Deactivating your Verizon phone service can feel like a daunting task, especially with the various factors to consider like contracts, fees, and keeping your number. But don't fret! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Your Verizon Service? Let's Find Out!
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's take a moment to consider why you're looking to deactivate. Are you switching carriers, moving to an area without Verizon coverage, or simply reducing your number of lines? Understanding your reason will help you navigate the process most effectively and avoid any unexpected hurdles. Ready? Let's get started!
Step 1: Understand Your Account Status and Gather Essential Information
This is arguably the most crucial initial step. Knowledge is power when dealing with service providers.
1.1 Check Your Contract Status and Potential Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
Are you currently under a contract with Verizon? Many plans come with a 1-year or 2-year agreement. If you cancel service before your contract ends, you might be subject to an Early Termination Fee (ETF).
How to check:
My Verizon App or Website: Log in to your My Verizon account. Look for sections related to "My Devices," "Plans," or "Contracts." You should be able to see your contract end date and any device payment agreements.
Call Customer Service: If you're having trouble finding the information online, calling Verizon Customer Service is always an option. They can provide you with precise details about your contract and potential ETFs.
What to know about ETFs: Verizon's ETFs for Fios (home internet/TV) can be up to $350, prorated by $15 per month you've had the service. For mobile, outstanding device payment balances become due upon disconnection.
1.2 Identify the Account Owner
Only the account owner or a designated account manager can request a service cancellation. If you're not the account owner, you'll need to involve them in the process.
1.3 Collect Necessary Account Information
Have the following details readily available, as they will be required during your interaction with Verizon:
Account Owner's Name
Associated Phone Number(s) you wish to deactivate
Account PIN or the Last Four Digits of the Account Owner's Social Security Number (SSN)
Your current billing address (especially important if porting your number)
Step 2: Decide How You Want to Deactivate Your Phone
Verizon offers a few avenues for deactivation, though some are more direct than others.
2.1 The Recommended Method: Call Verizon Customer Service
For mobile service deactivation, calling Verizon directly is the most reliable and often the only way to fully cancel your service.
Phone Number:
For mobile: 1-800-922-0204 or dial *611 from your Verizon phone.
For Fios home services: 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966)
Operating Hours:
Mobile Customer Service is generally available Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET.
Fios Customer Service hours may vary, but generally include Saturday hours.
Why this is recommended: Unlike many other services, Verizon typically does not allow full cancellation of mobile lines online or via email due to security reasons. Speaking with a representative ensures your request is processed correctly and allows you to discuss any final charges or options.
2.2 Online (Limited Deactivation/Information)
While you cannot fully cancel your mobile service online, you can often:
Suspend a line (useful if your phone is lost/stolen or for temporary pauses).
Initiate a transfer of service to another Verizon account (if applicable).
Chat with a live agent through the My Verizon website or app by typing "Cancel" into the "Ask a question" box. This may lead to a call for final processing.
2.3 In-Person (Verizon Store)
You may be able to deactivate a line at a physical Verizon store. However, it's often more efficient to call customer service directly, as store employees may still direct you to the phone line for certain cancellation procedures.
Step 3: Navigating the Deactivation Call
Once you've decided on your approach, particularly the phone call, be prepared for the conversation.
3.1 Be Prepared to State Your Reason (Politely but Firmly)
Verizon representatives are trained to retain customers. They may offer incentives, discounts, or alternative plans. While it's good to listen to offers, be firm if your decision to cancel is final. Common reasons that can help you avoid lengthy retention attempts include:
Moving to an area with no Verizon coverage.
Financial reasons (e.g., need a cheaper plan).
Switching to a different carrier with better coverage or a specific plan.
Dissatisfaction with service (e.g., "bad customer service" or "poor signal").
3.2 Confirm All Details and Ask for a Confirmation Number
Ensure the representative confirms which line(s) are being deactivated.
Crucially, request a cancellation ticket or confirmation number. This is your proof that the request was made and can be vital if any issues arise later.
Clarify the exact date the service will be disconnected.
Ask about your final bill and when to expect it.
3.3 Understand the Billing Cycle
Deactivation isn't always immediate. Your service will typically continue until the end of your current billing period. So, if your billing cycle ends on the 30th of the month and you call to cancel on the 5th, your service will likely remain active until the 30th. Plan accordingly, especially if you're porting your number to a new carrier.
Step 4: Address Your Phone Number (Porting vs. Losing It)
This is a critical decision! Do you want to keep your current phone number, or are you okay with it being reassigned?
4.1 Porting Your Number to a New Carrier
DO NOT deactivate your Verizon service before porting! Your number must be active for the porting process to succeed.
Initiate the porting process with your NEW carrier FIRST. They will handle the transfer request to Verizon.
Provide your new carrier with your Verizon account information (account number, PIN, and the phone number to be ported).
Once the new carrier confirms the port is complete, your Verizon line associated with that number will automatically deactivate. This is generally the smoothest way to transition.
4.2 Letting Your Number Go
If you don't port your number, Verizon will typically reassign it to another customer after a certain period (often around 45 days). Make sure to notify all your contacts of your new number if you get one!
Step 5: Returning Verizon Equipment (if applicable)
If you have Fios internet, TV, or home phone service, or if you leased a mobile device, you might have equipment to return.
5.1 Identify Leased or Rented Equipment
Check your Verizon bills or My Verizon account to see if you're renting any equipment (e.g., routers, set-top boxes).
5.2 Return Process
Verizon typically provides instructions on how to return equipment, often including a prepaid shipping label.
Return equipment within 30 days of deactivation to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
Keep proof of shipment (tracking number) for your records.
Step 6: Settle Your Final Bill
Even after deactivation, you will receive a final bill.
6.1 What to Expect on Your Final Bill
Prorated charges: You'll be charged for service up to your deactivation date.
Outstanding device payments: If you had a device payment agreement, any remaining balance will become due on your final bill.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): If applicable, these will appear on your final bill.
Any unreturned equipment charges: If you failed to return rented equipment.
6.2 How to Pay Your Final Bill
You can usually pay your final bill through the "Disconnected Accounts" section on the Verizon website or by mail.
Step 7: Post-Deactivation Checklist
A few final steps to ensure everything is settled.
7.1 Monitor Your Bank Statements
Keep an eye on your bank or credit card statements for a few billing cycles to ensure no further unexpected charges from Verizon appear.
7.2 Update Linked Accounts
If your old Verizon number was linked to any online accounts (banking, social media, two-factor authentication), make sure to update these to your new number or email address. This is critical for security and access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Deactivating Verizon Phone Service
Here are 10 common questions related to deactivating your Verizon service, with quick answers:
How to deactivate my Verizon phone without calling?
While you can initiate some actions online (like suspending service), a full mobile line deactivation typically requires a phone call to Verizon Customer Service for security and verification purposes.
How to find my Verizon account PIN?
You can usually find or reset your Verizon account PIN by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. There's often a "Forgot PIN" option or a security settings section.
How to avoid an Early Termination Fee (ETF) with Verizon?
The best way to avoid an ETF is to wait until your contract ends. If you must cancel early, consider porting your number to a new carrier (which can sometimes negate an ETF if you're just switching providers, but check your contract terms carefully) or selling your device (if you own it outright) to offset the fee. Military deployments often allow for fee waivers.
How to temporarily suspend my Verizon service instead of deactivating it?
You can temporarily suspend your Verizon service for reasons like a lost/stolen device, military deployment, or vacation through your My Verizon account online or by calling customer service. Suspension periods vary by reason (e.g., 30 days for lost/stolen, longer for military).
How to keep my phone number when deactivating Verizon service?
To keep your phone number, you must port it to a new carrier before deactivating your Verizon service. Initiate the porting process with your new carrier, and they will handle the transfer from Verizon.
How to check if I have a device payment plan remaining?
Log into your My Verizon account online or through the app. There should be a "My Devices" or "Device Payment" section that shows your outstanding balance.
How to return Verizon equipment after deactivation?
Verizon will usually provide instructions and a prepaid shipping label for returning leased equipment. It's crucial to return it within 30 days of deactivation to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
How to pay my final Verizon bill after deactivation?
You can typically pay your final bill online through Verizon's "Disconnected Accounts" page or by mail. Your final bill will include all remaining charges, including any ETFs or device balances.
How to get a confirmation of my Verizon service deactivation?
Always ask the Verizon representative for a cancellation ticket or confirmation number when you call to deactivate your service. This serves as your proof of cancellation.
How to reactivate a Verizon phone line I accidentally deactivated?
Contact Verizon Customer Service immediately. Depending on how recently the line was deactivated and whether the number has been reassigned, they may be able to reactivate it. However, there are no guarantees, especially if significant time has passed.
