Thinking about a fresh start with your phone number on Verizon? Whether you're looking to escape spam calls, create a clearer boundary between work and personal life, or simply want a new identity in the digital world, getting a new number with Verizon is a straightforward process.
But wait, before we dive in, ask yourself this: Why are you really looking for a new number? Are you being bombarded by telemarketers? Dealing with an uncomfortable situation? Or just craving a clean slate? Understanding your reason can help you decide if a new number is truly the best solution, or if other options, like blocking unwanted calls or using a "second number" feature, might be more suitable.
If you're ready for that fresh start, let's walk through the steps to get your brand new Verizon number!
Step 1: Log In to Your My Verizon Account (Your Digital Gateway)
This is where your journey begins! Verizon has made it incredibly easy to manage your account and make changes online.
Sub-heading: Accessing My Verizon
If you're already a Verizon customer, head over to the official Verizon website (
verizon.com New to Verizon or haven't set up your online account yet? You'll need to register for a My Verizon account first. This typically involves providing your mobile number or account number and setting up a password. It's a quick process, and once done, you'll have full control over your line.
Sub-heading: Why Online is Best
Cost-Effective: Verizon waives the $15 change fee if you change your number online through My Verizon. That's a nice saving right there!
Convenience: No need to visit a store or spend time on the phone. You can do it from the comfort of your home, anytime you want.
Step 2: Navigate to the "Change Mobile Number" Section
Once you're logged into your My Verizon account, you'll need to find the specific option to change your mobile number.
Sub-heading: Finding the Right Menu
From your account overview, look for a global navigation menu (often labeled "Account" or "My Devices").
Select "Account", then "My Devices."
Within "My Devices," keep an eye out for an option like "Change mobile number".
Alternatively, from your Account Overview, you might be able to select the specific device you want to change the number for. Then, look for a "Device Management" section, where you should see the "Change mobile number" option.
Sub-heading: Confirming Your Device
Verizon will typically ask you to confirm the device for which you want to change the number. Make sure you've selected the correct line if you have multiple lines on your account.
Step 3: Choose to Get a New Verizon Number
This is the pivotal point where you specify your intention to acquire a brand new number.
Sub-heading: New Number or Porting In?
You'll be presented with two main choices: "Get a new Verizon number" or "Bring another number" (which refers to porting in a number from a different carrier).
For this guide, we're focusing on getting a brand new Verizon number, so select that option.
Step 4: Select Your Desired Area Code and Prefix
Verizon gives you some control over the initial digits of your new number.
Sub-heading: Location, Location, Location!
The first six digits of your new number will be based on a ZIP code you enter, or you can set your location by state and city.
Enter the ZIP code where you'd like your new number to be based. This usually corresponds to your current location or a location where you want a local number.
Verizon will then present you with available options for the first six digits (area code and prefix) based on your chosen ZIP code or location. Carefully select the one that suits you best.
Step 5: Pick Your New Number's Last Four Digits (The Fun Part!)
Now comes the exciting part – choosing the unique ending of your new number!
Sub-heading: The Number Lottery
Verizon will display a selection of available numbers, showing you the last four digits.
You'll typically have a limited time to choose before the options refresh.
Want more choices? You usually get a certain number of "searches" per day (e.g., up to six). If you don't like the initial options, you can search for more.
Important Note: If you reach your search limit, you'll either have to pick from the displayed numbers or wait 24 hours to search again. So, make your selections wisely!
Step 6: Confirm the Number Change and Activation Date
Once you've found the perfect new number, it's time to finalize the request.
Sub-heading: When Do You Want It?
You'll be asked to choose when you want your number to change.
If you select today's date, your new number will be activated almost immediately.
Click "Continue" to proceed.
Sub-heading: Review and Finalize
Before submitting, Verizon will provide a summary of your number change request.
Pay close attention to this screen! It will clearly state that your previous number will no longer be available and cannot be retrieved once the change is submitted. Make sure you've informed anyone who needs your old number before proceeding.
If everything looks correct and you're ready, click "Submit your change."
Step 7: Receive Confirmation and Activate Your New Number
Congratulations! Your request has been submitted.
Sub-heading: What Happens Next?
You'll see a confirmation page outlining the next steps.
You may receive a text message or email with instructions to complete the activation process.
Power Cycle Your Device: Often, the most crucial step is to turn your phone completely off and then turn it back on. This helps your device register with the Verizon network and acquire the new number. This process usually takes a couple of minutes.
Step 8: Update Your Contacts and Accounts
This step is external to Verizon's process but incredibly important for a smooth transition.
Sub-heading: Spreading the Word
Inform your close family, friends, and important contacts about your new number.
Update your number on any online accounts, banking apps, social media, and other services that use your phone number for verification or communication. This includes two-factor authentication services. Failing to do this can lead to being locked out of accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to getting a new Verizon number, with quick answers:
How to change my Verizon number online for free? You can change your Verizon phone number for free by logging into your My Verizon account on the website and following the steps to change your mobile number. The $15 fee is waived for online changes.
How to choose a specific new Verizon number? When changing your number online, Verizon will present you with options for the last four digits of your new number after you select the area code and prefix based on your chosen ZIP code. You can search for more options a limited number of times per day.
How to transfer my old number to a new Verizon line? This is called "porting in." During the process of setting up a new line, you'll have the option to "Bring another number" instead of getting a new Verizon number. You'll need your old carrier's account number and a Number Transfer PIN.
How to know if my desired area code is available for a new Verizon number? When you enter a ZIP code or select a state and city in the online change process, Verizon will display the available area codes and prefixes for that location.
How to get a temporary phone number with Verizon? Verizon offers a "Second Number" service for $15 per month, which allows you to have an additional number on your existing phone, effectively acting as a temporary or separate line.
How to change a Verizon number without paying a fee? The easiest way is to perform the number change yourself through the My Verizon website or app, as Verizon waives the $15 fee for self-service changes.
How to avoid issues after changing my Verizon number? After changing your number, immediately power cycle your phone. Then, meticulously update your new number on all essential online accounts, banking apps, and contact lists to prevent service disruptions or being locked out of accounts.
How to switch a number between devices on my Verizon account? To swap numbers between existing devices on the same Verizon account, you typically need to contact Verizon customer service directly. This action cannot be done through the online portal in the same way as changing to a new number.
How to get a new number for a new Verizon line? When activating a new line of service with Verizon, you'll automatically be prompted to choose a new phone number as part of the activation process, which is often tied to promotions for new lines.
How to revert to my old Verizon number after changing it? Unfortunately, once you submit a request to change your number, your previous number is generally no longer available and cannot be retrieved. It's crucial to be certain before finalizing the change.