It seems you're looking to switch from Verizon while retaining your current phone number. That's a common and achievable goal! Let's get started on this journey together.
How to Leave Verizon and Keep Your Number: A Comprehensive Guide
Leaving a carrier, especially a major one like Verizon, can seem daunting, but porting your number is a streamlined process these days. With a little preparation and understanding of the steps involved, you can transition smoothly to your new provider without missing a beat (or a call!).
Step 1: Are You Ready to Make the Switch?
Before we dive into the technicalities, let's confirm you're truly prepared. Think about why you're leaving Verizon. Is it cost, coverage, data limits, or something else? Understanding your motivations will help you choose the perfect new carrier that addresses your pain points.
What's your current contract status with Verizon? Are you on a month-to-month plan, or still under contract? Early termination fees (ETFs) can be substantial, so it's crucial to know this upfront. You can usually check your contract status by logging into your My Verizon account online, checking a recent bill, or calling Verizon customer service.
What are your current phone's capabilities? Is your phone unlocked, or locked to Verizon? Many newer phones are universal, but older ones might be locked. An unlocked phone gives you the freedom to use it with any compatible carrier. If your phone is locked, you might need to request an unlock from Verizon (usually after your contract is fulfilled or by meeting specific criteria) or purchase a new phone for your new carrier.
Once you've reflected on these points, you're ready to move forward!
Step 2: Choosing Your New Wireless Home
This is an exciting step! The mobile landscape is vast, with options ranging from other major carriers to smaller, more budget-friendly MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators).
Sub-heading: Researching Your Options
Consider your needs:
Data usage: Are you a heavy streamer, or do you mostly use Wi-Fi?
Coverage: Check coverage maps for potential new carriers in your frequently visited areas (home, work, travel routes).
Pricing: Compare plans – look beyond just the monthly cost; consider taxes, fees, and any introductory offers.
Features: Do you need international calling, hotspot capabilities, or specific entertainment bundles?
Customer service reputation: Read reviews!
Explore different types of carriers:
Major Carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile): Often offer robust networks, physical stores, and diverse plan options, but can be pricier.
MVNOs (e.g., Mint Mobile, Visible, Google Fi, US Mobile): These carriers operate on the networks of the major players but often offer more affordable plans due to lower overhead. They might have different customer service models or fewer in-person support options. Be sure to check which network an MVNO uses to ensure it aligns with your coverage needs.
Sub-heading: Don't Cancel Verizon Yet! (This is Crucial!)
I cannot stress this enough: DO NOT CANCEL YOUR VERIZON SERVICE UNTIL YOUR NUMBER HAS SUCCESSFULLY PORTED TO YOUR NEW CARRIER. If you cancel first, you risk losing your number permanently, as it will be released back into the pool. The porting process itself will automatically cancel your Verizon service for that line once it's complete.
Step 3: Gathering Your Verizon Account Information
To port your number, your new carrier will need specific information to verify your account with Verizon. Having this ready will significantly speed up the process.
Your Verizon Account Number: You can find this on your bill, or by logging into your My Verizon account online.
Your Account PIN/Passcode: This is a security measure. If you don't remember it, you might need to reset it through your My Verizon account or by calling Verizon customer service before initiating the port. Do not give your new carrier your My Verizon login password.
The Name and Billing Address on the Verizon Account: Ensure this exactly matches what Verizon has on file.
The Phone Number You Wish to Port: Obviously!
Step 4: Initiating the Port with Your New Carrier
Once you've chosen your new carrier and gathered your Verizon account details, it's time to make the move!
Sub-heading: Online vs. In-Store Activation
Online: Many carriers allow you to sign up and initiate the porting process completely online. You'll typically enter your Verizon account information during the checkout process. Your new SIM card (or eSIM details) will then be shipped to you.
In-Store: If you prefer in-person assistance, visit a store of your chosen new carrier. A representative can guide you through the sign-up and porting process. This can be beneficial if you have questions or need immediate assistance.
Sub-heading: The Porting Request
When you sign up with your new carrier, you'll explicitly state that you want to keep your current number. They will then submit a "porting request" to Verizon on your behalf. This is the official request for Verizon to release your number.
Patience is a Virtue: Number porting can take anywhere from a few hours to a few business days, though most domestic ports complete within 24-48 hours. Wireless-to-wireless ports are generally faster than landline-to-wireless.
Keep Your Verizon SIM Active: Until your port is complete, your Verizon SIM card will remain active. You'll continue to receive calls and texts on your Verizon phone.
Activation of New SIM: Once the port is complete, your Verizon service for that line will be automatically disconnected, and your new carrier's SIM will activate with your old number. You might need to restart your phone a few times for the new SIM to fully register.
Step 5: Confirming Your Number Port and Tying Up Loose Ends
Once you notice your Verizon service has stopped working and your new carrier's service is active with your old number, you're almost done!
Test Your New Service: Make a few calls, send some texts, and try using data to ensure everything is working correctly on your new network.
Verify Your Verizon Account Closure: While the port should automatically close that specific line with Verizon, it's a good idea to log into your My Verizon account a few days after the port is complete to confirm the line is no longer active. You might receive a final bill from Verizon for any prorated charges or outstanding balances.
Return Leased Equipment (if applicable): If you were leasing a phone from Verizon, ensure you follow their instructions for returning it to avoid further charges. This is separate from the porting process.
Update Auto-Pay (if applicable): If you had auto-pay set up with Verizon, it should discontinue for that line. However, double-check your bank statements to be sure.
Congratulations! You've successfully left Verizon and kept your number. Enjoy your new wireless service!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find my Verizon account number?
You can find your Verizon account number on your monthly bill (paper or online), by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app, or by calling Verizon customer service and requesting it.
How to get my Verizon account PIN or passcode?
You can typically reset or retrieve your Verizon account PIN/passcode by logging into your My Verizon account online, or by using the "Forgot PIN/Passcode" option during a call to Verizon customer service. You'll need to verify your identity.
How to unlock my Verizon phone for another carrier?
Verizon generally unlocks phones automatically after 60 days of service for postpaid accounts, and after 60 days for prepaid accounts if the device was purchased from Verizon. You can check their official device unlocking policy on their website or by contacting their customer service.
How to check if my Verizon phone is unlocked?
You can try inserting a SIM card from a different carrier into your phone. If it connects to that network and allows calls/texts, it's likely unlocked. Alternatively, you can contact Verizon customer service and ask about your phone's unlock status.
How to transfer contacts when switching from Verizon?
Most modern smartphones sync contacts to cloud services (like Google Contacts, iCloud, or Samsung Cloud). Ensure your contacts are synced before switching. If not, you can export them to a file and import them to your new phone, or use third-party transfer apps.
How to port my landline number from Verizon Wireless?
Porting a landline number can take longer (typically 5-7 business days) and requires the same account information as a mobile port. Ensure you don't disconnect the landline service until the port is complete. You'll initiate this process with your new wireless carrier.
How to handle early termination fees with Verizon?
If you're under contract with Verizon and wish to leave early, you may incur early termination fees (ETFs). The amount typically decreases over time. Check your contract terms or contact Verizon customer service to understand your specific ETF amount. Some new carriers offer promotions to help cover ETFs.
How to transfer an eSIM from Verizon to a new carrier?
If your phone uses an eSIM, you'll generally need to obtain a new eSIM profile from your new carrier. This often involves scanning a QR code or entering activation details provided by the new carrier. You'll delete the old Verizon eSIM profile from your device after the port is complete.
How to keep my old phone number after switching carriers?
To keep your old number, you must initiate a "number port" (or "number transfer") request with your new carrier. Provide them with your current account details from the old carrier. Do NOT cancel your old service first.
How to know when my number port from Verizon is complete?
You'll know your number port is complete when your Verizon service on that line stops working (no calls, texts, or data) and your new carrier's SIM card or eSIM activates with your old phone number, allowing you to make and receive calls/texts on the new network. You might need to restart your phone.
