Life throws curveballs, and sometimes those curveballs hit your finances. If you're a Verizon customer finding yourself in a tight spot and worried about an upcoming bill, don't panic! Verizon understands that unforeseen circumstances can make it difficult to pay on time, and they offer options to help you stay connected. Making a payment arrangement, often referred to as a "Promise to Pay," can be a lifesaver, giving you the breathing room you need without service interruption.
Ready to take control of your Verizon bill and set up a payment arrangement? Let's get started!
How to Make a Payment Arrangement with Verizon: Your Step-by-Step Guide
This guide will walk you through the process, empowering you to manage your account effectively and avoid service disruptions.
Step 1: Assess Your Situation and Gather Information
Before you do anything, take a deep breath and figure out your current financial picture. This will help you determine the best payment arrangement option for you.
Understand Your Bill: What is the exact amount due? What is the original due date? Having these figures handy will be crucial. You can find this information on your latest bill statement in the My Verizon app or on the My Verizon website.
Determine Your Realistic Payment Date: When do you anticipate being able to make the payment? Be honest with yourself. It's better to set a realistic date that you can meet than to set an optimistic one and miss it again.
Consider a Split Payment: Could you pay a portion of the bill now and the rest later? Verizon often allows for split payment arrangements, which can be helpful if you have some funds available but not the full amount.
Have Your Account Information Ready: You'll need your Verizon account number or the mobile number associated with your account. If you're calling, you might also need your account PIN.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method for Setting Up an Arrangement
Verizon offers several convenient ways to set up a payment arrangement. The best part? Many of them are free!
Option A: My Verizon App (Recommended - Free)
This is often the quickest and easiest way to set up a payment arrangement.
Sign in: Open the My Verizon app on your smartphone or tablet and sign in to your account.
Navigate to Billing: Look for a section related to "Bill," "Account," or "Bills & Payments." This is usually found on the main dashboard or in the navigation menu.
Find Payment Arrangements: Within the billing section, you should see an option for "Payment Arrangements" or "Promise to Pay." Tap on this.
Check Eligibility: The app will usually prompt you to "Check Eligibility." This will show you the available options based on your account history.
Select Your Arrangement Type:
Single Payment: If you can pay the full amount by a future date, select this option.
Split Payment: If eligible, you might be able to pay part of the bill now and schedule the remaining balance for a later date. Pay close attention to the dates and amounts presented.
Confirm Details: Review the proposed payment amount(s) and date(s). Make sure everything looks correct.
Submit: Confirm the arrangement. You'll usually receive a confirmation message in the app and via text message.
Option B: My Verizon Website (Recommended - Free)
Similar to the app, the My Verizon website offers a user-friendly interface.
Go to the My Verizon Website: Open your web browser and go to
www.verizon.com/myverizon Sign in: Enter your username and password to log in.
Access Billing: Once logged in, navigate to the "Bill" or "Billing & Payments" section. You might see a "Payment arrangements" link directly on your bill overview page.
Follow Prompts: The website will guide you through the process, presenting your eligibility and options for single or split payments.
Confirm: Review your selections and confirm the payment arrangement. You'll receive a confirmation.
Option C: Verizon's Automated Phone System (#PMT on Mobile) (Free for single payment)
If you prefer to use the phone, the automated system is a convenient, fee-free option for a single future-dated payment.
Dial #PMT: From your Verizon mobile phone, dial #PMT and follow the voice prompts.
Follow Instructions: The automated system will guide you through setting up a payment arrangement. Note: The ability to divide your balance into two payments isn't available through the automated phone system.
Option D: Bill Pay Kiosk at a Verizon Retail Store (Free)
If you're near a Verizon retail store, you can use their Bill Pay Kiosks to set up a payment arrangement.
Locate a Kiosk: Find a Verizon retail store with a Bill Pay Kiosk.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The kiosks are designed to be intuitive and will walk you through the steps to set up your arrangement.
Option E: Customer Service Representative (Fee Applies)
While available, setting up a payment arrangement with a live customer service representative over the phone or via Live Chat may incur an Agent Assistance Fee of $10. It's generally recommended to use the self-service options (app, website, automated phone system, kiosk) to avoid this fee.
Call Customer Service: Dial #611 from your Verizon mobile phone or 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) from any phone.
Request a Payment Arrangement: Explain your situation and your need to set up a payment arrangement. Be prepared to provide your account information and desired payment date.
Step 3: Understand the Confirmation and Next Steps
Once your payment arrangement is successfully set up, you'll receive confirmation.
Confirmation Message: You'll typically get a text message and/or an email confirming the details of your arrangement, including the new payment date(s) and amount(s). Keep this confirmation for your records.
Service Restoration (if applicable): If your service was disconnected due to non-payment, scheduling a payment arrangement that covers your past-due balance will generally trigger service restoration. Note: Service restoration is based on payment history and isn't guaranteed for everyone. It usually occurs when the payment(s) post to your account and clear the past due balance.
Make the Payment: The most crucial step is to make the payment on or before the agreed-upon date(s). Missing a promised payment can make it more difficult to set up future arrangements and may lead to service interruption or additional fees.
Late Fees: While a payment arrangement gives you an extension, it does not necessarily waive late fees that may have already been incurred or accrue based on the original due date. Check your bill or ask customer service about potential late fees.
Step 4: Modifying or Cancelling Your Payment Arrangement
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you might need to adjust your payment arrangement.
Online/App Modification: You can usually modify or cancel your payment arrangement through the My Verizon app or website. You might need to cancel the existing arrangement and create a new one.
Customer Service Modification (Fee Applies): If you need to modify an arrangement via a Customer Service Representative, a $7 Agent Assistance Fee may be charged.
Payment Amount: You can always pay more than your agreed-upon amount. To pay less, you'll likely need to cancel and create a new arrangement.
Payment Date/Method: Changing the payment date often requires canceling and creating a new arrangement. You can usually change your payment method within My Verizon without canceling the arrangement.
Important Considerations and Tips
Eligibility: Payment arrangement eligibility depends on your account history, including past payment behavior. Not everyone is eligible for all options, especially split payments. The My Verizon app and website will show you what's available.
Financial Services: If you're experiencing ongoing financial hardship, it's a good idea to contact Verizon's Financial Services department. They may be able to discuss additional options beyond a simple payment arrangement. You can reach them by dialing #611 from your Verizon phone (this will route you to the correct department) or 1-866-266-1445.
Auto Pay: Consider enrolling in Auto Pay if you haven't already. It can help you avoid missing future payments and may even qualify you for a discount on certain plans.
Lifeline and Verizon Forward: If you're on a limited income, explore programs like Lifeline or Verizon Forward. These government assistance programs can provide significant discounts on your monthly phone and/or internet service. Check Verizon's website for eligibility requirements and application details.
By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the process of setting up a payment arrangement with Verizon, ensuring you stay connected when it matters most.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Verizon bill details?
You can check your Verizon bill details by signing in to the My Verizon app or the My Verizon website. Your current balance, due date, and a detailed breakdown of charges will be available there.
How to know if I am eligible for a payment arrangement with Verizon?
You can determine your eligibility for a payment arrangement by attempting to set one up through the My Verizon app or website. The system will display the options available to you based on your account history.
How to avoid late fees on my Verizon bill?
To avoid late fees, always pay your bill on or before the due date. If you anticipate being late, set up a payment arrangement as soon as possible. While an arrangement provides an extension, it might not waive all potential late fees.
How to change my Verizon payment method for an existing arrangement?
You can typically change the payment method for an existing arrangement directly within the My Verizon app or website under the "Payment arrangements" section without needing to cancel the entire arrangement.
How to restore my Verizon service after a disconnection?
If your Verizon service was disconnected for non-payment, scheduling a payment arrangement that covers your past-due balance will generally lead to service restoration once the payment(s) successfully post to your account.
How to contact Verizon Financial Services?
You can contact Verizon's Financial Services department by dialing #611 from your Verizon mobile phone (which will route you directly to them) or by calling 1-866-266-1445 from any phone.
How to set up a split payment arrangement with Verizon?
You can set up a split payment arrangement through the My Verizon app or website, provided your account is eligible. This option allows you to make a partial payment now and schedule the remaining balance for a later date.
How to cancel a Verizon payment arrangement?
You can usually cancel a Verizon payment arrangement through the My Verizon app or website. Look for the "Payment arrangements" section and select the option to modify or cancel your existing arrangement.
How to apply for Verizon's Lifeline program?
To apply for Verizon's Lifeline program, visit the Lifeline section on the Verizon Support website. You'll find information on eligibility requirements (based on income or participation in federal assistance programs) and instructions on how to apply online or via mail.
How to get a discount on my Verizon bill?
Besides payment arrangements, you can explore discounts by enrolling in Auto Pay (often with paper-free billing), checking for military or veteran discounts if applicable, or looking into assistance programs like Lifeline or Verizon Forward if you meet their income or program participation criteria.