You might have heard of or seen branding for verizon total wireless as a mobile service option. It’s important to know that while the name verizon total wireless was widely recognized, this service is now officially known as Total by Verizon. This change occurred after Verizon acquired TracFone Wireless, the brand’s original parent company.
Total by Verizon operates as a key prepaid brand under the Verizon umbrella, offering a distinct set of plans and services. This guide explores what verizon total wireless / Total by Verizon offers to consumers in the United States.
What Was Verizon Total Wireless? (Now Total by Verizon)
Originally launched as Total Wireless, this brand operated as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) under TracFone. MVNOs don’t own their own wireless network infrastructure; instead, they partner with major network operators to provide service. Even before the acquisition, verizon total wireless primarily utilized Verizon’s network.
After Verizon acquired TracFone and its associated brands in 2021, it rebranded Total Wireless to “Total by Verizon,” making the connection explicit and positioning it as one of its primary prepaid offerings alongside Visible and its own Verizon Prepaid plans.
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The Verizon Network Advantage
The single biggest selling point, both during the verizon total wireless era and now as Total by Verizon, is access to Verizon’s nationwide network. This means customers get the benefit of Verizon’s extensive 4G LTE coverage and its growing 5G network, known for reliability and reach across the US. If strong network coverage is important to you, Total by Verizon leverages one of the best infrastructures available.
How Prepaid Works with Total by Verizon
Unlike traditional postpaid plans that bill you after usage and often involve contracts and credit checks, Total by Verizon operates on a prepaid model:
- No Annual Contracts: You pay for service month-to-month (or sometimes in multi-month increments) without a long-term commitment.
- Pay Before You Use: You purchase your plan upfront, giving you cost certainty for the service period.
- No Credit Checks: Signing up is generally easier as it doesn’t typically require a credit check.
- Flexibility: You can change plans more easily or stop service without early termination fees associated with contracts.
Typical Plans and Offerings
While specific verizon total wireless plans have evolved into the current Total by Verizon lineup, the structure often includes:
- Unlimited Talk & Text: Standard across most monthly plans within the US.
- Various Data Options: Plans typically range from fixed data amounts (e.g., 5GB, 15GB) per month to “Unlimited” data plans. Note that unlimited plans usually provide a certain amount of high-speed data before speeds might be reduced for the rest of the cycle, and often include a specific allowance for mobile hotspot usage.
- Multi-Line Discounts: Significant savings are usually available when adding multiple lines to a single account, making it attractive for families.
- International Features: Many plans include calling benefits to certain countries, particularly Canada, Mexico, and other Latin American nations. Some may offer international roaming add-ons.
- Perks: To compete, higher-tier Total by Verizon plans often bundle perks, such as subscriptions to Disney+.
It’s essential to check the official Total by Verizon website for the most current plan details, data amounts, hotspot allowances, included international features, perks, and pricing.
Key Benefits Summarized
Opting for Total by Verizon (formerly verizon total wireless) provides:
- Access to Verizon’s reliable and extensive 4G LTE / 5G network.
- The flexibility of no annual contracts.
- Often more affordable monthly rates compared to Verizon postpaid plans.
- Easy accessibility through major retailers (like Walmart, Target) and online.
- The ability to bring your own compatible, unlocked phone (BYOP).
Who is Total by Verizon (Formerly Verizon Total Wireless) For?
This prepaid service is often a great fit for:
- Individuals and families seeking lower monthly phone bills without sacrificing network quality.
- Customers who prefer the predictability and flexibility of prepaid, no-contract service.
- Users who need the strong nationwide coverage provided by the Verizon network.
- People who like the convenience of purchasing service or phones through retail stores.
Getting Started
Switching to or signing up for Total by Verizon usually involves:
- Confirming Verizon network coverage in your area.
- Checking if your current phone is compatible (if bringing your own) or purchasing a new phone from Total by Verizon or a retailer.
- Purchasing a Total by Verizon SIM kit (if BYOP) or a new device bundle.
- Selecting a monthly plan.
- Activating the service, typically through the Total by Verizon website.
Important Considerations
- Data Deprioritization: As an MVNO, Total by Verizon data speeds might be temporarily slowed during times of heavy network congestion compared to Verizon postpaid customers on premium plans.
- Customer Service: Support channels and experiences may differ from those offered directly by Verizon postpaid.
- Roaming: While domestic coverage is strong via Verizon’s network, data roaming capabilities (especially internationally) might be more limited than top-tier Verizon postpaid plans.
Conclusion: A Strong Prepaid Choice on Verizon’s Network
While the name verizon total wireless has transitioned to Total by Verizon, the core value proposition remains strong. It offers customers a reliable mobile experience powered by Verizon’s leading network infrastructure, combined with the affordability and flexibility of a prepaid, no-contract service model. For those seeking dependable coverage without the postpaid commitment, and especially for families looking for multi-line savings, Total by Verizon stands as a significant player in the prepaid market, building upon the foundation laid by verizon total wireless. Always check their official website for the latest plans and features.
