Releasing a phone number from Verizon, often referred to as "porting out" your number, means transferring it to a different carrier. This process ensures you keep your beloved number even when you switch providers. It's not about canceling your number with Verizon, but rather about moving it. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that carriers allow you to port your number, even if you have an outstanding balance or an early termination fee (though you'll still be responsible for those fees).
This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Step 1: Engage with Your Desire for Change!
So, you're thinking about a new carrier, huh? That's exciting! Before we dive into the technicalities, take a moment to consider why you're making this switch. Is it for a better plan, improved coverage, or perhaps a new device you've been eyeing? Knowing your motivations will help you stay focused throughout the process. This isn't just about disconnecting from Verizon; it's about connecting with something new and better for you.
Ready to take the leap? Let's get started!
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Verizon Account Information
Before you even think about contacting a new carrier, you absolutely must have your Verizon account details readily available. This is the most crucial step for a seamless port-out. Missing or incorrect information is the number one reason for delays.
Sub-heading 2.1: Your Verizon Account Number
This is a unique identifier for your Verizon account. You can typically find it on your monthly bill, in the My Verizon app, or by logging into your My Verizon account online. Remember: This is different from your phone number!
Sub-heading 2.2: Your Number Transfer PIN (NTP)
This is a temporary, security-focused PIN specifically designed to authorize a number transfer. It's crucial for fraud prevention. Do not confuse this with your account PIN (the one you use to log in or speak with customer service).
Here's how to get your Number Transfer PIN:
Dial #PORT (7678) from your Verizon phone: This is often the quickest and easiest method. Verizon will send you a text message with a link to generate your PIN in My Verizon.
Via the My Verizon App:
Open the My Verizon app.
Navigate to the section that manages your account (often labeled "Account" or "My Profile").
Look for an option like "Transfer Number" or "Number Transfer PIN."
Tap "Create Your Number Transfer PIN."
Via the My Verizon Website:
Log in to your My Verizon account.
Go to the "Account" or "My Profile" section.
Find the "Number Transfer PIN" section.
Click "Generate PIN."
Important Note: Your Number Transfer PIN is only valid for 7 days. Make sure you're ready to initiate the porting process with your new carrier soon after generating it. You can generate a new one if it expires, but try to avoid doing so repeatedly as it might interfere with the process.
Sub-heading 2.3: Billing Address and Other Personal Identifiers
Your new carrier will need to verify your identity. Ensure you have the exact billing address associated with your Verizon account, your full name as it appears on the account, and potentially the last four digits of your Social Security Number or your date of birth. Accuracy is key here!
Step 3: Disable Number Lock (If Enabled)
Verizon offers a "Number Lock" feature to prevent unauthorized port-outs. While it's a great security measure, it must be disabled before you can transfer your number.
Here's how to turn off Number Lock:
Dial *611 from your Verizon phone. This may allow you to disable it through an automated system or connect you with customer service.
Via the My Verizon App:
Log in to the My Verizon app.
Go to "Settings."
Select "Number Lock."
Tap "Off" for the number(s) you want to unlock.
You'll likely receive a security authorization code to confirm the change. Enter it and save changes.
Via the My Verizon Website:
Sign in to your My Verizon account and go to the "Security" page.
Find the "Number Lock" section.
Select "Off" for the number(s) you want to unlock.
Respond to any security authorization codes to confirm.
Click "Save Changes."
Do not skip this step! Your port request will be denied if Number Lock is active.
Step 4: Choose Your New Carrier and Initiate the Porting Process
Now comes the exciting part – choosing where your number will call home next!
Sub-heading 4.1: Research and Select Your New Carrier
Consider factors like:
Coverage: Does the new carrier offer strong service in your most frequented areas?
Plans and Pricing: Are their plans more cost-effective or better suited to your usage habits?
Features: Do they offer features important to you, like international calling, hotspot data, or streaming perks?
Customer Service Reputation: How easy is it to get help if you need it?
Sub-heading 4.2: Provide Information to Your New Carrier
Once you've chosen your new carrier, it's their responsibility to initiate the porting process with Verizon. You will need to provide them with all the information you gathered in Step 2:
Your Verizon account number
Your Number Transfer PIN
The phone number you wish to port
Your full name and billing address as registered with Verizon
Any other personal identification details they request (e.g., last 4 of SSN).
Crucial Advice: DO NOT CANCEL YOUR VERIZON SERVICE YOURSELF! Your new carrier needs your Verizon account to be active to "pull" the number over. If you cancel prematurely, you risk losing your number. Verizon's system will automatically disconnect your line once the port is complete.
Step 5: Monitor the Porting Progress
The porting process isn't instantaneous. It typically takes:
Mobile numbers: 4-24 business hours
Landline numbers: 2-10 business days
Your new carrier should provide you with updates on the status of your transfer. You may also receive confirmation texts from Verizon.
Sub-heading 5.1: Keep Your Verizon Account Active
Reiterating this for emphasis! Keep your Verizon service active until you receive confirmation from your new carrier that the port is complete and your number is fully functional with them.
Sub-heading 5.2: Test Your Service
Once you receive notification that the transfer is complete, immediately test your phone.
Make a call.
Receive a call.
Send a text message.
Receive a text message.
If you encounter any issues, contact your new carrier's customer support immediately.
Step 6: Settle Any Remaining Verizon Balances (If Applicable)
Even though the FCC prevents Verizon from denying a port request due to an outstanding balance, you are still responsible for any charges incurred.
Sub-heading 6.1: Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
If you're still under a contract with Verizon, you may be charged an Early Termination Fee. This fee will appear on your final Verizon bill.
Sub-heading 6.2: Device Payment Balances
If you have an outstanding balance on a device payment plan, you will need to pay this off. This balance will also typically appear on your final bill.
Sub-heading 6.3: Final Bill and Connected Devices
You will receive a final bill from Verizon. This bill will reflect any prorated charges, ETFs, or device payment balances. If you ported out your last phone line, remember to also cancel any connected device lines (like smartwatches, tablets, or hotspots) that were tied to that account to avoid continued charges for those services.
By following these steps meticulously, you can ensure a smooth and successful release of your phone number from Verizon to your new carrier!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions about releasing a phone number from Verizon:
How to initiate a phone number release from Verizon?
You initiate the release by obtaining your Verizon Number Transfer PIN and providing it, along with your Verizon account number and billing information, to your new carrier. They will then handle the transfer process with Verizon.
How to find my Verizon account number for porting out?
You can find your Verizon account number on your monthly bill, by logging into the My Verizon app or website, or by calling Verizon customer service.
How to get a Number Transfer PIN from Verizon?
Dial #PORT (7678) from your Verizon phone, or generate it through the My Verizon app or website by navigating to the "Number Transfer PIN" section under your account settings.
How to turn off Number Lock on my Verizon account?
You can turn off Number Lock by dialing *611, or by accessing the "Number Lock" setting within the My Verizon app or website under your account's security settings.
How long does it take to release a phone number from Verizon?
For mobile numbers, it typically takes 4-24 business hours. For landline numbers, it can take 2-10 business days.
How to avoid losing my phone number when switching from Verizon?
Do NOT cancel your Verizon service yourself. Your new carrier needs your Verizon line to be active to successfully port your number. Verizon will automatically disconnect your service once the transfer is complete.
How to check the status of my Verizon number transfer?
Your new carrier should provide you with updates, and you may also receive confirmation texts from Verizon. If you initiated the transfer online, there might be a status tracker provided by your new carrier.
How to deal with early termination fees (ETFs) when leaving Verizon?
You are still responsible for any ETFs if you're under contract. These fees will appear on your final Verizon bill and must be paid.
How to pay off my device payment balance when porting out from Verizon?
Any remaining device payment balance will be due on your final Verizon bill. You will need to pay this off to fully close out your financial obligations with Verizon.
How to cancel connected device lines after porting my main Verizon number?
If you ported out your last phone line, you'll need to proactively cancel any connected device lines (like smartwatches or tablets) linked to that Verizon account to stop incurring charges for them. You can usually do this through the My Verizon app, website, or by contacting Verizon customer service.