Apple releases new iPhones, and the desire to upgrade is strong. If you’re a Verizon Wireless customer in the United States, upgrading your current iPhone to a newer model is a common process, but it helps to know your options, eligibility, and what steps are involved. This guide walks you through completing your next verizon iphone upgrade.
Checking Your Upgrade Eligibility
Before you start shopping, the first step is to see if your line is eligible for an upgrade, especially if you plan to finance your new iPhone through Verizon’s device payment program.
- Standard Eligibility: Typically, a line becomes eligible for an upgrade once the device payment agreement on the current phone is fully paid off. Most Verizon device payment agreements last for 36 months.
- Early Upgrade Options: Verizon sometimes offers early upgrade paths. One common option requires you to have paid off at least 50% of your current device’s retail price, and you must return that device to Verizon in good working condition. Specific promotions or plans might also offer early upgrade benefits.
- Ultimate Phone Upgrade: If you subscribe to Verizon’s top-tier Unlimited Ultimate plan, you are guaranteed access to their best iPhone deals (including trade-in offers) when you are ready to upgrade (eligible every 36 months or once your current phone is paid off).
- How to Check:
- My Verizon App/Website: Log in to your My Verizon account. Navigate to the “Device Overview” or similar section. Eligible lines will often display an “Upgrade now” link or show the date when the line becomes upgrade eligible.
- Dial Code: From your Verizon phone, dial #UPG (#874) and press Send/Call. You should receive a text message regarding your upgrade status.
verizon iphone upgrade
The Verizon iPhone Upgrade Process
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility and are ready to upgrade:
- Choose Your New iPhone: Select the model (e.g., iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro), color, and storage capacity you want.
- Select Purchase Option:
- Full Retail Price: You can buy the iPhone outright at its full price.
- Device Payment: Most customers opt for a new 36-month device payment agreement. The retail price is divided into 36 interest-free monthly payments added to your bill (0% APR).
- Consider a Trade-In: Trading in your old iPhone can significantly reduce the cost of your upgrade.
- Get Quote: Use Verizon’s online trade-in tool or visit a store to get an estimated value based on your old iPhone’s model and condition.
- Apply Value: The trade-in value might be applied as an instant credit towards your purchase (less common) or, more typically for promotional deals, as recurring monthly bill credits spread over the 36-month device payment term. These promotional credits offset the monthly cost of the new iPhone.
- Return Old Device: You’ll need to send your old iPhone back to Verizon (using provided shipping materials) or return it in-store within a specific timeframe (usually 15-30 days) after receiving your new one. Ensure you back up and wipe your old phone first!
- Place Your Order: You can complete your verizon iphone upgrade online through the My Verizon app or website, by visiting a Verizon retail store, or through authorized retailers.
- Activate Your New iPhone:
- Data Transfer: Use Apple’s Quick Start (device-to-device transfer), iCloud backup, or iTunes/Finder backup to move your data. Verizon also offers a Content Transfer app.
- SIM Activation: Newer iPhones (14 and later) use eSIM exclusively. Activation often happens automatically during the iPhone’s setup process, potentially transferring your service from your old phone’s SIM/eSIM wirelessly. Older iPhones might use a physical SIM card (which you may need to swap) or activate an eSIM, sometimes requiring a QR code provided by Verizon during the order process. Follow the on-screen prompts on your new iPhone.
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Upgrade Deals and Promotions
Verizon frequently offers deals specifically for upgrades, although sometimes the best offers are reserved for adding new lines.
- Common Offers: Look for discounts that require trading in an eligible device and being on (or switching to) a specific Unlimited plan (usually Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate for the highest trade-in values).
- Bill Credits: Promotional savings are almost always applied as monthly credits over the 36-month device payment term. If you pay off the phone early or change to an ineligible plan, you typically forfeit the remaining credits.
- Check Current Deals: Always check Verizon’s website or consult with a representative for the latest verizon iphone upgrade promotions available to existing customers.
Keeping Your Number and Plan
- Phone Number: Upgrading your device allows you to keep your existing Verizon phone number.
- Phone Plan: You can usually keep your current plan when upgrading. However, many promotional upgrade offers require you to be on one of Verizon’s newer, eligible Unlimited plans (like Unlimited Plus or Ultimate) to qualify for the deal. You’ll be prompted to change plans during the upgrade process if necessary for the promotion you select.
Important Reminders
- Backup: Always perform a full backup of your old iPhone before starting the transfer and wiping it.
- Fees: Expect a one-time upgrade or activation fee (typically $35) on your next bill.
- Agreement: If using device payments, review the terms of your new 36-month agreement.
