How Do I Upgrade My AT&T Wireless Phone?

Introduction

Many AT&T customers choose to upgrade their phones when they gain the eligibility to trade their current devices in for newer models. However, they must first check their account statuses to determine if they qualify. While an AT&T wireless phone upgrade is usually a quick, easy process, not all customers are approved if their accounts are one or two years old. Also, an outstanding balance can be the main factor in a rejection and must be paid off before an upgrade. Account age is also relevant during the brief but careful decision-making process, which usually includes new customers.

What You'll Need

AT&T enforces specific requirements they expect customers to follow to keep their accounts in good standing. All customers must pay 50%-100% of their balance (whether they have a monthly installment plan or a regular payment package and auto-pay enabled), despite the amount. AT&T reserves the right to reject requests from customers who have to pay an outstanding debt or close their accounts due to inactivity or violations. One other factor is that you must wait at least 90 days to become eligible if you have a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Otherwise, you would have to pay the full market price for a new or pre-owned device according to AT&T’s guidelines. If you’re considering upgrading your phone, but you don’t know how to start, follow several steps below to determine your eligibility.

Visit the AT&T wireless website and sign in to your customer account.

Hover your mouse pointer over the ‘Support’ link and click the ‘Wireless’ link in the drop-down menu.

Choose the ‘Check Upgrade Eligibility’ link and log in to your account again for verification purposes.

Scroll down and select the ‘Upgrade’ link located on the right side of the page.

You should see various eligible devices on the next page. Read the specifications and select the phone of your choice, depending on your needs or preferences.

Ensure all the details on the ‘Checkout’ page are correct and submit your order.

Consider implementing a few additional steps after you finalize the upgrade transaction. First, back up any videos and images, and restart your device. Second, ensure you enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and any other security measures to block hackers or thieves from accessing your information, especially if you lose your phone accidentally. Third, keep your passwords and payment methods hidden on your phone and create a passcode or enable Face or Touch ID. And fourth, ensure your balance remains up-to-date and document your monthly installment payments. You may also want to turn your old device off to avoid any routing conflicts with your new phone after a factory reset and a SIM card removal.

Conclusion

AT&T customers can get assistance if they encounter technical issues while upgrading their devices or find themselves locked out of their accounts. If you need to reach out to a customer service representative, consider contacting the department via phone to speak with a live human who can connect you to a technician. Another method is the online help desk, where you can submit inquiries and requests using the electronic submission form. You can also communicate with a specialist via live chat using the chatbot. AT&T also has an official Facebook business page available for DM and post submissions.