Upgrading your phone at Verizon can feel like navigating a maze of options, fees, and fine print. But don't worry, you're not alone in wondering "how much is an upgrade at Verizon?" This comprehensive guide will break down all the costs, explain the various upgrade paths, and help you make the smartest decision for your next device.
The Cost of an Upgrade at Verizon: Unpacking the Layers
When you upgrade your phone at Verizon, it's rarely just the price tag of the new phone itself. Several factors contribute to the total cost, and understanding each one is key to avoiding surprises.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Upgrade? Understanding Your Eligibility
Before we dive into the numbers, let's figure out if you're even eligible for an upgrade. This is the very first thing you need to check!
Sub-heading: Checking Your Current Device Payment Status
Have you paid off your current phone? This is the most straightforward scenario. If your current device payment agreement (DPP) is complete, you essentially own the phone outright, giving you the most flexibility.
Are you on a Device Payment Plan (DPP)? Most modern Verizon accounts utilize DPPs, where the retail price of your phone is divided into monthly installments, typically over 24 or 36 months.
To qualify for a standard upgrade, you usually need to pay off your current device completely.
Early Upgrade Options: Verizon does offer early upgrade programs. The most common allows you to upgrade once you've paid off 50% of your current device's cost, provided you return it in good condition. Keep in mind, this option usually means you won't get trade-in value for the device you're returning, as you're effectively satisfying the remaining balance by returning it.
Are you on an older 2-year contract? While rare now, if you're on a legacy 2-year contract, you'll need to check your contract end date. Upgrading before it's up could incur early termination fees.
How to Check Your Eligibility:
The easiest way to check your upgrade eligibility is through your My Verizon account:
Log in to My Verizon: You can use the My Verizon app or the website.
Navigate to "Devices": Look for a section like "Devices" or "Manage Devices."
Select the Device You Wish to Upgrade: You'll see details about your current phone, including its payment status and potential upgrade date.
Step 2: The Price of Your New Device: Full Retail vs. Payment Plans
Once you know you're eligible, the next big piece of the puzzle is the cost of the phone you want.
Sub-heading: Device Payment Plans (DPP) - The New Norm
Monthly Installments: The vast majority of Verizon phone purchases are now done through Device Payment Plans. The full retail price of the phone is split into equal monthly payments over a set term, often 36 months, with 0% APR.
Example: A phone retailing for $799.99 over 36 months would be approximately $22.22 per month.
No Early Termination Fees (for the service): Unlike old 2-year contracts, a DPP means you're not locked into a service contract for the phone's duration. You can pay off the remaining balance at any time if you wish to upgrade early or switch carriers.
Promotional Credits: This is where it gets tricky and often where "free phone" or "up to $X off" deals come in. These promotions usually involve monthly bill credits applied over the 24 or 36-month DPP term.
Crucial Point: If you cancel service or pay off your device early, these promotional credits often stop. This means you become responsible for the remaining balance of the full retail price. Always read the fine print on these "free" or discounted phone offers!
Sub-heading: Buying Outright (Full Retail Price)
You can always choose to pay the full retail price of the new phone upfront. This means no monthly device payments on your bill. This is a great option if you prefer to own your phone outright and have the flexibility to switch or sell it whenever you want without worrying about a DPP.
Step 3: Leveraging Your Old Device: Trade-In Value
Your existing phone can significantly reduce the cost of your upgrade through Verizon's trade-in program.
Sub-heading: How Trade-In Works
Estimated Value: Verizon's online trade-in calculator or an in-store representative will give you an estimated value for your current device based on its make, model, and reported condition.
Promotional Trade-Ins: Often, Verizon offers enhanced trade-in values for specific new devices or plans (like Unlimited Ultimate). These promotional values are typically applied as monthly bill credits over the DPP term of your new phone.
Example: A phone might be worth $100 in market value, but a promotion could offer "$800 off with eligible trade-in." This $800 would be given as monthly credits over 36 months, effectively making your new phone cheaper.
Market Value Trade-Ins: If you're not eligible for a promotional trade-in, or if the promotion isn't as good for your device, you'll receive the market value. This can be issued as a one-time account credit or a Verizon Gift Card.
Condition Matters: Be honest about your phone's condition. If Verizon receives your device and it doesn't match the description, your trade-in value can be adjusted, or even denied. Devices must generally power on, have no cracked screens, and have all security features (like Find My iPhone) turned off.
Assess Your Trade-In Value:
Visit Verizon's Trade-in Page: Go to
verizon.com/tradein Enter Device Details: Provide information about your old phone (make, model, storage, condition).
Get an Instant Quote: The tool will provide an estimated trade-in value and show any applicable promotional offers.
Step 4: Understanding the "Hidden" Fees and Taxes
This is where many users get caught off guard. Beyond the phone's price, there are standard fees associated with upgrading.
Sub-heading: Activation/Upgrade Fees
One-Time Charge: Expect a one-time activation or upgrade fee of typically $35 to $50 when you activate or upgrade to a new device. This fee applies regardless of whether you buy the phone outright or on a payment plan.
Why the Fee? Verizon states this fee covers the setup of the phone on their backend system. While some consider it a "money grab," it's a common practice across major carriers.
Can it be waived? Generally, these fees are not waived unless there's a specific promotion or a service error on Verizon's part. It's usually a standard charge.
Sub-heading: Sales Tax
Full Retail Price Taxed: Regardless of whether you finance your phone, you will usually pay sales tax on the full retail price of the new device at the time of purchase. This can be a significant upfront cost, especially for high-end smartphones.
Example: A $1000 phone in a state with 7% sales tax would incur a $70 sales tax upfront, even if your monthly payment for the phone is low.
Sub-heading: Potential Down Payments
Credit-Based: Depending on your credit history and the retail price of the device you choose, you may be required to make a down payment on the new phone. This reduces the amount financed on your DPP.
High-End Devices: Newer, more expensive flagship phones are more likely to require a down payment if your credit standing isn't top-tier.
Sub-heading: Restocking Fees (If You Return the Phone)
If you purchase a new device and then decide to return it within Verizon's return policy window (typically 30 days), be aware that a restocking fee (often around $50) may apply.
Step 5: Choosing Your Payment Method and Completing the Purchase
You've checked eligibility, picked your phone, factored in trade-in, and understand the fees. Now it's time to finalize.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Order Summary
Detailed Breakdown: Before you confirm your purchase, carefully review the order summary. This should clearly show:
The full retail price of the new phone.
Your monthly device payment (if financing).
Any trade-in credits applied (one-time or monthly).
Upfront costs (sales tax, activation fee, any required down payment).
Your estimated total monthly bill with the new device and plan.
Sub-heading: In-Store vs. Online Upgrades
Online Convenience: Upgrading online can often be more convenient and sometimes offers lower activation fees or exclusive online promotions.
In-Store Assistance: If you prefer hands-on help, want to see the phones, or have complex questions, an in-store upgrade is an option. Be aware that some stores might charge additional "setup" fees for data transfer or phone setup services.
Step 6: Activation and Enjoying Your New Phone!
The final step is activating your shiny new device.
Sub-heading: Device Transfer and Activation
SIM Card: Your new phone will likely come with a new SIM card or use an eSIM. Follow the activation instructions provided by Verizon.
Data Transfer: Make sure to back up your old phone's data before transferring it to your new device. Verizon offers tools and services to help with this, both in-store and through their support channels.
Key Factors Influencing Your Upgrade Cost
To recap, here are the primary elements that determine "how much is an upgrade at Verizon":
Your Current Device's Payment Status: Are you paid off, or how much is remaining on your DPP?
The Retail Price of the New Phone: The more expensive the phone, the higher the overall cost.
Trade-In Value of Your Old Device: This is your biggest opportunity to reduce costs, especially with promotional trade-ins.
Your Chosen Verizon Plan: Certain premium plans (like Unlimited Ultimate) may offer better device deals or "best phone deals guaranteed."
Activation/Upgrade Fee: A standard one-time fee.
Sales Tax: Paid upfront on the full retail price.
Down Payment: Potentially required based on credit and device cost.
Promotional Offers: These can significantly alter the net cost, but require careful understanding of their terms (e.g., bill credits).
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Verizon upgrade eligibility?
You can easily check your upgrade eligibility by logging into your My Verizon account (either through the app or website) and navigating to the "Devices" section. It will show your current device's payment status and your upgrade options.
How to trade in my old phone with Verizon?
To trade in your old phone, visit Verizon's trade-in page online or go to a Verizon store. You'll answer questions about your device's condition to get an estimated value. If accepted, you'll receive instructions on how to send it in or complete the trade-in in-store.
How to pay off my Verizon device payment plan early?
You can pay off your Verizon device payment plan early by logging into My Verizon, going to the "Devices" section, selecting the device you want to pay off, and choosing the option to pay the remaining balance. You can also do this in a Verizon store or by calling customer service.
How to avoid Verizon upgrade fees?
Generally, the standard activation/upgrade fee of $35-$50 is unavoidable as it's a standard charge for activating a new device on the network. However, some special promotions or loyalty offers might occasionally waive it, so always keep an eye out for those.
How to get the best phone deals for a Verizon upgrade?
To get the best phone deals, consider trading in an eligible device, especially during promotional periods when Verizon offers enhanced trade-in values. Also, check if being on a premium plan like Unlimited Ultimate qualifies you for "best phone deals guaranteed."
How to understand promotional bill credits from Verizon?
Promotional bill credits are discounts applied to your monthly bill over the term of your device payment plan (e.g., 24 or 36 months). It's crucial to understand that if you cancel service, change plans (away from a qualifying one), or pay off your phone early, these credits will often stop, making you responsible for the remaining full retail price.
How to upgrade early at Verizon?
Verizon offers an early upgrade option if you've paid off at least 50% of your current device's cost on your device payment plan. You must return your current device in good working condition to qualify, and you'll then start a new payment plan for your new phone.
How to calculate the total cost of a Verizon upgrade?
The total cost involves the new phone's retail price (or monthly payments), plus upfront sales tax on the full retail price, a one-time activation/upgrade fee, and any required down payment. Subtract any trade-in credits you receive. Remember to factor in your ongoing monthly plan cost.
How to switch from a 2-year contract to a device payment plan at Verizon?
If you're still on a 2-year contract, you can switch to a device payment plan by paying off any applicable early termination fees if you upgrade before your contract ends. Otherwise, once your contract is complete, you can simply choose a new phone on a DPP.
How to know if my trade-in device qualifies for a Verizon promotion?
When going through the trade-in process online or in-store, Verizon's system will automatically tell you if your device qualifies for any current promotional trade-in offers based on its make, model, and condition. Some promotions require the device to have been active on your account for a certain period (e.g., 60 days).
