How to Transfer Line Ownership on Verizon: A Comprehensive Guide

Transferring line ownership on Verizon, while seemingly complex, is a fairly straightforward process once you understand the necessary steps. You’ll essentially need to initiate a Transfer of Service (TOS) request, involving both the current account owner (the transferor) and the person taking over the line (the transferee). Both parties must meet Verizon’s eligibility requirements, which include credit checks for the transferee, and the process is typically completed online or through a Verizon representative.

Understanding the Verizon Transfer of Service (TOS)

Think of a Verizon account as a lease agreement on your cellular service. Just as you can transfer a lease to someone else, you can transfer your Verizon line ownership. This process, officially called a Transfer of Service (TOS), allows you to legally shift responsibility for a specific line and its associated financial obligations from one party to another. It’s important to understand this isn’t just about changing the name on the bill; it’s a complete transfer of the service agreement.

When Would You Need to Transfer Line Ownership?

Several scenarios necessitate a TOS. Common situations include:

• Divorce or separation: Splitting up a family plan becomes much simpler.
• Children moving out: Kids becoming financially independent and taking over their own line.
• Employee departures: Transferring a company-provided phone to a departing employee or a new hire.
• Small business transfers: Selling or transferring ownership of a business account.
• Estate planning: Transferring service to an heir after the original account holder’s passing.

Key Requirements for a Smooth Transfer

Before diving in, make sure both parties are prepared. Here’s a rundown of the essential prerequisites:

• Transferor eligibility: The current account holder must be in good standing with Verizon, meaning no outstanding balances or service suspensions.
• Transferee eligibility: The new owner (transferee) will undergo a credit check. A successful credit check is crucial for the transfer to proceed.
• Account details: Both parties need to know the Verizon account number, the specific line(s) being transferred, and the account PIN.
• Identification: Government-issued photo IDs are required for both the transferor and the transferee.
• Agreement: Both the transferor and transferee need to agree to the transfer and acknowledge the terms and conditions.

The Step-by-Step Transfer Process

Now, let’s break down the actual transfer process:

1. Initiate the Transfer: The transferor (current account owner) typically initiates the TOS request. This can be done online through the Verizon website (look for the “Transfer Your Service” or “Assumption of Liability” option) or by calling Verizon customer service.
2. Provide Account Information: The transferor will need to provide the Verizon account number, the line(s) to be transferred, and contact information for the transferee.
3. Transferee Authorization: Verizon will then contact the transferee (new owner) to authorize the transfer and complete their portion of the process. This often involves creating a new Verizon account (if they don’t already have one) or adding the line to an existing account.
4. Credit Check: The transferee will undergo a credit check. Be prepared to provide personal information like Social Security number and address history.
5. Review and Accept Terms: Both parties will need to review and accept the terms and conditions of the transfer, including any applicable fees or changes to the service plan.
6. Confirmation: Once everything is approved, Verizon will confirm the transfer and provide a date when the change will take effect.
7. Final Steps: The transferee should review their new account details, payment options, and any plan changes.

Important Considerations During Transfer

The devil is in the details. Keep these points in mind:

• Plan Changes: The transfer may require the transferee to select a new plan, especially if the current plan is no longer offered or doesn’t fit their needs. Be sure to compare available plans before proceeding.
• Equipment: If the line involves a device payment plan, the transferee will usually assume responsibility for the remaining balance. Discuss equipment ownership and payment obligations thoroughly beforehand.
• Lost Discounts: Transferring a line can sometimes affect existing discounts, especially those tied to specific employer programs or bundled services. Confirm any potential changes to discounts with Verizon.
• Backup Data: Before transferring, ensure all important data (contacts, photos, etc.) is backed up. The transfer process shouldn’t erase data, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
• PIN Security: The transferor should change their account PIN after the transfer is complete to prevent unauthorized access.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful planning, things can sometimes go wrong. Here’s how to address some common hiccups:

• Credit Check Failure: If the transferee fails the credit check, they may need to provide a security deposit or explore other options with Verizon.
• Account Holds: Outstanding balances or account restrictions can prevent the transfer. Resolve any issues before initiating the TOS.
• Missing Information: Incomplete or inaccurate information can delay the process. Double-check all details before submitting the request.
• Unexpected Fees: Be aware of potential transfer fees or activation fees associated with the new account. Confirm all costs with Verizon beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some commonly asked questions about transferring line ownership on Verizon, designed to provide further clarification and address potential concerns:

1. How long does it take to transfer a Verizon line to someone else?

The transfer process typically takes 24-72 hours to complete, assuming all requirements are met and there are no complications. Credit checks, document verification, and processing times can influence the exact duration.

2. Can I transfer a Verizon line online?

Yes, Verizon allows you to initiate the Transfer of Service online through their website. Look for the “Transfer Your Service” or “Assumption of Liability” option within your account settings or the customer support section.

3. What if the person I’m transferring to doesn’t pass the credit check?

If the transferee fails the credit check, Verizon may require a security deposit. Alternatively, they might need to explore prepaid options or have someone else with good credit co-sign the account.

4. Will I lose my phone number when I transfer the line ownership?

No, typically you will not lose your phone number during a Transfer of Service. The whole point is to transfer the service, including the existing phone number, to the new owner.

5. Are there any fees associated with transferring a Verizon line?

There might be activation fees for the new account or line, and potentially a transfer fee depending on Verizon’s current policies. It’s best to confirm all potential fees with Verizon before proceeding.

6. What happens to my existing Verizon Up rewards when I transfer a line?

Verizon Up rewards are usually tied to the specific account they were earned on. Transferring a line may not automatically transfer the rewards. Inquire with Verizon about the specific rules for your situation.

7. Can I transfer a line if it has a device payment plan associated with it?

Yes, you can transfer a line with a device payment plan. The transferee will typically assume responsibility for the remaining balance on the device. This needs to be explicitly agreed upon and documented in the transfer process.

8. What if the account owner is deceased?

In the event of the account owner’s death, you will need to provide Verizon with a death certificate and other documentation to transfer the line to a surviving family member or executor of the estate. Verizon has a specific process for handling these situations.

9. How do I find my Verizon account number?

Your Verizon account number can be found on your monthly bill, online within your Verizon account, or by contacting Verizon customer service.

10. Can I transfer a line from a business account to a personal account?

Yes, it is possible to transfer a line from a business account to a personal account, but it may require additional documentation and approvals. Contact Verizon business customer service for specific instructions.

11. What happens to the contract when I transfer a line?

The transferee assumes the remaining terms of the existing contract, if any. If the contract is nearing its end, the transferee may have the option to renew or choose a new plan.

12. What information does the transferee need to provide?

The transferee will typically need to provide their Social Security number, date of birth, address, and government-issued photo ID for the credit check and account setup. They may also need to provide bank account or credit card information for payment purposes.

By following these steps and understanding the associated considerations, you can navigate the Verizon line transfer process with confidence. Remember to communicate clearly with both Verizon and the transferee throughout the process for a smooth and successful transfer.