It's an exciting feeling, isn't it? That moment when you're ready for a fresh start with a new phone! Whether you've been eyeing the latest flagship, found a great deal on a pre-owned device, or simply need to replace an old one, switching phones on Verizon is a straightforward process when you know the steps. Let's dive in and get you connected with your new device!
The Comprehensive Guide: How to Switch Phones on Verizon
Switching phones on Verizon can be done in a few ways: upgrading through Verizon, bringing your own device (BYOD), or simply swapping an active line between two devices you already own. Each method has its nuances, and we'll cover them all in detail.
Step 1: Get Ready for Your New Device!
Before you even think about touching that shiny new phone, there are a few crucial preparatory steps to ensure a smooth transition. Don't skip this part! A little preparation now can save you a lot of headaches later.
Sub-heading 1.1: Back Up Your Old Phone
This is perhaps the most important step. You don't want to lose precious photos, contacts, messages, or app data.
For iPhones:
iCloud Backup: Connect to Wi-Fi, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, and tap "Back Up Now." Ensure you have enough iCloud storage.
iTunes/Finder Backup: Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac), select your device, and choose "Back Up Now" to your computer. Encrypt your backup for saved passwords and health data.
For Android Phones:
Google Drive Backup: Go to Settings > System > Backup (or similar, depending on your Android version), and ensure "Back up to Google Drive" is enabled. Tap "Back up now."
Manufacturer-Specific Backups: Many Android manufacturers (Samsung Smart Switch, LG Mobile Switch, etc.) offer their own backup solutions. Check your phone's settings or the manufacturer's website.
Manual Transfer: For photos and videos, you can connect your phone to a computer and manually copy files.
Sub-heading 1.2: Gather Essential Account Information
You'll need certain details to verify your identity and manage your Verizon account.
My Verizon Account Credentials: Your User ID and Password.
Account Holder's PIN or Last Four Digits of SSN: This is often required for security verification during activation, especially if you're not the primary account holder.
IMEI/MEID of Your New Device: This is a unique identifier for your new phone. You can usually find it on the phone's packaging, on a sticker under the battery (if removable), or by dialing *#06# on the new phone.
SIM Card Information (if applicable): If your new phone uses a physical SIM and it didn't come pre-installed, you'll need the SIM card number (ICCID). Newer phones often use eSIMs, which don't require a physical card.
Sub-heading 1.3: Understand SIM Card vs. eSIM
Physical SIM Card: A small chip you insert into your phone. If your new phone uses the same size SIM as your old one, you might be able to transfer it, but it's generally recommended to use the SIM that came with your new Verizon phone or get a new one from Verizon.
eSIM (Embedded SIM): A digital SIM built directly into your phone. Many newer devices support eSIM, allowing for activation without a physical card. Verizon widely supports eSIM activation.
Sub-heading 1.4: Check Trade-In Eligibility (Optional)
If you're upgrading and plan to trade in your old device for credit, check its eligibility and estimated value on the Verizon website. Ensure your old device is free of damage (especially battery damage) and completely wiped of personal data before sending it in.
Step 2: Choose Your Activation Method
Verizon offers several convenient ways to switch phones. The best method for you depends on whether you bought a new phone from Verizon, are bringing your own device, or simply swapping between existing devices on your account.
Sub-heading 2.1: Activating a New Phone Purchased from Verizon
This is the most common scenario. Verizon typically pre-activates devices bought directly from them or makes the online activation process very smooth.
Option A: Online via My Verizon (Recommended)
Sign in to My Verizon: Go to
verizon.com Navigate to Device Management: Look for "My Devices" or "Manage Devices," then select "Activate or Switch Device."
Select Devices: You'll be prompted to select the device you want to switch from (your old phone) and the device you want to switch to (your new phone). If your new phone is already associated with your account, it should appear in the list.
Enter New Device Information: If your new device is not automatically recognized, you may need to manually enter its IMEI/MEID.
Confirm and Verify: Verizon will likely send a confirmation code to one of your active lines for security verification. Enter this code on the website.
Follow Prompts: The system will guide you through the remaining steps, including SIM card checks (if applicable) and final activation.
Power Cycle Your New Phone: Once the online process is complete, power off your new phone completely, then power it back on. This helps it connect to the Verizon network.
Option B: My Verizon App
The My Verizon app often has a streamlined process for upgrades. Look for "Shop" or "Devices" and then "Upgrade Device" or "Activate Device." The steps will be similar to the online website process.
*Option C: By Dialing 228 (for older 3G/4G devices only)
Note: This method is largely outdated for modern 4G LTE and 5G devices. Most newer phones activate automatically or require online activation.
If you have a very old 3G or 4G non-LTE phone, you might be able to dial *228 from the new phone and follow the voice prompts. Choose option 1 to activate your phone.
Option D: Contact Customer Service or Visit a Store
If you encounter issues or prefer in-person assistance, you can call Verizon Customer Service at 1-800-922-0204 or visit a Verizon company store. They can activate the device for you.
Sub-heading 2.2: Activating a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) on Verizon
If you purchased an unlocked phone elsewhere or are using a compatible device you already own, you can activate it on your existing Verizon line.
Check Compatibility: First, ensure your device is compatible with Verizon's network. You can do this on Verizon's BYOD page by entering your phone's IMEI. Crucially, your device must be unlocked from any previous carrier.
Obtain a Verizon SIM Card or Utilize eSIM:
Physical SIM: If your device requires a physical SIM and you don't have a Verizon SIM, you'll need to obtain one. You can order it online through My Verizon, pick one up at a Verizon store, or sometimes it's provided when you purchase a BYOD plan.
eSIM: If your device supports eSIM, the activation process will be digital. Verizon will guide you through downloading and installing the eSIM profile.
Activate Online via My Verizon (Recommended):
Sign in to My Verizon.
Go to "My Devices" or "Manage Devices," then select "Activate your own device" or "Bring your own device."
Follow the prompts to enter your device's IMEI and, if applicable, the SIM card number.
Verify your account and complete the activation steps.
Insert SIM (if physical): If you're using a physical SIM, insert it into your new phone.
Power Cycle: Power off and power on your new device.
Troubleshooting for BYOD: If service doesn't activate, ensure your device is fully unlocked. Sometimes it can take up to 24 hours for a newly unlocked device to connect to Verizon's network.
Sub-heading 2.3: Switching Active Devices on the Same Line
This scenario is for when you have two active Verizon phones on the same line and want to swap which one is currently in use. This is less common but can be useful.
Sign in to My Verizon: Go to
verizon.com Go to "Activate or Switch Device": Select "My Devices" > "Activate or Switch Device."
Select the Line: Choose the phone number for which you want to switch devices.
Select "Switch Device" Option: On the "Select an Option Below" page, choose "Switch Device" (not "Activate Device").
Choose the Two Devices: Select the first device you want to switch from and then the second device you want to switch to.
Verify and Confirm: Complete the security verification (e.g., text code) and confirm the changes.
Power Cycle Both Phones: Power off and power on both devices after the online process is complete.
Step 3: Transfer Your Data
Now that your new phone is activated on Verizon, it's time to bring all your personal data over!
Sub-heading 3.1: Using Cloud Backups
iCloud (for iPhones): During the initial setup of your new iPhone, you'll be given the option to restore from an iCloud backup. Sign in with your Apple ID and select the most recent backup.
Google Drive (for Android): Similarly, during the setup of a new Android phone, you'll be prompted to sign in with your Google account and restore data from your Google Drive backup.
Sub-heading 3.2: Manufacturer-Specific Tools
Samsung Smart Switch: If you're moving from an old Samsung to a new Samsung, Smart Switch is an incredibly powerful tool that can transfer almost everything, including app data, call logs, and settings, either wirelessly or via a USB cable.
Apple's Quick Start: For iPhone to iPhone transfers, Quick Start allows you to set up your new iPhone by holding it near your current one. It can transfer data directly or help you restore from an iCloud backup.
Sub-heading 3.3: Verizon's Content Transfer Options
Verizon often provides tools or guidance for content transfer:
Verizon Cloud: If you've been using Verizon Cloud, you can restore your contacts, photos, and videos to your new device.
Verizon Smart Setup: This service provides self-paced, step-by-step help to back up your phone and migrate your information.
In-Store Assistance: Verizon store employees can often assist with data transfer, especially for contacts, though for large amounts of data, cloud or manufacturer tools are usually faster.
Step 4: Finalize and Optimize
You're almost there! A few last steps to ensure your new phone is perfectly set up.
Sub-heading 4.1: Update Software and Apps
Operating System: Check for and install any available operating system updates (iOS or Android).
App Updates: Go to your app store (App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android) and update all your applications.
Sub-heading 4.2: Sign In to Accounts
Re-sign into all your essential apps and services: email, social media, banking, streaming services, etc. Many apps require two-factor authentication, so have your old device or recovery codes handy.
Sub-heading 4.3: Personalize Your Settings
Customize your ringtone, wallpaper, notification sounds, display settings, privacy preferences, and security features (fingerprint, face ID, PIN).
Sub-heading 4.4: Prepare Your Old Device (If Trading In or Selling)
Perform a Factory Reset: This is crucial to wipe all your personal data.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
For Android Phones: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
Remove SIM Card: If your old phone has a physical SIM, remove it.
Charge It: If trading in, ensure the device is charged.
Remove from Find My/Google Find My Device: Ensure your device is disconnected from any tracking services.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions related to switching phones on Verizon, with quick answers:
How to activate a new Verizon phone online?
Sign in to My Verizon, go to "My Devices" > "Activate or Switch Device," select your old and new phones, and follow the on-screen prompts for verification and activation.
How to activate a Verizon phone if I bought it unlocked elsewhere?
First, check compatibility on Verizon's BYOD page. Then, obtain a Verizon SIM (physical or eSIM) and activate it online via My Verizon's "Activate your own device" section.
How to transfer my contacts to my new Verizon phone?
The easiest way is to restore from your cloud backup (iCloud for iPhone, Google Drive for Android) during the initial setup of your new phone. Manufacturer tools like Samsung Smart Switch also work well.
How to find my new phone's IMEI number for activation?
You can usually find the IMEI on the phone's original packaging, on a sticker on the device itself, or by dialing *#06# on the new phone's dial pad.
How to get a new SIM card for my Verizon phone?
You can order a new SIM card through your My Verizon account online, or visit a Verizon company store for immediate pickup. Many newer phones use eSIMs and don't require a physical card.
How to tell if my phone uses an eSIM or physical SIM?
Check your phone's settings under "About Phone" or "SIM Card Manager." Devices often specify "eSIM" capability, or you'll see a physical SIM tray.
How to trade in my old phone with Verizon?
You can initiate a trade-in online via My Verizon's trade-in program page. Provide details about your device's condition for an estimated value, then follow shipping instructions to send it in.
How to factory reset my old phone before trading it in?
For iPhones, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. For Android, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Make sure you back up your data first!
How to know if my Verizon account is eligible for an upgrade?
Sign in to My Verizon and navigate to "My Devices." Eligible devices will often have an "Upgrade now" link displayed next to them.
How to get help if I'm having trouble activating my Verizon phone?
You can call Verizon Customer Service at 1-800-922-0204 or visit your nearest Verizon company store for in-person assistance.