How To Upgrade Phone On Verizon

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Thinking about upgrading your phone on Verizon? Fantastic choice! Whether you're eyeing the latest flagship or just need a refresh, navigating the upgrade process can seem a bit daunting. But don't worry, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful upgrade. Let's get you that shiny new device!

Step 1: Check Your Upgrade Eligibility – Are You Ready for a New Device?

This is where your upgrade journey begins! Before you start Browse the latest phones, you need to know if you're even eligible for an upgrade. Verizon offers several ways to check your status.

Sub-heading: My Verizon App or Website (Recommended)

This is the easiest and most convenient method.

Log In: Open the My Verizon app on your current device or visit the My Verizon website (www.verizon.com) on your computer. If you haven't already, you'll need to log in to your account.
Navigate to Devices: Once logged in, look for a "Devices" or "My Devices" section.
Check Upgrade Status: Within the device section, you should see an option like "Upgrade Device" or "Upgrade Now" next to your current phone. Click or tap on this.
Review Eligibility: Verizon will then display your upgrade eligibility. This will tell you if your device is paid off, if you're eligible for an early upgrade, or if there's a remaining balance you need to address.

Factors that affect eligibility often include:

Device Payment Plan Status: Most Verizon accounts use device payment plans, where you pay for your phone in monthly installments. To qualify for a standard upgrade, you typically need to completely pay off your current device.
Early Upgrade Program: Verizon offers an early upgrade option once you've paid off 50% of your current device's cost. This is often specific to certain devices (like iPhones 12 and newer) and requires returning your old device in good condition.
Contract End Date: If you're on an older two-year contract, you'll generally need to complete the full term.
Account Standing: Your account must be in good standing, with no past-due balances.

Sub-heading: Contact Verizon Customer Service

If you prefer to speak with someone directly or have complex account questions, you can call Verizon customer service.

Phone Number: Dial *611 from your Verizon phone, or call 1-800-922-0204 from any phone.
Be Prepared: Have your account information ready, including your account number and PIN, to verify your identity.

Sub-heading: Visit a Verizon Store

For a personalized experience and in-person assistance, head to a Verizon corporate store.

Store Locator: Use the Verizon Store Locator on their website to find the nearest corporate store.
Bring ID: Remember to bring a valid photo ID.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Upgrade Options – What's the Best Path for You?

Once you know your eligibility, it's time to explore the various ways you can upgrade your phone. Verizon offers flexibility to suit different needs.

Sub-heading: Standard Upgrade (Device Paid Off)

If your current device is fully paid off, this is the most straightforward option.

Full Price Purchase: You can buy a new phone at its full retail price, either upfront or on a new device payment plan.
No Remaining Balance: Since your old phone is paid off, you don't have any outstanding payments to worry about. You can keep your old phone, sell it privately, or trade it in (which we'll discuss next!).

Sub-heading: Early Upgrade Program

This program is designed for those who want to upgrade before their current device payment plan is fully paid off.

50% Paid Off: To qualify, you typically need to have paid at least 50% of your current device's retail price.
Return Old Device: You must return your current device to Verizon in good working condition. If it's not in good condition or you don't return it, the remaining balance on your old device will be due.
New Device Payment Plan: You'll start a new device payment agreement for your new phone.
Important Note: Early upgrade eligibility can vary by device model (often limited to newer iPhones and sometimes select Samsung models) and promotional offers. Always check the specific terms and conditions.

Sub-heading: Trade-In Program

Verizon's trade-in program is an excellent way to offset the cost of a new phone.

Credit Towards New Phone: You can receive credit for your old device, which can be applied instantly towards your new device purchase or as monthly bill credits.
Value Determination: The trade-in value depends on your device's make, model, age, and condition. Newer flagship phones in excellent condition will yield the highest values.
Promotional Trade-Ins: Keep an eye out for special promotions where Verizon offers higher trade-in values for specific new devices, often requiring a trade-in of a qualifying old device. These often involve receiving the promotional value as bill credits over the course of your new device payment plan.
How it Works: You'll typically get an estimated trade-in value online or in-store. Once Verizon receives and verifies your old device's condition, the final credit will be applied.

Step 3: Assess Trade-In Value – Get the Most for Your Old Phone

If you're planning to trade in your old device, maximizing its value is key!

Online Tool: Verizon has a trade-in portal on their website. You'll input your device's make, model, and answer questions about its condition (e.g., screen intact, powers on, no water damage). This will give you an estimated trade-in value.
Be Honest About Condition: Accuracy is crucial. If you overstate the condition, Verizon may re-appraise it for a lower value once they receive it, or even return it to you.
Prepare Your Device:
- Back Up Data: This is paramount! Back up all your photos, contacts, apps, and other data to cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud) or your computer.
- Factory Reset: Perform a factory reset to wipe all personal data from your device. This protects your privacy.
- Disable Security Features: Turn off "Find My iPhone" (for Apple devices) or "Find My Device" (for Android) and remove any screen locks, passwords, or biometrics.
- Clean It Up: Give your phone a good clean. A clean device can sometimes make a better impression.
- Remove SIM Card: Take out your old SIM card. You'll likely need a new one for your new phone, or your new phone might come with one.

Step 4: Select Your New Device and Payment Method

This is the exciting part – choosing your next phone!

Sub-heading: Browse Devices

Online: Verizon's website has an extensive catalog of smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices. You can filter by brand, operating system, features, and price.
In-Store: Visit a Verizon store to get hands-on with different models and speak with a sales representative.
Consider Your Needs: Think about what you use your phone for. Do you need a powerful camera, long battery life, a large screen, or specific operating system features?

Sub-heading: Choose Your Payment Method

Verizon offers a few ways to pay for your new device.

Device Payment Plan (Recommended): This is the most common option. The retail price of the phone is divided into monthly installments over a set period (often 36 months) with 0% APR. This makes high-end phones more affordable on a monthly basis.
Full Retail Price: You can pay the entire cost of the phone upfront. This means you own the phone outright and are not tied to a device payment agreement.
Promotional Offers: Look out for deals! Verizon frequently offers discounts, bill credits, or even "free" phones with qualifying trade-ins and new line activations, often tied to specific unlimited plans. Read the fine print carefully, as these usually require a new device payment plan and bill credits over the full term.

Step 5: Complete Your Purchase – Online or In-Store

Whether you're an online shopper or prefer the in-person experience, Verizon makes it easy.

Sub-heading: Online Purchase

Add to Cart: Once you've selected your new phone and chosen your payment method (device payment plan or full retail), add it to your shopping cart.
Review Cart: Double-check your order, including the phone model, color, storage, and chosen payment plan.
Trade-In Confirmation (if applicable): If you're trading in a device, confirm the trade-in details and shipping instructions. Verizon will often provide a pre-paid shipping label.
Device Protection: You'll be offered device protection plans (e.g., Verizon Protect). Consider if this is right for you, especially for expensive devices.
Accessories: This is also a good time to add any accessories like cases, screen protectors, or chargers.
Shipping Address and Payment: Enter your shipping address and payment information for any upfront costs (taxes, activation fees, or down payments).
Review and Place Order: Carefully review the final order summary, including monthly charges, one-time fees, and terms and conditions. Once you're satisfied, place your order. You'll receive an order confirmation email.

Sub-heading: In-Store Purchase

Visit a Corporate Store: Head to a Verizon corporate store (not an authorized retailer for trade-ins, generally).
Sales Representative Assistance: A sales representative will guide you through the process, help you select a phone, and discuss payment options.
Trade-In (if applicable): You can often complete your trade-in directly in the store, making the process quick and convenient.
Sign Agreements: You'll sign the necessary device payment agreements and service contracts.
Walk Out with New Phone: In most cases, you can walk out of the store with your new activated phone.

Step 6: Prepare for Device Transfer and Activation

Once your new phone arrives (or you pick it up in-store), it's time for the swap!

Sub-heading: Data Transfer

Cloud Backup: If you backed up your old phone to a cloud service (iCloud, Google Drive), restoring your data to your new phone is often seamless during the initial setup.
Verizon Content Transfer App: Verizon often has its own content transfer app that can help you move data between devices.
Manual Transfer: For some data, you might need to manually transfer it (e.g., specific files via a computer).

Sub-heading: SIM Card

New SIM: Your new phone will likely come with a new SIM card.
eSIM: Many newer phones use eSIM technology, meaning the SIM is embedded and doesn't require a physical card. Verizon will provision this digitally.
Activation: Follow the instructions provided with your new phone or by the Verizon representative for activation. This usually involves powering on the new device and following on-screen prompts.

Sub-heading: Returning Your Old Device (if trading in or early upgrading)

Packaging: If you're mailing in your trade-in, use the packaging provided by Verizon, or package it securely to prevent damage during transit.
Shipping Label: Attach the pre-paid shipping label provided by Verizon.
Ship It: Drop off the package at a designated shipping location (e.g., UPS, USPS, depending on the label). Keep your tracking number!
Timeline: Pay attention to the deadline for returning your old device (usually within 14-30 days of receiving your new phone). Missing this deadline can result in charges for your old device.
Confirmation: You'll receive a confirmation from Verizon once they receive and appraise your trade-in.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Phone!

Congratulations! You've successfully upgraded your phone on Verizon. Take some time to explore your new device, set up your apps, and personalize it to your liking.