Are you ready to break free from Verizon and experience what AT&T has to offer? Switching carriers can seem daunting, but with a clear, step-by-step guide, it's actually quite manageable. This comprehensive post will walk you through every essential detail, ensuring a smooth transition. Let's get started on your journey to AT&T!
A Comprehensive Guide to Switching from Verizon to AT&T
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Verizon Situation and Future Needs
Before you even think about contacting AT&T, it's crucial to understand your current standing with Verizon and what you truly need from your next carrier. This initial assessment will save you a lot of headaches later on.
1.1 Check Your Verizon Contract and Device Status
Are you under contract? Many older Verizon plans had service contracts. If you're still under contract, canceling early might incur early termination fees. Check your last bill or log into your My Verizon account to confirm.
Device Payment Plans: If you're currently paying off a phone through Verizon's device payment plan, be aware that the remaining balance will likely become due in full on your final Verizon bill when you switch. This is a crucial financial consideration.
Device Unlocking: Verizon typically unlocks devices after 60 days of active service, provided the device isn't reported lost/stolen or involved in fraud. Ensure your phone is unlocked before attempting to use it with AT&T. You can usually confirm this in your phone's settings (e.g., on iPhone, go to Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock; if it says "No SIM restrictions," it's unlocked). If it's not unlocked, contact Verizon.
1.2 Assess Your Current Data Usage and Coverage Needs
Review past Verizon bills: Look at your data consumption over the last few months. This will help you choose an AT&T plan that fits your actual usage.
Check AT&T Coverage in Your Area: While both are major carriers, coverage can vary significantly from one location to another. Use AT&T's coverage map (
att.com/coverage
1.3 Back Up Your Data!
This is absolutely critical! Whether you're keeping your old phone or getting a new one, you'll want to preserve your contacts, photos, videos, apps, and other important data.
Cloud Services: Use Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox, or another cloud service to back up your phone.
Computer Backup: Connect your phone to your computer and transfer files.
Voicemails: Note that voicemails typically do not transfer between carriers. Listen to and save any important voicemails before you switch.
Step 2: Gather Essential Information from Verizon
To ensure a smooth number transfer (porting), you'll need specific information from your Verizon account.
2.1 Your Verizon Account Number
This can be found on your Verizon bill or by logging into your My Verizon online account.
2.2 Your Number Transfer PIN (Port-Out PIN)
This is perhaps the most critical piece of information for porting your number. Verizon requires a specific Number Transfer PIN to authorize the transfer of your phone number(s) to another carrier.
How to get it:
Dial #PORT (#7678) from the account owner's or manager's device. You'll receive a text with a login link.
Log in to your My Verizon online profile, go to My Profile > Number transfer PIN > Generate PIN.
Use the My Verizon app to generate the PIN.
Keep this PIN safe and do not share it with anyone other than AT&T.
2.3 Account Holder's Name and Billing Address
Ensure these match what's on your Verizon account exactly. Any discrepancies can delay the porting process.
Step 3: Choose Your AT&T Plan and Device
Now that you're prepared, it's time to decide what you want from AT&T.
3.1 Explore AT&T Phone Plans
AT&T offers a variety of plans, including prepaid and postpaid options, with different data allowances, hotspot data, and international calling features.
Unlimited Plans: Consider unlimited data plans if you're a heavy user.
Prepaid vs. Postpaid: Prepaid plans offer more flexibility with no annual contracts or credit checks, while postpaid plans might come with device financing options and other perks.
Compare plans carefully based on your data usage, budget, and desired features (e.g., 5G access, streaming quality, international benefits). Check out
att.com/wireless/plans
3.2 Device Options: Bring Your Own or Buy New
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If your Verizon phone is unlocked and compatible with AT&T's GSM network (most modern Verizon phones are), you can bring it over. This can save you money.
Check Compatibility: AT&T has a BYOD compatibility checker on their website where you can enter your phone's IMEI to verify. Dial *#06# on your phone to find your IMEI.
GSM vs. CDMA: Historically, Verizon used CDMA technology, while AT&T uses GSM. Modern phones are often "global phones" supporting both, but it's always good to double-check.
Buy a New Device: AT&T frequently offers promotions and deals on new smartphones when you switch. This might involve trade-in programs for your old device (see Step 5) or installment plans.
Step 4: Initiate the Switch to AT&T (and Port Your Number!)
This is where the actual transfer process begins.
4.1 How to Switch
Online: Visit AT&T's website (
att.com/wireless/switch-from-verizon In-Store: Visit an AT&T retail store. A representative can guide you through the process, help you choose a plan, and activate your service. This is often recommended for a smoother experience, especially if you have questions or specific needs.
Over the Phone: Call AT&T customer service.
4.2 The Number Porting Process (Keeping Your Old Number)
Crucially, DO NOT CANCEL YOUR VERIZON SERVICE YOURSELF! AT&T will handle the cancellation of your Verizon line(s) automatically once the number transfer is complete. Canceling prematurely can result in losing your phone number.
During the AT&T signup process, you'll be asked if you want to transfer your existing number. Provide the following:
The phone number(s) you want to transfer.
Your current provider (Verizon).
Your Verizon account number.
Your Verizon Number Transfer PIN.
Your Verizon billing address and account holder name.
Verification: Verizon will send you a text message to verify that you want to transfer your number. Follow the instructions in this message to confirm the transfer. This is an essential security step.
Porting Timeframe:
In-store activation: Typically 1 to 3 business hours.
Online/phone order (new phone/SIM card shipped): 3 to 5 business days. Your Verizon phone will continue to work until you activate your new AT&T device or SIM.
Non-wireless numbers (e.g., landline): 5 to 7 business days.
4.3 SIM Card vs. eSIM Activation
Physical SIM: If you're getting a new physical SIM card, you'll insert it into your phone. AT&T will provide activation instructions (often through a simple online portal or by calling a specific number).
eSIM: If your device supports eSIM, you might receive a QR code or an activation link to download your digital SIM profile. This process is generally quick and convenient.
For iPhones, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
For Androids, typically found in Settings > Connections > SIM card manager or Network & Internet > SIMs/Mobile network.
Regardless of SIM type, ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi during the activation process.
Step 5: Prepare Your Old Device (If You're Trading In or Recycling)
If you're upgrading to a new AT&T device and plan to trade in or dispose of your old Verizon phone, follow these steps.
5.1 Back Up and Wipe Your Device
Before doing anything else, ensure all your data is backed up! (See Step 1.3)
Factory Reset: Perform a factory reset on your old device to erase all personal data.
iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
Android: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
Remove Accounts: Sign out of all cloud accounts (Google, Apple ID, etc.) and remove any linked devices.
Remove SIM Card: Take out your physical SIM card from the old phone.
Remove SD Card: If your phone has one, remove any microSD cards.
5.2 AT&T Trade-In Program
If you're participating in AT&T's trade-in program, follow their specific instructions for sending in your device. They will likely send you a prepaid shipping kit.
Important Note: If you were receiving bill credits from Verizon for a promotional device, these credits will stop when you leave Verizon, and the remaining balance will be due. Ensure you understand the financial implications of trading in a device that still has an outstanding balance with Verizon. AT&T's trade-in program generally requires devices to be fully paid off.
Step 6: Manage Your Final Verizon Bill
Even after you've switched, there are a few lingering items with Verizon to address.
6.1 Expect a Final Bill
Verizon will send you a final bill that may include:
Prorated charges for service up to the porting date.
Any remaining device payment balances.
Early termination fees (if applicable).
Pay this bill promptly to avoid any negative impact on your credit or further collections issues.
6.2 Check for Refunds/Credits
If you had any security deposits with Verizon, these should be refunded within 30-60 days after your account is closed and final charges are settled.
Any promotional subscriptions or perks you had through Verizon will likely be canceled automatically.
Step 7: Monitor Your New AT&T Service
Once activated, take some time to ensure everything is working as expected.
7.1 Test Your Service
Make a test call to a friend or family member.
Send and receive text messages.
Browse the internet using mobile data (turn off Wi-Fi to test cellular data).
Test your voicemail.
7.2 Familiarize Yourself with AT&T Account Management
Download the My AT&T app.
Set up your online account access.
Explore your plan details and billing cycle.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check if My Verizon Phone is Unlocked?
You can usually check in your phone's settings. For iPhones, go to Settings > General > About. If it says "No SIM restrictions," your iPhone is unlocked. For Androids, you might need to insert a non-Verizon SIM card; if it connects to the new network or doesn't prompt for an unlock code, it's likely unlocked. Verizon automatically unlocks devices after 60 days of service.
How to Transfer My Phone Number from Verizon to AT&T?
Do not cancel your Verizon service. AT&T will handle the number transfer (porting) during your activation process. You'll need your Verizon account number and a specific Number Transfer PIN (which you can generate by dialing #PORT from your Verizon phone or through the My Verizon app/website).
How to Back Up My Contacts Before Switching Carriers?
For iPhones, sync your contacts to iCloud. For Android, sync them to your Google account. You can also export contacts as a VCF file and transfer them, or use third-party apps designed for contact migration.
How to Transfer Photos and Videos When Switching from Verizon to AT&T?
Use cloud services like Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox, or OneDrive to back up your media. Alternatively, connect your phone to a computer and manually transfer files.
How to Activate a New AT&T SIM Card or eSIM?
If you get a physical SIM, insert it into your device. If you get an eSIM, you'll typically scan a QR code provided by AT&T or follow on-screen prompts in your phone's settings (Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM on iPhone; similar options in Android Settings). Ensure you have Wi-Fi connectivity for eSIM activation.
How to Know What My Final Verizon Bill Will Include After Switching?
Your final Verizon bill will typically include prorated service charges up to the date your number transferred, any remaining balance on device payment plans, and potentially early termination fees if you were under a contract.
How to Check AT&T Network Coverage in My Area?
Visit the AT&T coverage map online at
How to Deal with Remaining Device Payments on My Verizon Phone?
If you still owe money on a device payment plan with Verizon, the full remaining balance will be charged to your final Verizon bill when you switch carriers. Be prepared for this lump sum payment.
How to Transfer Apps and App Data to My New AT&T Phone?
For iPhones, sign in with your Apple ID and restore from an iCloud backup, or use Quick Start. For Android, sign in with your Google account, and your apps will automatically begin downloading, and some app data might transfer via Google Drive backup.
How to Get the Best Deals When Switching to AT&T?
Check AT&T's website regularly for promotions for new customers, especially those switching from other carriers. Look for deals on new devices, trade-in offers, or special plan pricing. Visiting an AT&T store might also reveal in-store exclusive offers.
