What do I need to do to switch from Verizon to AT&T? (Find Out Now!)

Last Updated on November 21, 2023 by

To switch from Verizon to AT&T:

• Check contract status with Verizon.
• Choose an AT&T plan.
• Purchase a compatible AT&T SIM card.
• Transfer contacts and backup data.
• Cancel Verizon service.
• Insert AT&T SIM card.
• Activate new AT&T service.

How to Switch From Verizon to AT&T

Step 1: Pick your Verizon phone, select “Account” under My-Verizon web-portal

Step 2: Locate and click on “Security Settings” 

Locate “Number Lock” and select “Edit”. A list of numbers would appear select the number you want to port to other carrier

Step 3: You’ll need to select “Generate PIN” by clicking on “Transfer PIN” under “Edit”

Step 4: Copy or save the PIN, then visit an authorized AT&T center to have them port your number to the AT&T network.

Can I Switch a Verizon Phone to AT&T?

Yes, you can switch a Verizon phone to AT&T, but there are a few important considerations and steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Check Phone Compatibility:
   • Verify that your Verizon phone is compatible with AT&T’s network. Most modern smartphones are designed to work across different carriers, but it’s essential to confirm.
2. Unlock Your Verizon Phone:
   • If your phone is still under contract or has a financing agreement with Verizon, it may be locked to their network. Contact Verizon to request an unlock. Once unlocked, you can use it with other carriers, including AT&T.
3. Check for LTE and VoLTE Compatibility:
   • Ensure that your phone supports AT&T’s LTE and VoLTE (Voice over LTE) networks for optimal performance.
4. Check for Band Compatibility:
   • Confirm that your phone supports the frequency bands used by AT&T. This information can be found in your phone’s specifications or by contacting the manufacturer.
5. Backup Your Data:
   • Before making any changes, back up your contacts, photos, apps, and other important data. You can use cloud services or connect your phone to a computer for a local backup.
6. Insert AT&T SIM Card:
   • Purchase a new AT&T SIM card. You can get one from an AT&T store, online, or through customer service. Insert the AT&T SIM card into your Verizon phone.
7. Activate AT&T Service:
   • Contact AT&T customer service or visit an AT&T store to activate your new service. They will guide you through the activation process, which may include providing information from your new AT&T SIM card.
8. Update Network Settings:
   • Once activated, your phone may need to update its network settings. Follow any prompts or instructions provided by AT&T to ensure proper configuration.
9. Test Your Phone:
   • Make test calls, send messages, and use data to ensure that your phone is working correctly on AT&T’s network.
10. Update APN Settings (if needed):
    • In some cases, you may need to update the Access Point Name (APN) settings on your phone to ensure proper data connectivity. AT&T will provide you with the necessary information.
11. Consider Device Financing:
    • If your Verizon phone is still under a financing agreement, check if AT&T offers device financing options or if you need to settle the remaining balance with Verizon.

Things to consider before Switching

Why you should consider Switching?

Those who switch and have their number ported to AT&T have a common reason such as better network coverage as the major reason, probably because AT&T have a better network reception in their area compared to Verizon.

Others have recounted their switching to billing rate. They said “Verizon monthly billing rate comes with a premium cost that doesn’t provide a good network experience because of their location, whilst AT&T provides cheaper or similar billing rate with superb network reception to match, so they decide to make the switch”

The most compelling reason for switching is that most network carrier provide special discount, some even pay users who switch from a rival network to theirs. AT&T provides this offer too.

Make Plans Ahead

Before finally deciding to port your line to another network, it’s best you do an extensive research to select and decide where the network plans and billing rate suits your demands. If possible go through their plan and pre-select a plan that would work for you when you eventually switch. 

You might easily find useful information such as billing rate and list of plans on the carrier network. 

Be Sure To Your Phone

Switching from one carrier to another might pose some difficulty such as inability to use your newly purchased carrier. This is because most device are locked to certain carrier. Then you’ll need to check if your device is locked to a particular network or unlocked to all carriers. If it’s locked, you would want to unlock it before making that switch.

If you own a Verizon device and you’re unsure if it’s unlock or not. There’s a high percentage that I probably locked but could easily be unlocked since Verizon place a 60 days temporarily lock on all their newly device purchased.  

For technical support, you could also walk into any AT&T service center and they’ll be sure to assist you with unlocking you device.

Make The Switch At The Right Time

Timing is everything, you’ll need to wait for the right time to switch from Verizon to AT&T and the perfect time for that is at the end of the month. Phone carrier companies have advised that end of the end is the best time to port from on network to another because at that point you’ve exhaust your monthly billing cycle. Then you could port and commence the next months billing cycle with a new carrier. You’re also liable to be charge termination fee if you port within the monthly billing cycle.

Keep Your Previous Number

Most carrier now offer services that ensure that customers retain their number when porting from one carrier to another so does AT&T, however you have to confirm whether the process was successful or not. You can check up with AT&T to confirm the process.

Why switch to AT&T from Verizon

Switching from Verizon to AT&T involves various considerations, and here are detailed points to help you understand the potential reasons:

1. Network Coverage:
   • Assess the network coverage in your area. AT&T and Verizon have extensive coverage, but there may be variations depending on your location.
2. Plan Offerings:
   • Compare the plans offered by both carriers. Consider factors such as data limits, talk and text allowances, and additional perks like streaming services or international features.
3. Cost and Pricing:
   • Evaluate the overall cost of plans, including base rates, additional fees, and potential discounts. Some carriers may offer competitive pricing or special promotions.
4. Device Compatibility:
   • Ensure that your current device is compatible with AT&T’s network. If not, consider the cost and convenience of upgrading or purchasing a new device.
5. Customer Service:
   • Research and read reviews about customer service experiences with both Verizon and AT&T. Quality customer service can be crucial for issue resolution and support.
6. International Roaming:
   • If you travel internationally, compare the international roaming options provided by both carriers. Consider factors such as coverage, data rates, and ease of use.
7. Special Promotions:
   • Check for any special promotions or incentives offered by AT&T for switching. Carriers often provide deals for new customers, such as discounts on devices or promotional plans.
8. Contract and Commitment:
   • Review your current contract status with Verizon, including any early termination fees. Understand the commitment required when switching to AT&T and any associated costs.
9. Family or Group Plans:
   • If you have multiple lines or are part of a family plan, compare the offerings for family or group plans. Look for savings and benefits for adding multiple lines.
10. Data Speed and Performance:
    • Consider the data speeds and overall network performance. Run speed tests in your area to ensure that AT&T meets your expectations in terms of internet speed and reliability.
11. Device Financing Options:
    • Evaluate device financing options offered by AT&T. Some carriers provide flexible payment plans for smartphones, making it easier to upgrade to the latest devices.
12. Bundle Options:
    • Explore bundle options that include services like TV or home internet. Bundling services with a single provider can sometimes result in cost savings and convenience.

How Long Does It Take to Switch from Verizon to AT&T?

The time it takes to switch from Verizon to AT&T can vary depending on several factors. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Preparation (1-2 days):
   • Research and choose an AT&T plan that suits your needs.
   • Check the compatibility of your Verizon phone with AT&T’s network.
   • Unlock your Verizon phone if necessary and ensure it’s free of any outstanding balances.
2. Purchase AT&T SIM Card (1 day):
   • Order an AT&T SIM card online or purchase one from an AT&T store. This can typically be done in a day.
3. Backup Data (Varies):
   • Back up your contacts, photos, and other essential data from your Verizon phone. The time required depends on the amount of data you need to back up.
4. Unlocking Process (Varies):
   • If your Verizon phone is locked, the unlocking process may take a few days. Contact Verizon to request the unlock, and they will provide instructions and a timeline.
5. Receive AT&T SIM Card (1-5 days):
   • If you ordered the AT&T SIM card online, it may take a few days to arrive. If you purchase it from a store, this step can be completed immediately.
6. Insert AT&T SIM Card (5 minutes):
   • Once you have the AT&T SIM card, insert it into your unlocked Verizon phone. This is a quick process that usually takes a few minutes.
7. Contact AT&T to Activate Service (30 minutes to 1 hour):
   • Contact AT&T customer service or visit a store to activate your new service. The representative will guide you through the process, which may include providing information from your new SIM card.
8. Network Configuration (Varies):
   • Your phone may need to update its network settings to function properly on AT&T’s network. This update can take a few minutes to an hour, depending on your phone model.
9. Testing (Varies):
   • Make test calls, send messages, and use data to ensure that your phone is working correctly on AT&T’s network. This may take a short period to ensure everything is functioning as expected.
10. APN Settings (Varies):
    • If required, update the Access Point Name (APN) settings on your phone. AT&T will provide the necessary information. This is a quick process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AT&T pay users switch from Verizon?

Yes, AT&T has announced in it’s deal that it’s willing to pay users who switch from Verizon. AT&T also pay payment charges and termination fee is you’re ready to switch to their postpaid plans. AT&T pay up to $650 when you port your Sprint or T-Mobile or Verizon number.

How easy is it to switch from Verizon to AT&T?

Very easy, all you have to do is bring your new or old device and get it unlocked to allow other carriers to work therein. Then walk into AT&T service office and tell them you want to port your line to their network. 

Note: You can only port a line that is registered in your name and uses a current account balance.

Do I need to cancel Verizon before porting to AT&T?

Yes, you must cancel Verizon before porting your line to AT&T else the port won’t be successful. You don’t to worry about this as this would be done by a AT&T representative when you visit their office to make the switch.

Can my Verizon phone work with AT&T?

Yes, provided that the device has been unlocked. If it’s not then it could be unlocked to allow AT&T carrier to work therein.

Can I take my Verizon number to AT&T?

Yes, you can switch from Verizon to AT&T and retain your number. All you have to do is port your Verizon number to AT&T.

Conclusion

Changing your carrier from Verizon to AT&T might be a great choice, especially if you’re considering the network coverage of your current location and the cheaper billing cost that AT&T provides.

To switch, you must wait till the end of the month so that you can escape the termination fee but AT&T in their new switching plan has offered to pay these fee and an extra $650 for switching.

Source; https://www.att.com/wireless/transfer-your-number/