How Do I Change Service From One Verizon Phone to Another?

By Sameerah Blue

Updated September 28, 2017

Items you will need

  • Internet connection

  • Land-line telephone

Verizon offers different ways to transfer service.
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If you acquire a new Verizon Wireless phone, transferring service not only activates your new phone, but it also makes sure you keep all of the services that are already on your account. Verizon Wireless offers three ways for you to transfer service from one phone to another. You can transfer your service online, call customer service or visit a Verizon store. No matter which option you choose, transferring your service only takes a few minutes.

Activate your phone online.
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Login to your Verizon Wireless account. Click on the "Support" tab in the upper right corner of the page. This will take you to the menu for all of the support options available. Click on "Activate a phone." Next, enter your ESN or MEID number. This is a serial number that identifies your phone as Verizon equipment. Depending on the model, the ESN is usually found at the bottom of the battery well. Remove the battery and look for a white sticker with 11 numbers. After you enter the ESN, the system will activate your new phone and transfer all of your existing services to the new device.

A Verizon representative can transfer your service.
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Call Verizon's customer service center to transfer service to your new phone. Be prepared to give the representative your name, phone number or password to verify that you are authorized to make changes on the account. After your identity has been verified, the representative will ask you to read the 11-digit ESN number on your phone. The representative will then activate your new phone and transfer your existing services to the new phone.

Visit a Verizon Wireless retail location.
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Take your new and old phones into a local Verizon Wireless retail store. Be prepared to give the representative your phone number, password or photo identification so he can verify you are authorized to make changes on the account. The representative will activate your new phone and transfer the service. You can also be helped in setting up your new phone and learning how to use its features.

Tips

If you call customer service to transfer service between phones, make sure that you call from a land line or any phone that is not your Verizon phone.

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