Verizon has introduced a new hurdle for customers aiming to unlock their phones by paying off device installment plans early. The current version of Verizon’s unlocking policy for postpaid customers now includes a 35-day waiting period for those who settle their device payments online, through the Verizon app, or over the phone. Payments made at Verizon Authorized Retailers are also subject to this delay. However, the wait can be bypassed by paying off the device plan at a Verizon corporate store.
Unlocking a phone allows users to switch carriers by enabling the device to operate on another network. Previously, the wait period was only required for payments made with a Verizon gift card. According to the updated policy, “If you pay off a device payment agreement balance online or in the My Verizon App, or if a Verizon Gift Card is used to purchase a smartphone or pay off a remaining balance, the unlocking process will be delayed by 35 days.” The reason given for the delay, specifically in gift card payments, is to confirm the authenticity of the funds, safeguarding against fraudulent or illegal activities.
Despite the recent changes, Verizon still records the policy's effective date as January 27, suggesting that the extension of the waiting period to online and app payments is being applied retroactively. The change was highlighted by a tip from an Ars forum user.
Customers who wish to avoid the waiting period must make their device payment at a Verizon corporate store, where immediate unlocking is reportedly available.