Getting the latest smartphone technology is always exciting. If you’re a Verizon customer ready for a change, understanding the verizon upgrade phone process can help you navigate the options smoothly, from checking eligibility to activating your new device.
Checking Your Verizon Upgrade Eligibility
Before you start shopping, the first step is to see if your current line is eligible for an upgrade, especially if you plan on financing your new phone through Verizon.
verizon upgrade phone
When Can You Upgrade?
- Device Paid Off: If you originally purchased your current phone at full retail price, or if you’ve completed all the payments on your Verizon Device Payment Agreement (typically 36 months), you are generally free to upgrade at any time.
- Active Device Payment Agreement: If you are still making monthly payments on your current phone, you usually need to pay off the remaining balance before upgrading. However, there might be early upgrade options.
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What About Early Upgrades?
Verizon often has an early upgrade program for eligible smartphones financed on a Device Payment Agreement:
- Eligibility: You generally need to have paid off at least 50% of the device’s retail price.
- Return Required: You must return your current phone in good working condition (powers on, no cracked screen, no significant damage, security features like Find My iPhone turned off).
- Benefit: If you meet the criteria and return the phone, Verizon typically waives the remaining payments on your old device agreement when you start a new 36-month Device Payment Agreement for your new phone.
- Important Distinction: This early upgrade return is not the same as trading in a phone you own for credit. Its primary benefit is ending your old payment agreement early.
How to Check Your Status
The easiest way to see your specific upgrade eligibility date and options is by logging into your account:
- My Verizon App or Website: Navigate to the “Device Overview” or “My Devices” section. Lines eligible for an upgrade will often display an “Upgrade now” link or status. You can also find details about your remaining device payment balance and potential early upgrade payoff amount.
The verizon upgrade phone Process: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, here’s a general overview of the upgrade process:
- Choose Your New Phone: Browse Verizon’s selection online, in the My Verizon app, or visit a store.
- Select Payment Option: Decide if you want to pay the full retail price upfront or finance the phone with a new Device Payment Agreement (usually 36 months).
- Handle Your Old Phone:
- If Paid Off: You can keep it, sell it yourself, or trade it in to Verizon for potential credit towards your bill or new device purchase (see below).
- If Early Upgrade: Follow the instructions for returning your old device in good condition to waive the remaining balance.
- Choose or Confirm Your Plan: Review your current plan. Keep in mind that the best promotional offers often require you to be on specific, newer Unlimited plans (like Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate). You can usually change your plan during the upgrade process if needed.
- Checkout: Add accessories or device protection if desired. Review your order, including any upfront costs (like sales tax or down payment), agree to the terms (including the Device Payment Agreement if applicable), and complete the purchase.
- Activate: Once you receive your new phone, follow the activation instructions (this usually involves inserting the SIM card or activating the eSIM and following on-screen setup prompts).
Understanding Payment Options
Device Payment Agreements
This is Verizon’s installment plan. The full retail price of the phone is divided into equal monthly payments, typically spread over 36 months at 0% APR. These payments appear on your monthly Verizon bill. You can pay off the remaining balance at any time, but doing so may impact any promotional bill credits you are receiving.
Paying Full Price
You always have the option to purchase the phone outright at its full retail price, avoiding a monthly device payment.
Leveraging Your Old Phone
You have different options depending on whether you own your old phone or are using an early upgrade path.
Trading In Your Paid-Off Device
If you fully own your old phone (it’s paid off), you can trade it in with Verizon.
- Process: You’ll provide details about the phone’s model and condition online or in-store to get a trade-in value estimate.
- Credit: The value can be applied as promo credits spread over 36 months (often required for the best deals), an instant credit during purchase (less common for top promos), an account credit applied to your bill later, or sometimes a Verizon gift card.
- Condition: The phone’s condition (powers on, screen intact, no battery damage, etc.) significantly impacts its value.
Returning for an Early Upgrade
As mentioned earlier, if you meet the 50% paid criteria for an eligible early upgrade, you return the device in good condition specifically to fulfill that program’s requirement and have your remaining payments waived. You do not receive additional monetary trade-in value in this scenario.
Plan Requirements for the Best Deals
It’s crucial to note that Verizon frequently ties its most attractive verizon upgrade phone promotions – such as “phone on us” offers or the highest trade-in values – to specific wireless plans. Often, you’ll need to be on one of their premium tiers, like Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate, to qualify for these top-tier deals. If you’re on an older plan or the basic Unlimited Welcome plan, the available upgrade offers might be less valuable. Always check the fine print of any promotion regarding plan requirements.
Fees and Final Steps
- Upgrade Fee: Verizon typically charges a one-time upgrade fee (around $35) when you activate a new device on an existing line.
- Sales Tax: Be prepared to pay sales tax on the full retail price of the new phone upfront, even if you are using the Device Payment plan.
- Activation & Data Transfer: After receiving your new phone, you’ll need to activate it (which finalizes the verizon upgrade phone process for your line) and then transfer your contacts, photos, and apps from your old device.
Making Your verizon upgrade phone Smoothly
Upgrading your phone with Verizon is usually straightforward. By checking your eligibility, understanding the device payment and trade-in/return options, and paying attention to plan requirements for the best deals, you can confidently move to your next device while keeping your number and service active.
