Q: Does Verizon have overage charges or hidden fees?
Overage charges have mostly gone the way of the dinosaurs, and that deserves a cheer.
After your first 25 GB on the Get More Unlimited plan and during times of high traffic on the Start Unlimited plan, Verizon could slow your speed down to 600 Kbps or less.
If you’re on a prepaid plan (both with a data cap and the unlimited plan), you might feel like your internet browsing is in slow motion if you exceed your data limit and Verizon throttles you back to 128 Kbps.
For those on the “new Verizon Plan,” where you can choose from small (S), medium (M), and large (L) data packages, you’re still stuck paying overage charges of $15 per GB.
Q: Does Verizon charge an activation fee?
Yes, you will need to pay a one-time activation fee if you’re a new Verizon customer, and this rings in at $30 per device.
Even though it’s only a one-time charge, we like that it’s less than AT&T’s $45 activation fee. We also noticed that Verizon waives the activation fee when you purchase a prepaid phone and plan online. Huzzah!
Q: Should I get a warranty or insurance for my Verizon phone?
Tired of burying your phone in rice after dropping it in the sink or squinting to see the text on your cracked screen? Then an extended warranty or equipment insurance might be worth it in the long run.
If you’re looking for a standard level of protection (loss, theft, or damage) for only one device, we think the Total Equipment Coverage hits the spot. The price is much less per month than the Total Mobile Protection plan, and the deductible is the same.
Q: Does Verizon let you bring your own phone?
Verizon allows you to Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and offers a free SIM card if you check your phone’s compatibility on its site (otherwise, the card costs $24.99).
Q: Can I keep my phone number?
No need to tell all your friends and family to update their contacts—Verizon offers free phone number transfers. It usually takes up to a day to transfer a number from your wireless device, and Verizon says your old phone will continue to work as the transfer proceeds.
You can check if your current number can be transferred on Verizon’s site.
Q: What are Verizon’s return policy and early termination fee?
In general, Verizon accepts returns and exchanges of devices within 14 days, but it still charges you a $35 restocking fee. Heads up: you can exchange your device only once, so make sure your second choice is a match made in heaven.
As with any big company, Verizon’s return and early termination policies are pretty lengthy. We recommend reading through them if you’re considering canceling your service or returning your device.
Q: Does Verizon have a senior discount?
Verizon offers one discount plan for folks who are 55 and up. Here are the details:
Q: Does Verizon have a military discount?
Verizon’s military discount can knock $15 off your Start Unlimited or Do More Unlimited monthly bill, or 15% off other eligible plans. You’ll also get 25% off select accessories.
To qualify for the military discount, you’ll need to be either active duty or a veteran and provide proof of service.
Active duty members need a military-issued email, paystub, or SCRA Status Report.
Veterans need their DD 214, veterans ID card, military retiree account statement, or a VetRewards card from Veterans Advantage.
Check out the latest Verizon military discount deals:
Additional contributors
Catherine McNally and Easton Smith
