Experiencing a Verizon outage can be incredibly frustrating, whether it's your mobile service, Fios internet, or home phone. You rely on these services for work, communication, and entertainment, and when they're down, it feels like the world stops. But don't worry, you're not alone, and there are clear steps you can take to report the issue and get back online (or connected!) as quickly as possible.
Let's dive in and get you back up and running!
How to Report a Verizon Outage: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Are You Really Experiencing an Outage, or Is It Just You? Let's Find Out Together!
Before you hit that panic button, it's crucial to determine if the problem is localized to your devices or if there's a broader Verizon network issue. This initial check can save you a lot of time and frustration!
Sub-heading 1.1: Quick Self-Diagnosis for Mobile Devices
Check your signal strength: Look at the signal bars on your phone. Are they completely gone, or showing "SOS only," "No Service," or very few bars?
Restart your device: This is the classic, yet often effective, first step. Turn your phone completely off, wait about 30 seconds, and then turn it back on. This can sometimes refresh your connection to the network.
Toggle Airplane Mode: Switch your phone to Airplane Mode for a few seconds, then switch it back off. This forces your phone to re-scan for available networks.
Try Wi-Fi Calling (if available): If your home internet is working, enable Wi-Fi calling in your phone's settings. This allows you to make and receive calls and texts over your Wi-Fi network, bypassing the cellular network.
Test in a different location: If possible, move to a different part of your home or even step outside. Sometimes, localized interference can affect your signal.
Check for carrier setting updates (iPhone): Go to Settings > General > About. If an update is available, a prompt will appear. Tap "Update."
Sub-heading 1.2: Quick Self-Diagnosis for Fios Internet/TV/Home Phone
Check your router lights: Look at your Verizon router. Are all the lights on, or are some blinking, or completely off? Typically, you want a solid power light, a solid internet light, and if you have TV or phone, solid lights for those too. Refer to your router's manual for specific light meanings.
Reboot your router and ONT (Optical Network Terminal):
Unplug the power cord from your Verizon router.
Locate your ONT. This is the box where the fiber optic cable enters your home, usually on a wall in a closet or basement. Unplug the power cord from the ONT as well.
Wait at least 60 seconds. This ensures a complete power cycle.
Plug the ONT back in first. Wait for all the lights on the ONT to stabilize (this might take a few minutes).
Plug your router back in. Again, wait for the lights to stabilize before testing your services.
Check cable connections: Ensure all cables (Ethernet, coaxial) are securely plugged into your router and devices.
Test with another device: Try connecting another device (laptop, tablet) to your Wi-Fi or directly to the router via Ethernet. If that device works, the issue might be with your original device.
Step 2: Confirming a Wider Outage – The Official and Unofficial Channels
Once you've ruled out individual device issues, it's time to see if Verizon acknowledges a broader outage in your area.
Sub-heading 2.1: Utilizing Verizon's Official Outage Tools
Verizon Service Outage Information Page: This is your primary official resource. Visit
verizon.com/support/residential/service-outage My Verizon App: If you have the My Verizon app installed on your smartphone (and you have some data or Wi-Fi access), this is a quick way to check for reported outages. The app often provides personalized outage information based on your account and location.
Verizon's Check Network Status Tool: You can visit
verizon.com/support/check-network-status/
Sub-heading 2.2: Consulting Third-Party Outage Trackers
While Verizon's official channels are best, sometimes third-party sites can give you a quicker heads-up, especially for widespread mobile outages.
DownDetector: Go to
downdetector.com/status/verizon/ Outage.Report: Similar to DownDetector, outage.report/verizon is another good resource to check for user-submitted outage information.
Sub-heading 2.3: Social Media – A Real-Time Pulse
X (formerly Twitter): Follow @VerizonSupport and @VerizonNews. During significant outages, Verizon often posts updates on these accounts. You can also search for hashtags like #VerizonOutage to see what other users are reporting. Be cautious of unofficial accounts or scams.
Facebook Messenger: You can search for "Verizon" through your Facebook Messenger app and send them a message. They often have customer service representatives monitoring these channels.
Step 3: Reporting the Outage to Verizon – Making Your Voice Heard
If you've confirmed an outage and Verizon hasn't yet acknowledged it in your area, or if you want more specific information, it's time to report it directly.
Sub-heading 3.1: Online Reporting (Preferred Method if Available)
Through My Verizon Account: As mentioned in Step 2, signing into your My Verizon account (via the website or app) is often the most efficient way to report. If the outage isn't yet recognized, the system will guide you through reporting it and potentially creating a service ticket.
Verizon Troubleshooter: For Fios services, Verizon has a dedicated troubleshooter at
verizon.com/foryourhome/vzrepair/flowengine/default.aspx?Flow=Customer
Sub-heading 3.2: Contacting Verizon Customer Service by Phone
If online methods aren't working or you prefer to speak to someone, calling is your next best option.
General Verizon Support (Residential): Dial 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). When prompted, select the "Technical Assistance" option.
Verizon Wireless Customer Service: Call 1-800-922-0204.
Verizon Fios Sales & Service: Call 1-800-837-4966.
Prepaid Customer Service: Dial 1-888-294-6804.
Remember: Be prepared for potentially longer wait times during widespread outages. Have your account information (account number, phone number associated with the service) ready.
Sub-heading 3.3: Other Contact Methods
Live Chat: On the Verizon support website (
verizon.com/support/contact-us/ Verizon Community Forum: While not for direct reporting, the Verizon Community Forum (community.verizon.com) can be a place to see if others in your area are experiencing similar issues, and sometimes, Verizon representatives monitor these forums.
Step 4: What Happens After You Report – Tracking and Staying Informed
Once you've reported the outage, it's natural to want updates.
Sub-heading 4.1: Tracking Your Repair Request
Check Status Online: Visit
verizon.com/CheckStatus My Verizon App Notifications: If you've opted into service alerts within your Communication Preferences in My Verizon, you'll receive updates via email or text message. Make sure your preferences are set to receive these important alerts.
Sub-heading 4.2: What to Do While You Wait
Be Patient: Major outages can take time to resolve, especially if they are due to severe weather or infrastructure damage.
Utilize Wi-Fi (if available): If your mobile service is down but you have Wi-Fi, use it for internet access, calling (via Wi-Fi calling), and messaging.
Consider a Hotspot (if applicable): If you have another device with mobile data, you might be able to create a personal hotspot to get other devices online.
Plan for Alternatives: If the outage is prolonged, think about what essential tasks you need to complete and how you can do them without your usual Verizon service. This might involve going to a coffee shop with Wi-Fi, using a friend's phone, or relying on offline activities.
Remember, reporting an outage helps Verizon pinpoint problem areas and allocate resources effectively. By following these steps, you're not just helping yourself, but potentially others in your community as well!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Verizon outage status in my area?
You can check Verizon outage status in your area by signing into your My Verizon account online or via the My Verizon app, visiting
How to report a downed Verizon line?
For your safety, do not touch or move a downed line. You can report a downed telephone line or pole by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) or by using the chat feature on Verizon's Contact Us page.
How to get text message alerts for Verizon outages?
You can opt into receiving account and service-related messages, including outage alerts, by signing into your My Verizon account and managing your Communication Preferences.
How to refresh my Verizon cell signal?
You can refresh your Verizon cell signal by restarting your phone, toggling Airplane Mode on and off, or by checking for and installing any available carrier settings updates in your phone's settings.
How to troubleshoot Verizon Fios internet issues?
First, reboot your Fios router and ONT (Optical Network Terminal) by unplugging them for 60 seconds. Check all cable connections. If the issue persists, use the Verizon Troubleshooter tool online or the My Verizon app for guided solutions.
How to contact Verizon customer service directly for an outage?
You can contact Verizon customer service directly for an outage by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) for residential services or 1-800-922-0204 for wireless services. Live chat is also available on their support website.
How to use Wi-Fi Calling during a Verizon mobile outage?
To use Wi-Fi Calling, ensure you have a working Wi-Fi connection. Then, go into your phone's settings (usually under "Cellular" or "Connections") and enable "Wi-Fi Calling."
How to find my Verizon Fios Wi-Fi password?
You can usually find your home wireless network name (SSID) and password (WPA2) on a label on your Verizon Fios router. You can also find your password online in My Verizon or in the My Fios app.
How to know if my Verizon phone is in SOS mode due to an outage?
If your Verizon phone shows "SOS only" or "No Service" instead of signal bars, it indicates your phone is having trouble connecting to the cellular network, which could be due to a local or widespread outage.
How to get a bill credit for a Verizon outage?
While Verizon typically doesn't offer automatic bill credits for short outages, if you've experienced a prolonged or significant service disruption, you can contact Verizon customer support to inquire about potential bill credits or adjustments based on their policy.
