How Much Is Total by Verizon? Your Comprehensive Guide to Plans, Pricing, and Value!
Are you tired of skyrocketing phone bills and complex contracts? Do you wish you could enjoy the reliability of Verizon's network without the premium price tag? If so, you're in the right place! Total by Verizon (formerly Total Wireless) offers a compelling alternative for those seeking affordable, no-contract wireless service on the renowned Verizon network.
But how much exactly is Total by Verizon, and what do you get for your money? Let's dive deep into understanding their pricing, plans, and overall value. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step!
Step 1: Understanding Total by Verizon's Core Concept – Prepaid Simplicity
First things first, let's address the fundamental difference that sets Total by Verizon apart from traditional Verizon Wireless: it's a prepaid service.
What does "prepaid" mean for you? It means you pay for your service before you use it. There are no credit checks, no long-term contracts to sign, and typically no hidden fees that creep up on your monthly bill. This offers immense flexibility and control over your spending. You're not locked into anything, allowing you to change plans or even carriers if your needs evolve.
The Verizon Network Advantage: This is where Total by Verizon truly shines. Despite being a prepaid brand, it operates on the same robust and reliable Verizon 5G and 4G LTE network. This means you get the same widespread coverage and often similar speeds as direct Verizon Wireless customers, but at a significantly lower cost. Think of it as getting the premium network experience without the premium price.
Step 2: Exploring Total by Verizon's Unlimited Plan Offerings
Total by Verizon primarily focuses on unlimited talk, text, and data plans, catering to the majority of smartphone users. The pricing often depends on the number of lines you have and whether you opt for Auto Pay.
Sub-heading: The Popular Unlimited Plans (Approximate Pricing – Always Check Current Offers!)
Total by Verizon's unlimited plans offer varying levels of data speeds and hotspot allowances. Here's a general overview of what you can expect, keeping in mind that prices can change and promotions are common:
Base 5G Unlimited Plan: This is typically their most affordable unlimited option.
What you get: Unlimited talk, text, and data. Data speeds may be temporarily slower than other traffic in times of congestion. Video streaming is often at 480p (standard definition).
Approximate Price: Around $50 per month per line, with potential discounts for Auto Pay and multiple lines (e.g., as low as $25/month/line with 4 lines on Auto Pay for new customers).
Total 5G Unlimited Plan: A step up, offering faster data and more hotspot.
What you get: Unlimited talk, text, and data that's often marketed as "12 times faster unlimited data that never slows you down" (compared to 4G LTE speeds). This plan usually includes a generous 15 GB of mobile hotspot data. It also frequently comes with international calling to 85+ destinations and texting to 200+ destinations, plus roaming in Canada & Mexico.
Approximate Price: Around $55 per month per line, with potential Auto Pay discounts bringing it down to $50 per month.
Total 5G+ Unlimited Plan: Their most premium unlimited offering.
What you get: Similar to the Total 5G Unlimited plan but with unlimited mobile hotspot data. It also includes enhanced international calling features, often with $10 long-distance credit to 120+ destinations, in addition to the Canada & Mexico roaming and calling/texting to 85+/200+ destinations.
Approximate Price: Around $60 per month per line, often with Auto Pay discounts bringing it down from an initial $65 for the first month.
Sub-heading: Multi-Line Discounts – The More, The Merrier!
One of the most significant ways to save with Total by Verizon is by adding multiple lines. They frequently offer substantial discounts for families or groups:
For instance, you might see promotions where the fourth line on an unlimited plan is free or heavily discounted when you have three paid lines. This can drastically reduce your per-line cost! Always check their current multi-line offers directly on their website.
Step 3: Understanding Data-Only and Hotspot Plans
While Total by Verizon is known for its phone plans, they also offer dedicated data plans for mobile hotspots and tablets. These are perfect if you need internet connectivity for devices other than your smartphone.
15 GB Hotspot Plan: Around $30 per month (with potential Auto Pay discounts).
40 GB Hotspot Plan: Around $40 per month (with potential Auto Pay discounts).
100 GB Hotspot Plan: Around $50 per month (with potential Auto Pay discounts).
These plans are ideal for remote work, students, or anyone who needs a reliable mobile internet connection on the go.
Step 4: Decoding the "Total" Value: What Else Do You Get?
Beyond the core talk, text, and data, Total by Verizon bundles in several valuable features that enhance its overall appeal.
Sub-heading: International Perks
International Calling: Many of their unlimited plans include international calling to a wide range of countries (e.g., 85+ destinations) and texting to even more (e.g., 200+ destinations). The more premium plans often offer additional credits or expanded country lists.
Canada & Mexico Roaming: Most unlimited plans include roaming in Canada and Mexico, allowing you to use your talk, text, and data allowances when traveling to these neighboring countries. This is a significant perk for frequent cross-border travelers.
Sub-heading: Loyalty Programs and Rewards
Total by Verizon often has a "Total Rewards" program. This can include incentives like:
Upgrade Bonuses: After a certain number of consecutive monthly plan purchases (e.g., 12 months), you might be awarded an upgrade bonus (e.g., $100 or $200) towards a new 5G smartphone.
Loyalty Discounts: Some plans offer loyalty discounts that kick in after a few months of continuous service, further reducing your monthly cost.
Sub-heading: Price Guarantee
A notable feature with Total by Verizon is their 5-year price guarantee for new subscribers on their tax-inclusive monthly rates. This means your plan price won't suddenly jump up after a promotional period, offering long-term peace of mind. (Note: This typically applies to the base plan rate and doesn't include add-ons or one-time charges.)
Step 5: Making the Switch: How to Get Started
Ready to potentially save money and enjoy reliable service? Here's how to get started with Total by Verizon:
Check Coverage: This is crucial! While Total by Verizon uses the Verizon network, it's always wise to check coverage specifically for your address and the areas you frequent. You can typically do this on their website by entering your ZIP code.
Choose Your Plan: Decide which unlimited plan (or data-only plan) best fits your usage habits. Consider how much hotspot data you need and if international calling features are important to you.
Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) or Buy a New One:
BYOP is often the most cost-effective option. If you have a compatible, unlocked phone (especially one previously used on Verizon or another CDMA network), you can likely bring it over. You'll just need a Total by Verizon SIM card.
If you need a new phone, Total by Verizon offers a selection of smartphones, from budget-friendly options to newer 5G-capable devices. Keep an eye out for potential deals or discounts on new phones when signing up for service.
Get a SIM Card or Activate eSIM:
For physical SIM cards, you can purchase an activation kit online or at a retail store. You'll then self-install the SIM.
If your device supports eSIM, you might be able to activate service virtually with a phone call, making the process even quicker.
Activate Your Service: Follow the activation instructions provided with your SIM kit or during the online signup process. This usually involves activating your chosen plan and potentially porting your existing number if you want to keep it.
Set Up Auto Pay (for discounts!): If you want to take advantage of the Auto Pay discounts, remember to set this up during or after activation.
Final Thoughts on "How Much is Total by Verizon"
In summary, Total by Verizon offers a highly competitive solution for wireless service. By leveraging Verizon's robust network while operating as a prepaid, no-contract provider, they deliver significant value. The "total" cost is often much lower than comparable postpaid plans from major carriers, especially when considering their multi-line discounts, loyalty programs, and transparent pricing.
If you're looking for reliable coverage and want to save money on your monthly phone bill, Total by Verizon is definitely worth a serious look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Check My Total by Verizon Coverage?
You can check Total by Verizon's coverage directly on their official website. Look for a "Coverage Map" or "Check Coverage" section, where you can enter your ZIP code or address to see the expected network strength (5G Ultra Wideband, 5G, or 4G LTE) in your area.
How to Pay My Total by Verizon Bill?
You can pay your Total by Verizon bill online through your My Account portal on their website. They typically accept credit/debit cards and sometimes offer payment via refill cards. Setting up Auto Pay is often encouraged for discounts.
How to Get More Hotspot Data on Total by Verizon?
Some Total by Verizon plans include a set amount of hotspot data. If you exhaust your allowance or need more, you can often purchase data add-ons (e.g., 5GB data add-ons) through your online account or by contacting customer service.
How to Contact Total by Verizon Customer Service?
You can typically contact Total by Verizon customer service by calling their toll-free number (often found on their website, or try 1-866-663-3633) or by using their online chat support if available.
How to Keep My Current Phone Number with Total by Verizon?
Yes, you can usually keep your current phone number when switching to Total by Verizon. During the activation process, you'll be given the option to "port" your existing number from your previous carrier. You'll need your old account information handy.
How to Get a New Phone with Total by Verizon?
You can purchase new phones directly from the Total by Verizon website or from authorized retail partners. They often have deals on various smartphones, including 5G-capable devices, when you sign up for a service plan.
How to Add Lines to My Total by Verizon Account?
You can add lines to your Total by Verizon account through your online My Account portal or by contacting customer service. Multi-line discounts are often automatically applied or need to be selected during the process.
How to Get International Calling with Total by Verizon?
Many Total by Verizon unlimited plans automatically include international calling to certain destinations and roaming in Canada/Mexico. For more extensive international calling, check the specific features of their premium plans or look for international add-on options.
How to Activate a Total by Verizon SIM Card?
To activate a Total by Verizon SIM card, you typically visit their activation page online or call their activation line. You'll need your SIM card number, the phone's IMEI number, and your chosen service plan to complete the activation.
How to Get the Best Deal on Total by Verizon?
To get the best deal, consider signing up for Auto Pay to receive discounts. Also, explore their multi-line plans if you need service for multiple people, as these often offer significant per-line savings. Keep an eye on their website for promotional offers on plans and new phones.
