Add a new device FAQs

The cost depends on the plan you have. When you add a device to your cart online and sign in to My Verizon, you'll see your plan options with the cost of each. Visit these pages for more information about our plans:

• Unlimited plans you can mix and match
• Shared Data Plan – 5 GB*
• Shared Data Plan – 10 GB*
• Prepaid Family Account

*These plans are no longer available to add to new accounts.

In most cases, you'll be able to keep your current plan when you upgrade to a new phone. If you have a basic phone without a data plan, you may be required to add a data plan or switch to a current plan if you want to upgrade to a smartphone.

If you're activating the device on a new line on your account, you must sign either a month-to-month agreement or a 2-year contract.

If you're activating a device on an existing line on your account, your contract status depends on how you purchase the device:

• If you purchase a new device at discounted 2-year pricing, you'll be required to sign a new 2-year service contract.
• If you purchase a new device through device payment, you'll need to sign a new device payment contract, but you won't need to sign a new service contract.
• If you purchase a new device at retail price or activate a device you already own, you won’t need to sign a new contract.

Note: Some new device activations may require a plan change, even if a new contract isn't required. Activation fees may also apply.

To check the status of an order, go to the My Orders page in My Verizon. Tap the order to see its status.

We charge a one-time $35 fee per device activated or upgraded on the Verizon network. This fee applies regardless of the device type, since each device is set up individually:

• The activation fee is a one-time charge for activating a new line of service on the Verizon network. This includes when you bring your own device (BYOD).
• The upgrade fee is a one-time charge for changing to a new device on the Verizon network. This fee is refunded if you return the device within 30 days of the date of purchase.

For this charge, Verizon gives access to a range of services, tools and personalized support to help ensure your device is set up for a seamless experience on America's most awarded network:

• 30 days of personalized tech support for smartphones (60 days if purchased online). Upon activation or upgrade, the line is sent a free Verizon text with a 30 (or 60) day link for personalized support.
• Provisioning and troubleshooting of a Verizon SIM card.
• Verizon Smart Setup - Assists in setting up the device, migrating your information, backing up your phone (facilitating content and contact transfer) and helping you process any trade-in.
• 2-day shipping for online orders or ship from store.

If you're the Account Manager or Account Owner, you can complete this action in My Verizon. Learn more about account access roles.

Note: For prepaid accounts, refer to our Prepaid Family Account FAQs for instructions on adding a line.

You can add a new device and a new line to your account on the Devices page in My Verizon:

1. Select the device you'd like to purchase.
2. Choose a pricing option for your device.
3. Select a device protection option.
4. Follow the prompts to select a plan, features and services, and accessories to complete your order.

You can also watch our How to Add a New Line of Service video for instructions.

If you're the Account Manager or Account Owner, you can add a device you already own to a new line on your account in My Verizon.

Note: For prepaid accounts, refer to our Prepaid Family Account FAQs for instructions on adding a line.

If you're the Account Manager or Account Owner, you can complete this action in My Verizon. Learn more about account access roles. You can also use the My Verizon app to upgrade your device.

You can add a device to an existing line on your account on the Upgrade Device page in My Verizon:

Note: If you have more than one device on your account, select the device you want to upgrade and click Next.

1. Select the device you want to upgrade to and click Add to cart.
2. Follow the prompts to select a device protection plan, a data plan and any features or accessories you'd like to add.
3. Enter the required account information on the final pages, and follow the prompts to finish your upgrade.

If you'd like to use a device that someone has on another account, the other person needs to activate a different device on the line of the device you want to use. After that, you can activate the original device on your account.

You can accept ownership of another person's line or account with a Transfer of service. The details, including eligibility requirements, are at our Transfer Your Service Support page.

Visit our Transfer Your Service Support page to learn how to transfer a line to your account and accept ownership of it.

Visit our Activate Your Device FAQs for information about switching your device with another line on your account.

Visit our Transfer your number to Verizon mobile FAQs for information about porting your number.

Note: Some devices from other carriers can't be used on the Verizon network.