How to Get Upgrade Fee Waived Verizon: A Complete Guide

Upgrading your Verizon phone is an exciting process, but the upgrade fee can sometimes add an extra layer of frustration. The good news is, with the right approach, you might be able to get that upgrade fee waived or avoid paying it altogether. This article will walk you through the steps on how to get the upgrade fee waived at Verizon, including helpful tips and alternatives.

Upgrading your phone is a great way to enjoy new features, better performance, and access to the latest technology. However, Verizon, like many other mobile carriers, charges an upgrade fee when you decide to get a new phone. This fee can sometimes be a barrier for people looking to upgrade their device but don’t want to incur additional costs.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the Verizon upgrade fee is, why it’s charged, and how you can get it waived or avoid it entirely. Whether you’re upgrading online, in-store, or through customer service, there are ways to save money on this fee.

2. What is the Verizon Upgrade Fee?

The Verizon upgrade fee is a one-time charge that customers must pay when they choose to upgrade their phone. This fee is typically added on top of the cost of the new phone or the monthly payments under a device payment plan.

This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with upgrading devices, such as processing paperwork, activating the new device, and updating your account. However, the good news is that with some effort and strategy, you may be able to avoid this charge altogether.

3. Why Does Verizon Charge an Upgrade Fee?

Verizon charges an upgrade fee primarily to cover the costs associated with activating a new device and updating your account. When you upgrade your phone, there is a lot of behind-the-scenes work involved, including:

Device activation: Setting up your new device with Verizon’s network.
Account management: Updating your billing and account information.
Paperwork processing: Handling any documents associated with the upgrade.

The upgrade fee helps Verizon cover these operational costs, but there are ways to potentially bypass or get it reduced.

4. How Much is the Verizon Upgrade Fee?

The Verizon upgrade fee typically costs $30 per upgrade. This fee is charged when you upgrade your phone through Verizon’s official channels, either online, over the phone, or in-store.

It’s important to note that the fee may vary depending on your location or the terms of your agreement, so always check the latest information before upgrading.

5. How to Get the Verizon Upgrade Fee Waived

Here are several methods you can try to get the Verizon upgrade fee waived or reduced:

5.1 Call Customer Service and Negotiate

One of the most effective ways to get the Verizon upgrade fee waived is by contacting Verizon customer service. They may be willing to waive the fee, especially if you’ve been a long-term customer, have a good payment history, or are upgrading to a new device under special circumstances.

Here’s how you can approach customer service:

Call Verizon Customer Service: Dial 1-800-922-0204.
Ask to Speak to a Representative: Politely explain that you’d like to upgrade your phone but are concerned about the upgrade fee.
Negotiate: Mention your long-term relationship with Verizon or ask if any ongoing promotions could waive the fee.

Often, customer service representatives have the authority to waive the fee if they feel it’s warranted.

5.2 Take Advantage of Special Promotions

Verizon frequently runs special promotions that offer the upgrade fee waived for customers who meet certain criteria. These promotions may be linked to specific devices or offers like:

Trade-in promotions: If you trade in your old device, Verizon may waive the upgrade fee as part of the promotion.
Seasonal sales: During holidays or promotional events, Verizon may offer deals that include fee waivers.

Make sure to keep an eye on Verizon’s website or subscribe to their newsletter for updates on these promotions.

5.3 Use Your Upgrade Eligibility

If you’re eligible for an upgrade based on your account status, Verizon may waive the upgrade fee for you. To check your eligibility:

Log in to your Verizon account.
Check your upgrade status: You’ll see if you’re eligible for a discounted upgrade or an offer to waive the fee.

Sometimes, Verizon will offer a free or discounted upgrade fee to eligible customers, so it’s worth checking your account before making a decision.

5.4 Leverage Your Loyalty

Long-term Verizon customers with a strong payment history are sometimes eligible for fee waivers as a gesture of goodwill. If you’ve been a loyal customer for many years, you can mention this when contacting customer service. It’s possible they’ll waive the fee as part of a customer retention effort.

5.5 Explore Online Upgrades

Verizon often waives the upgrade fee for customers who choose to upgrade their phone online rather than in-store. If you’re willing to handle the upgrade process remotely, you might be able to avoid the extra charge.

To upgrade online:

Visit Verizon’s website or use their app.
Select the phone you want to upgrade to.
Proceed with the upgrade process and check if the fee is included in the terms. If it is, contact customer support for potential fee waiver options.

5.6 Sign Up for Verizon’s Device Payment Plan

Verizon’s Device Payment Plan allows you to pay for your phone in installments rather than upfront. Sometimes, Verizon offers promotions where you can avoid the upgrade fee if you sign up for this payment plan.

Check the terms of the payment plan to see if any discounts or fee waivers apply.

5.7 Consider Switching to a Different Verizon Plan

In some cases, Verizon may waive the upgrade fee if you switch to a different plan. This can be part of a promotion or a special offer for upgrading to a plan with more benefits, such as the Verizon Unlimited Plan.

6. Alternative Ways to Avoid Paying the Upgrade Fee

If you’re not successful in getting the upgrade fee waived, here are some alternative ways to avoid paying it:

6.1 Purchase a Phone Through Third-Party Retailers

Instead of upgrading directly through Verizon, you can buy your phone from third-party retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart. Often, these retailers offer phones without the additional Verizon upgrade fee.

However, ensure that the phone is compatible with Verizon’s network before purchasing.

6.2 Trade-In Your Old Device

Verizon sometimes offers trade-in promotions where the value of your old phone can be applied towards your new device. This can help offset the upgrade fee or even cover it completely. Be sure to check if there are any trade-in promotions available before upgrading.

6.3 Look for Verizon’s Trade-In Promotions

Verizon may run trade-in promotions that waive the upgrade fee when you send in your old device. These promotions are often available during holiday seasons or when new phone models are launched. Keep an eye out for these offers.

7. Verizon’s Upgrade Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s a quick overview of the Verizon upgrade process:

7.1 Check Your Upgrade Eligibility

Before you start the upgrade process, check your eligibility. This can be done via the Verizon website or app.

7.2 Select Your New Phone

Browse through Verizon’s selection of new phones. Choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

7.3 Confirm the Terms and Fees

Before finalizing the upgrade, review the terms and any associated fees. Ensure you understand the total cost, including any upgrade fees.

7.4 Pay for the New Phone (If Necessary)

If you’re not using a payment plan, you’ll need to pay for the new phone upfront. If you’re using the Device Payment Plan, the phone’s cost will be divided into monthly payments.

Common Questions About Verizon Upgrade Fees

8.1 Does Verizon charge an upgrade fee for all customers?

No, Verizon may waive the upgrade fee for certain customers, especially if they’re eligible for promotions or loyalty programs.

8.2 Can I upgrade my phone without paying the upgrade fee?

Yes, you can potentially get the upgrade fee waived through negotiations, promotions, or loyalty perks.

8.3 What happens if I don’t pay the upgrade fee?

If you don’t pay the upgrade fee, Verizon may refuse to process your upgrade until the fee is paid.

Conclusion

The Verizon upgrade fee can be an annoying additional cost when upgrading to a new phone, but with the right strategies, you can either get it waived or avoid paying it entirely. Whether through customer service negotiations, taking advantage of promotions, or opting for alternative upgrade methods, there are several ways to save money on your Verizon upgrade.

Make sure to check your eligibility, explore promotions, and consider all options to minimize or eliminate the upgrade fee. Happy upgrading!