Verizon accounts, particularly family plans, offer convenience and often cost savings by grouping multiple lines under a single bill. However, life changes like moving out, getting married, or simply desiring individual financial independence can lead to the need to "split" a Verizon account. This isn't always a simple "split the bill" function, but rather a process of transferring lines and establishing new accounts.
Your Journey to Verizon Account Independence Begins!
Are you tired of sharing a bill, or perhaps ready to embark on your own wireless journey? Splitting a Verizon account, while seemingly complex, is a perfectly achievable goal. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth transition to your new, independent Verizon service. Let's dive in!
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| How To Split Verizon Account |
Understanding the "Split" – Assumption of Liability
Before we jump into the steps, it's crucial to understand what "splitting" a Verizon account truly means. Verizon doesn't typically offer a feature to simply divide a single bill into separate ones for different lines on the same account. Instead, "splitting" generally refers to the process of Assumption of Liability (AOL).
The Assumption of Liability process involves transferring one or more lines from an existing Verizon account (the "relinquishing" account) to a new or existing Verizon account (the "assuming" account). The person taking over the line(s) on the new account becomes financially responsible for those lines, including any associated device payment agreements.
Key Players in the Split:
Account Owner (Relinquishing): The current primary account holder who is releasing lines from their account. They are financially responsible for the lines until the transfer is complete.
Assuming Party (New Account Owner): The person who will be taking over the line(s) and establishing a new Verizon account or adding them to an existing one. They will become financially responsible for those lines.
Step 1: Preparation is Power - Gather Your Essentials!
Before you even think about calling Verizon or logging into My Verizon, some crucial groundwork will make the process infinitely smoother. Don't skip this step – it's the foundation of a successful split!
Sub-heading 1.1: Open Communication with the Current Account Owner
This is perhaps the most critical part. If you're not the Account Owner and you're looking to split off your line, you must communicate clearly and openly with the current Account Owner.
Discuss Intentions: Explain why you want to split off. Is it for financial independence, a new living situation, or something else? Transparency is key.
Agree on Terms: Discuss who will be responsible for any outstanding device payments, final bills, or early termination fees (if applicable). Having this conversation upfront prevents misunderstandings later.
Availability: Both the current Account Owner and the assuming party will likely need to be available to complete parts of the process, sometimes simultaneously. Coordinate schedules.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
Sub-heading 1.2: Gather Necessary Information
Having this information readily available will save you time and frustration during the process.
Current Account Owner's Information:
Account Number
Account PIN or Security Passcode (This is crucial for verification)
Full Name and Address
Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax ID (for credit check purposes for the assuming party)
Assuming Party's Information:
Full Legal Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number (SSN) (for a soft credit check)
Current Address
Email Address
Desired Verizon Plan (research this beforehand!)
Payment Method for the new account
Sub-heading 1.3: Check Device Payment Balances and Contracts
This is a common sticking point, so pay close attention here.
Device Payment Agreements (DPAs): If the line(s) you are splitting off have active device payment agreements, you have two main options:
Pay off the balance: The current Account Owner can pay off the remaining balance on the devices before the transfer. This simplifies the AOL process.
Transfer the DPA: The assuming party can take over the device payment agreement. This requires the assuming party to pass a credit check and be eligible to assume the agreement. The payment amount and length of the agreement will generally not change.
Contract End Dates: While most Verizon plans are no longer under traditional contracts with early termination fees (ETFs), it's still wise to check. If an older contract exists, discuss who will be responsible for any potential ETFs if the line is disconnected before the contract ends.
Promotions/Discounts: Be aware that certain special offers, like line access discounts or BOGO (Buy One Get One) promotions, may not transfer to the new account. The bill credits for the "free" device in a BOGO promotion will be discontinued, and the remaining balance of the device payment agreement for both devices will be charged. Confirm this with Verizon if you have ongoing promotions.
Step 2: Initiating the Transfer - The Relinquishing Party's Role
The process of splitting an account typically begins with the current Account Owner releasing the line(s).
Sub-heading 2.1: Contacting Verizon
There are a few ways the Account Owner can initiate the transfer:
Call Verizon Customer Service: The most common and often most straightforward method. Call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). Be prepared to provide your account number and PIN/passcode for verification. State clearly that you wish to perform an "Assumption of Liability" for specific lines on your account.
My Verizon Website/App (if applicable): While the full AOL process often requires a call, some initial steps or information gathering can be done online. Check the "Transfer Your Service" section within My Verizon. However, don't rely solely on the app for the entire transfer as a live agent is usually necessary.
Sub-heading 2.2: Providing Consent and Information
The Account Owner will need to formally authorize the transfer of the line(s).
Line Selection: Specify exactly which lines you wish to transfer.
Assuming Party's Information: Provide the full name and email address of the person who will be taking over the lines. This is crucial for Verizon to send them the necessary acceptance instructions.
Confirmation: Verizon will confirm the details of the lines being released and any outstanding device payments or other financial considerations.
Step 3: Accepting Liability - The Assuming Party's Role
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Once the relinquishing party has initiated the transfer, the ball is in the assuming party's court.
Sub-heading 3.1: Receiving the Transfer Request
Email Notification: The assuming party will typically receive an email from Verizon with instructions on how to accept the transfer. Check your spam folder if you don't see it.
My Verizon Access: The email will often direct you to log into your My Verizon account (or create one if you don't have one) to complete the process.
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Sub-heading 3.2: Completing the Assumption of Liability
This is where the new account is essentially created or the lines are added to an existing account.
Credit Check: You will undergo a soft credit check. This is standard procedure for establishing new service and does not negatively impact your credit score. If a deposit is required based on your credit history, you will be notified.
Plan Selection: You will need to select a new Verizon plan for the transferred lines. Research current plans on Verizon's website beforehand so you know your options and can make an informed decision.
Device Protection/Features: You'll have the opportunity to add device protection (insurance) or other features to your new lines.
Review and Confirm: Carefully review all the details of your new plan, device payments (if transferred), and any associated charges. Ensure everything is correct before finalizing.
Accept & Acknowledge: You will need to formally accept the terms and conditions of the transfer and your new account.
Step 4: Post-Transfer Adjustments and Confirmations
The transfer isn't truly complete until both parties have confirmed the changes and made any necessary adjustments.
Sub-heading 4.1: Final Bill for the Relinquishing Account
Prorated Charges/Credits: The relinquishing account may see prorated (partial) charges or credits on their next bill, depending on when the transfer occurred within their billing cycle.
Outstanding Balances: Any remaining device payment balances not assumed by the new account, or other final charges, will appear on this bill. Ensure these are paid promptly.
Confirmation of Line Removal: Verify that the transferred lines no longer appear on your account in My Verizon.
Sub-heading 4.2: First Bill for the Assuming Account
Prorated Charges: Your first bill may include prorated charges for the days your new lines were active in the previous billing cycle, plus charges for the next full month (Verizon often bills one month in advance).
Activation Fees: While there's typically no activation fee for transferring a line of service, it's good to confirm.
Plan Confirmation: Double-check that the plan you selected is correctly reflected on your bill.
Sub-heading 4.3: Update Account Information and Preferences
My Verizon Login: The assuming party should now have full control of their new account through My Verizon.
Auto Pay and Paperless Billing: Enroll in Auto Pay and paperless billing if desired, as this often comes with discounts.
Account PIN/Security: Set up a new, secure Account PIN for your independent account.
Contact Information: Ensure your contact information (email, mailing address) is up-to-date on your new account.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Important Considerations and Potential Hurdles:
Credit History: The assuming party's credit history is a significant factor. A poor credit history might result in a required security deposit.
Existing Promotions: As mentioned, many promotional discounts (like BOGO credits or line access discounts tied to the original account structure) do not transfer. Be prepared for this potential increase in cost for the new account.
Billing Cycles: The transfer timing relative to billing cycles can sometimes lead to confusing prorated charges on both accounts' initial post-transfer bills. Keep an eye on these.
Customer Service Wait Times: Be prepared for potentially long wait times when contacting Verizon Customer Service, especially during peak hours. Patience is a virtue!
In-Store vs. Phone: While some aspects can be handled online, a phone call to Verizon's customer service (specifically mentioning "Assumption of Liability") is often the most effective way to manage the full transfer. Going into a store might also be an option, but confirm they handle AOLs directly before making a trip.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to transfer a single line from my family plan to a new individual account?
To transfer a single line, the current Account Owner needs to initiate an "Assumption of Liability" (AOL) with Verizon Customer Service, releasing that specific line. The person taking over the line then accepts the liability, passes a credit check, and sets up a new individual account with a chosen plan.
How to split a Verizon account when there are device payment agreements (DPAs) outstanding?
Outstanding DPAs can either be paid off by the original Account Owner before the transfer, or the assuming party can take over the remaining DPA balance. The latter requires the assuming party to pass a credit check.
How to avoid losing promotions when splitting a Verizon account?
Unfortunately, many account-level promotions and discounts (like BOGO credits or specific line access discounts) are tied to the original account structure and do not transfer to a new account. It's crucial to confirm with Verizon what specific promotions will be affected before initiating the split.
How to find out my Verizon Account PIN or Security Passcode?
The Account Owner can usually find or reset their Account PIN/passcode by logging into My Verizon online or through the My Verizon app. If unable to access online, you may need to call customer service and verify your identity through other means.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How to check my credit impact when taking over a Verizon line?
Verizon performs a "soft credit check" during the Assumption of Liability process. This type of credit check is not visible to other lenders and does not negatively impact your credit score.
How to set up Auto Pay and paperless billing on my new Verizon account?
Once your new account is established and accessible via My Verizon (either online or through the app), you can easily navigate to the billing section to enroll in Auto Pay and paperless billing.
How to ensure all my data and settings transfer with my line?
The transfer of the phone number itself (and associated device payment if applicable) is separate from your personal data. Your contacts, photos, apps, and phone settings are stored on your device or in cloud backups (like Google Drive, iCloud, or Verizon Cloud). Ensure your data is backed up before the transfer, especially if you are getting a new physical SIM card.
How to disconnect a line from a Verizon account instead of transferring it?
If a line is simply being disconnected (not transferred to a new Verizon account), the Account Owner needs to contact Verizon Customer Service to cancel the line of service. Be aware of any potential early termination fees or outstanding device balances.
How to know if I'm eligible to take over a Verizon line?
To be eligible, you generally must be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama), pass a soft credit check, and be able to assume any existing device payment agreements on the line.
How to contact Verizon's Assumption of Liability department directly?
While there isn't a widely published direct number specifically for AOL that bypasses general customer service, calling the main Verizon Customer Service line (1-800-VERIZON or 1-800-837-4966) and clearly stating your intention to perform an "Assumption of Liability" is the most effective way to be directed to the correct department.
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