Switching mobile carriers might seem like a daunting task, filled with questions about contracts, phone compatibility, and keeping your beloved phone number. But what if I told you that moving from AT&T to Verizon can actually be a surprisingly straightforward process?
Are you ready to discover just how easy it can be to make the leap and potentially unlock a whole new world of network coverage and plan options? Let's dive in!
Navigating the Switch: Your Step-by-Step Guide from AT&T to Verizon
Making the transition from AT&T to Verizon involves a few key steps, but with the right preparation, you'll find yourself enjoying Verizon's network in no time.
Step 1: Engage with Your Current Situation and Future Needs
Before you even think about contacting Verizon, take a moment to assess your current AT&T account. This initial self-assessment is crucial for a smooth transition.
Sub-heading: Understanding Your AT&T Contract
Contractual Obligations: Are you still under contract with AT&T? While traditional two-year contracts are less common now, many people are on device payment plans. Find out exactly how much you owe on your current phone(s). This is a critical piece of information as it will determine whether you need to pay off your device before switching, or if Verizon has an offer to help with that.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): While less prevalent, confirm if any ETFs apply to your service agreement. This information is typically found in your AT&T account details or by contacting their customer service.
Account Number and PIN: You'll need your AT&T account number and a Number Transfer PIN (sometimes called a Porting PIN or Security PIN). This PIN is different from your regular account login password. You'll usually generate this through the AT&T app, website, or by calling customer service. Do NOT skip this step! Without it, Verizon cannot transfer your number.
Current Plan Details: What kind of plan do you have with AT&T? How much data do you use? What features are important to you (e.g., hotspot, international calling, streaming perks)? This will help you choose the right Verizon plan for your needs.
Sub-heading: Evaluating Your Device
Device Compatibility: Do you want to keep your current phone? Verizon's network primarily uses CDMA and increasingly relies on LTE and 5G. While many modern AT&T phones are compatible, it's essential to check. Verizon usually has a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) checker on their website where you can input your phone's IMEI.
Device Unlocked Status: If you plan to bring your AT&T phone, it must be unlocked. AT&T typically unlocks devices after they've been paid off and meet certain eligibility criteria (e.g., not reported lost or stolen, no past-due balance). You'll need to submit an unlock request to AT&T. This can take a few days, so plan accordingly.
Step 2: Explore Verizon's Offerings and Make Your Choice
With your AT&T information in hand, it's time to look at what Verizon has to offer.
Sub-heading: Researching Verizon Plans
Unlimited Options: Verizon offers various unlimited plans. Compare their features, data allowances (including premium data and hotspot data), and included perks (e.g., streaming services, cloud storage). Consider your typical data usage and whether you need features like international calling or roaming.
Family Plans: If you're switching multiple lines, explore Verizon's family plan options. Often, the per-line cost decreases with more lines.
Promotions and Deals: Verizon frequently has promotions for new customers, especially those switching from other carriers. Look for deals like:
Bill credits for bringing your own device (BYOD).
Trade-in offers for new phones.
Verizon paying off your old carrier's device payment plan (often via a virtual prepaid card).
Always read the fine print for these offers, as they may require specific plans or have eligibility requirements.
Sub-heading: Choosing Your Device (or Bringing Your Own)
New Phone Purchase: If you're getting a new phone from Verizon, consider their financing options and any trade-in promotions they offer. This can significantly reduce the upfront cost.
BYOD Benefits: If your AT&T phone is compatible and unlocked, bringing your own device can be a great way to save money and avoid a new device payment plan. Verizon often provides monthly bill credits for BYOD customers.
Step 3: Initiate the Switch with Verizon
This is where the magic happens! You can start the process online, over the phone, or by visiting a Verizon store.
Sub-heading: Providing Necessary Information
Your AT&T Account Details: Have your AT&T account number and the Number Transfer PIN ready. This is crucial for transferring your existing phone number.
Personal Information: You'll need your personal details for setting up your new Verizon account (name, address, Social Security Number for a credit check).
Alternative Contact Number: Provide a different phone number where Verizon can reach you during the transfer process, as your AT&T number might be temporarily unavailable.
Sub-heading: Number Transfer (Porting) Process
Do NOT Cancel AT&T Service: This is a very important warning. If you cancel your AT&T service before the number transfer is complete, you risk losing your phone number permanently. Verizon will handle the cancellation of your AT&T line automatically once the number has successfully ported.
Activation: Once Verizon has your information, they will initiate the number transfer. This typically takes 4-24 business hours for mobile numbers. You'll receive a text message from Verizon when the transfer is complete. Landline transfers can take longer (2-10 business days).
SIM Card/eSIM: You'll need a Verizon SIM card or an eSIM. If you're getting a new phone, it will come with one. If you're bringing your own device, Verizon will provide a new SIM (physical or eSIM profile) as your old SIM is tied to AT&T.
Step 4: Post-Switch Management and Finalizing
Congratulations! Your number has ported, and you're now on the Verizon network. But there are a few more things to consider.
Sub-heading: Confirming Service and Voicemail
Test Your Phone: Make and receive calls, send texts, and test data to ensure everything is working correctly on the Verizon network.
Voicemail: Be aware that voicemails do not typically transfer between carriers. Listen to any important voicemails on your AT&T line before the switch is complete.
New Voicemail Setup: Set up your new Verizon voicemail.
Sub-heading: Your Final AT&T Bill
Expect a Final Bill: You will receive a final bill from AT&T. This bill will include any remaining device payment balances, prorated charges for the last period of service, and potentially any early termination fees (if applicable). Review this bill carefully.
Sub-heading: Backing Up and Wiping Your Old Phone (If Applicable)
Backup Data: If you got a new phone, ensure all your photos, contacts, apps, and other data have been successfully transferred from your old AT&T phone. Use cloud services (like Google Drive, iCloud) or direct phone transfer tools.
Factory Reset: If you plan to sell, trade in, or dispose of your old AT&T phone, perform a factory reset to wipe all your personal data.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to transfer my phone number from AT&T to Verizon?
To transfer your phone number, you'll need your AT&T account number and a Number Transfer PIN from AT&T. Provide these to Verizon when you sign up for new service, and they will handle the porting process. Do not cancel your AT&T service beforehand.
How to unlock my AT&T phone to use with Verizon?
To unlock your AT&T phone, it generally needs to be paid off and not associated with an active, delinquent, or fraudulent account. Submit an unlock request through AT&T's website or contact their customer service.
How to check if my AT&T phone is compatible with Verizon?
Verizon has a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) checker on their website where you can enter your phone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number to see if it's compatible with their network.
How to get my AT&T account number and Number Transfer PIN?
You can usually find your AT&T account number on your billing statement or by logging into your My AT&T online account. The Number Transfer PIN can be generated through the My AT&T app, online portal, or by calling AT&T customer service (often by dialing *PORT from your AT&T phone).
How to avoid early termination fees when switching to Verizon from AT&T?
Many carriers, including Verizon, offer promotions that will help pay off your current device payment plan or cover early termination fees from your old carrier, often in the form of a virtual prepaid card. Check for these specific offers when signing up.
How to transfer contacts and data from my old AT&T phone to a new Verizon phone?
You can transfer contacts and data using cloud services (like Google Contacts, iCloud), manufacturer-specific transfer tools, or by physically moving your SIM card (though a new SIM will be required for Verizon service). Backing up to a computer and restoring is also an option.
How to know if the number transfer from AT&T to Verizon is complete?
Verizon will typically send you a text message to the phone number being transferred once the porting process is complete. You can also try making and receiving calls on your new Verizon SIM/eSIM.
How to deal with my final AT&T bill after switching to Verizon?
You will receive a final bill from AT&T that includes any remaining device balances, prorated service charges, and potentially any applicable early termination fees. Pay this bill as usual to avoid any negative impact on your credit.
How to get the best deals when switching from AT&T to Verizon?
Research Verizon's current promotions for new customers, particularly those switching from other carriers. Look for BYOD credits, trade-in offers for new phones, and deals that cover early termination fees or device payoffs from your old carrier.
How to set up voicemail on my new Verizon phone?
After your number has successfully transferred, you will need to set up your voicemail on your new Verizon device. This usually involves calling your own number and following the prompts to create a new greeting and password.
