Unlocking a world of premium entertainment just got easier! If you're a Verizon customer, you might be eligible for a fantastic perk: Max (formerly HBO Max). This guide will walk you through every step of activating your Max subscription through Verizon, ensuring you can dive into a vast library of award-winning shows, blockbuster movies, and exclusive originals in no time.
Your Ticket to Entertainment: Activating Max with Verizon
Are you ready to elevate your streaming experience? With Max, you get access to HBO, the DC Universe, Cartoon Network, Discovery, TLC, HGTV, and so much more, all in one place. Verizon often bundles Max (typically the "With Ads" plan) with select Unlimited, 5G Home, LTE Home, and Fios Home Internet plans. Let's get you set up!
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility (Don't Skip This!)
Before you even think about downloading the app, let's make sure you're good to go!
This is the most crucial first step. Not all Verizon plans include the Max perk automatically. You need to verify if your current Verizon plan qualifies for the Netflix & Max (With Ads) bundle.
Check Your Plan on My Verizon:
Via the My Verizon App:
Open the My Verizon app on your smartphone or tablet.
If prompted, enter your password, fingerprint, or Face ID to sign in.
Depending on your plan, tap the Mobile or Home tab.
Navigate to My services & perks > Netflix & Max.
Look for an option that indicates the "Netflix & Max" perk has been added to your account.
Via the My Verizon Website:
Open a web browser and go to verizon.com.
Sign in to your My Verizon account.
Navigate to Services & perks > Manage services & perks.
Look for the "Netflix & Max" perk and confirm it's listed.
Understand the Perk:
The Netflix & Max (With Ads) perk is generally available with select Verizon Unlimited mobile phone plans (like Unlimited Ultimate, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Welcome) and certain 5G Home, LTE Home, or Fios Home Internet plans.
Important Note: It may take up to 15 minutes for the perk to update on your account after you've added it to your plan. If you just changed your plan, give it a little time.
If your plan doesn't qualify, you might need to change to a qualifying plan or subscribe to Max separately through Verizon's +play subscriptions, which are not covered by this activation guide.
Step 2: Accessing the Activation Portal
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, it's time to initiate the activation process. You can do this either through the My Verizon app or the My Verizon website.
Sub-heading: Using the My Verizon App (Recommended for Mobile Users)
Open the My Verizon App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet.
Navigate to Perks:
Sign in if you haven't already.
Go to My services & perks.
Tap on Netflix & Max.
Initiate Setup: You should see a "Set up" option next to the Netflix & Max perk. Tap it.
Continue Activation: A message like "You've added Netflix & Max..." will appear. Tap Continue.
Locate Max Section: Within the Netflix & Max section, you'll see separate options for Netflix and Max. Tap the activation link for Max.
Get Started: If prompted, tap Get started. This will typically redirect you to the Max activation page.
Sub-heading: Using the My Verizon Website (For Desktop/Laptop Users)
Go to My Verizon: Open your web browser and go to verizon.com.
Sign In: Sign in to your My Verizon account.
Find Services & Perks: Navigate to Services & perks > Manage services & perks.
Set Up Perk: Select Set up next to the Netflix & Max perk.
Continue Activation: You'll see the "You've added Netflix & Max..." message. Select Continue.
Activate Max: Find the Max section and click on the activation link. This will lead you to the Max registration portal.
Step 3: Creating or Linking Your Max Account
This is where you connect your Verizon perk to a Max account. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're a new Max user or already have an account.
Sub-heading: For New Max Subscribers
If you've never had a Max (or HBO Max) account before, this process will create a new one for you, linked to your Verizon subscription.
Create Your Account Screen: You'll be presented with a "Create Your Account" screen on the Max website or app.
Enter Details: Carefully enter your preferred Email Address, Name, and create a strong Password. This will be your Max login information.
Create Account: Tap or click Create Account.
Confirm Activation: You should see a "Your Verizon perk is activated" screen.
Start Streaming:
To continue with the With Ads subscription (the one included with your Verizon perk), tap or click Start Streaming.
Optional: If you wish to upgrade to an Ad-Free or Ultimate Ad-Free plan (which will incur additional charges directly from Max), you can select Explore Ad-Free Plans and follow the prompts to choose your desired plan and confirm the upgrade.
Sub-heading: For Existing Max or HBO Max Subscribers
If you previously had a Max or HBO Max account, you can link your Verizon perk to it. This is beneficial as it retains your profiles, watch history, and My List.
Existing Account Found: When you reach the Max activation page after coming from Verizon, it might detect an existing account associated with your email address.
Verify Email: Tap or click Verify Email.
Enter One-Time Code: A one-time code will be sent to the email address associated with your existing Max account. Check your inbox (including spam or junk folders) for an email from Max with the subject "Your One-Time Max Code." Enter this code on the Max activation screen.
Keep or Change Plan:
To keep your existing Max plan (and potentially switch billing to Verizon if it aligns with the "With Ads" perk): Select Keep Plan and then Start Streaming. Be aware that if your existing Max plan was higher tier, Verizon's perk typically covers the "With Ads" plan. Max will guide you on any adjustments or credits.
To view plan choices and cost differences (if you want to upgrade or manage your current Max tier): Select Change Plan. You can then choose a different plan (e.g., Ad-Free, Ultimate Ad-Free) and confirm the changes, which may result in additional charges billed by Max.
You're All Set!: Review the "You're All Set" screen and tap or click Start Streaming.
Step 4: Downloading the Max App & Logging In
Now that your Max account is activated and linked through Verizon, you're ready to start streaming on your favorite devices!
Sub-heading: Installing the Max App
Smartphone/Tablet:
For Android devices, open the Google Play Store.
For Apple devices (iPhone, iPad), open the App Store.
Search for "Max" and download the official app.
Smart TV/Streaming Device:
Go to your smart TV's app store (e.g., Samsung Smart Hub, LG Content Store, Roku Channel Store, Fire TV Appstore).
Search for "Max" and install the app.
Note: Ensure your device is supported by Max. Most modern smart TVs, streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast), and gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox) are compatible.
Sub-heading: Signing In to Max
Open the Max App: Launch the Max app on your chosen device.
Select Sign In: On the Max home screen, choose the Sign In option.
Enter Max Credentials: Enter the email address and password you used when creating or linking your Max account in Step 3.
Choose Profile: If you've set up multiple profiles, choose the one you want to use.
Start Streaming! You should now have full access to Max's content library.
Sub-heading: Troubleshooting Tip for TV Devices
Sometimes, when signing in on a TV, Max will present a code or QR code.
Using a Code: The TV screen will display a code and instruct you to go to
max.com/signinon a web browser (on your phone or computer) and enter the code.Using the Max Mobile App: Some TV devices allow you to sign in using the Max mobile app. Open the Max app on your phone, sign in there, and then follow the prompts to allow the connection to your TV.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Max Entertainment!
Congratulations! You've successfully activated Max with your Verizon perk. Now, sit back, relax, and explore the incredible array of content available:
HBO Originals: From "House of the Dragon" to "The Last of Us," immerse yourself in critically acclaimed series.
Blockbuster Movies: Catch the latest Hollywood hits and timeless classics.
Discovery Content: Indulge in reality shows, documentaries, and lifestyle programs from Discovery, HGTV, Food Network, and more.
Kids & Family: A safe and engaging space for children's programming.
News & Sports: Stay informed with breaking news and, depending on your Max plan, live sports.
Remember: Your Max subscription is tied to your Verizon perk. If you ever change or cancel your qualifying Verizon plan, your Max access through Verizon may be affected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my Verizon plan includes Max?
You can check your eligibility by logging into the My Verizon app or the My Verizon website. Navigate to "My services & perks" or "Services & perks" and look for the "Netflix & Max" bundle.
How to create a Max account if I'm a new subscriber through Verizon?
During the activation process on the Max website (accessed via My Verizon), you'll be prompted to enter your desired email address and password to create a new Max account.
How to link an existing Max or HBO Max account to my Verizon perk?
When activating, Max should detect your existing account via email verification. You'll then receive a one-time code to link your existing account to your Verizon perk, retaining your profiles and watch history.
How to download the Max app on my streaming device?
Go to your streaming device's app store (e.g., Google Play Store, Apple App Store, Roku Channel Store, Fire TV Appstore, Smart TV app store), search for "Max," and install the official application.
How to troubleshoot if my Max activation isn't working?
First, double-check that your Verizon plan officially includes the Max perk and that it's been active on your account for at least 15 minutes. If issues persist, try clearing your browser cache or app data, restarting your device, or contacting Verizon Customer Support.
How to upgrade my Max "With Ads" plan to an Ad-Free version with Verizon?
While the Verizon perk typically provides the "With Ads" plan, during activation (or later through your Max account settings), you may have the option to upgrade to an Ad-Free or Ultimate Ad-Free plan for an additional monthly fee billed directly by Max.
How to switch my Max billing from direct to Verizon?
If your existing Max subscription was billed directly, linking it through the Verizon perk usually transfers the billing for the "With Ads" plan to your Verizon account. Max will guide you on any pro-rated refunds or adjustments for your prior direct subscription.
How to log in to Max on a smart TV using my Verizon credentials?
You don't directly log in with Verizon credentials on the Max app. Instead, you'll use the Max account email and password you created or linked during the Verizon activation process. On TVs, you might be given a code to enter on a website or an option to use the Max mobile app to sign in.
How to contact Verizon Customer Support for Max activation issues?
You can contact Verizon Customer Support through their official website (
How to manage my Max subscription through Verizon?
Once activated, your Max subscription is primarily managed through your Max account. However, the billing and the initial eligibility are tied to your Verizon plan. You can typically manage (e.g., cancel the perk) through your My Verizon app or website under "My services & perks."
