should find a link labeled "Transfer your service."
How to handle a device payment agreement when transferring Verizon internet?
During the transfer process, you'll be given options: either the current account holder pays off the remaining balance on the device, or the new account holder can assume responsibility for the device payment agreement, provided they pass a credit check.
How to ensure the new account holder receives the transfer acceptance email from Verizon?
Advise the new account holder to check their primary inbox, as well as their spam or junk folders, for an email from Verizon with instructions to complete the transfer. It's also helpful to confirm the email address you provided to Verizon is correct.
How to proceed if the new account holder misses the 15-day window to accept the Verizon transfer?
If the 15-day window for acceptance passes, the transfer request will automatically be canceled. You will need to re-initiate the entire transfer process from Step 2.
How to transfer Verizon Fios internet specifically when moving to a new address with a new owner?
If you are moving out and a new person is moving in and taking over your Fios service, you'll primarily use the "Transfer Your Service" process as described. This is different from a "Move Service" request which is for transferring your own service to a new address.
How to return Verizon equipment after transferring service?
Verizon typically sends a prepaid shipping label or provides instructions on how to obtain one online. You'll then package your equipment (router, ONT, etc.) and drop it off at a designated shipping location (e.g., FedEx, UPS).
How to avoid losing recorded content on a Fios DVR when transferring service?
If the Fios TV service and DVR are part of the transfer, the recorded content and settings generally remain on the device. If the outgoing customer wishes to erase them, they should factory reset the set-top box(es) before the transfer is completed.
How to confirm the transfer of Verizon internet service is fully complete?
Both the outgoing and incoming account holders should receive confirmation emails from Verizon once the transfer is fully processed and accepted by both parties. The new account holder will also be able to log into My Verizon and see the service under their name.
How to transfer a Verizon business internet account to another business or personal account?
The steps are largely the same as for personal accounts, but when initiating the transfer, you'll select the option to transfer to a "Business Account" and provide the necessary business information. Business transfers typically have a 30-day window for acceptance by the new account holder.
