How to Switch Phones on Verizon

With Verizon, you can easily swap your phone number with other devices on your account. There are a variety of reasons you may want to do this. If you’ve got a new phone, want to swap numbers with a business line, or for any reason, you can do so in just a few simple steps. 

How to Switch Phones on Verizon Online

Switch Phones on Verizon

This is the easiest way to switch phones on Verizon. First, visit the Swap Numbers page on your Verizon account. You must be the account manager or owner to be able to switch phones on Verizon. From here, follow these steps: 

  1. Choose the two devices you want to switch. Then click next. Do note some devices may not be compatible with swapping. 
  2. If necessary, you may need to update your plan. Update then select Confirm. 
  3. Follow instructions to back up contacts and media. You can choose between: 
    • Your computer via iTunes or other software
    • Verizon Cloud
  4. Select Complete Activation 
  5. Turn of both devices 
  6. Select Swap Devices 
  7. Yes, to confirm devices are off and ready to swap
  8. Follow directions to Reset Phone #1 and activate 
  9. Continue the process for Phone #2 
  10. Send the confirmation code to your phone. Choose one device and hit “Text me the Code.” This step is necessary for security reasons, and you won’t be able to finish the activation process without it. 
  11.  Finish setting up and activation process. 

Once the process is completed, you’ll receive a free text message that your transfer is complete. 

How to Contact Verizon Technical Support

If you have any problems with your switch or activation process, you can contact Verizon customer support at Verizon customer support 1-888-294-6804 or dial *611 on your cell phone.

Does It Cost Anything to Swap Devices?

No, there is no charge for switching devices on your account. 

What About New Devices?

Like other carriers, Verizon has a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. If your phone is unlocked, it should be compatible with Verizon’s network. 

Verizon does use a different network (CDMA) than T-Mobile and AT&T, so older devices from these networks may not work with Verizon. If you’re having any issue, be sure to contact Verizon technical support. 

What Should I Do if I Want to Switch a New Phone to Verizon?

This is also very easy. If you want to replace your current device with a new (or used) device, make sure it is compatible with the Verizon network. If you’re going to switch your old device out and keep your number, you’ll need to follow these steps: 

Can I Switch Phones That Were Used on a Different Account?

Old Verizon phones

Yes, as long as the device you want to switch is no longer active on the account, you can swap it. You can also switch between postpaid and prepaid accounts and other Verizon services.

However, if there was a balance remaining on the device or it was associated with fraudulent activity, you won’t be able to switch to it. 

How Do I Switch My Old Number From Another Carrier?

This is called porting your number. Verizon doesn’t charge any fee when you do this. But you may have to pay an Early Termination Fee from your previous carrier and other charges. Likewise, if you’re paying your device off by installments, you’ll have to complete the payments before you can port your number. 

If you port a wireless number, it will typically process in 4-24 business hours. Landlines take a little bit longer, usually between 2-10 business days. 

Most phone numbers can be ported, though there may be limits based on your service area, the device, and line ownership. You can check online to see if your number is eligible. 

Both devices purchased online or instore can be ported; you’ll just need to make sure:

  • The device is unlocked from your previous service provider. Verizon cannot unlock another carrier’s device (i.e., AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint). 
  • It has a Verizon SIM or eSIM 
  • Make sure your previous service is still active. Once successfully ported, your old account will automatically disconnect. 
  • You provide this information. Be sure there are no errors when providing this as it can delay the transfer process: 
  • The current number you want to switch to Verizon 
  • Account number of the previous carrier as seen on your bill. If doing this in person, bring a copy of your most recent bill with you to the Verizon store. 
  • A Password/Pin. You may have to add this to the account. Note this isn’t the same as your site password.
  • A phone number where you can be reached during the porting process. It has to be a separate number like a friend’s or relative. 

The Bottom Line: How to Switch Phones on Verizon

How to Switch Phones on Verizon

Switching phones on Verizon is incredibly easy. As long as you are the account manager, you can do everything from your My Verizon dashboard. Verizon has the highest rated customer service among all wireless carriers. Whether your swapping phones, numbers, or porting existing numbers to a new line, the Verizon customer support team can help you over the internet or in-store. 

Visit the Buyback Boss Blog to learn more phone tips, tricks, and a whole lot more. If you’re considering making the switch to Verizon or want to take your business elsewhere, then you should check out carrier comparison. 

Get started here with this breakdown of the differences between Consumer Cellular and Verizon. You can also find out about Verizon’s 5G network and when it will be available near you. For everything, you need to know about cellular providers, smartphones, and technology, head on over to our blog now! 

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