Verizon Wireless is a major provider of cellular services in the United States. While it enjoys a favorable opinion of users, some users face some issues with the Verizon services. As a result, the users of Verizon phones look for ways to change their providers.
Besides, they also think about it in search of better plans and services. So, if you have been a Verizon phone user and looking for ways to shift to Straight Talk, you have come to the right place. In this post, you will get to know how to go about it. Read on to get detailed information about it.
Can You Use a Verizon Phone on Straight Talk?
Verizon phone users get a plan from Verizon Wireless by default. At the time of SIM card activation, they get two popular options. They can choose a prepaid or a contract-based plan based on their preferences or needs.
But if you are wondering can a Verizon Wireless user switch over to another provider, the answer is yes. Users can do so for better offers and services. And the good thing is that a Verizon Wireless user can do it without waiting for the expiry of their contract. To do so, a user needs to pay a termination fee.
Most Verizon wireless service users select Straight Talk while migrating to another provider. To migrate to the Straight Talk from Verizon, a user needs to unlock their existing Verizon phone. In addition, they also need to get an IMEI number.
Steps to migrate to Straight Talk from Verizon Wireless
Switching over to Straight Talk is a feasible option for those who have a contract-based plan with Verizon Wireless. In this connection, a user can either choose the pay-as-you-go or prepaid option depending on their liking.
Here are the steps to migrate to Straight Talk from Verizon:
1. Obtain the IMEI number
Enter the code *#06# on your phone, and then press the send button. Alternatively, you can also push the call button for this purpose.
2. Obtain the unlock code
You will need to unlock your phone to switch over to another provider. And to unlock your phone, you need an unlock code that you can obtain from your service provider (Verizon Wireless).
You have to contact your customer service representative and communicate your need to migrate to another provider. The representative will let you know if you have any outstanding charges. Additionally, you would also need to pay a termination fee for terminating the contract before its expiry date. Clear all the pending charges to get the unlock code using which you can unlock your existing phone.
3. Unlock your phone
Now that you have the unlock code, the next thing you need to do is unlock your phone. To do so, first, reboot it. And then, tap the “1” and the “*” keys. This trick works with most Verizon phones. If it doesn’t work with yours for some reason, you need to try out another method.
Refer to the manual that comes along with the package of the phone to find the unlock code. Follow the steps suggested in it for unlocking the phone. Input the unlock to accomplish the task. Once the unlocking process is complete, your phone will automatically power off.
4. Switch over to Straight Talk from Verizon Wireless
Following the powering off of the phone, the next step is to remove the SIM card and the battery.
Next, get in touch with a customer care representative of Straight Talk. Tell them that you wish to switch to their services with your unlocked phone. The provider provides a wide range of plans. Apart from the pay-as-you-go option, you can also opt for its prepaid plan. Choose the one that better corresponds to both your budget and needs.
5. Activate your Straight Talk SIM card
After completing all the formalities, you need to wait for 7-10 business days to receive the SIM card via mail service. When you have it delivered to your mailing address, you can take the next steps to activate the SIM card.
Activating your Straight Talk SIM is simple and easy. All you need to do is insert the SIM card and wait for a few seconds until it catches the network. If you see the network bars on the mobile screen, you can rest assured that your Straight Talk SIM is active. You can start making calls or sending messages to your contacts.
Unlocking a Verizon Prepaid Phone
Just like a Verizon GSM phone, you can also unlock the prepaid version of the phones that comes from the company. The process for unlocking them is the same. First, you need to get the unlock code. You can do so by inputting *#06#. This way, you will get the IMEI number using which you can obtain the subsidy unlock code.
Before migrating to Straight Talk or other providers, you must use the Verizon Wireless service for at least 90 days. Reach out to the customer care department of the cellular service provider by dialing the relevant number.
You need to replace the existing SIM card with the new one. Enter the unlock code obtained from the customer care representative.
Now, choose the option that says OK. Now sit tight and wait for the confirmation message to arrive. When you enter the unlock code, the phone restarts automatically, and then you will get a message. Normally, it arrives in a few seconds or minutes. The message is the confirmation that your phone has been successfully unlocked.
Final Thoughts
From the above, it stands out that switching to Straight Talk from Verizon Wireless service is a viable option. You can do it with ease by following the steps mentioned above. If you have any queries or we have missed something, feel free to contact us. We would love to solve your queries.
All the Best!
Nancy is a journalist with passion for technology. In her 12 years of experience, she has crafted some of the most detailed pieces that describe the importance, benefits, and progress happening in the technology world.
