Oh no! Is your Verizon service acting up? Nothing is more frustrating than when your internet, phone, or TV services suddenly decide to take a vacation. Whether you're trying to stream your favorite show, make an important call, or just browse the web, a service outage can bring your day to a screeching halt. But don't despair! Reporting an outage to Verizon is a straightforward process, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you get your service back up and running as quickly as possible.
Let's dive in and get you reconnected!
Understanding Verizon Outages: What You Need to Know First
Before you even think about reporting an outage, it's wise to do a quick check to see if the problem is on your end or if it's a larger network issue. Sometimes, a simple restart of your equipment can fix things!
Step 1: Initial Troubleshooting – Are You Really Experiencing an Outage?
First things first, let's play detective! It's easy to jump to conclusions, but sometimes the issue is simpler than you think.
Sub-heading: A. Check Your Equipment
For Fios (Internet, TV, Phone):
Power Cycle Your Router and ONT (Optical Network Terminal): Unplug your Verizon router and the ONT (the box where the fiber optic cable connects) from their power outlets. Wait about 60 seconds, then plug the ONT back in first, wait for its lights to stabilize (usually a few minutes), and then plug in your router.
Check Cables: Ensure all cables are securely plugged into your router, ONT, and wall outlets. A loose connection is a surprisingly common culprit!
Look at Indicator Lights: What do the lights on your router and ONT tell you? Refer to your equipment's manual or Verizon's online support for a guide to what each light signifies. A red or amber light often indicates a problem.
For Wireless (Mobile Phone, 5G Home Internet, LTE Home Internet):
Restart Your Device: A classic, but effective, fix. Turn your phone or mobile hotspot completely off, wait 30 seconds, and then turn it back on.
Check Signal Bars: Are your signal bars low or non-existent? If you're in an area with historically weak coverage, this might be a factor.
Disable Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Calling (Temporarily): To confirm you're truly relying on the Verizon cellular network, turn off Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Calling on your device. This helps determine if the issue is with your cellular connection itself.
Remove Cases/Covers: Sometimes bulky phone cases can interfere with signal reception. Try removing it to see if there's any improvement.
Check SIM Card: Power off your device, carefully remove your SIM card, check for any visible damage or dirt, and then reinsert it firmly.
Sub-heading: B. Rule Out Localized Issues
Test Other Devices: Is the problem affecting all your devices connected to Verizon (e.g., all phones, or both your laptop and smart TV)? If only one device is having trouble, the issue might be with that specific device, not the Verizon service itself.
Ask Your Neighbors: If you have Verizon service and live nearby, quickly check with a neighbor to see if they're experiencing the same issues. This can quickly confirm if it's a broader local outage.
Step 2: Verifying an Outage Through Official Verizon Channels
If your troubleshooting didn't resolve the issue, it's time to check Verizon's official channels for known outages. This is often the quickest way to get information.
Sub-heading: A. Use the My Verizon App or Website (Recommended)
This is your primary and most efficient way to check for and report outages.
Sign In to My Verizon:
Website: Go to
verizon.comand sign in to your My Verizon account.My Verizon App: Open the app on your smartphone or tablet and log in.
If you're unable to log in due to the outage, try using a different network (e.g., public Wi-Fi, a friend's Wi-Fi, or cellular data from another carrier if you have it) to access the website or app.
Look for Network Notification Alerts: Once logged in, Verizon will often display prominent alerts at the top of your screen if there's a known outage impacting your services in your area. This alert will usually provide details on affected services and the current status of repairs.
Check Network Status Page:
On the website, look for a "Check Network Status" or "Service Outage Information" link.
In the app, navigate to a "Support" or "Service Status" section.
You'll likely be prompted to enter your location (zip code or address) to get specific information for your area.
If an outage is confirmed, you may be provided with an estimated time for service restoration and potentially a ticket number.
Sub-heading: B. Check Social Media
Verizon often uses its social media channels to communicate widespread outages and provide updates.
Twitter (X): Follow @VerizonSupport and @VerizonNews. They frequently post updates during major outages. You can also search for "Verizon outage" to see if others in your area are reporting similar issues.
Facebook Messenger: You can search for "Verizon" through your Facebook Messenger app and send them a message.
Sub-heading: C. Third-Party Outage Trackers
While not official Verizon channels, sites like DownDetector.com can provide a quick overview of reported outages based on user submissions.
Visit DownDetector.com: Search for "Verizon" to see a real-time map of reported problems. Keep in mind that these maps are based on user reports and might not always reflect the full picture or official status.
Step 3: Reporting the Outage to Verizon
If you've confirmed it's an outage and Verizon hasn't yet acknowledged it for your specific area, or if you need more personalized assistance, it's time to report it directly.
Sub-heading: A. Using the My Verizon App or Website (If No Alert is Shown)
Even if there isn't an alert, you can still report an issue through your account.
Navigate to the Troubleshooter/Support Section:
Within the My Verizon app or on the website, look for a "Troubleshooter," "Support," or "Contact Us" section.
For Fios, specifically look for "All Fios Services Down" or similar.
For Wireless, search for "Check Network Status" or "Report a Problem."
Follow the Prompts: The system will guide you through a series of questions to identify your service issue and confirm your location. Provide as much detail as possible about what services are affected (internet, TV, phone, mobile data, calling, texting) and when the problem started.
Submit Your Report: Once you've provided the necessary information, you'll typically be able to submit a report. You may receive a reference or ticket number for your report. Hold onto this number!
Sub-heading: B. Contacting Verizon by Phone
Sometimes, talking to a human is the best way to go, especially if your online access is limited or the problem is complex.
Residential Customers: Call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). When prompted, select the "Technical Assistance" option.
Small Business Customers: Visit the Verizon Business Outage Site or call their dedicated business support number.
Medium/Enterprise Customers: Contact your regular customer service centers or account teams directly.
Non-Verizon Customers (for downed lines/poles): If you see downed telephone lines or poles, for your safety, do not touch or move them. Call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) immediately.
Sub-heading: C. Chat with a Representative
Verizon offers chat support, which can be convenient if you have internet access on another device.
On the Verizon Website: Look for a "Chat With Us" button or icon, usually located in the bottom corner of support pages.
Through the My Verizon App: The app often has a chat option available.
Step 4: Receiving Updates and What to Do While You Wait
Once you've reported the outage, it's a waiting game. But you can still stay informed!
Sub-heading: A. Check Status of Your Report
Online/App: Use the "Check Status" feature on the Verizon website (
verizon.com/CheckStatus) or within the My Verizon app. Enter your ticket number or account details to get updates on your specific outage report.Service Alerts: Make sure you have opted into receiving service alerts via email or text message within your My Verizon communication preferences. Verizon will often send updates on widespread outages directly to your preferred contact method.
Sub-heading: B. Staying Connected During an Outage
Wi-Fi Calling: If you have a Wi-Fi connection (perhaps from a neighbor or a public hotspot), enable Wi-Fi Calling on your mobile device. This allows you to make and receive calls and texts over Wi-Fi.
Public Wi-Fi: Utilize public Wi-Fi hotspots for internet access if available and necessary. Be cautious about sensitive information on public networks; consider using a VPN.
Mobile Hotspot (if applicable): If your mobile data is working and you have a separate device (laptop, tablet) that needs internet, you can use your phone as a mobile hotspot (data charges may apply depending on your plan).
Local Verizon Store (Last Resort): While they can't fix a network outage from the store, they might be able to offer general information or help with account-specific issues. However, expect long waits during widespread outages.
FAQs: Your Quick Guide to Verizon Outage Queries
Here are 10 related "How to" questions with quick answers to help you navigate Verizon outages.
How to check if Verizon has an outage in my area?
You can check for outages by logging into your My Verizon account on the website or app, or by visiting Verizon's official "Check Network Status" page (verizon.com/support/residential/service-outage).
How to report a Verizon Fios outage?
You can report a Fios outage through your My Verizon account online or via the app, by using Verizon's Troubleshooter tool, or by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) and selecting "Technical Assistance."
How to report a Verizon Wireless (mobile) outage?
Report a wireless outage by logging into your My Verizon app or website and checking the "Check Network Status" section, or by calling customer service at 1-800-922-0204 (from a working phone) or 611 (from your Verizon phone if it has signal).
How to get updates on a Verizon outage?
Sign in to your My Verizon account to see alerts, check your service status online (verizon.com/CheckStatus), or opt-in for service alerts via email or text in your communication preferences. You can also check @VerizonSupport on X (formerly Twitter).
How to make calls during a Verizon outage if my mobile service is down?
If you have access to Wi-Fi, enable Wi-Fi Calling on your smartphone. This allows you to make and receive calls and texts over an available Wi-Fi network.
How to troubleshoot my Verizon service before reporting an outage?
First, power cycle your equipment (router/ONT for Fios, restart phone/hotspot for wireless). Check all cables and indicator lights. Test other devices and consider asking neighbors if they're experiencing similar issues.
How to report a downed Verizon line or pole?
For your safety, do not touch downed lines. Call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) immediately, or use the chat function on Verizon's "Contact Us" page to report it.
How to check the status of my Verizon outage report?
Visit verizon.com/CheckStatus and enter your account information or any provided ticket number to view the latest updates on your specific service issue.
How to get a credit for a Verizon outage?
If your service was out for an extended period (typically more than 24 hours) due to a Verizon-faulted outage, you may be eligible for a bill credit. Contact Verizon customer service to inquire about this after service is restored.
How to prepare for future Verizon outages?
Keep a corded phone (for Fios voice service if you have a copper line or a battery backup for fiber), consider setting up Wi-Fi Calling, and ensure you have alternative ways to access information (e.g., fully charged devices, external battery packs, or local library access to the internet).