Suspending your Verizon service can be a lifesaver in many situations, whether you're traveling, dealing with a lost or stolen phone, or on military deployment. It allows you to pause your cellular service temporarily, potentially saving you money and protecting your account. But how exactly do you do it, and what are the implications? Let's dive into a comprehensive guide!
Are you considering suspending your Verizon service?
If so, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through the various reasons you might want to suspend your service, the different types of suspensions available, and the step-by-step process to get it done. We'll also cover crucial details like billing during suspension and how to reconnect your service when you're ready.
Understanding Why You Might Suspend Your Verizon Service
There are several common scenarios where suspending your Verizon service makes a lot of sense. Knowing why you're suspending will help you choose the right type of suspension and understand the associated terms.
Temporary Travel or Extended Vacation
Are you planning an epic international adventure or a long-term sabbatical where you won't need your Verizon line? Suspending your service for "other" reasons (often referred to as a vacation or seasonal hold) can prevent unnecessary monthly charges while you're away.
Lost or Stolen Device Protection
This is perhaps the most critical reason to suspend your service immediately. If your phone goes missing, suspending the line prevents unauthorized calls, data usage, and charges, protecting your account from potential fraud.
Military Deployment
Verizon offers specific and often more generous suspension options for active military personnel and their families. This is designed to support those serving our country when they are deployed and unable to use their regular service.
Step 1: Determine Your Suspension Type
Before you do anything, it's essential to understand that Verizon offers different types of suspensions, each with its own rules, durations, and billing implications.
1.1: Lost or Stolen Device Suspension
This is a critical, time-sensitive action if your device is gone.
Purpose: To prevent unauthorized use and charges on your account.
Duration: Typically up to 30 days. If you don't reconnect within this period, your line may be automatically disconnected, and you could lose your number.
Billing: Generally, voice, data, and feature subscriptions are not charged during this period. However, monthly device payment charges and recurring subscription charges (like streaming services directly billed by Verizon) may continue. Device protection billing is usually suspended.
Important: You can typically only use this suspension type once every 12 months per line.
1.2: General/Other Suspension (Vacation, Extended Leave, etc.)
This option is for planned temporary halts in service.
Purpose: To temporarily stop service for reasons like extended travel, illness, or simply not needing the line for a period.
Duration: You can suspend your line for up to a total of 180 days in any rolling 12-month period. No single suspension can last longer than 90 consecutive days. After 90 days of continuous suspension under this option, or if you hit the 180-day total limit, your line will automatically reconnect.
Billing: You usually have the option to suspend with or without billing.
Suspending with billing: You continue to pay your regular monthly charges, but your service is paused. This is rarely chosen unless you want to maintain eligibility for certain promotions or plans.
Suspending without billing: This is the more common choice, as it pauses your monthly access charges. However, device payment charges and certain recurring third-party subscriptions may still apply. Your contract term and upgrade eligibility dates will be extended for the duration of the suspension.
1.3: Military Deployment Suspension
Verizon offers robust support for military personnel.
Purpose: Specifically for service members called to active duty or deployment where regular service is not feasible.
Duration: Can be suspended for a maximum of 3 years and 90 days.
Billing: During this suspension, your line typically won't be billed any charges, including device payment agreement charges for the suspended line. However, recurring account-level subscriptions (e.g., multi-device protection, certain streaming perks) might continue unless canceled. Device protection billing for the specific line is usually suspended.
Eligibility: Requires verification of military orders.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Information and Access Your Account
Before proceeding, ensure you have the following at hand. This will make the process much smoother!
2.1: Essential Account Details
Verizon Account Owner's Information: You'll need the account owner's username and password for My Verizon. If you're not the account owner but an account manager, you might have limited suspension capabilities.
Account PIN or Last 4 Digits of SSN: For security purposes, Verizon may ask for this to verify your identity, especially if you call customer service.
The Phone Number(s) You Want to Suspend: Be precise!
Reason for Suspension: Having a clear reason (lost/stolen, vacation, military) will guide you to the correct option.
Desired Suspension Duration (if applicable): Especially for general suspensions, know how long you anticipate needing the service paused.
2.2: Choose Your Access Method
Verizon offers a few convenient ways to suspend your service:
My Verizon Online Account: This is often the quickest and most straightforward method.
My Verizon Mobile App: Excellent for on-the-go suspension, particularly for lost/stolen devices.
Calling Customer Service: If you encounter issues online, prefer speaking to someone, or have a complex situation (like military suspension), this is your best bet.
Step 3: Step-by-Step Suspension Process
Let's walk through how to suspend your service using the most common methods.
3.1: Suspending Service via My Verizon Online
This is the recommended method for most users.
Log In to My Verizon:
Open your web browser and go to the official Verizon website (verizon.com).
Click on "My Verizon" and sign in to your account using your username and password.
Navigate to the Suspension Section:
Once logged in, look for a section related to "Devices," "Manage My Plan," or "Account Services."
Many users find it under "Account" > "Suspend or Reconnect Service" or "Manage Devices." Verizon's interface can change, so you might need to explore a bit.
Select the Line(s) to Suspend:
You'll see a list of lines on your account. Carefully select the specific phone number(s) you wish to suspend.
Choose the Reason for Suspension:
Verizon will typically ask you to select the reason for the suspension. This is where you'll choose "Lost/Stolen," "Other" (for vacation/personal reasons), or if you are eligible, "Military Deployment."
Follow the Prompts Specific to Your Suspension Type:
For Lost/Stolen: You'll confirm the device is lost or stolen. The system will prompt you to file a claim if you have device protection. Remember the 30-day limit for this type.
For Other (General) Suspension:
You'll be asked to select a start date for the suspension.
You might be prompted to choose whether to suspend with or without billing. As mentioned, suspending without billing is usually the goal for cost savings.
You may also be able to set an anticipated reconnection date. This helps Verizon know when to automatically reactivate your service. Keep in mind the 90-day consecutive and 180-day total limits.
For Military Suspension: You will likely be directed to contact customer service or provide documentation online to verify eligibility. This process is often more involved due to the specific terms and long duration.
Review and Confirm:
Carefully review all the details of your suspension request, including the lines affected, the reason, the duration, and billing implications.
Click "Submit" or "Confirm" to finalize the suspension.
You should receive a confirmation email or text message from Verizon. Keep this for your records!
3.2: Suspending Service via the My Verizon Mobile App
The My Verizon app provides a convenient, often faster way to manage your account, especially for immediate actions like reporting a lost phone.
Open the My Verizon App:
Launch the My Verizon app on your smartphone or tablet.
Log in if prompted.
Access Device Management:
Look for options like "Devices," "Account," or a similar menu that allows you to manage your lines.
Often, there's a quick access option if you report a lost/stolen phone directly from the app's main dashboard.
Select the Line:
Tap on the specific line you need to suspend.
Choose Suspension Option:
You'll typically see an option like "Suspend or Reconnect Service" or "Report Lost/Stolen Device."
Follow On-Screen Instructions:
Similar to the online portal, the app will guide you through selecting the reason and confirming the details.
Confirm the suspension.
3.3: Suspending Service by Calling Verizon Customer Service
If you prefer speaking to a representative, have complex account needs, or run into issues with the online methods, calling is the way to go.
Dial Verizon Customer Service:
From a different phone, dial 1-800-922-0204 (Verizon's main customer service number).
If you're calling from outside the U.S., you might need to use their international support number: +1-908-559-4899.
Navigate the Automated System:
Listen carefully to the prompts and select the options that lead to account services or suspending a line. You might need to say "suspend service" or "lost phone."
Speak to a Representative:
Once connected, clearly explain your reason for suspending service (e.g., "I need to suspend my phone because it was lost," or "I'm going on an extended vacation and want to suspend my line").
Be prepared to verify your identity with your account PIN or the last four digits of the account owner's SSN.
Provide Details and Confirm:
The representative will guide you through the process, confirm the duration, and inform you of any charges.
Ensure you understand all the terms before they finalize the suspension. Ask about potential billing for device payments or recurring third-party subscriptions.
Step 4: Understand the Implications and Next Steps
Suspending service isn't just about pressing a button; it has consequences.
4.1: Billing During Suspension
Access Charges: For most "Other" and "Lost/Stolen" suspensions without billing, your regular monthly access charges for the line will be paused. This is where you save money.
Device Payment Agreements: Crucially, monthly device payment charges usually continue even if your service is suspended. You are still obligated to pay for the device.
Recurring Subscriptions/Perks: Certain subscriptions or perks tied to your account (e.g., streaming services, device protection plans that cover multiple devices) may continue to bill. Review your bill carefully during suspension. Military suspensions are often more lenient in this regard.
Contract Extensions: If you are on a two-year contract, your contract end date and upgrade eligibility will typically be extended by the duration of your suspension.
4.2: What Happens to Your Phone Number?
Retention: Your phone number is generally held during the suspension period.
Disconnection Risk: If you exceed the maximum suspension period (e.g., 30 days for lost/stolen, 90 consecutive days or 180 total days for "other" suspensions) without reconnecting, your line may be automatically disconnected, and you will lose your phone number. This is why it's vital to note down your suspension end date.
4.3: How to Reconnect Your Service
When you're ready to use your phone again, reconnecting is usually straightforward:
Online: Log in to My Verizon, go to the "Suspend or Reconnect Service" page, select the suspended line, and choose to "Reconnect."
My Verizon App: Similar to the online process, find the suspended line in the app and choose to reconnect.
Customer Service: Call Verizon Customer Service, identify yourself, and request to reconnect your line.
Remember: If you suspended due to a lost/stolen device, you'll need to reconnect with the same device (if found) or a replacement device.
Step 5: Post-Suspension Checklist
A few things to keep in mind after your service is suspended:
Monitor Your Bill: Even with service suspended, it's a good idea to check your Verizon bill to ensure no unexpected charges are occurring (like device payments).
Set a Reminder: If you have an anticipated reconnection date, set a reminder a few days beforehand so you don't accidentally lose your number.
Consider International Options: If you suspended for travel, explore international eSIMs or local SIM cards for connectivity while abroad.
Security: If your device was lost or stolen, change all your important passwords (email, banking, social media) that might have been stored on or accessed from that device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about suspending Verizon service, with quick answers:
How to suspend Verizon service for vacation?
To suspend Verizon service for vacation, log in to your My Verizon account online or via the My Verizon app, navigate to "Suspend or Reconnect Service," choose "Other" as the reason, and select "Suspend without billing" for cost savings. You can suspend for up to 180 days in a rolling 12-month period, with no single suspension exceeding 90 consecutive days.
How to suspend a Verizon line if my phone is lost or stolen?
If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately log in to My Verizon online or the My Verizon app, go to "Suspend or Reconnect Service," and select "Lost/Stolen." This will prevent unauthorized use. Be aware that this suspension typically lasts up to 30 days, after which the line may disconnect.
How to suspend Verizon service for military deployment?
For military deployment, contact Verizon Customer Service directly. They have specific military suspension programs that can last for up to 3 years and 90 days, often without billing for the suspended line, including device payments. You will need to provide proof of deployment.
How to check the status of my suspended Verizon service?
You can check the status of your suspended Verizon service by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Your suspended line(s) will be clearly indicated on your account dashboard or in the "Devices" or "Suspend/Reconnect Service" section.
How to reconnect my Verizon service after suspension?
To reconnect your Verizon service, log in to My Verizon online or the My Verizon app, go to the "Suspend or Reconnect Service" page, select the suspended line, and choose the "Reconnect" option. If you suspended due to a lost/stolen device, you'll need to reconnect with the original or a replacement device.
How to avoid charges while my Verizon service is suspended?
To avoid charges, choose the "Suspend without billing" option for general suspensions. While this stops monthly access charges, remember that device payment charges for your phone and certain recurring account-level subscriptions (like multi-device protection) usually continue to bill. Military suspensions are generally more comprehensive in pausing charges.
How to know if my device payment plan continues during suspension?
Unless you are on a military suspension, your device payment plan will continue to bill monthly even when your service is suspended. You are still responsible for paying off the device. Always confirm this during the suspension process.
How to suspend multiple Verizon lines at once?
You can usually suspend multiple Verizon lines at once through the My Verizon online portal or My Verizon app. When you access the "Suspend or Reconnect Service" page, you'll typically see a list of all lines on your account, allowing you to select and manage suspensions for each one.
How to cancel a pending Verizon service suspension?
If you have a pending suspension request that hasn't taken effect yet, you may be able to cancel it through the "Suspend or Reconnect Service" page in My Verizon online or via the app. Otherwise, contact Verizon Customer Service as soon as possible.
How to deal with losing my number if I don't reconnect my suspended Verizon service in time?
If you fail to reconnect your suspended Verizon service within the specified maximum duration (e.g., 30 days for lost/stolen, 90/180 days for "other" suspensions), your line will automatically disconnect, and you will lose your phone number. Verizon does not guarantee number retention after disconnection. To avoid this, set reminders for your reconnection date.