Mobile phones are increasingly important to work, socialize or find what you are looking for. If you have received a new mobile you will probably want to activate it quickly so that you can use it asap. Fortunately, activating a replacement Verizon Wireless cell phone is a very simple operation. It is just a matter of transferring the data to your new mobile and sending the old one back.
Steps
Step 1. Open the package
Verizon should have sent you the replacement cell phone by post. Open the package carefully and don't throw it away - you will need to use it to send the defective mobile back. Take your spare cell phone and take it out of its packaging.
Step 2. Transfer your information
Use Verizon's Backup Assistant program to transfer your contacts, apps, photos and other media to your new phone. Don't worry, this is a free program.
Step 3. Reset your old phone
Erase everything from your old phone, including emails, messages, calls, photos and applications. Then do a "hard reset" in order to restore the phone to the state it was in when you bought it. You should find this option under Settings or under Privacy. It may also be referred to as "factory reset". The security code consists of the last 4 digits of the telephone number. After the reset remove the SD memory card (if your mobile has one) and insert it into your new mobile. You may also need to remove the battery from your old mobile and insert it into the new one.
Step 4. Activate your new mobile
This can be done in a few different ways. Start with the first and read on if you have any difficulties.
- If you have a 3G mobile phone, dial * 228 and press Send. Press 1 and follow the directions. (If you are a prepaid customer dial * 22898 and press 2).
- If you have a 4G mobile, log in to your MyVerizon account. If you want to see an illustrative video go here.
- Download the instructions in PDF format. Verizon allows you to download specific instructions for each mobile from this address.
- Use a landline phone or borrow someone else's phone to call Verizon Customer Support at (800) 922-0204. Follow the instructions to activate your new mobile. Make sure you know your Verizon number before calling.
- Go to a Verizon store. As a last resort you can go to a Verizon store and have your phone activated without paying any extra fees.
Step 5. Test your new mobile phone
Once your new mobile has been activated make a call and make sure everything is working properly. Also try to send a message.
Step 6. Pack up your old cell phone
Finally, you will need to send your old cell phone back to Verizon. Put your mobile phone in the box labeled "Certified Replacement Device Equal to New" and attach the attached label. You must return your old mobile phone no later than five days after receiving the replacement mobile phone. If you forget to return your old cell phone, Verizon will be forced to charge you the full cost of the replacement. Return the phone only; keep all accessories, such as battery and USB cables, as well.
Advice
If you have any problems grab both the phones and the box and go to a Verizon store. A technician will take care of the entire operation for you
Things you need
- Old cellphone
- New mobile
- Shipping labels
