The Verizon Early Upgrade Program is a feature that allows eligible customers to upgrade to a new smartphone before completing all the payments on their current device. To qualify, you must have paid off at least 50% of your current device’s retail price under your Device Payment Agreement and return the old device to Verizon in good working condition.
This guide will explain the precise requirements for an early upgrade, detail the steps you need to take, and clarify the key differences between an early upgrade and a traditional trade-in. If you’re a power user or simply want the latest technology before your 36-month payment plan is complete, this program is your path to the newest device.
How the Verizon Early Upgrade Program Works
The Early Upgrade Program provides a structured way to get a new device after approximately 18 months of a standard 36-month Device Payment Agreement (DPA). Instead of having to pay off the remaining balance of your old phone in full, the program allows you to surrender the device in exchange for Verizon waiving the remaining payments.
The Two Core Early Upgrade Requirements
Eligibility for the Verizon Early Upgrade Program hinges on two specific, non-negotiable requirements for your current device:
- 50% of Device Paid Off: You must have paid at least 50% of the original retail price of your device under your current Device Payment Agreement. For a standard 36-month plan, this usually occurs after 18 monthly payments. You can, however, choose to make an extra lump-sum payment to reach the 50% threshold sooner.
- Return in Good Working Condition: The device you are turning in must be in good working condition. If it is not, the early upgrade will be rejected, and you will be responsible for the full remaining balance of your original DPA.
Defining “Good Working Condition”
Verizon has specific criteria for accepting a returned device under the Early Upgrade Program. The device must meet all of the following:
- Powers On and Off: The phone must turn on and fully power off.
- No Cracked Screen: The display cannot have any cracks or significant cosmetic damage.
- No Significant Damage: There should be no signs of water damage, excessive wear, or other major functional issues.
- Security Features Turned Off: All anti-theft and password-protected security features (e.g., Find My iPhone, Google’s Factory Reset Protection) must be disabled and removed.
Step-by-Step: How to Process an Early Upgrade
Once you are sure you meet the 50% payment threshold and your device is in excellent shape, follow these steps to secure your early device upgrade:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
The simplest way to check your status is through your online account or the My Verizon app.
- Log in to your My Verizon account on the website or app.
- Navigate to the Devices
- Select the line you wish to upgrade.
- Look for the “Upgrade Now” or “Check Upgrade Options” If you are eligible for the Early Upgrade Program, the option to turn in your device will appear.
Step 2: Select Your New Device
Once eligibility is confirmed:
- Select your new qualifying smartphone, which must be purchased on a new Device Payment Agreement.
- Complete the purchase process. You will be responsible for any sales tax on the full retail price of the new device and a standard upgrade fee.
Step 3: Prepare and Return Your Old Device
You typically have 30 days from the date of your new device purchase to return the old, eligible device.
- Backup Data: Use cloud services (iCloud, Google Drive) to back up all your photos, contacts, and personal data.
- Factory Reset: Perform a full factory data reset to wipe all personal information and remove all security locks (especially “Find My” features).
- Ship It: Use the shipping box and label provided by Verizon. The time of your original DPA ends once the device is received, inspected, and accepted.
Early Upgrade vs. Traditional Trade-In: Key Differences
It is essential to understand that the Early Upgrade Program is not a traditional trade-in and serves a different financial purpose.
| Feature | Verizon Early Upgrade Program | Traditional Trade-In |
| Purpose | To clear the remaining balance of your current DPA. | To provide a credit (usually on your bill) toward the purchase price of a new device. |
| Eligibility | Must have paid 50% of the device price; only for select devices (primarily certain iPhone models). | Device must be 100% paid off and owned by you. |
| Benefit | Verizon waives the remaining 50% of the debt. | You receive a cash value or bill credit for the device’s worth. |
| New Contract | Required—you must finance the new phone with a new DPA. | Not always required, but often tied to promotional financing. |
| Promotions | Early Upgrades usually do not qualify for the high-value promotional trade-in offers. | Often used to get the best promotional discounts (e.g., “$1000 off a new phone”). |
Key Takeaway: The Early Upgrade Program is best for users who prioritize getting a new phone as soon as possible without paying off their old one completely. If maximizing the financial return on your old phone is your goal, you should pay off your current DPA and then use your old device for a traditional trade-in promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Verizon Early Upgrade Program available for all phones?
No. The Verizon Early Upgrade Program has historically been limited to certain Apple iPhone models. While the most current flagships are generally included, it is not consistently available for all Android, Samsung, or Google phones. You must check your specific device’s eligibility on the My Verizon app or website.
What happens if my device is rejected after an early upgrade?
If your returned device does not pass the good working condition inspection (e.g., due to a cracked screen or major damage), Verizon will reject the early upgrade. In this scenario, you will be immediately responsible for the full remaining balance of your original Device Payment Agreement, which will be charged to your next bill.
Does the Early Upgrade Program give me credit toward my new phone?
No. The core function of the Early Upgrade Program is simply to relieve you of the remaining 50% of your old device’s debt by returning the phone. It does not provide any trade-in value or promotional credit toward the purchase of your new device, which you will finance on a brand new Device Payment Agreement.
Do I lose my promotional bill credits if I use an Early Upgrade?
Yes. If your current device is receiving monthly bill credits as part of a previous trade-in or new line promotion, those promotional credits will stop the moment you complete the Early Upgrade and send your device back. This is a crucial factor to consider when deciding if the early upgrade is financially worthwhile.
Conclusion
The Verizon Early Upgrade Program is a valuable option for customers who are eager to get the newest phone every year or year-and-a-half. By requiring you to pay only 50% of your device’s cost and return it in perfect condition, Verizon effectively waives the other half of your installment plan, allowing you to seamlessly begin a new Device Payment Agreement.
Before proceeding, always verify your eligibility in the My Verizon app, ensure your old device is flawless, and confirm that you are ready to forfeit any remaining promotional bill credits you may have been receiving on that line.
