It seems there might be a slight misunderstanding in your request. The topic you provided is "how to keep my number Verizon." This phrase usually implies that someone already has a Verizon number and wants to retain it, perhaps when changing plans, phones, or even considering leaving Verizon for another carrier but wanting to port the number back in later.
However, given the context of "how to keep my number," it's more common for users to be looking for information on how to port their existing phone number from another carrier to Verizon, or how to ensure they don't lose their Verizon number when making changes to their Verizon service.
To provide the most helpful and lengthy post with a step-by-step guide, I will address both scenarios, focusing primarily on porting a number to Verizon as that's a more frequent user query when "keeping a number" is mentioned in relation to a new service. I will also touch upon retaining your number within Verizon.
Here's the comprehensive guide you requested:
How to Keep Your Number (and Bring it to Verizon or Ensure it Stays!)
Hey there! Thinking about making a switch to Verizon, or maybe just upgrading your phone and wondering about your precious phone number? You're in the right place! We all have a strong connection to our phone numbers – it's how friends, family, and even important services reach us. Losing it can be a major headache.
So, let's dive into how you can ensure your number stays with you, whether you're bringing it to Verizon or simply want to guarantee it's safe within your existing Verizon service.
Step 1: Before You Do Anything – Are You Porting In or Staying Put?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's clarify your situation.
Are you currently with another carrier (AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, etc.) and want to bring your existing phone number to Verizon? If so, you're looking to port your number. This is a very common and usually straightforward process.
Are you already a Verizon customer and want to make sure you don't lose your number when upgrading your phone, changing plans, or perhaps temporarily suspending service? If this is your scenario, the process is generally simpler and involves confirming details within your Verizon account.
Take a moment to decide which path applies to you, as the steps will vary!
Step 2: Porting Your Number TO Verizon – The Essential Checklist
If you're bringing your number to Verizon from another carrier, this is your crucial section. Getting these details right before you initiate the porting process will save you a lot of time and potential frustration.
Sub-heading: Gather Your Current Account Information
This is arguably the most important step for a smooth porting experience. Do not skip this!
Your Current Phone Number: Obviously!
Account Number from Your Old Carrier: This is not your phone number. You can usually find this on your bill or by logging into your old carrier's online portal. If you can't find it, call their customer service.
Account PIN or Password from Your Old Carrier: Many carriers require a PIN or password for account verification, especially for porting. This is critical. If you're unsure, call your current carrier's customer service and ask for the "Number Porting PIN" or "Account Verification PIN." Do not guess this repeatedly, as it could lock your account.
Billing Address Associated with Your Old Account: Ensure this matches exactly what your old carrier has on file.
Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax ID (if applicable): Sometimes required for identity verification, especially if you opened the old account with your SSN.
Account Holder's Name: The full name of the primary account holder as it appears on your current bill.
Sub-heading: Keep Your Old Service ACTIVE!
This is a common misconception! Do NOT cancel your service with your old carrier before the port is complete. If you cancel it, your number essentially becomes "unassigned" and you might lose it permanently. Verizon will handle the cancellation with your old carrier once the port is successful.
Sub-heading: Check Your Contract Status
While not strictly necessary for the port itself, understanding your current contract with your old carrier can prevent unexpected charges.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): If you're still under contract, your old carrier might charge an ETF. Be prepared for this.
Device Payment Plans: If you have an outstanding balance on a phone or other device with your old carrier, you'll likely need to pay that off in full before or at the time of porting.
Step 3: Initiating the Port with Verizon
Once you have all your information ready, it's time to tell Verizon you want to join their family and bring your number along!
Sub-heading: Online Porting (Recommended for Speed and Convenience)
Verizon's website is well-equipped for number transfers.
Visit Verizon's Website: Go to
www.verizon.com Choose Your Device and Plan: Select the phone you want to use (whether you're buying a new one or bringing your own compatible device) and the plan that fits your needs.
Initiate Number Transfer: During the checkout process, you'll be prompted to indicate that you want to keep your existing phone number. This is where you'll input all the account information you gathered in Step 2.
Review and Confirm: Double-check all the information you've entered. Even a small typo can delay the porting process significantly.
Submit the Request: Once everything looks correct, submit your number transfer request.
Sub-heading: In-Store Porting
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, visit a Verizon corporate store.
Bring Your Information: Have all the details from Step 2 readily available.
Speak to a Representative: Explain that you want to switch to Verizon and port your existing number.
Provide Details: The representative will guide you through the process, inputting your account information into their system.
Complete the Setup: They will help you select a new device (if needed) and a plan, and get your new Verizon service set up.
Sub-heading: Over the Phone Porting
You can also call Verizon's sales or customer service line to initiate the transfer.
Dial Verizon Sales: Call 1-800-2-VERIZON (1-800-283-7409).
Inform the Representative: Tell them you're looking to switch and port your number.
Provide Details: Be ready to give them all your previous carrier's account information.
Step 4: Monitoring Your Porting Progress
Once you've initiated the port, it's a waiting game, but an important one to monitor.
Sub-heading: Expect a Few Hours to a Few Days
Most Ports: For wireless numbers, porting usually takes 2-4 hours. However, it can occasionally take up to 24-48 hours.
Landline/VoIP to Wireless: Porting a traditional landline or a Voice over IP (VoIP) number to a wireless carrier can take significantly longer, sometimes 3-10 business days due to the different underlying systems involved.
Sub-heading: How to Check the Status
Verizon's Porting Status Tool: Verizon often has an online tool where you can enter your ported number and check its status. Ask the representative or look for this link on their website.
Text Message Notifications: You might receive text messages from Verizon updating you on the port's progress.
Try Your Old Phone: Periodically try calling your number on your old phone. When it stops working on your old device and starts receiving calls on your new Verizon device, the port is complete!
Sub-heading: Troubleshooting Delays
If your port is taking longer than expected:
Contact Verizon: This is your first point of contact. They can usually see the specific reason for a delay.
Verify Information: Double-check that all the information you provided to Verizon (account number, PIN, billing address from your old carrier) was 100% accurate. Even a single incorrect digit or letter can cause a rejection.
Contact Your Old Carrier (Only if Verizon Advises): Sometimes, if Verizon identifies a specific issue with your old carrier's information, they might advise you to contact them to clarify or release the number.
Step 5: Confirmation and What Happens Next
Congratulations! Your number has successfully ported to Verizon.
Sub-heading: Your Old Service Automatically Cancels
This is the beauty of porting! Once the number is fully transferred, your old carrier's service associated with that number will automatically be canceled. You shouldn't need to call them to cancel (unless you have other lines or services with them).
Sub-heading: Final Bill from Old Carrier
Expect a final bill from your old carrier for any prorated service, early termination fees, or outstanding device balances.
Sub-heading: Activate Your New Verizon Device
Follow Verizon's instructions to activate your new phone or SIM card. Usually, this involves inserting the SIM and powering on the device.
Step 6: Keeping Your Number WITHIN Verizon (Existing Customers)
If you're already a Verizon customer and just want to ensure your number remains yours, here's what to know.
Sub-heading: Upgrading Your Phone
When you upgrade your phone, your number automatically transfers to your new device. You'll simply swap your SIM card (if applicable) or activate the new device on your existing line. Your number is tied to your line of service, not the physical phone.
Sub-heading: Changing Your Plan
Similarly, changing your Verizon plan (e.g., from an unlimited plan to a metered plan, or vice versa) will not affect your phone number. Your number remains associated with your account.
Sub-heading: Suspending Service
If you need to temporarily suspend your service (e.g., for travel), Verizon offers options like "Suspension for Military Deployment" or "Suspension for Travel." Your number will be held for you during this period. Be aware that some suspension types may incur a fee or have a time limit. Always confirm the terms and conditions with Verizon directly.
Sub-heading: Cancelling Service (and Porting OUT)
If you plan to leave Verizon and take your number with you to a new carrier, the process is the reverse of porting in. You would initiate the port with your new carrier, providing them with your Verizon account information. Do NOT cancel your Verizon service before your new carrier completes the port!
Important Considerations for Number Porting:
Patience is Key: While often quick, unexpected delays can occur. Remain patient and follow up politely.
Verify Information Religiously: I cannot stress this enough. Incorrect account numbers or PINs are the number one reason for porting delays.
Be Available: Sometimes, your old carrier might try to contact you to confirm the port request. Respond promptly if they do.
Backup Contacts: Before initiating any port, it's a good idea to back up your contacts, just in case.
Voicemail: Your old voicemail messages might not transfer. Listen to any important messages before the port is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my number is eligible for porting to Verizon?
You can usually check number eligibility directly on Verizon's website during the online order process, or by speaking with a Verizon representative who can input your number into their system.
How to find my account number and PIN from my old carrier?
Your account number is typically found on your monthly bill or by logging into your old carrier's online account portal. For the PIN, you might need to call your old carrier's customer service and specifically ask for your "Number Porting PIN" or "Account Verification PIN."
How to transfer my current phone number to a new Verizon phone?
If you're already a Verizon customer, your number is tied to your service line. When you get a new Verizon phone, your existing number will simply be activated on the new device, often by swapping a SIM card or electronically activating the phone.
How to avoid losing my number when switching to Verizon?
The most critical step is not to cancel your old service before the number port is complete. Let Verizon handle the transfer, as this automatically closes your old account for that specific number.
How to port a landline number to Verizon Wireless?
Porting a landline to Verizon Wireless is possible but generally takes longer (3-10 business days) than wireless-to-wireless ports. You'll follow the same steps of initiating the transfer with Verizon and providing your landline account information.
How to check the status of my Verizon number port?
Verizon often provides an online port status checker on their website. You may also receive text message updates, or you can call Verizon customer service for an update.
How to cancel my old service after porting my number to Verizon?
In most cases, you don't need to manually cancel your old service for the ported number. The porting process itself acts as a notification to your old carrier, and they will automatically close that line of service once the number is released.
How to resolve porting delays with Verizon?
First, contact Verizon customer service and ask for the specific reason for the delay. Often, it's due to incorrect account information. If necessary, you may need to contact your old carrier to verify details they have on file.
How to port my number if I have an outstanding device payment plan with my old carrier?
You will typically need to pay off any remaining device payment balances with your old carrier when you port your number out. This is separate from any Early Termination Fees (ETFs).
How to port my number to Verizon if I am still under contract with my current carrier?
You can still port your number even if you're under contract. However, be prepared to pay an Early Termination Fee (ETF) to your old carrier, which will appear on your final bill from them.
