As a Verizon customer, you’re likely no stranger to the concept of upgrading your phone or plan. But have you ever heard of a “buddy upgrade”? If not, you’re in luck because this article is about to dive into the world of buddy upgrades on Verizon, exploring what they are, how they work, and the benefits they offer.
What is a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon?
A buddy upgrade is a unique feature offered by Verizon that allows customers to upgrade their phone or plan while also bringing a friend or family member into the Verizon family. This feature is designed to reward existing customers for referring new customers to Verizon, while also providing an incentive for new customers to join the network.
How Does a Buddy Upgrade Work?
The process of completing a buddy upgrade on Verizon is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Existing Customer: The existing Verizon customer initiates the buddy upgrade process by contacting Verizon customer service or visiting a Verizon store.
- New Customer: The new customer must be a new line activation, meaning they cannot be an existing Verizon customer. They can be a friend, family member, or anyone else who is interested in joining Verizon.
- Plan Selection: Both the existing and new customers must select a qualifying plan. This typically includes Verizon’s unlimited plans, such as the Start Unlimited, Play More Unlimited, or Do More Unlimited plans.
- Phone Selection: Both customers can choose to upgrade their phones or keep their existing devices.
- Discounts and Promotions: Once the buddy upgrade is complete, both customers may be eligible for discounts and promotions, such as a discounted phone or a credit towards their bill.
Benefits of a Buddy Upgrade
So, why would you want to complete a buddy upgrade on Verizon? Here are some benefits to consider:
- Discounts and Promotions: As mentioned earlier, both customers may be eligible for discounts and promotions, such as a discounted phone or a credit towards their bill.
- Reward for Existing Customers: Existing customers can earn rewards for referring new customers to Verizon, such as a credit towards their bill or a free accessory.
- Convenience: The buddy upgrade process can be completed in one visit to a Verizon store or over the phone, making it a convenient option for customers who want to upgrade their phone or plan.
- Flexibility: Both customers can choose to upgrade their phones or keep their existing devices, giving them flexibility in their upgrade options.
Eligibility Requirements for a Buddy Upgrade
Not all Verizon customers are eligible for a buddy upgrade. Here are some eligibility requirements to keep in mind:
- Existing Customer: The existing customer must be in good standing with Verizon, meaning they must have an active account and be up to date on their payments.
- New Customer: The new customer must be a new line activation, meaning they cannot be an existing Verizon customer.
- Plan Requirements: Both customers must select a qualifying plan, such as Verizon’s unlimited plans.
- Phone Requirements: Both customers can choose to upgrade their phones or keep their existing devices, but they must meet Verizon’s phone requirements, such as being a 4G LTE device.
Common Questions About Buddy Upgrades
While we’ve covered the basics of buddy upgrades on Verizon, you may still have some questions. Here are some common questions and answers to consider:
- Can I complete a buddy upgrade online?: No, buddy upgrades must be completed in a Verizon store or over the phone with a Verizon customer service representative.
- Can I bring multiple friends or family members into the Verizon family at the same time?: Yes, you can complete multiple buddy upgrades at the same time, but each new customer must meet the eligibility requirements.
- Do I have to upgrade my phone to complete a buddy upgrade?: No, you can choose to keep your existing device or upgrade to a new phone.
How to Complete a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon
Now that you know the basics of buddy upgrades on Verizon, it’s time to learn how to complete the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Contact Verizon Customer Service: Reach out to Verizon customer service by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) or visiting a Verizon store.
- Let Them Know You Want to Complete a Buddy Upgrade: Inform the customer service representative that you want to complete a buddy upgrade and bring a friend or family member into the Verizon family.
- Provide Information About the New Customer: Provide the customer service representative with information about the new customer, such as their name, address, and phone number.
- Select a Qualifying Plan: Both customers must select a qualifying plan, such as Verizon’s unlimited plans.
- Choose a Phone: Both customers can choose to upgrade their phones or keep their existing devices.
- Complete the Upgrade Process: The customer service representative will guide you through the rest of the upgrade process, including setting up the new customer’s account and activating their phone.
Tips for Completing a Buddy Upgrade
Here are some tips to keep in mind when completing a buddy upgrade on Verizon:
- Make sure the new customer meets the eligibility requirements: Before starting the buddy upgrade process, make sure the new customer meets the eligibility requirements, such as being a new line activation.
- Choose a qualifying plan: Both customers must select a qualifying plan, such as Verizon’s unlimited plans.
- Take advantage of discounts and promotions: Both customers may be eligible for discounts and promotions, such as a discounted phone or a credit towards their bill.
Conclusion
A buddy upgrade on Verizon is a great way to upgrade your phone or plan while also bringing a friend or family member into the Verizon family. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can complete a buddy upgrade and take advantage of discounts and promotions. Remember to make sure the new customer meets the eligibility requirements and choose a qualifying plan to ensure a smooth upgrade process.
What are Buddy Upgrades on Verizon, and how do they work?
Buddy Upgrades on Verizon are a feature that allows eligible customers to upgrade their phone or device on their account without having to wait for their upgrade eligibility date. This feature is designed to provide more flexibility and convenience for customers who want to upgrade their device before their scheduled upgrade date. To be eligible for a Buddy Upgrade, customers must have an eligible plan and meet certain requirements, such as being a Verizon customer for a minimum amount of time and having a device that is eligible for upgrade.
When a customer uses a Buddy Upgrade, they can upgrade their device to a new one, and the upgrade eligibility date for that line will be reset to the date of the upgrade. This means that the customer will not be able to upgrade again until their new upgrade eligibility date, which is typically 12-24 months after the previous upgrade. Buddy Upgrades can be a great option for customers who want to take advantage of the latest devices and technology without having to wait for their scheduled upgrade date.
How do I know if I’m eligible for a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon?
To check if you’re eligible for a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon, you can log in to your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Once you’re logged in, you can check your upgrade eligibility status and see if you have any available Buddy Upgrades. You can also contact Verizon customer service directly to ask about your eligibility status. Additionally, Verizon will often send notifications to eligible customers when they have a Buddy Upgrade available.
It’s worth noting that not all Verizon plans are eligible for Buddy Upgrades. Typically, customers with a Verizon Unlimited plan or a Verizon 5G plan are eligible for Buddy Upgrades. Additionally, customers must have a device that is eligible for upgrade, and they must meet certain requirements, such as being a Verizon customer for a minimum amount of time. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, it’s always best to check with Verizon directly.
What are the benefits of using a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon?
One of the main benefits of using a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon is the ability to upgrade your device before your scheduled upgrade date. This can be especially useful for customers who want to take advantage of the latest devices and technology as soon as possible. Additionally, Buddy Upgrades can provide more flexibility and convenience for customers who want to upgrade their device at a time that works best for them.
Another benefit of Buddy Upgrades is that they can be a cost-effective option for customers who want to upgrade their device. When you use a Buddy Upgrade, you can often get a new device at a discounted price, and you may also be eligible for promotional offers and discounts. Additionally, Buddy Upgrades can help customers avoid the hassle and expense of buying a new device outright.
Can I use a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade multiple lines on my Verizon account?
Yes, you can use a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade multiple lines on your Verizon account. However, each line must be eligible for a Buddy Upgrade, and you must have enough available upgrades to cover all the lines you want to upgrade. Additionally, each line will have its own upgrade eligibility date, which will be reset to the date of the upgrade.
It’s worth noting that using a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade multiple lines can be a bit more complex than upgrading a single line. You’ll need to make sure that each line is eligible for a Buddy Upgrade and that you have enough available upgrades to cover all the lines you want to upgrade. It’s always a good idea to contact Verizon customer service directly to confirm your eligibility and to get more information about using a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade multiple lines.
Do I need to trade in my old device when I use a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon?
No, you don’t necessarily need to trade in your old device when you use a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon. However, trading in your old device can be a great way to get a discount on your new device. Verizon offers a trade-in program that allows you to trade in your old device for a gift card or a discount on your new device.
If you do decide to trade in your old device, you’ll need to make sure that it’s in good condition and meets Verizon’s trade-in requirements. You can check Verizon’s website for more information about their trade-in program and to get an estimate of the value of your old device. Additionally, you can contact Verizon customer service directly to ask about their trade-in program and to get more information about using a Buddy Upgrade.
Can I use a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade to a different type of device, such as a tablet or smartwatch?
Yes, you can use a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade to a different type of device, such as a tablet or smartwatch. However, the device you’re upgrading to must be eligible for a Buddy Upgrade, and you must meet the same eligibility requirements as if you were upgrading to a new phone.
It’s worth noting that not all devices are eligible for Buddy Upgrades, so you’ll need to check with Verizon to confirm that the device you’re interested in is eligible. Additionally, you may need to change your plan or add a new line to your account in order to upgrade to a different type of device. It’s always a good idea to contact Verizon customer service directly to get more information about using a Buddy Upgrade to upgrade to a different type of device.
What happens to my upgrade eligibility date after I use a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon?
After you use a Buddy Upgrade on Verizon, your upgrade eligibility date will be reset to the date of the upgrade. This means that you won’t be able to upgrade again until your new upgrade eligibility date, which is typically 12-24 months after the previous upgrade.
It’s worth noting that using a Buddy Upgrade will not affect your ability to upgrade in the future. You’ll still be eligible for upgrades at the same frequency as before, but your upgrade eligibility date will be reset to the date of the Buddy Upgrade. If you’re unsure about your upgrade eligibility date or have questions about using a Buddy Upgrade, it’s always best to contact Verizon customer service directly.