Verizon Just Made It Harder for Customers to Leave — Here’s What You Need to Know

In a move that’s sure to frustrate customers, Verizon has quietly updated its device unlocking policies, making it significantly harder for users to switch carriers while keeping their phones. The changes, which went into effect after the FCC granted Verizon a waiver from a 60-day unlocking requirement, now impose strict conditions that could leave customers feeling trapped.

What’s Changed?

Verizon’s new policy means that devices purchased after January 27, 2026, will remain locked until the device is fully paid off or the terms of the contract are fulfilled. For postpaid customers, this means you can’t switch carriers if you still owe money on your phone. Even if you pay off your device online or through the My Verizon app, unlocking is delayed by 35 days. To avoid this delay, you must use a secure payment method like a credit card with an EMV chip, cash, or contactless payment in a Verizon store.

Prepaid customers aren’t off the hook either. Devices purchased before January 27 will automatically unlock after 60 days of service, but newer devices are subject to the same restrictions as postpaid phones.

How Does Verizon Compare to Other Carriers?

When compared to AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon’s policies are notably stricter. AT&T still requires a 60-day waiting period before unlocking a device, provided the phone is fully paid off and the account is in good standing. T-Mobile, on the other hand, requires devices to be active on its network for 40 days for postpaid plans and 365 days for prepaid plans, with additional conditions like a minimum balance of $100 in refills for prepaid accounts.

Why the Change?

Verizon has long argued that shorter unlock windows contribute to “device fraud” and drive up phone prices. The FCC agreed, citing concerns about criminal networks targeting Verizon handsets due to the company’s unique unlocking policies. However, critics argue that the new restrictions are more about locking customers into long-term contracts than preventing fraud.

The Impact on MVNOs

Verizon’s changes also affect several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that use its network, including Visible, TracFone, Xfinity Mobile, and others. These carriers are now subject to the same 365-day unlocking requirement, making it harder for their customers to switch providers.

Verizon’s Struggles

The timing of these changes is particularly noteworthy. Verizon has been struggling to retain customers, with recent earnings reports showing a 32.6% decline in operating income and a higher-than-usual cancellation rate among postpaid phone customers. CEO Hans Vestberg has blamed price increases, billing friction, and a shift to MVNO carriers for the company’s woes.

A 2025 Market Force Information survey found that Verizon customers spend an average of $157 per month on their phone bills—the highest among the big three carriers—and reported low satisfaction levels. With price hikes, multiple outages, and now stricter unlocking policies, Verizon’s reputation is taking a hit.

What Can You Do?

If you’re a Verizon customer looking to switch carriers, here are a few tips:

1. Pay off your device early: If you’re on an installment plan, consider paying off your phone in full to avoid delays.
2. Use secure payment methods: To avoid the 35-day unlocking delay, pay in a Verizon store using a credit card with an EMV chip, cash, or contactless payment.
3. Consider your options: If you’re unhappy with Verizon’s policies, explore other carriers like AT&T or T-Mobile, which have more lenient unlocking requirements.

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Verizon’s new unlocking policies are a bold move that could backfire, as customers increasingly seek flexibility and transparency from their carriers. Whether this strategy will help Verizon retain customers or drive them away remains to be seen.

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