Excited about the latest smartphone releases with cutting-edge cameras, faster processors, and new features? For existing Verizon Wireless customers, getting that new device onto your current line involves completing a verizon phone upgrade. Understanding the process, your eligibility, and the options available can help make acquiring your next phone smooth and potentially more affordable.
This guide covers the key aspects of performing a verizon phone upgrade, from checking eligibility to understanding payment plans and trade-ins.
Eligibility for a Verizon Phone Upgrade
Before you start shopping, you need to know if your line is eligible for a verizon phone upgrade. Several factors determine this:
- Device Payment Plan Status: This is the most common factor today. If you’re currently making monthly payments on your existing phone through a Verizon Device Payment Agreement (typically 36 months):
- You usually become eligible for an upgrade once the device is fully paid off.
- You can often upgrade earlier by paying off the remaining balance on your current device payment agreement.
- Occasionally, specific promotions or older early upgrade programs might allow an upgrade after paying a certain percentage (like 50%), but paying off the device is the standard requirement now.
- Owning Your Phone: If you originally paid full price for your phone, brought your own compatible device (BYOD) to Verizon, or have already completed your device payment agreement, your line is generally eligible for a verizon phone upgrade at any time.
- Account Standing: Your Verizon account must be active and in good standing (payments are current) to process an upgrade.
Read more about: verizon paystub
How to Check Your Verizon Phone Upgrade Eligibility
Finding out if you’re ready for that new phone is easy:
- My Verizon App or Website (Recommended):
- Log in to your My Verizon account online or through the app.
- Go to the “Account,” “Devices,” or “Shop” section.
- Select the line you want to upgrade.
- Verizon will clearly display the upgrade status for that line, often stating “Eligible for Upgrade” or showing how much is left on your current device payment plan. You may also see personalized verizon phone upgrade offers.
- Visit a Verizon Store: Stop by a corporate store or authorized retailer, and a sales associate can check your eligibility.
- Call Customer Service: Dial *611 from your Verizon phone or call the main customer service line to have a representative verify your upgrade status.
The Verizon Phone Upgrade Process
Once you’re eligible and ready:
- Choose Your New Smartphone: Explore the wide selection of iPhones, Samsung Galaxy devices, Google Pixels, and other smartphones offered by Verizon.
- Select a Payment Option:
- Device Payment Plan: The most common way to finance your verizon phone upgrade. You agree to pay the phone’s retail price through monthly installments added to your bill, usually over 36 months at 0% APR (subject to credit approval).
- Pay Full Retail Price: You can opt to purchase the phone outright at the time of the upgrade, avoiding monthly device payments.
- Utilize Trade-In Offers:
- Lower Your Cost: Trading in your current smartphone (or sometimes an older one you have) can significantly reduce the net cost of your verizon phone upgrade.
- Bill Credits: Verizon typically applies the trade-in value as monthly credits against your new device payment plan installments, spread over the full term (e.g., 36 months). This lowers the effective monthly charge for the new phone.
- Eligibility & Condition: The trade-in value depends heavily on the model, condition (must power on, screen intact, no major damage, activation locks removed), and current promotions. Check Verizon’s trade-in tool for an estimate.
Where to Complete Your Verizon Phone Upgrade
You have several options for processing your upgrade:
- Online: Through the official Verizon website (verizon.com).
- My Verizon App: Conveniently upgrade directly within the app.
- In-Store: Visit a Verizon store or authorized retailer for hands-on help and immediate pickup (if in stock).
- Over the Phone: Contact Verizon sales or customer service.
Important Considerations for Your Verizon Phone Upgrade
Plan Requirements for Deals: Be aware that the most attractive verizon phone upgrade promotions (like significant trade-in credits or “free phone” offers via
