Do you ever feel like your phone number has become a magnet for unwanted calls, spam texts, or simply holds too many connections you'd rather leave behind? Perhaps you've moved to a new area and want a local number, or maybe you're just looking for a fresh start. Whatever your reason, changing your phone number with Verizon is a straightforward process, and we're here to guide you through it every step of the way.
Ready to shake things up and get a brand new digital identity? Let's dive in!
Understanding "How Much" to Change Your Phone Number with Verizon
Before we get into the "how," let's address the crucial "how much." One of the best things about changing your phone number with Verizon is that it can often be free, depending on how you do it.
Online or via the My Verizon App: If you choose to change your number through your My Verizon account online or using the My Verizon app, there is no charge. This is the most cost-effective and often the quickest way to do it.
Through Customer Service: If you prefer to speak with a Verizon representative to change your number over the phone, there is typically a $15 fee. While it might be more convenient for some, doing it yourself online saves you money.
It's important to note that these fees relate specifically to changing your existing Verizon number. If you're porting a number from another carrier to Verizon, Verizon itself doesn't charge a fee for the transfer, though your previous carrier might have early termination fees or outstanding device payments.
Step 1: Are You Ready for a Fresh Start? Considerations Before Changing Your Number
Before you hit that "change number" button, let's take a moment to consider a few important things. This isn't just about getting a new set of digits; it's about managing your digital life!
What to Prepare For:
Notifying Your Contacts: This is perhaps the most crucial step. Think about everyone who needs your new number: family, friends, colleagues, school, doctors, banks, emergency contacts, etc. It's a good idea to compile a list beforehand.
Updating Online Accounts: Many online services and apps use your phone number for verification (two-factor authentication), password resets, or account recovery. You'll need to update your new number for services like banking, social media, email, and any other important accounts. Failing to do this could lock you out of accounts!
Voicemails and Text Messages: Be aware that existing voicemails and text messages may be lost when you change your number. If there's anything critical, make sure to save it before the change.
Connected Devices: If you have smartwatches, tablets, or other devices connected to your Verizon account that rely on your phone number, you might need to reconfigure them or confirm their connectivity after the change.
Billing Cycle: While not typically an issue for the change itself, be aware of your billing cycle. If you change your number mid-cycle, there might be prorated charges on your next bill as the old number is disconnected and the new one activated. This isn't an extra fee for the change itself, but rather how billing works with service changes.
Step 2: Accessing Your Verizon Account
This is where the magic begins! You have two primary ways to initiate a number change: through the My Verizon app or the My Verizon website. Both methods are straightforward and free.
Option A: Using the My Verizon App (Recommended for Mobile Convenience)
Ensure Your App is Up-to-Date: Make sure you have the latest version of the My Verizon app installed on your smartphone. Outdated apps can sometimes cause issues.
Log In Securely: Open the My Verizon app. You'll likely be prompted to enter your password, use fingerprint authentication, or Face ID to log in.
Navigate to Devices:
Depending on your plan, tap on the "Mobile" or "Home" tab.
From the "Devices" section, tap on the mobile number you wish to change. If you have multiple lines, you might need to navigate to "Devices" > "Manage all devices" and then tap "Manage" below the applicable phone number.
Find the "Change Mobile Number" Option: Within the "Device Management" section, look for and tap "Change mobile number."
Option B: Using the My Verizon Website (Great for Desktop Users)
Go to the My Verizon Website: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Verizon website (verizon.com).
Log In to Your Account: Click on "Sign In" and enter your Verizon account credentials (username and password).
Access Account Management:
Once logged in, look for the "Account" tab in the global navigation.
Under "Account," you'll usually find an option like "My Devices" or a direct link to "Change mobile number."
Alternatively, from your Account Overview, select the specific device (phone number) you want to change. Then, within the "Device Management" section, you should see the "Change mobile number" option.
Step 3: Selecting Your New Number
This is the exciting part – picking your new digits! Verizon makes it easy to choose a number that suits you.
Review the Information: You'll likely see a screen with information about "Changing your mobile number." Read through it carefully, then tap "Continue" under the selected device.
Initiate New Number Selection: Tap "Get a new number."
Enter Your Zip Code: You'll be asked to enter the 5-digit Zip code associated with the location where you desire your new mobile number to be from. This helps Verizon provide local number options.
Choose Your Prefix (First 6 Digits): Use the dropdown icon to select the first six digits (the area code and prefix) of your new number. Verizon will present available options based on your entered Zip code.
Select Your Suffix (Last 4 Digits): After choosing your prefix, you'll likely be presented with a list of available suffixes (the last four digits). Select the one you prefer.
Confirm Your Selection: Once you've chosen your new number, review it carefully.
Step 4: Scheduling and Confirming the Change
Almost there! Now you'll decide when your new number goes live and finalize the process.
Select Your Change Date: Verizon often gives you options for when you want your number to change. These might include:
Today: The change will happen as soon as possible.
End of bill cycle: The change will take effect at the start of your next billing cycle, which can sometimes help with prorated charges (though the change itself is free).
Pick a date: You can choose a specific future date for the change. Choose the option that best suits your needs, then tap "Continue."
Review and Confirm: A "Make sure everything looks good" screen will appear. This is your last chance to review all the details: your current number, your new number, and the effective date. Take your time and double-check everything. If it all looks correct, tap "Next."
Authorization Code for Security: For your security, Verizon will send an authorization code.
You'll be asked to select which device or number should receive this code (usually your current Verizon number).
Tap "Send code." The code will be sent via text message.
Enter the Authorization Code: Once you receive the code on your device, enter it into the designated field in the My Verizon app or website, then tap "Next."
Final Confirmation: You'll see a "Confirm number change" message. Review it one last time, and if you're ready, tap "Confirm" to complete the number change.
Step 5: Power Cycle Your Device
This is a small but important final step to ensure your phone recognizes its new identity.
Power Off Your Device: Turn your smartphone completely off.
Wait Briefly: Wait for approximately 2 minutes. This gives the network time to fully update your service.
Power On Your Device: Turn your smartphone back on.
Verify Your New Number: Once your phone has restarted and reconnected to the network, you can call #832 (toll-free) to verify that your new number is working correctly. You'll also receive a confirmation email from Verizon to the email address registered with your My Verizon account.
Congratulations! You now have a brand new Verizon phone number. Remember to update your contacts and online accounts with your new information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to changing your Verizon phone number:
How to change my Verizon phone number for free?
You can change your Verizon phone number for free by doing it yourself online through the My Verizon website or via the My Verizon app.
How to avoid the $15 fee when changing my Verizon number?
To avoid the $15 fee, simply change your number yourself using the My Verizon app or by logging into your My Verizon account on their website. The fee only applies if you call Verizon customer service to make the change.
How to find my new Verizon phone number after changing it?
After changing your number, you'll receive a confirmation email from Verizon with your new number. You can also dial #832 from your phone to verify the new number or check it in the My Verizon app or website under your device details.
How to notify all my contacts about my new Verizon number?
There's no single best way, but a combination works well: send a group text message, post a temporary message on social media, or send out an email. For close contacts, a personal call might be appropriate.
How to update my banking apps with my new Verizon number?
Log in to each banking app or website individually. Look for "Profile," "Security Settings," or "Contact Information" to update your phone number. You'll likely need to verify the change with a code sent to your old or new number, or via another verification method.
How to ensure I don't lose voicemails when changing my Verizon number?
Voicemails and text messages may be lost during a number change. If you have critical voicemails, consider recording them before initiating the number change. For important text messages, you can screenshot them or use a backup app (if available for your device).
How to change my Verizon number if I'm not the account owner?
Only the Account Owner or Account Manager can change a mobile number on a Verizon account. If you are not one of these, you will need to ask the account owner or manager to make the change for you.
How to change my Verizon number to a specific area code?
When changing your number through My Verizon, you'll enter the Zip code of the desired area. Verizon will then present available area codes and prefixes based on that location for you to choose from.
How to revert to my old Verizon phone number after changing it?
Generally, once a number is changed, the old number may be reassigned or become unavailable. While it's sometimes possible to reclaim a recently changed number if it hasn't been reissued, there's no guarantee. It's best to be certain before making the change.
How to ensure my device works correctly after a Verizon number change?
After changing your number, power your device completely off, wait about 2 minutes, and then power it back on. This allows your phone to properly register the new number with the Verizon network. If you experience issues, you can dial #832 to verify or contact Verizon support.
