Are you tired of those high Verizon bills? Are you looking for a more affordable, no-contract option that still provides reliable coverage? Then switching to Cricket Wireless might be the perfect move for you! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step of the process, from gathering your information to activating your new service. Let's get started, shall we?
The Great Migration: Switching from Verizon to Cricket Wireless
Switching carriers can seem daunting, but with the right information, it's a breeze. Cricket Wireless, an AT&T subsidiary, offers competitive plans, often with taxes and fees included, and a robust nationwide network. Verizon is a premium carrier, known for its extensive coverage, but it often comes with a higher price tag and contracts. By making the switch, you could save a significant amount of money each month without sacrificing too much in terms of network quality, especially if you're in an area with good AT&T coverage.
Step 1: Engage and Evaluate Your Current Verizon Situation
Before you even think about signing up with Cricket, let's take a deep dive into your current Verizon account. This crucial first step will save you a lot of headaches later.
Sub-heading: Understanding Your Verizon Commitments
Check Your Contract Status: Are you still under contract with Verizon? If so, terminating your service early could incur early termination fees (ETFs). These can be substantial, so it's vital to know if you'll be on the hook for them. Log into your My Verizon account online or call Verizon customer service to find out.
Device Payment Plans: Do you have any phones on a device payment plan with Verizon? If yes, you'll need to pay off the remaining balance of those devices before you can unlock them and use them with Cricket. This is a non-negotiable step if you want to bring your current phone.
Number Lock: Verizon offers a feature called "Number Lock" to protect against unauthorized porting of your number. You must disable this feature before you can transfer your number to Cricket. You can typically do this through My Verizon or by calling customer service.
Gather Essential Account Information: This is perhaps the most critical part of Step 1. You'll need the following information from your Verizon account:
Your Verizon Account Number: This is usually found on your billing statement or by logging into your My Verizon account.
Your Verizon Account PIN or Security Code: This is not your My Verizon login password. It's a specific PIN you set up for account verification. If you don't remember it, you'll need to contact Verizon customer service to retrieve or reset it.
Your Number Transfer PIN (NTP): Verizon now requires a specific Number Transfer PIN for porting out. You can generate this by dialing *#PORT from the phone number you wish to transfer, or through your My Verizon account. This PIN is only valid for 7 days, so generate it when you are ready to initiate the port.
The Last Four Digits of the Account Holder's Social Security Number (SSN): This is used for verification purposes.
Your Billing ZIP Code: Ensure this matches what Verizon has on file.
Sub-heading: Evaluating Your Phone's Compatibility
Is Your Phone Unlocked? Verizon devices are typically locked to their network for a period (often 60 days for new devices). After this period, they are usually automatically unlocked. If you're unsure, or if your phone is newer, contact Verizon to confirm its unlocked status. Cricket is a GSM carrier, while Verizon primarily uses CDMA (though modern phones are often dual-compatible). An unlocked phone is essential for bringing your own device (BYOD) to Cricket.
Check Cricket's BYOD Compatibility Tool: Cricket has a handy online tool where you can enter your phone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) to check if it's compatible with their network. You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on your phone, or by looking in your phone's settings (e.g., Settings > General > About on iPhone, Settings > About Phone > Status on Android). Do this before you commit to anything!
Step 2: Choosing Your Cricket Plan and Getting Your SIM Card
Now that you're armed with all your Verizon information and have confirmed your phone's compatibility, it's time to pick your new Cricket plan and get your SIM.
Sub-heading: Exploring Cricket's Offerings
Browse Cricket Wireless Plans: Visit the Cricket Wireless website (cricketwireless.com) or a Cricket store to explore their various prepaid plans. Cricket typically offers plans with different data allowances (e.g., 5GB, 10GB, Unlimited, Unlimited + Hotspot). Many plans include taxes and fees in the advertised price, which is a fantastic benefit compared to most carriers.
Consider Multi-Line Discounts: If you're moving multiple lines, Cricket offers attractive multi-line discounts that can significantly lower your per-line cost. This is often where Cricket truly shines in terms of value.
Look for Promotions: Cricket frequently has promotions for new customers, especially for those who bring their own number. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can include free months of service or discounted phones.
Sub-heading: Acquiring Your Cricket SIM Card
Online Purchase (Recommended): The easiest way to get a Cricket SIM card is to order it online. When you select your plan and indicate you're bringing your own phone and number, Cricket will ship you a new SIM card.
In-Store Purchase: You can also visit a Cricket Wireless store to purchase a SIM card. A representative can assist you with the purchase and potentially the activation process.
Universal SIM Kit: Cricket typically provides a "universal" SIM kit that includes different SIM sizes (Standard, Micro, Nano) to fit various phones. Make sure you select the correct size for your device. If you have an eSIM capable device, Cricket may also offer an eSIM option, which eliminates the need for a physical SIM card.
Step 3: Initiating the Number Transfer (Porting)
This is the big moment! With your Cricket SIM in hand and all your Verizon info ready, you're set to begin the porting process.
Sub-heading: Starting the Activation Online
Visit Cricket's Activation Page: Once you receive your Cricket SIM card, go to
cricketwireless.com/activate Enter Order Information: You'll typically need your Cricket order number (found in your confirmation email or packing slip) and your Cricket phone number (if you were assigned a temporary one) or the ICCID (SIM card number).
Choose to Bring Your Number: The activation portal will ask if you want to keep your current phone number or get a new one. Select "I'm Bringing My Number."
Provide Verizon Account Details: This is where all that information you gathered in Step 1 comes into play. Carefully enter your Verizon account number, account PIN/security code, Number Transfer PIN, last four digits of your SSN, and billing ZIP code. Accuracy is paramount here. Any mismatch can delay or even halt the porting process.
Do NOT Cancel Verizon Service Yet! This is a critical warning. Cricket needs your Verizon service to be active to successfully port your number. If you cancel prematurely, you could lose your number. Your Verizon service will automatically cancel once the number transfer is complete.
Sub-heading: The Waiting Game (and What to Expect)
Porting Timeframe: Mobile number transfers typically take between 2 to 24 business hours to complete. In some cases, it can be quicker, but it's wise to anticipate some waiting time. Landline numbers (if you were porting one, though less common from Verizon) can take longer, usually 2-10 business days.
"Mixed Service" During Transition: During the porting process, you might experience what's called "mixed service." This means your old Verizon phone might still receive calls, while your new Cricket phone can make calls. Text messaging might also be temporarily affected. Don't panic! This is normal as your number moves between carriers' systems.
Cricket Notifications: Cricket will typically notify you via email or text messages about the status of your port request. Keep an eye on these communications, as they may indicate if additional information is needed.
Step 4: Activating Your Cricket Service and Post-Porting Steps
Once Cricket confirms your number has been successfully ported, it's time to get your phone fully up and running on the Cricket network.
Sub-heading: Inserting Your SIM and Initial Setup
Insert Your Cricket SIM Card: Once you receive the notification that your number has been ported, turn off your phone. Carefully insert your new Cricket SIM card into your device. If you chose an eSIM, follow the instructions provided by Cricket to download and activate your eSIM profile.
Power On and Test: Turn on your phone. Make a test call, send a text message, and try to access the internet using mobile data. This confirms your service is active.
Update APN Settings (if necessary): For some "Bring Your Own Device" phones, especially Androids, you might need to manually configure the Access Point Name (APN) settings for data and picture messaging to work correctly. Cricket provides instructions on their support website for how to do this for various phone types (iPhone, Android).
For Android: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network > Access Point Names. You'll typically need to create a new APN with specific settings provided by Cricket.
For iPhone: APN settings are usually automatically configured, but if you have issues, you might need to reset network settings.
Sub-heading: Managing Your New Cricket Account
Download the myCricket App: This app is your best friend for managing your Cricket account. You can check your data usage, pay your bill, view your billing history, and much more.
Set Up Auto Pay: Cricket offers a monthly discount for signing up for Auto Pay. This ensures you never miss a payment and can save you money in the long run.
Explore Features: Familiarize yourself with Cricket's features, such as Visual Voicemail (often built-in for iPhones), international calling options, and mobile hotspot (if included in your plan).
Congratulations! You've Switched!
You've successfully transitioned from Verizon to Cricket Wireless! Enjoy your new, more affordable service. Remember that while Cricket utilizes AT&T's network, there can be subtle differences in coverage and deprioritization compared to AT&T postpaid. However, for many users, the cost savings far outweigh any minor differences.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Verizon phone is unlocked?
You can generally check your phone's unlock status by inserting a SIM card from a different carrier (not Cricket, but another one you might have) and seeing if it connects to that network. The most reliable method, however, is to call Verizon customer service and directly ask them about your device's unlock eligibility and status.
How to find my Verizon account number?
Your Verizon account number is typically located on your monthly billing statement. You can also find it by logging into your My Verizon online account or through the My Verizon app.
How to get my Verizon Number Transfer PIN?
You can get your Verizon Number Transfer PIN by dialing *#PORT from the phone number you wish to transfer. Alternatively, you can generate it through your My Verizon online account under the "Account" or "Security" settings.
How to know if my phone is compatible with Cricket?
Cricket Wireless has an online compatibility checker tool on their website (
How to find my phone's IMEI number?
You can find your phone's IMEI number by dialing *#06# on your phone's keypad. It will typically appear as a 15-digit number. You can also often find it in your phone's settings (e.g., Settings > General > About on iPhone, Settings > About Phone > Status on Android).
How to update APN settings for Cricket Wireless?
If you bring your own device to Cricket and experience data or MMS issues, you may need to update your APN settings. Instructions for this are available on the Cricket Wireless support website, usually under "Phone Setup" or "Troubleshooting" for BYOD devices. The steps vary slightly depending on whether you have an Android or iPhone.
How to cancel my Verizon service after switching to Cricket?
You do not need to manually cancel your Verizon service when you switch to Cricket and port your number. Once the number transfer is complete and your Cricket service is active, Verizon will automatically disconnect the line associated with the ported number.
How to get a new phone number with Cricket?
If you don't want to keep your current Verizon number, you can opt for a new phone number when signing up for Cricket service. During the online sign-up or in-store activation process, you'll be given the option to select a new number based on your desired ZIP code.
How to save money on my Cricket Wireless plan?
Cricket offers several ways to save money, including multi-line discounts when you have multiple lines on the same eligible plan, and a monthly discount if you sign up for Auto Pay. Look for these options when choosing your plan.
How to contact Cricket Wireless customer support?
You can contact Cricket Wireless customer support via their website's chat feature, by calling their customer service number (usually 1-800-CRICKET or 1-800-274-2538), or by visiting a local Cricket Wireless store.