Switch Verizon to AT&T: Easy Guide

Switching network carriers can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to begin—especially if your phone is still carrier-locked. But don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through the process of switching from Verizon to AT&T with minimal hassle. 

Part 1. Check Your Verizon Phone Compatibility with AT&T

Before making the switch, the first thing you need to do is confirm whether your Verizon device is compatible with AT&T’s network. This is done by checking your phone’s IMEI number.

What is IMEI?

An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to your phone. It’s used to identify your device and check whether it’s carrier-locked or supported by another carrier. 

How to find your IMEI number:

1. Open the dial pad on your phone.
2. Dial *#06#.
3. Your 15-digit IMEI will appear on the screen.

Once you have the IMEI, you can:

1. Use an online IMEI checker tool to confirm if your device is compatible with AT&T.
2. Visit AT&T’s official website to run the IMEI check directly, which is the most reliable way to confirm compatibility.

Part 2. Unlocking Your Verizon Phone for AT&T Use

If your phone is still locked to Verizon, you won’t be able to use an AT&T SIM card right away. Unlocking is necessary to ensure your device works seamlessly on the new network.

Here’s how you can request an unlock from Verizon: 

Step-by-Step Verizon Unlock Process

Step 1: The first step is to find your phone’s IMEI number. You can check this by dialing *#06# on your dialpad.

Step 2: Next, check your eligibility to acquire an AT&T connection by entering your phone’s IMEI number on the provider’s official website.

Step 3: Log in to your Verizon Account by visiting My Verizon and signing in with your username and password.

Step 4. Head to the device management section or search for ‘device unlock’ on Verizon’s site.

Note: Verizon’s unlock portal is integrated into the account dashboard, not a separate URL. So, you will only find it once you log into your account.

Step 5. Select the device you want to unlock from the device unlock section. Enter your phone’s IMEI number if asked. Confirm your eligibility by ensuring you meet the requirements and submit the unlock request.

Step 6. Wait for confirmation from Verizon. If approved, you will be sent a message confirming your request.

Step 7. Now, insert the new carrier (AT&T’s) SIM card in your device. If your device was previously locked to Verizon, enter the unlock code sent by them. Then, follow the instructions on the screen to fully unlock it.

Step 8. If you encounter issues, reach out to Verizon support for assistance:

1. Call: 800-922-0204
2. Use Verizon’s online chat

Part 3: Unlock Your Verizon iPhone with Passixer

Sometimes, Verizon’s official unlock process can take longer than expected, or your request might not get approved due to eligibility issues (e.g., unpaid bills, contract terms). In such cases, using a professional unlocking tool can be a faster and more reliable alternative.

One of the most effective solutions is Passixer iPhone Unlocker. This tool allows you to bypass network locks and use your iPhone with any carrier, including AT&T, without relying on Verizon’s approval.

How to Unlock Your Verizon iPhone with Passixer

Why choose this method?

1. Instant results (no waiting for carrier approval).
2. Permanent unlock that remains valid even after updating iOS.
3. Ideal if Verizon denies your unlock request or you don’t meet eligibility requirements.

Part 4. Choosing the Right AT&T Plan

Once your Verizon phone is unlocked, the next step is picking the right AT&T plan. AT&T mainly offers Prepaid and Postpaid options. Here’s how they differ:

AT&T Prepaid Plan

Prepaid plans let you pay as you go, with no long-term contract required. Speeds may be lower than postpaid plans, but they’re perfect for light daily use. No credit check is needed, making it easy to manage your budget.

AT&T Postpaid Plan

Postpaid plans usually require a long-term contract and a credit check. You’ll be billed monthly and enjoy faster data speeds and more features. Keep in mind that early termination may incur fees, and overall costs are higher compared to prepaid plans.

Pro Tips

AT&T often runs promotions and referral bonuses for switchers. Before you switch, check current offers and consider using a friend’s referral to maximize your benefits. Choose the plan that fits your usage and budget to make the switch worthwhile.

Part 5. How to Switch Your Service from Verizon to AT&T

Here is a short list of what you need to switch from Verizon to AT&T:

1. Account number
2. Active phone number
3. Number transfer pin – for Verizon, you should dial #PORT from your device or log in to the Verizon app.
4. Account zip code.
5. Account holder’s social security number.
6. Billing address proof for signing up to AT&T’s service.

Step-by-step process to port your number to AT&T:

Step 1: Check whether your number is eligible to be transferred by clicking this link. You will be asked to enter your current phone number to check whether a transfer is possible.

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Step 2: Go to https://www.att.com/activate. Ensure you choose ‘keep my number’ at checkout.

Step 3: Follow the prompts to get an AT&T SIM card or eSIM. You will need to enter the transfer pin and then cancel your current subscription with Verizon to port. However, AT&T maintains that it will cancel your existing subscription once you have completed the porting procedure.

Part 6. Troubleshooting Common Issues During the Switch

What to do if number porting fails?

If your number fails to port, it may be due to your Verizon account being frozen or inactive. First, double-check your account status. If everything seems fine, contact AT&T for assistance with your specific case. You can also retry the porting process, making sure all details—such as your name, PIN, address, and phone number—are entered correctly.

Phone not connecting to the AT&T network?

If your phone cannot connect to AT&T, it may still be network-locked. Check the lock status by going to Settings > General > Carrier Lock. If Verizon is still listed, your device needs to be unlocked before it can work on AT&T. Follow the unlock process again and then try connecting. 

Billing overlap and cancellation of Verizon service

Sometimes Verizon and AT&T may bill you simultaneously. To avoid this, contact Verizon to ensure your previous plan has been fully cancelled. Only after confirmation should you activate your AT&T plan. If you’ve already been charged by Verizon, request a billing adjustment or refund since you are no longer using their service.

Part 7. FAQs about Switching from Verizon to AT&T

Conclusion

Porting from Verizon to AT&T can seem like a confusing affair at first. But hopefully you now have a clear idea of the steps you should follow to transfer your connection without having to change your number. Remember to unlock your device before porting from Verizon so that you don’t run into any issues after taking up a new connection.