So, you're ready to dive into the world of Verizon and get your hands on a new phone? Excellent choice! Verizon offers a vast selection of the latest smartphones, robust network coverage, and various plans to fit every lifestyle. But navigating the process can feel a bit daunting. Don't worry, we're here to make it as smooth as a fresh screen swipe!
Let's embark on this exciting journey together, step-by-step, to get you connected with your perfect Verizon phone.
Step 1: Are You a New Customer or an Existing One? (And What Does That Mean for You?)
This is your very first fork in the road, and it significantly impacts the next steps and the deals you might be eligible for.
Sub-heading: For New Verizon Customers
If you're joining the Verizon family for the first time, welcome aboard! You're in a prime position to take advantage of some fantastic promotions, often including free phones or significant discounts when you activate a new line of service and sign up for an eligible unlimited plan.
Sub-heading: For Existing Verizon Customers
Already a loyal Verizon customer looking to upgrade or add a line? Great! You'll have access to upgrade offers, trade-in programs, and potentially loyalty rewards. Your eligibility for upgrades often depends on your current device payment plan status and account standing.
Take a moment to consider where you stand. This will guide your path forward!
Step 2: Checking Your Eligibility and Exploring Deals
Now that you know your customer status, it's time to see what Verizon has in store for you.
Sub-heading: Checking Upgrade Eligibility (Existing Customers)
Online via My Verizon: This is the easiest and quickest way.
Go to the Verizon website (verizon.com) or open the My Verizon app.
Sign in to your account.
Navigate to the "Devices" section and look for "Upgrade Device" or "Manage Devices."
Here, you'll see your current status, including your earliest upgrade date. Eligibility usually requires your account to be in good standing and often depends on how much of your current device you've paid off if you're on a device payment plan. Verizon often allows early upgrades once you've paid 50% of your device's cost, provided you return your existing device in good condition.
Sub-heading: Discovering New Customer & Upgrade Deals
Verizon frequently offers enticing promotions. Keep an eye out for:
"Free Phone" Offers: Often with a new line activation and an eligible unlimited plan, and sometimes requiring a trade-in. The "free" part usually comes in the form of monthly bill credits over the device payment term (e.g., 36 months).
Trade-in Programs: Whether you're a new or existing customer, trading in your old device can significantly reduce the cost of a new phone. The value depends on your device's make, model, and condition. Promotional trade-in values can be quite generous!
BOGO (Buy One Get One) Deals: Buy one device, get another at a discounted price or even free. These often require both devices to be on eligible plans and financed through device payments.
Discounts on Specific Devices: Sometimes, certain models will have upfront discounts or monthly bill credits applied.
Pro Tip: Deals change frequently, especially around new phone launches (like Apple or Samsung flagships) and holidays. Check the Verizon website's "Deals" section regularly!
Step 3: Choosing Your Perfect Phone and Plan
This is where the fun begins! With your eligibility and potential deals in mind, it's time to pick out your new tech companion.
Sub-heading: Selecting Your Device
Browse Online: Verizon's website (
verizon.com/shop/phones/ Visit a Verizon Store: If you prefer a hands-on experience, head to a Verizon corporate store (not an authorized retailer, as their deals and policies might differ slightly). Knowledgeable staff can help you compare models and answer questions.
Consider Your Needs:
Operating System: Are you an iPhone enthusiast or an Android loyalist?
Budget: How much are you comfortable paying upfront or monthly?
Features: Do you need a top-tier camera, long battery life, specific storage capacity, or 5G Ultra Wideband compatibility?
Condition: Verizon offers both new and certified pre-owned devices. Certified pre-owned phones can be a great way to save money while still getting a reliable device.
Sub-heading: Understanding Device Payment Options
Most new phones purchased from Verizon are financed through a Device Payment Agreement.
Monthly Installments: The retail price of the phone is divided into equal monthly payments, typically over 36 months. There are usually no finance charges associated with these payments.
Full Retail Price: You can also choose to pay for the phone's entire cost upfront if you prefer.
Early Payoff: You can pay off the remaining balance of your device payment agreement at any time. However, be aware that if you're receiving promotional credits over the 36-month term, those credits will stop if you pay off the device early.
Sub-heading: Picking Your Plan
Your phone needs a plan to come alive! Verizon offers a variety of unlimited plans.
Unlimited Plans: These are the most common and often required for the best phone deals. Verizon typically has tiers like Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Ultimate, each offering different perks like premium data, hotspot data, and entertainment subscriptions.
Data Usage: Consider your typical data consumption. Do you stream a lot, game on the go, or mostly use Wi-Fi?
Hotspot Needs: If you frequently use your phone as a mobile hotspot for other devices, ensure your chosen plan includes sufficient hotspot data.
International Travel: If you travel internationally, check plans for included international calling/texting or discounted roaming options.
Step 4: The Purchase Process: Online or In-Store
Whether you're a digital native or prefer face-to-face assistance, Verizon offers both avenues.
Sub-heading: Online Purchase
Add to Cart: Once you've selected your phone and any desired accessories (cases, screen protectors, earbuds), add them to your cart.
Sign In / Create Account: If you're an existing customer, sign in. New customers will be prompted to create an account.
Review Order: Carefully review your device selection, plan details, monthly payments, estimated taxes, and any promotional credits.
Trade-in (if applicable): If you're trading in a device, you'll be prompted to provide details about its condition. You'll usually receive a pre-paid shipping label or instructions for in-store drop-off.
Delivery or In-Store Pickup: Choose whether you want the device shipped to your home or if you prefer to pick it up at a local Verizon store. In-store pickup often requires customer verification.
Payment Information: Enter your payment details. You'll agree to the device payment agreement and Verizon Customer Agreement.
Place Your Order: Confirm everything and place your order! You'll receive a confirmation email.
Sub-heading: In-Store Purchase
Visit a Corporate Store: Locate your nearest Verizon corporate store using the store locator on their website.
Consult with a Specialist: A Verizon representative will guide you through the process, from selecting a phone and plan to discussing financing options and trade-ins.
Credit Check (New Customers): Be prepared for a credit check if you're a new customer and opting for a device payment plan.
Trade-in: If trading in, the specialist will assess your device's condition on the spot.
Sign Agreements: You'll review and sign the necessary device payment and service agreements.
Walk Out Connected: Often, they can activate your new phone right there, and you can walk out with your fully set-up device!
Step 5: Preparing Your Old Device for Trade-in (If Applicable)
If you're trading in your old phone, this step is crucial to ensure you get the maximum value and protect your personal data.
Back Up Your Data: Before doing anything else, back up all your photos, contacts, apps, and other important data to cloud storage (iCloud, Google Drive) or a computer.
Disable Activation Locks: This is extremely important.
For iPhones: Turn off "Find My iPhone" and sign out of your Apple ID.
For Android Phones: Remove your Google account(s) and disable "Factory Reset Protection" (FRP) or any equivalent security features.
Perform a Factory Reset: This erases all personal data from the device, restoring it to its original factory settings. Make sure you've backed up everything first!
Remove SIM Card & SD Card: Take out your physical SIM card and any external SD cards. These are not part of the trade-in and won't be returned.
Clean the Device: Give your phone a good wipe down. While not impacting trade-in value, it's good practice.
Ship or Drop-off: Follow Verizon's instructions for returning your trade-in device. This might involve using a prepaid shipping label or dropping it off at a Verizon store or UPS location. Keep proof of shipment/drop-off!
Step 6: Activating Your New Verizon Phone
Congratulations! Your new phone is in hand. Now, let's get it talking.
Sub-heading: Online Activation (Most Common)
Receive Your Device: Once your phone arrives, unbox it and ensure all components (phone, charger, cable, SIM card if not pre-installed) are present.
Charge Your Device: Give it a good charge.
Visit the Activation Page: Go to
verizon.com/activate Follow Prompts: You'll be guided through the activation process. This often involves entering your account details and the new device's IMEI number (found on the box or in the phone's settings).
SIM Card: If your phone didn't come with a pre-installed SIM or is an eSIM device, you'll follow instructions to activate the appropriate SIM.
Wi-Fi Connection: Connect to a Wi-Fi network for a smoother activation process and to download any necessary updates.
Sub-heading: Activating in Store or via Phone
In-Store: If you picked up your phone in a store, it's likely they activated it for you on the spot.
By Phone: You can call Verizon customer service (1-800-922-0204) and a representative can assist you with activation. Have your account details and device information ready.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Your Phone
Once activated, your phone will guide you through its initial setup, including:
Language and Region Selection.
Wi-Fi Connection.
Signing into your Apple ID or Google Account.
Restoring Data: If you backed up your old phone, this is where you can restore your contacts, apps, and other data.
Security Features: Set up Face ID, Touch ID, PIN, or password.
Downloading Apps: Start downloading your favorite apps!
Step 7: Managing Your Account and Bill
You're now fully connected! But the journey doesn't end there. Understanding your bill and managing your account is key.
My Verizon App/Website: This is your command center. You can:
View your bill details.
Make payments (one-time or set up Auto Pay).
Change your plan (if eligible).
Monitor data usage.
Manage devices and lines.
Access support resources.
First Bill: Your first bill after purchasing a new device might be higher than expected due to prorated charges and activation fees. Promotional credits may also take 1-2 billing cycles to appear. Review it carefully.
Customer Support: If you have any questions or run into issues, don't hesitate to contact Verizon customer support online, via phone, or by visiting a store.
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 on the website or via the My Verizon app. Navigate to the "Devices" section and look for "Upgrade Device" or "Manage Devices" to see your status and potential upgrade date.
How to trade in my old phone with Verizon?
You can initiate a trade-in online during the purchase process for a new phone, or separately through the Verizon Trade-in Program page (
How to get a "free phone" from Verizon?
"Free phone" offers are typically available to new customers adding a line of service or existing customers upgrading, often requiring enrollment in an eligible unlimited plan and sometimes a trade-in. The "free" aspect is usually applied as monthly bill credits over the device payment term (e.g., 36 months).
How to activate a new Verizon phone?
You can activate your new Verizon phone online by visiting
How to find my device's IMEI number?
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number can usually be found on the phone's original packaging, on a sticker inside the SIM tray, or by dialing *#06# on your phone's dialer. For iPhones, go to Settings > General > About. For Android, go to Settings > About Phone.
How to transfer my data from my old phone to my new Verizon phone?
For iPhones, you can use iCloud backup and restore or directly transfer data using Quick Start during setup. For Android phones, you can use Google Drive backup and restore, or specific manufacturer tools (like Samsung Smart Switch or Google's data transfer tools) during initial setup.
How to understand Verizon device payment agreements?
Verizon device payment agreements divide the retail price of your phone into equal monthly installments, typically over 36 months, with 0% APR. This is a financing agreement, and you own the phone once it's fully paid off. Promotional credits often offset these payments, making the effective cost lower.
How to return or exchange a phone bought from Verizon?
Verizon generally has a 30-day return and exchange policy from the date of purchase. A restocking fee of $50 typically applies. The device must be returned in good condition with all original packaging and accessories. Contact Verizon customer service or visit a store for specifics.
How to lower my Verizon bill?
Consider optimizing your data plan to better match your usage, enrolling in Auto Pay for a discount, checking for loyalty offers or plan promotions, and exploring the benefits of bundling multiple lines or services. Review your bill regularly for any unnecessary add-ons.
How to find a Verizon store near me?
You can find your nearest Verizon corporate store or authorized retailer by visiting the "Store Locator" section on the Verizon website (