How Do I Transfer My Verizon Wireless Account to Another Carrier?

Switching between phone carriers has never been easier. In this guide, you will learn how to keep and transfer all information to a new carrier that is on your Verizon Wireless devices, such as your contacts and phone number.

Step #1 Paying Off your Devices with Verizon Wireless

To be able to transfer your Verizon Wireless account to another carrier, you will need to pay off the devices that are currently under a plan with Verizon Wireless. If still under contract with Verizon Wireless, and want to cancel early, you will need to pay an early termination fee for the remaining months you have left on the contract. Do not cancel your contract before you have transferred the account to the new carrier.

Step #2 Unlocking your Phone

Once you have paid off all remaining debts and devices, you can start the process by 'unlocking' your phone making it capable of transferring. If you have a 4G-LTE device, your phone is automatically unlocked and can be transferred easily between carriers.

If you have a 3G device, you will need to contact the new carrier to see if your phone can be transferred. Some phones are locked to networks and cannot be unlocked by the new carrier on a separate network. Contacting the carrier before transferring is the difference between needing to buy a new phone or using a phone that was previously used on your Verizon Wireless account.

Step #3 Contacting your New Phone Service Provider

Once you have paid off your Verizon Wireless devices and unlocked your phone, you can start the transferring or 'porting' process. You will need to show the new carrier a recent telephone bill that confirms your identity.

Depending on the new carrier, you will need to pay a service or porting fee to transfer your information onto their service. Your phone with Verizon Wireless will still work making calls until you have activated your phone with the new carrier. The transferring process can take anywhere from 3-5 business days to transfer your phone number.

Step #4 Canceling your Verizon Wireless Account

Once you have successfully transferred your account from Verizon Wireless to a new carrier, you can contact Verizon Wireless to cancel your account. You will receive the final bill. You will also receive the early termination fee if you have canceled your contract early.