Switching cell phone carriers can feel like a daunting task, filled with questions about fees, new devices, and how much you'll actually save. But what if your new carrier paid you to switch? Verizon often offers enticing incentives to lure new customers, and understanding these can put a significant amount of money back in your pocket. This lengthy guide will break down exactly how much Verizon might pay you to switch, with a step-by-step approach to maximize your benefits!
Are You Ready to Make the Switch? Let's Find Out How Verizon Can Pay YOU!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's start with a crucial question: Are you truly ready to make a move? Switching carriers isn't just about getting a new phone; it's about finding a plan that fits your lifestyle, ensuring good coverage where you need it most, and, of course, getting the best possible deal. If you're tired of your current carrier, struggling with signal, or simply paying too much, then the answer is likely a resounding YES! Verizon's current offers in 2025 are more competitive than ever, especially given recent efforts to win back customers. So, let's explore how you can leverage these opportunities to your advantage.
Step 1: Understand the "How Much" – Decoding Verizon's Financial Incentives
Verizon doesn't just hand you a stack of cash. Their "payments" come in various forms, primarily designed to offset the costs of switching and entice you with new devices and services. Here's what to look for:
Sub-heading 1.1: Device Trade-In Credits
This is often the biggest way Verizon will "pay" you to switch. They want your old phone, even if it's not in pristine condition (sometimes "any condition" is acceptable for certain promotions!). These credits are applied to your account over a set period, usually 24 or 36 months, reducing your monthly bill for a new device.
What to know: The value you receive depends heavily on the make, model, and condition of your old phone, as well as the Verizon unlimited plan you choose. High-end smartphones (like the latest iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel models) will yield the highest trade-in values. For example, in June/July 2025, promotions are offering up to $1,000 off an iPhone 16 Pro, Galaxy S25, or Pixel 9 with an eligible trade-in and unlimited plan.
How it works: You trade in your old phone, and Verizon applies a promotional credit to your account over the installment period of your new device. This effectively makes the new phone "free" or significantly discounted over time.
Sub-heading 1.2: Early Termination Fee (ETF) Reimbursement (Less Common Now)
In the past, carriers often offered to buy out your contract if you had an early termination fee with your old provider. While less common for direct cash reimbursement of ETFs today, Verizon's generous device trade-in offers and other credits effectively serve a similar purpose by offsetting your overall costs.
What to know: While specific "ETF reimbursement" programs might be rare in 2025, the substantial trade-in values and other switch incentives often mean you won't be out of pocket for any remaining balance on your old phone or contract. Always check the fine print of any current Verizon promotions, as terms can change.
Sub-heading 1.3: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Credits
Don't want a new phone? No problem! If your current phone is unlocked and compatible with Verizon's network, you can bring it over and still receive incentives.
What to know: Verizon offers bill credits for BYOD customers. These can be as much as up to $540 in bill credits spread out over several months when you bring your existing phone to Verizon on an eligible Unlimited plan. This is a fantastic way to save money if your current phone is still serving you well.
How it works: You activate your existing, compatible phone on a new Verizon line with an eligible plan, and Verizon applies a promotional credit to your account over a period (e.g., 24 months).
Sub-heading 1.4: Gift Cards, Bundles, and Other Promotions
Verizon frequently runs special promotions that include gift cards, discounts on accessories, or even bundled offers with other services like home internet.
What to know: For example, in July 2025, Verizon is offering deals where new lines on Unlimited Ultimate plans can get a free iPhone 16 Pro Max, plus a free iPad and Apple Watch (accessory cellular lines are paid separately). Similarly, a free Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra can come with a free Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Tab S9 FE. These aren't direct cash payments, but they represent significant value that effectively "pays" you by providing additional devices at no upfront cost (beyond the associated monthly cellular line charges for the accessories).
How it works: These are typically offered for a limited time and require activation on specific plans. Always check the latest deals on Verizon's website or in-store.
Step 2: Prepare for the Switch – Your Pre-Move Checklist
Switching carriers smoothly requires a little preparation. Don't rush into it!
Sub-heading 2.1: Check Your Current Contract Status
Find out if you're still under contract: Log into your current carrier's account online or call customer service. Knowing your contract end date and any potential early termination fees (ETFs) is crucial. While Verizon's offers can offset these, it's good to be aware.
Determine your device payoff amount: If you're financing your current phone, find out how much you still owe. This amount will be relevant for trade-in calculations.
Sub-heading 2.2: Unlock Your Current Phone (If BYOD)
Ensure your phone is unlocked: If you plan to bring your own device, it must be unlocked from your current carrier. Most carriers automatically unlock phones after the device is paid off or a certain contract period has passed. Contact your current carrier to confirm and request unlocking if needed.
Check device compatibility: Visit Verizon's "Bring Your Own Device" page on their website and enter your phone's IMEI number to see if it's compatible with their network. This is a non-negotiable step for BYOD.
Sub-heading 2.3: Back Up Your Data
Protect your precious memories: Before transferring anything, back up all your photos, videos, contacts, and other important data. Use cloud services (Google Drive, iCloud), a computer, or an external hard drive. This ensures you don't lose anything in the transition.
Sub-heading 2.4: Gather Necessary Information
Account number and PIN from your current carrier: You'll need these to port your existing phone number to Verizon. Don't worry, porting your number usually takes just a few minutes to a few hours.
Step 3: Choose Your Verizon Path – New Device or BYOD?
Now that you're prepared, it's time to decide how you want to switch.
Sub-heading 3.1: Opting for a New Device (and Maximum Savings!)
Browse Verizon's latest phones: Verizon usually offers the most attractive "switch" deals when you upgrade to a new smartphone. Look for promotions offering "free" phones with trade-in and eligible unlimited plans. As of July 2025, iPhone 16, Galaxy S25, and Pixel 9 series phones are often featured in these deals.
Select an eligible Unlimited plan: Many of the best phone deals require you to activate on a specific unlimited plan (e.g., Unlimited Ultimate, Unlimited Plus). Understand the features and costs of these plans to ensure they fit your usage and budget. The "Unlimited Welcome" plan is a budget-friendly option, but may not qualify for the highest device credits.
Understand the credit structure: Remember, the "free" phone or significant discount is typically applied as monthly bill credits over 24 or 36 months. You'll need to remain on the eligible plan for the full duration to receive the total credit.
Sub-heading 3.2: Bringing Your Own Device (BYOD)
Verify compatibility again: Even if you checked before, double-check that your phone is compatible with Verizon's network.
Explore BYOD offers: Verizon has specific promotions for BYOD customers, often involving bill credits. Compare these to the new device offers to see which provides the better overall value for you.
Choose an Unlimited plan: You'll still need to select a Verizon Unlimited plan. BYOD credits are also typically applied as monthly bill reductions.
Step 4: Making the Switch – Step-by-Step Activation
This is where the magic happens!
Sub-heading 4.1: Online, In-Store, or Over the Phone
Online: The Verizon website is user-friendly and allows you to go through the entire process, from checking trade-in values to selecting a plan and device.
In-Store: Visiting a Verizon store can be beneficial for personalized assistance, especially with trade-ins and data transfer. A sales associate can guide you through the deals and ensure everything is set up correctly.
Over the Phone: You can also call Verizon customer service to switch.
Sub-heading 4.2: Porting Your Number
Provide account details: When setting up your new Verizon account, you'll be prompted to provide your old carrier's account number and PIN to port your existing phone number.
Keep your old service active: Do not cancel your old service until your number has successfully ported to Verizon. Verizon will handle the cancellation of your old service once the port is complete.
Sub-heading 4.3: Device Activation and Data Transfer
New device: If you're getting a new phone from Verizon, they will often activate it for you in-store or provide clear instructions for self-activation.
BYOD: You'll need to insert your new Verizon SIM card (or activate the eSIM) into your unlocked phone. Verizon's "Smart Setup" tools can guide you through the activation and data transfer process from your old device.
Transfer your data: Use Verizon's Smart Setup or native phone tools (like Apple's Quick Start or Google's data transfer) to move your contacts, photos, apps, and other data to your new device.
Sub-heading 4.4: Submitting Trade-In (if applicable)
Follow instructions carefully: If you're trading in a device, Verizon will provide specific instructions for shipping it or bringing it to a store. Ensure you wipe all your personal data from the old phone before sending it in.
Meet the deadline: There's usually a timeframe (e.g., 30 days) within which you need to send in your trade-in device after activating your new service.
Step 5: Monitor Your Account and Enjoy the Savings!
Once you've switched, keep an eye on your first few bills.
Sub-heading 5.1: Verify Credits
Check your first bill: Your trade-in credits or BYOD credits typically appear within 1-2 billing cycles. Ensure they are being applied correctly as promised. If not, contact Verizon customer service immediately.
Understand the prorated charges: Your first bill might be higher or look a little different due to prorated charges for the initial partial month of service. Don't be alarmed; focus on the recurring monthly charges and the applied credits.
Sub-heading 5.2: Explore Verizon Perks
myPlan perks: If you're on a myPlan Unlimited plan, take advantage of the discounted perks like the Disney Bundle, Apple Music, cloud storage, or mobile hotspot data. These can add significant value.
By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the process of switching to Verizon and maximize the financial incentives they offer, effectively having them "pay" you to join their network!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about switching to Verizon, with quick answers:
How to determine my current phone's trade-in value with Verizon?
You can visit Verizon's official trade-in page on their website and enter your phone's make, model, and condition to get an estimated trade-in value.
How to port my phone number to Verizon?
You will need your current carrier's account number and PIN. Provide these details to Verizon during the activation process, and they will handle the number transfer.
How to know if my current phone is compatible with Verizon's network?
Visit Verizon's "Bring Your Own Device" page on their website and enter your phone's IMEI number. It will quickly tell you if your device is compatible.
How to avoid early termination fees when switching to Verizon?
While direct ETF reimbursements are less common, Verizon's generous device trade-in credits and BYOD incentives are designed to significantly offset or even cover any remaining device balance or termination fees with your old carrier.
How to transfer my contacts and photos to a new Verizon phone?
You can use cloud services (like Google Photos/Drive, iCloud), manufacturer-specific transfer tools (e.g., Apple's Quick Start, Samsung Smart Switch), or Verizon's Smart Setup tool for a guided transfer.
How to qualify for the best Verizon switch deals?
Generally, the best deals are offered to new customers who choose an eligible high-tier Unlimited plan (like Unlimited Ultimate or Unlimited Plus) and trade in a qualifying device.
How to get a "free" phone from Verizon when switching?
Many promotions offer "free" phones with an eligible trade-in and activation on a specific unlimited plan. The "free" aspect typically comes in the form of monthly bill credits over 24 or 36 months that cover the device cost.
How to track my Verizon trade-in status?
Verizon will send you an email with instructions and a link to track the status of your trade-in shipment, appraisal, and payout.
How to get a better deal if I bring my own device (BYOD) to Verizon?
Verizon offers specific BYOD promotions, often in the form of bill credits applied over several months, to incentivize customers who don't need a new phone.
How to ensure my old carrier account is properly closed after switching to Verizon?
Once your phone number has successfully ported to Verizon, your old carrier account will typically be automatically closed for that line. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with your previous carrier after a few days to ensure no lingering charges.