Ready to get your hands on the latest tech? Upgrading your phone with Verizon can be an exciting process, but it's essential to understand the steps involved to ensure a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from checking your eligibility to activating your new device. Let's dive in!
Upgrading Your Phone with Verizon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Are you ready for an upgrade? Check Your Eligibility!
Before you get excited about that shiny new smartphone, the very first thing you need to do is check your upgrade eligibility. This is crucial as it determines your options and what kind of deals you might qualify for.
There are a few key ways to check your eligibility:
Through the My Verizon App (Recommended for convenience!):
Download and open the My Verizon app on your current smartphone.
Log in with your Verizon account credentials. If you haven't used it before, you might need to register.
Navigate to the "Devices" section.
Look for an option like "Upgrade Device" or "Check Upgrade Options."
The app will display your eligibility status, including any remaining payments on your current device and your potential upgrade date.
Via the My Verizon Website:
Go to the official Verizon website (
www.verizon.com Click on "My Verizon" and log in to your account.
Once logged in, look for the "Devices" or "Shop" section.
You should see an option to "Upgrade or replace device" or similar.
The website will show you which of your lines are eligible for an upgrade and when.
By Calling Verizon Customer Service:
If you prefer speaking to someone directly, you can call Verizon's customer service at 1-800-922-0204.
Be prepared to provide your account information for verification.
Visiting a Verizon Store:
For a personal touch and to get all your questions answered in person, visit your nearest Verizon corporate store. A representative can check your eligibility on the spot.
What impacts your eligibility?
Device Payment Plan Status: Most Verizon customers are on device payment plans (installment agreements). To qualify for a standard upgrade, you typically need to have paid off your current device entirely. However, Verizon does offer an early upgrade option if you've paid off at least 50% of your current device's cost and return it in good condition.
Contract Status (Less Common Now): If you're on an older 2-year contract, you'll generally need to complete the full contract term before being eligible for an upgrade without incurring early termination fees.
Account Standing: Your account must be in good standing, with no past-due balances.
Annual Upgrade Program: Some plans might offer specific annual upgrade options, allowing you to upgrade more frequently by meeting certain criteria.
Step 2: Evaluate Your Options – What Kind of Upgrade Do You Want?
Once you know you're eligible, it's time to consider the different ways you can upgrade your phone. Verizon offers several avenues, each with its own benefits.
Sub-heading: Paying Off Your Device
Paying Off the Remaining Balance: This is the most straightforward way to become fully eligible for any upgrade. If you have a remaining balance on your current device payment plan, you can pay it off in full. This frees you up to start a new device payment agreement for your new phone.
You can do this through My Verizon online or in the app, or by calling customer service.
Sub-heading: Early Upgrade Programs
50% Paid Off Early Upgrade: As mentioned, if you've paid at least 50% of your device's retail price on an eligible device payment agreement, you may qualify for an early upgrade.
Important: With this option, you'll need to return your current device to Verizon in good working condition. If it's not returned or isn't in good condition, the remaining balance on your original device payment agreement will be due on your next bill. This is a great choice if you always want the latest model and are comfortable returning your old phone.
Unlimited Ultimate Plan's Ultimate Phone Upgrade: If you're on the Unlimited Ultimate plan, you might be eligible for special upgrade benefits, often including the best in-market smartphone offers. This can include phone deals with trade-in, even if your phone isn't fully paid off, provided it's been active on your account for at least 60 days.
Sub-heading: Trade-In Programs
Trading In Your Old Device: Verizon's trade-in program is a fantastic way to offset the cost of your new phone. You can trade in eligible smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and even basic phones.
The trade-in value is determined by the make, model, and condition of your device.
You can receive credit as a one-time account credit, recurring bill credits (often tied to promotional offers), or a Verizon e-Gift card.
Pro Tip: To maximize your trade-in value, ensure your device is in the best possible condition. Minor scratches and scuffs are usually okay, but cracked screens or significant damage will reduce the value.
Step 3: Choosing Your Next Device – Select Your New Phone
This is the fun part! Now that you know your eligibility and options, you can browse Verizon's extensive selection of smartphones.
Browse Online:
Visit Verizon's website and navigate to the "Shop" or "Phones" section.
You can filter by brand (Apple, Samsung, Google, etc.), operating system, features, and price.
Compare up to four devices side-by-side to help you make an informed decision.
Look for any promotional offers that might be available with a new device purchase, especially around major device launches (like new iPhones or Samsung Galaxy phones) or holidays. These often involve significant discounts or enhanced trade-in values.
Visit a Verizon Store:
If you prefer to feel the devices in your hand and get personalized recommendations, visit a Verizon store. Sales associates can help you compare models and explain features in detail.
Consider Certified Pre-Owned:
Verizon also offers certified pre-owned devices, which can be a more budget-friendly option while still providing a quality smartphone experience.
What to consider when choosing:
Your Needs: Think about how you use your phone. Are you a heavy gamer, a photographer, or do you primarily use it for calls and texts?
Budget: Determine how much you're willing to pay upfront or monthly.
Features: Do you need 5G capability, a specific camera quality, or a certain amount of storage?
Operating System: Are you an iOS loyalist or an Android enthusiast?
Step 4: How Will You Pay? Select Your Payment Method
Once you've picked your new phone, you'll need to decide on your payment method.
Sub-heading: Device Payment Agreement (Most Common)
This is Verizon's standard installment plan. The full retail price of the device is divided into monthly payments, typically over 36 months, with 0% APR and no finance charges.
You'll sign a device payment agreement, committing to these monthly payments.
You can pay off the entire balance at any time without penalty if you decide to upgrade sooner or just want to own the device outright.
Sub-heading: Full Retail Price
You can always choose to pay the full retail price upfront for your new device. This means you won't have any monthly device payments, and you'll own the phone immediately. This option provides the most flexibility for future upgrades.
Sub-heading: Bill to Account (Limited Eligibility)
For eligible customers with a standard monthly Verizon account for at least 6 months, you might be able to bill equipment purchases to your account. This isn't typically available for prepaid accounts.
Important Note on Fees:
Expect a one-time activation fee or upgrade fee, typically ranging from $35-$50. This fee is often lower for online upgrades compared to in-store purchases.
Step 5: Complete Your Purchase and Prepare for Delivery
You're almost there! Review your order carefully before finalizing it.
Review Your Cart: Double-check your chosen device, color, storage, and any accessories you've added.
Confirm Shipping Information: Ensure your shipping address is correct.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: Read through the device payment agreement and Verizon Customer Agreement.
Place Your Order: Click the final button to submit your order. You'll receive an order confirmation email, which you should save for your records.
Sub-heading: Device Protection and Accessories
Device Protection: During the checkout process, you'll have the option to add device protection (insurance). This is highly recommended to protect your investment from loss, theft, damage, and malfunctions.
Accessories: This is also a good time to consider new accessories like cases, screen protectors, or chargers for your new phone.
Step 6: Prepare Your Old Device (If Trading In)
If you're trading in your old device, proper preparation is key to ensuring you receive the full appraised value.
Back Up Your Data: This is critically important! Before doing anything else, back up all your photos, videos, contacts, messages, and other important data.
For iPhones: Use iCloud or iTunes.
For Android Phones: Use Google Drive, a cloud service, or connect to a computer.
Turn Off Find My Device/Find My iPhone: This is a mandatory step. If these features are still active, Verizon cannot process your trade-in, and your device will be returned to you or its value significantly reduced.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > Your Name > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle it off. You'll need your Apple ID password.
For Android Phones: Go to Settings > Google > Find My Device, and toggle it off.
Perform a Factory Reset/Erase All Content and Settings: This will wipe all personal data from your device, protecting your privacy.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
For Android Phones: Steps vary by manufacturer, but typically found in Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
Remove SIM Card and Memory Card: Make sure to remove your physical SIM card and any external memory cards (like an SD card) before sending in your device. These will not be returned to you.
Clean the Device: A clean device always makes a better impression.
Package it Securely: If shipping, use the provided shipping label and packaging (if sent by Verizon) or your own secure materials. Document the condition of your phone with photos or a video before shipping, just in case.
Step 7: Activate Your New Phone!
Once your new phone arrives, the final step is activation.
Unbox Your New Phone: Carefully remove your new device from its packaging.
Insert Your SIM Card (if applicable):
Many new phones use eSIM technology, meaning the SIM is built-in and activated digitally.
If your new phone requires a physical SIM, transfer the SIM card from your old phone (if compatible) or insert the new SIM card provided by Verizon.
Power On and Follow On-Screen Prompts:
Turn on your new phone. It will typically guide you through the initial setup process.
Connect to Wi-Fi.
Log in with your Google or Apple ID.
Follow the prompts for activation. Often, simply connecting to the Verizon network will automatically activate your device.
Transfer Your Data:
Use Verizon's Content Transfer tool, Google's data transfer methods, or Apple's Quick Start/iCloud restoration to move your backed-up data to your new phone.
Verify Everything Works: Make a test call, send a text, browse the internet, and check that all your apps and services are functioning correctly.
Complete Trade-In Process (if applicable): If you're trading in your old phone, make sure to follow the shipping instructions and send it back to Verizon within the specified timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about upgrading your phone with Verizon:
How to check my Verizon upgrade eligibility?
You can check your Verizon upgrade eligibility through the My Verizon app, the My Verizon website, by calling Verizon customer service at 1-800-922-0204, or by visiting a Verizon store.
How to upgrade early with Verizon?
You can upgrade early with Verizon if you've paid off at least 50% of your current device's retail price on an eligible device payment agreement and return your old device in good working condition.
How to trade in my old phone with Verizon?
To trade in your old phone, go to Verizon's trade-in page online, or visit a Verizon store. You'll provide details about your device's condition to get an estimated value, then back up your data, factory reset your device, and send it in (or drop it off in-store) to receive credit.
How to pay for a new phone on Verizon?
You can pay for a new phone on Verizon through a device payment agreement (monthly installments at 0% APR), by paying the full retail price upfront, or in some limited cases, by billing the equipment purchase to your account.
How to transfer data to my new Verizon phone?
You can transfer data to your new Verizon phone using Verizon's Content Transfer tool, by restoring from a cloud backup (like iCloud for iPhones or Google Drive for Androids), or by using direct transfer tools provided by Apple (Quick Start) or Android.
How to activate my new Verizon phone?
To activate your new Verizon phone, power it on, insert your SIM card (if it's not an eSIM), connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on-screen prompts. Often, the phone will automatically activate once connected to the Verizon network.
How to avoid upgrade fees on Verizon?
While many upgrades incur a standard activation/upgrade fee ($35-$50), online upgrades often have lower fees. Some premium plans or business accounts might qualify for fee waivers during promotions, so keep an eye out for special offers.
How to find the best Verizon phone upgrade deals?
To find the best Verizon phone upgrade deals, monitor their website during major device launches (e.g., new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy releases) and holidays. Also, check your My Verizon account for exclusive loyalty offers.
How to cancel a pending Verizon order?
If you have a pending order on your Verizon account that's preventing an upgrade or plan change, an Account Owner or Account Manager can remove it on your My Orders page in My Verizon.
How to get help with my Verizon upgrade process?
For help with your Verizon upgrade process, you can use the My Verizon app, visit the My Verizon website for support resources and FAQs, call customer service at 1-800-922-0204, or visit a local Verizon store.