Ready to make the leap from Verizon to AT&T? You've come to the right place! Switching carriers might seem like a daunting task, full of hidden fees and technical hurdles, but with this detailed, step-by-step guide, you'll find the process smooth and straightforward. We'll cover everything from preparing your current Verizon account to activating your new AT&T service, ensuring you keep your beloved phone number and minimize any disruptions.
Let's dive in and get you connected to AT&T!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Switch from Verizon to AT&T
Step 1: The Pre-Switch Checklist – Get Your Ducks in a Row!
Before you even think about contacting AT&T, it's crucial to prepare your current Verizon account. This proactive approach will save you time, potential headaches, and unexpected fees.
1.1 Understand Your Verizon Contract & Device Status
Check Your Contract End Date: Do you know when your current Verizon contract officially ends? If you're still under contract for a specific term and cancel early, you might face an Early Termination Fee (ETF).
How to Check:
My Verizon App/Website: Log in to your My Verizon account online or through the app. Look for a section like "My Plan," "Account Details," or "Contract Information."
Verizon Bill: Your monthly bill often has details about your contract.
Customer Service: If all else fails, call Verizon customer service (dial *611 from your Verizon phone or 1-800-922-0204).
Device Payment Plan Balance: Do you still owe money on your current Verizon phone through an installment plan? If so, you'll need to pay off the remaining balance. When you switch, any remaining device payment balances will typically be added to your final Verizon bill, and any associated bill credits will stop.
Unlock Your Verizon Device: If you plan to keep your current phone and use it with AT&T (a "Bring Your Own Device" or BYOD scenario), it needs to be unlocked.
Verizon's Unlocking Policy: Generally, Verizon automatically unlocks devices after 60 days from the purchase date, provided the device hasn't been reported lost/stolen or involved in fraud.
What if it's still locked? If your device is less than 60 days old, you'll likely need to wait. If it should be unlocked but isn't, contact Verizon customer support. Keep in mind that due to differing network technologies (Verizon traditionally uses CDMA, AT&T uses GSM), an unlocked Verizon device may not work, or may experience limited functionality, on AT&T's network, especially older models. It's always best to check compatibility directly with AT&T.
1.2 Gather Essential Verizon Account Information
You'll need specific details from your Verizon account to ensure a smooth transfer, especially if you're keeping your phone number.
Verizon Account Number: This is a crucial piece of information. You can find it on your Verizon bill or by logging into your My Verizon account.
Number Transfer PIN (Port-Out PIN): This is a special, temporary PIN that authorizes AT&T to transfer your phone number from Verizon.
How to Get It:
Dial #PORT (#7678): From the Verizon device you want to transfer, dial #PORT. Verizon will send you a link to generate the Number Transfer PIN in My Verizon.
My Verizon App/Website: Log in to your My Verizon profile. Navigate to "My Profile" > "Number Transfer PIN" > "Generate PIN."
Important: This PIN is usually valid for 7 days, so generate it close to when you plan to initiate the switch with AT&T.
Account Holder Name and Address: Ensure these match exactly what Verizon has on file.
Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax ID: This might be needed for a credit check with AT&T.
Backup Your Old Device: Before you switch, back up all your important data – contacts, photos, videos, apps, and messages. Cloud services (like Google Drive, iCloud) or computer backups are great for this. Voicemails typically do not transfer, so listen to any important ones before the switch.
Step 2: Exploring AT&T – Plans, Deals, and Device Options!
Now that you're prepared on the Verizon side, it's time for the exciting part: choosing your new AT&T service!
2.1 Choose Your AT&T Wireless Plan
AT&T offers a variety of plans, including unlimited data options. Consider your data usage habits, whether you need hotspot data, international features, and how many lines you'll be transferring.
Unlimited Plans: These are popular and often come with tiered benefits (e.g., Unlimited Starter, Unlimited Extra, Unlimited Premium) offering different amounts of premium data, hotspot data, and streaming quality.
Family Plans: AT&T often provides discounts for multiple lines, allowing you to mix and match different unlimited plans for each family member.
Prepaid vs. Postpaid: Decide if you want a contract-free prepaid plan or a traditional postpaid plan with a monthly bill.
Check for Deals: AT&T frequently offers promotions for new customers, such as bill credits for bringing your own device, discounts when bundling with AT&T Fiber internet, or deals on new smartphones. Always ask about current promotions!
2.2 Decide on Your Device Strategy: BYOD or New Phone?
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If you've unlocked your Verizon phone and it's compatible with AT&T's GSM network, this can save you money. You'll simply need a new AT&T SIM card.
Check Compatibility: AT&T has a device compatibility checker on their website where you can enter your phone's IMEI number (dial *#06# on your phone to find it).
Purchase a New AT&T Device: If your current phone isn't compatible, you want the latest model, or you want to take advantage of new customer device deals, AT&T offers a wide range of smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches.
Step 3: The Grand Switch – Initiating Your Transfer to AT&T!
This is where the magic happens! You can initiate the switch online, over the phone, or by visiting an AT&T store.
3.1 How to Initiate the Transfer
Online: Visit the AT&T website's "Switch to AT&T" or "Bring Your Own Device" section. You'll typically be guided through selecting a plan, entering your current device information (if BYOD), and then providing your Verizon account details for the number transfer.
By Phone: Call AT&T sales (you can find their numbers on the AT&T website). A representative will assist you with selecting a plan, device, and initiating the number port.
In-Store: Visit a local AT&T store. A sales associate can walk you through the entire process, help with device selection, and handle the number transfer.
3.2 Providing Your Verizon Information for Porting
When prompted by AT&T, you will need to provide the following crucial details:
The phone number(s) you wish to transfer.
Your current provider (Verizon).
Your Verizon account number.
Your Number Transfer PIN (Port-Out PIN) from Verizon. (This is critical for keeping your number!)
The billing address associated with your Verizon account.
3.3 The Number Transfer Process (Porting)
Once you provide all the necessary information, AT&T will initiate the porting request with Verizon.
Verification Text from Verizon: Verizon will typically send a text message to the number(s) being transferred to confirm that you authorize the transfer. It is absolutely essential that you respond to this text as instructed. If you don't, the porting process will be delayed or fail.
Keep Your Verizon Service Active: DO NOT CANCEL YOUR VERIZON SERVICE until AT&T confirms your number has successfully transferred and your new AT&T service is active. Canceling too early could result in you losing your phone number.
Timeline: Number transfers usually take anywhere from a few minutes to a few business hours for wireless numbers. In some rare cases, it can take up to 3-5 business days. Your existing phone will continue to work on Verizon until the transfer is complete.
Step 4: Activation and Beyond!
Once the number transfer is complete, it's time to activate your new AT&T service.
4.1 Activating Your AT&T Service
New Device: If you purchased a new device from AT&T, it will often come with an AT&T SIM card pre-installed or included. Follow the activation instructions provided by AT&T, which usually involve turning on the device and following on-screen prompts or visiting an AT&T activation portal online.
BYOD: If you're bringing your own device, you'll receive a new AT&T SIM card. Insert the new SIM card into your phone, and then follow the activation steps provided by AT&T.
4.2 Confirming the Switch
Test Your Service: Make a few calls, send texts, and test data to ensure everything is working correctly on your new AT&T service.
Final Verizon Bill: You will receive a final bill from Verizon. This bill will include any remaining device payment balances, any prorated charges for the last days of service, and potentially any Early Termination Fees if you broke a contract. Review it carefully for accuracy.
Confirm Verizon Cancellation: While AT&T's porting process should automatically cancel your line with Verizon, it's a good practice to call Verizon customer service (1-800-922-0204) a few days after your AT&T service is active to confirm that your old account is fully closed and there are no lingering charges.
Step 5: Enjoy Your New AT&T Service!
Congratulations! You've successfully made the switch from Verizon to AT&T. Take some time to explore your new AT&T plan features, download the My AT&T app, and familiarize yourself with the AT&T network. Welcome to your new wireless home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Check if My Verizon Phone is Unlocked?
Most Verizon phones purchased after July 2019 are automatically unlocked after 60 days of active service. You can also contact Verizon customer service or check their device unlocking policy on their website for specific details on your device.
How to Get My Verizon Account Number and Number Transfer PIN?
You can find your Verizon account number on your monthly bill or by logging into your My Verizon account online. To get your Number Transfer PIN, dial #PORT (#7678) from your Verizon phone or generate it within the My Verizon app or website under your profile settings.
How to Keep My Phone Number When Switching Carriers?
To keep your existing phone number, you must initiate a "number port" through AT&T. Provide AT&T with your Verizon account number and the Number Transfer PIN. Crucially, do not cancel your Verizon service until AT&T confirms the number transfer is complete.
How to Avoid Early Termination Fees from Verizon?
To avoid an Early Termination Fee (ETF), you should ideally switch after your Verizon contract term has ended. If you're on a device payment plan, you'll need to pay off the remaining balance. If you're still under a service contract, an ETF may apply if you cancel before the term is up.
How to Choose the Best AT&T Plan for Me?
Consider your typical monthly data usage, whether you need mobile hotspot data, if you make international calls, and how many lines you need. Visit AT&T's website or an AT&T store to compare their unlimited plans and see which features align with your needs and budget.
How to Check AT&T Network Coverage in My Area?
Visit the AT&T website and use their coverage map tool. Enter your ZIP code or address to see the expected 5G, 4G LTE, and 3G coverage in your specific location.
How to Transfer Contacts and Data to My New Phone?
Before switching, back up your contacts and other data to a cloud service (like Google Drive, iCloud) or to your computer. Once your new AT&T phone is active, you can restore your data from your chosen backup method.
How to Know When My Number Has Successfully Transferred?
AT&T will typically notify you when the number transfer is complete. You'll notice your Verizon service stops working, and your new AT&T service will become active. You can also check the port status on AT&T's website using the phone number you're transferring and your AT&T account ZIP code.
How to Return My Old Verizon Phone After Switching?
If you were leasing a device from Verizon or had an installment plan and didn't pay it off, you'll need to follow Verizon's return policy or pay the remaining balance. Contact Verizon directly to understand your options for your specific device and contract.
How to Get New Customer Deals with AT&T?
When speaking with an AT&T representative or Browse their website, explicitly ask about "new customer promotions," "switcher offers," or "BYOD deals." These often include bill credits, discounts on new devices, or special bundle pricing.
