Ready to Break Up with Verizon Wireless? Here's Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth Cancellation!
So, the time has come. You've decided to part ways with Verizon Wireless. Maybe you found a better deal, your needs have changed, or you're just looking for a fresh start. Whatever your reason, canceling a mobile phone service can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. But don't worry, we're here to guide you through every twist and turn to ensure a smooth, headache-free experience.
Are you ready to take control of your wireless destiny? Let's dive in!
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| How To Cancel Verizon Wireless |
Step 1: Assess Your Current Verizon Situation – Know Before You Go!
Before you make that call or start clicking around, it's crucial to understand the specifics of your current Verizon Wireless account. This preparation will save you time and potential frustration down the line.
Sub-heading: Check Your Contract Status and Device Payments
Are you still under contract? Many Verizon plans, especially older ones or those tied to device promotions, come with a contract term (often 24 or 36 months). Canceling before your contract is up can lead to early termination fees (ETFs).
For device payment agreements, if you cancel service, the remaining balance on your phone will likely become due immediately on your final bill. This can be a significant lump sum, so be prepared!
What about your device? Is it unlocked? Verizon devices are typically locked to their network for the first 60 days after purchase. If you're planning to switch to another carrier and use your existing phone, ensure it's unlocked. Verizon generally unlocks devices automatically after 60 days of service, provided the account is in good standing and not flagged for fraud.
Sub-heading: Gather Your Account Information
Have the following details handy, as you'll almost certainly be asked for them:
Your Verizon Wireless account number.
The account holder's name.
The associated phone number(s) you wish to cancel.
Your account PIN or the last four digits of the account owner's Social Security Number for verification.
Your billing address on file.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
Step 2: Decide Your Cancellation Path – To Port or Not to Port?
This is a critical decision. Do you want to keep your current phone number and transfer it to a new carrier (porting), or are you simply canceling service and letting the number go?
Sub-heading: Option A: Porting Your Number to a New Carrier (Recommended if you want to keep your number)
If you wish to keep your existing phone number, DO NOT cancel your Verizon service directly first! Your new carrier needs your Verizon account to be active to facilitate the number transfer. If you cancel before porting, you risk losing your number permanently.
Choose Your New Carrier: Research and sign up with your desired new wireless provider.
Initiate the Porting Process: When you sign up, tell your new carrier you want to "port" your existing number. They will handle most of the heavy lifting.
Get Your Number Transfer PIN (NTP): This is a crucial security measure. You can generate your NTP from Verizon in a few ways:
Dial #PORT from the smartphone you want to transfer. Verizon will text you a link to generate the PIN in My Verizon.
Log in to My Verizon online or through the My Verizon app. Navigate to the "Number Transfer PIN" section (often found under account security or profile settings) and generate it.
Important: The NTP is only valid for 7 days, so use it promptly!
Provide Information to Your New Carrier: Give your new carrier your Verizon account number and the Number Transfer PIN. They will submit the port request.
Wait for Confirmation: The porting process can take a few hours to a few days. Your new carrier will notify you when the transfer is complete. Only once your number is fully active with your new carrier will your Verizon service for that line automatically cancel.
Sub-heading: Option B: Canceling Service Without Porting Your Number
If you don't need to keep your number, the process is more straightforward, but still requires direct contact with Verizon.
Prepare for the Call: Have all your account information from Step 1 ready. Be ready to politely but firmly state your intention to cancel.
Contact Verizon Customer Service:
Phone: This is the most common and often required method for canceling Verizon Wireless service. Call Verizon Customer Service at 1-844-837-2262.
Business hours are typically Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm ET. It's important to note that you generally cannot cancel via online chat or email for mobile accounts.
In-person: While less common for simple cancellations, visiting a Verizon store might be an option, but you'll likely still be directed to call customer service for final processing.
State Your Intention Clearly: When you connect with a representative, clearly state that you wish to cancel your Verizon Wireless service.
Be Prepared for Retention Efforts: Verizon representatives are trained to retain customers. They may offer you:
Cheaper plans
Temporary suspensions
Discounts or promotional offers
Other incentives
Listen to their offers, but if your decision is final, politely decline and reiterate your request to cancel. You may need to be persistent.
Confirm Cancellation and Get a Confirmation Number: Once you've navigated the retention attempts and the cancellation is processed, ensure you get a confirmation number or ticket number for your cancellation request. This is vital for any future disputes or follow-ups. Inquire about the exact effective date of cancellation.
Step 3: Understand Your Final Bill and Equipment Returns – Tying Up Loose Ends
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After the cancellation is initiated, there are a few more things to consider to avoid unexpected charges.
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
Sub-heading: Your Final Verizon Bill
Your final bill will typically be generated on your usual billing cycle date.
It will include any prorated charges for service up to your cancellation date.
Crucially, it will include any remaining device payment balances and, if applicable, early termination fees.
Any credit balances you have should be refunded within 60 days.
Keep an eye on your My Verizon account (even after cancellation) to view and pay your final bill.
Sub-heading: Returning Leased Equipment
If you leased any equipment from Verizon (e.g., hotspots, network extenders), you must return it within 30 days of your service disconnection to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
Verizon will typically provide instructions and a return label. If not, contact them to arrange the return.
Step 4: After Cancellation – Peace of Mind
Once your service is officially canceled and any loose ends are tied up, you can breathe easy.
Monitor your bank statements: For a few months, keep an eye on your bank or credit card statements to ensure no erroneous charges from Verizon appear.
Keep records: Store your cancellation confirmation number, details of your final bill, and any equipment return receipts in a safe place.
10 Related FAQs: How to...
Here are some quick answers to common questions about canceling Verizon Wireless service:
How to check if I'm still under contract with Verizon Wireless?
You can check your contract status by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Look for details on your device payment agreements or plan terms.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
How to find my Verizon Wireless account number and PIN?
Your account number is typically found on your monthly bill. Your PIN can be generated by dialing #PORT from your Verizon phone or by logging into your My Verizon account online.
How to avoid early termination fees (ETFs) when canceling Verizon?
The best way to avoid ETFs is to wait until your contract term is complete. If you're porting your number, the new carrier usually handles the cancellation, but ETFs for device payment plans will still apply if you haven't paid off your phone. Some new carriers offer "buyout" promotions, but these are typically credits, not direct payments to Verizon.
How to port my Verizon Wireless number to a new carrier?
First, choose your new carrier and initiate the porting process with them. Then, obtain your Number Transfer PIN (NTP) from Verizon by dialing #PORT or through My Verizon, and provide it along with your account number to your new carrier. Do NOT cancel your Verizon service before the port is complete.
How to unlock my Verizon Wireless phone before canceling?
Verizon devices are automatically unlocked after 60 days of service, provided the account is in good standing and not flagged for fraud. There's no manual unlock request needed after this period.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
How to return Verizon Wireless equipment after cancellation?
If you leased equipment, Verizon will provide instructions and a return label. You must return the equipment within 30 days of cancellation to avoid unreturned equipment charges. If you don't receive instructions, contact Verizon customer service.
How to understand my final Verizon Wireless bill?
Your final bill will include prorated service charges up to your cancellation date, any remaining device payment balances, and applicable early termination fees. Any credit balances will be refunded within 60 days.
How to cancel Verizon Wireless online?
For mobile accounts, direct online cancellation isn't typically available. You generally need to call Verizon customer service at 1-844-837-2262 to cancel mobile service. Online options are usually available for Fios (internet/TV/home phone) services.
How to cancel one line on a multi-line Verizon Wireless account?
You'll need to call Verizon Customer Service. Be clear about which specific line(s) you want to cancel, as only the account holder can make these changes. If you're porting that line, follow the porting steps first.
How to dispute charges on my final Verizon Wireless bill?
If you believe there are incorrect charges on your final bill, contact Verizon Customer Service to discuss the discrepancies. Have your cancellation confirmation number and any relevant documentation ready.
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