Permanent end to Unlimited data.

I've finally figured out how Verizon is going to end unlimited data. Forever.
(I had this epiphany when posting this as a reply to a post on VW's timeline. So if you see it there and here, you're not going crazy.)
Okay, about 15 months ago, Verizon announcing they were ending unlimited data plans for new customers. But not to worry, all current customers with unlimited data would be able to keep it as they would be "grandfathered" in. The reality is Verizon could not just up and take away their Unlimited data without voiding their contract and allowing the customers to walk away without having to pay expensive early termination fees. So under the false premise of graciously letting them keep their plans, it continued for a year, with everything going smoothly.
Then VW announced the end of Unlimited data plans. Again. How so? All users who were on unlimited plans would not be allowed to upgrade (IE sign a new 2 year agreement with VW) and get a discounted price on a new phone and keep their unlimited data. BUT, they say, you can keep your unlimited data as long as you want (*wink wink*) if you just pay full price for a new phone. You just can't "upgrade" and get a discount.
What they don't tell you is it's not about the phone's discount. It's about the contract. They don't want you locking in 2 more years of unlimited data. SO the cutoff this year to upgrade and keep unlimited data was June (or was it July?) 28th. If you upgraded after that, you HAD to move to a tiered plan or the new Share Everything plan.
And that leaves us where we are today. Many people with unlimited plans will look at their usage and say "Eh, I only use a gig or so a month anyway, might as well go to the tiered plan and get a new phone". That leaves everyone else. Everyone who wants to keep unlimited are now, slowly but surely, going to be edging toward the end of their contract date. After that, they can keep unlimited, BUT they'll be paying month-to-month, with no contract. (Do you see where I'm going with this?)
What do you think will happen next? I can guarantee that within the next year, VW is going to announce the end of unlimited data for everyone. Period. They'll give a date, and all people paying month-to-month will either have to switch to a tiered plan, or find service elsewhere. Everyone who upgraded this summer before the cutoff on June (July?) 28th will finish out the duration of their contract, and then have to move to a tiered plan, or their service will be terminated. It makes sense. With all the old unlimited users out of contract, VW will be free to change the terms of service at any time. You either agree to it, or go elsewhere, and there's nothing you can do.
Opinions?

I think one of the issues they are going to see (and we are already seeing some of it on these forums) is how Verizon calculated data.  There are many posts in these forums about Verizon mimsrepresenting the data usage. My phone for example I have 2 different monitors on my phone plus the My Verizon Wireless app that monitors Data Usage. These 3 monitors will be within 100kb of usage at any given time of th emonth, yet the Verizon website shows almost 4 times the usage that these 3 monitors show, and the number posted in their website is what they use to calculate your usage and then the Overcharges.
Every month for the last 4 months I have called them about this and get 2 responses. the first is puzzling and is why does it matter, you have unlimited Data so it shouldn't matter what we reflect your usage as. and the other is, you are absolutely correct, there is a glitch in our measuring tool and it is not 100% accurate yet.
So for me, until I see that they are accurately reflecting the usage on their site etc... I will be sticking with my Unlimited plan as I do NOT plan on upgrading my phone anytime soon.
Now if they completely just say, Unlimited data is gone, then I will be forced to look at the Tiered plan, and keep accurate track of my usage with these monitors and escalate any differences to the correct people wither within Verizon or the PUC and or FTC.

Similar Messages

  • I dont want to lose my Unlimited data plan :(

    I been a VZN customer going on five years now, probably nothing compared to some of the other customers on here. I currently own a iPhone 4, my plan that i have is a 900min, unlimited data and text. I know since back in June, Verizon was ending the unlimited data plan and I'm pretty upset with that, which I am sure a lot of you are as well. I been thinking of what i can do besides buying a used 4G phone or paying full retail. I dont have a dummy phone or another line to upgrade, i have called VZN of different matters including my plan, apparently the new plans wouldnt be good fit for me in the sense of the tiered data plans, last month i used 10.5GB, I was like holy hell, i couldn't believe it haha. So I am stuck and i want a new 4G phone but i dont want to give up my unlimited data plan, believe or not i have read some articles online about how customers have been able to keep their unlimited data plan after June and upgrade to a new phone, i mentioned this to the Rep. and they mentioned that YES in some Super RARE occasions they have seen customers keep there old plans with new phones but no clue on how.
    So if there are any Reps reading this and can help me, Please respond or anybody have some thoughts.

    tikibar1 wrote:
    Some people are adding lines to their account and moving the new phone to the unlimited line, then placing a basic phone on the new line.
    To me that's silly. Ok it's $9.99 for the 2nd line. I my area with the taxes and fees, it's just under $14 per month. Basically $165 a year to get a phone at a discount. So if one keeps the phone 20 months did one save anything vs just paying full price upfront? Even if one saved as it worth all that hassle?

  • End of contract questions (Unlimited data+4G)

    I currently have 2 lines in my account. The main line is mine and the contract is up on 11/.07, while the secondary line is 12/04. I have been waiting for the new gen 4G and Galaxy Nexus to be announced before making a decision on what to upgrade my phone to. 
    Here are the questions I have:
    I have the unlimited data plan now. If I extend my contract with a 3G or a 4G phone that is currently on sale today then switch to Galaxy Nexus later in November, will I keep the unlimited data plan still?
    If I do not renew the contract, do I loose the loyalty discount + the unlimited data plan?
    Does switching from a 3G device to 4G device effect the data plan status at all (unlimted to 5g capped?)
    Thanks for the replies.

    stiglet wrote:
    I currently have 2 lines in my account. The main line is mine and the contract is up on 11/.07, while the secondary line is 12/04. I have been waiting for the new gen 4G and Galaxy Nexus to be announced before making a decision on what to upgrade my phone to. 
    Here are the questions I have:
    I have the unlimited data plan now. If I extend my contract with a 3G or a 4G phone that is currently on sale today then switch to Galaxy Nexus later in November, will I keep the unlimited data plan still?  As of right now, Verizon's policy is to allow you to keep the unlimited data feature as long as you keep a 3G or 4G smartphone active on your line.  It is possible that might change by November, but highly unlikely.  In any case, you would know if you could not keep the plan because Verizon would announce that they are ending the grandfathering and/or releasing phones that aren't compatible with the feature.  In general, I would expect to be able to keep your unlimited data pretty easily until Verizon finishes implementing the majority of its 4G network in 2013, but that's just my guess.
    If I do not renew the contract, do I loose the loyalty discount + the unlimited data plan? You won't lose your unlimited data.  Your plan will stay the same until you do something to change it, but you'll be on month-to-month status.  The loyalty discount expires 6 months after it becomes available (so two months after your contract ends).
    Does switching from a 3G device to 4G device effect the data plan status at all (unlimted to 5g capped?)  As far as I'm aware, unlimited is still unlimited.  The only change is that Verizon reserves the right to throttle the top 5% of users in congested markets during peak hours.  It doesn't neccesarily kick in at 5GB, and it won't affect you at all if you don't use a congested tower.
    Thanks for the replies.

  • End of contract is near, what happens to my unlimited data plan

    For past years I have upgraded my phone and signed a new contract, however since the last time I agreed to a contract Verizon did away with upgrading and keeping your unlimited data plan, so need-less-to-say I haven't upgraded. I have the Nation wide 1400 friends & family plain with unlimited data, My family plan also has 2 other users, all with different end dates, however my line is the one with unlimited data, and my contract ends soon. my question is; will I lose my unlimited data at the end of my contract? or will I keep it so long as I don't sign a new contract, or can I agree to another term without upgrading.

        I can understand your concern dibeck but our current plans can also work for your needs. You can perform a pricing plan analysis online via MY verizon http://bit.ly/xB4iTc  to check wich one of o ur shared data plans would be perfect for your family. Check ou t the plans here http://vz.to/1lwOwRQ . You can also keep your unlimited data by ying a phone at full retail.
    KinquanaH_VZW
    Folow us on Twitter @vzwsupport

  • When does 29.99 unlimited data end?

    I am eligible for an upgrade in early September. I'm seeing different dates for when the unlimited data for 29.99/m is going to end. One answer I saw was that it was ending in February of this year and it obviously has not. Does anyone know when the offer is going to end? I saw that AT&T offers a few different data packages but I have no idea which one is the best choice. Any help is appreciated.

    droid-geek wrote:
    AZSALUKI wrote:
    The unlimited data is not in your contract so they could drop it and it doesn't invalidate the contract at all.....it's a feature that we can add our drop at any time.the only thing that is for 2 years is the actual calling plan that you signed. You could activate an old phone now and drop your data if you wanted, and they can change it if they want.....but they likely won't.
    Really?  So my contract plan does not require me to have a data package on it with my smart phone?  Funny, I distinctly remember reading something about that in it. By what you state I should be able to just call them up and tell them I want to cancel the data plan on my phone and they will.
    Yes, it does require you to have a data package, but doesn't specify WHICH data package. Just that it has to be $29.99 or above.
    Edit: The same way that it does not specify which minute plan you must have, but you will not be able to cancel the minute plan without paying the ETF. You CAN change the minute plan, though.

  • Is there anyone here with an unlimited data who has,,,,,

    1....bought(at full price) a tablet, and switched between the tablet and phone as you would switching two phones without losing your unlimited plan
    2....signed up for the 1 month hotspot for $30 (for 1 month only, like say for vacation), and using your unlimited plan with the hotspot, without losing your data plan, of course
    i have talked to no less than 8 reps at different times and have gotten yes and no answers equally. it is not so much about trying to see if it works,,,it's about getting the unlimited data plan BACK if they f**k up

    I have never called customer service to activate or remove the hotspot feature. If I can do it online, I will use that method before calling. I have had a VZW rep on the forum help me future date a removal once because the website wouldn't let me have the feature removed at the end of the current billing cycle so it wouldn't be on the next billing cycle. That didn't last long so I have kept the hotspot feature activated since then.

  • Unlimited data

    After talking to a supervisor, finally got my unlimited data plan re-instated. Took some talking, but it was worth it. We both agreed that a smartphone is a smartphone, and that I changed nothing in my plan (family plan) to warrent my losing the unlimited data. I kept my Droid X and made it my back-up phone. It never did lose the unlimited data plan, only my LG Spectrum. But now, even my Spectrum has unlimited data.

    Until they offer a shared plan for families that allow for a family to share about 5 gig a month for 50 bucks or less it is a total ripofff-kids in college and HS never go over the VZ net always wifi and same with workers only road warriors use a lot of road air time via VZ net and so We pay 90 a month-yes one unlimited and me with a dumb phone I refuse to upgrade as I will get added another 30 for 120 a month plus 90 for 700 voice pus 30 for text and stuff (Which if kids would use email on iPhones they would not  pee money away on texts etc as they could use the date on their 3 gig. but its absurd to pay for reach phone and it burns the users on either end- a parent who uses 3 gig who has 2 kids who use 0;.1 giig should hardl bye paying more than 90 a month-do they think that families can pay now 270 a month for cell -250 for FIOS--I mean its a good service but somebody will sffer share and then they will jump in-they have claimed to plan to add data share for now over 6 months and keep milling it as VZ is famous for=-BILL CREEP--I love their network but their corporate monkeys are just awful awful people who care nothing about loyalty-only about ripping me off every step of the way--it is always a chore to be sure I am not overpaying-always-the guy just tried to have me upgrade on my wife's phone and that would have forced me into a smart phone and I dont want more data at 30 a month-the col.is breaking my budget and I am about to toss them out for US cellular and god forbid ATT? OYE!

  • How long does it really take to get my unlimited data plan back?

    So Wednesday morning I go into a local Verizon owned-and-operated store to buy a Galaxy S5 on installment plan, like I did for my GS4 a year ago. Get talked into an Edge phone plan and the More plan, and they get that unlimited data plan off my line as fast as possible and then find that I can't get Edge for another 3 weeks. So we revert the changes (in theory), less than half an hour after the original change.
    So I'm just standing there reading twitter and waiting for them to fix the situation and get me back to where I was when I walked in. I was actually willing to go ahead and buy a GS5 on installment plan (as I'd wanted to when I came in), but they *really* did not want me to do that. They got the voice plan back, and put me on a 2GB plan (which is 1/3 of my average usage), telling me I'd be back on my unlimited plan with hotspot service "by the end of the business week."
    Today as I'm checking at the end of the business week, no sign of my data plan or hotspot service. The folks on the social media team tell me that my service might be crippled for another 10 days while an offline team tries to fix what the folks in the store broke.
    Am I really out of luck for two weeks? I got a GS5 on T-Mobile with 5GB of data, which will get me by... TMO didn't seem offended that I wanted a GS5. But if I have to "be careful" with my data (as the store manager put it) on Verizon for two weeks, I may as well forward the phone and power it off.
    At least I know never to set foot in this particular Verizon store again... last year they wouldn't sell me a GS4 "in case someone came in and wanted to upgrade" so I went to another nearby location. If my plans get unbroken, I'll either go to that other location or check eBay for my GS5.

    Think of this and be amazed. If Verizon is trying its best to get customers off unlimited data by any means possible, and quite frankly tell you once you purchase any device on subsidy or the Edge program you lose unlimited. Now the Worry Free Guarantee states within 14 days if you change your mind you can pay a $35 restocking fee, and go back to your old plan.
    However they no longer offer unlimited data so they give you this line of it has to be set back manually (inactive price request) and then it gets denied. Then they say it has to be submitted again for approval and then it gets denied. So why have a worry free guarantee?
    And think to yourself, a plan they can remove in minutes takes them weeks to give back? They don't give it back. Search the forum.
    Good Luck

  • If you have unlimited data and plan to upgrade "BE WARNED"

    This is just an FYI to all those who may fall into the trap I did. I wish I had know about this prior so I would have made my choices accordingly.
    VSW has changed the upgrade plans for those with older unlimited data plans. If you use a line upgrade to get a smartphone that line not only gets the 24 month contract but you will also be forced into a min of $30/month data plan.
    I have 3 phones on my account. 1 of them have unlimited data and the other two are simple flip phones (no data).
    For 3 years I have used one of these non-data plan lines to upgrade the smartphone and then would move the phone to the unlimited line and the flip phone back to the non-data line. This worked great as my 2 non-data lines had contracts that ended on opposite years.
    This last time I upgraded, In January, I explained to the sales person what I wanted to do, they told me they do this all the time and they would take care of it.
    My Feb bill was a bit higher than I expected so I called support. I showed them the $30 data fee and how I did not want this on a flip phone. They stated oh yes we understand, will fix it and credit you. Perfect I thought. Sure enough March's bill came and the credit was there but the $30 data charge had not been removed. I called support again and this time they dropped the hammer on me.
    My credit was an "Inconvience" credit, it was a range of $3-$8 per line, it was not a reversal of the $30 data charge. This is when I find out that VZW has now changed thier smartphone plan upgrades for accounts who are on grandfarthered in plans. If I switch to thier current plan, ie lose my unlimited data then they are more than happy to remove the data charge. So now I'm stuck paying $30 a month for the next 22 months = $660 in charges for something I will not use. A full contract 24 months $30/month is $720 which is more that the cost of most smartphones.
    If this is your situation please be sure you have all the facts prior to getting tricked into a contract worth more that the darn phone you get for "FREE!!!!"

    According to VZW support this was a policy change in 8/14, 7 months ago(ish), I'm not claiming this is brand new but I am telling others who have been with VZW for many years and still like the less expensive package they have had for those many years need to be aware that this is the rule now. In attempts to force those long term customers to go to a more expensive plan that offers far less service they have implemented this.
    I do understand this policy now and certainly will no longer use the upgrades however I wanted to offer my story as a heads up to any other potential person from running into this situation.

  • Regrets giving up unlimited data

    I have had the unlimited data plan for 2 years or so. however when I was renewing my plan months ago the customer service agents told me that to get the cell phone for the discounted prices you have to give up the unlimited plan. Then they stated convincing me about how the average American user barely uses 2Gb a month, and that from my previous usage history it's obvious that I will never need more than 6 Gb/m and my bill will be even cheaper. However, all of that turned out to be absolutely untrue. If I would go back in time I would definitely pay the full price for the phone just to keep my unlimited plan.
    Now, I have been trying to live with this plan for months and it's unbearable, one month I had to upgrade from 4Gb to 6Gb and then to 8Gb and I am still about to exceed my limit and the bill was huge. I honestly don't mind paying too much if I would feel like am getting something back in return, but to pay $300+ on a phone bill and be so anxious and cautious about the limits and usage etc. is just so frustrating. Whenever I am streaming a video or looking up something online, I have to check my Data usage. Assuming that I upgraded to 12Gb and my bill got to be $350-400, I would understand paying that much to have some peace of mind and not having to keep tracking and being anxious about exceeding the limits.
    The thing is we all agree Verizon is the best service in the market, the best in everything but what's the point of have such awesome service when you can't even use it? Especially that with these new smartphones, the best part is to stream and be online when you are away from home, because if am at home I would just use my laptop or tablet. They keep talking about the best and the fastest 4G service, oh but hold on you can use it only to browse every now and then or maybe stream a very short video or use navigation. But not to stream anything for more than 15mins, otherwise you have to look for a hotspot at Starbucks or McDonalds,  oh and also you still have to pay the most expensive bill in the market.
    I have actually recommended Verizon to a lot of my friends and family members, I got my uncle and his family and my brother and his family to end their contracts with their previous carriers and to switch to Verizon. Sarcastically, I am the one now thinking about leaving, even though I don't want to, but when I see that I am paying $300 a month and not getting anything in return, but phone calls and text mess. and barely any 4G.
    After a lot of thinking, I ended up calling customer service to see what would I owe if I was to end the contract, I have been asked to pay $1000+ in termination fees. What is going on with Verizon, how do you guys treat your customers like that, at least give you customer options when they want to stay with you. I won't mind my bill being $350, 400, or even $450 if I would feel like am getting something in return, but to still be on the limited plan, this is nonsense. What is the problem if Verizon was to offer an unlimited plan to whoever wants it for extra money, and when you talk to the agents about it they say they had to make it limited so that they will be fair to whoever isn't using much data and to not force them to pay for the unlimited. Now they are forcing us to stay on the limited data. I would like to pay more and stay on the unlimited why won't u let me choose that. Oh no, you have to stay on the limited plan and at the same time you can't leave because of the $1000+ termination fees. So, either not use your phone or we will hit you with termination fees. Choose one or the other but no other options. I believe what they have done now is the most unfair, talking about trying to make it fair to other customer who don't use much is nothing but justification to an unfair process. If you wanted that, you could have just added a new plan where you can limit your data and pay less, but at least don't take away our options of having unlimited plan and leave it for whoever is ready and willing to pay more. Because whatever I do, even If I upgraded to 20Gb and my bill is $500 am still limited and can't stream as much as I want.
    End of the story, my bill did not get much cheaper as I was told, (maybe $30 cheaper or so), on the other hand I lost the most valuable thing about being with Verizon which is the 4G. All I can say is that I feel like I am using my smartphone just to make phone calls, text messages and maybe some browsing or Nav and my bill is $300. Is this what Verizon calls fair? I would rather get a prepaid phone through any carrier with unlimited text and calls and just use the internet through any Hotspot (which is what I am doing now) and my bill will be 1/3 what I am paying now. However, I am stuck with them for two years because of the $1000 termination fees. I would just like to mention again that I don't want to leave Verizon but they are forcing us to, because of their unfairness. Also, if you can't offer your customers a resolution for their issues, don't ask them to pay a termination fee of $1000+, because you guys aren't offering alternative services. WHAT ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO?
    << Comments edited to comply with Verizon Wireless Terms of Service.  Please keep your posts family friendly >>
    Message was edited by: Verizon Moderator

    "$1000 termination fees" tells me you have multiple lines, as a single smart phone is only $350 ETF at the beginning of the contract, pro-rated -$10 a month each month you are into your contract.
    You obviously are not a new customer, did you not have a 4G phone before?  If your using up 6-8+gb a month, it might be time to stop streaming Netflix all day.

  • Can you upgrade an non smartphone line to the iPhone 5, than move it to an unlimited data line?

    Here's what I'm trying to do:
    We have three iPhone 4's and two basic phones (5 lines total).  I want to upgrade the basic phones to the iPhone 5 with a 2gb option, then when they come, move those phones to the lines that currently have unlimited data, then move the basic phone back to the other lines, and then cancel the 2gb option.
    Would that work?
    I've been told it would, but then a csr told me it wouldn't.  That the data option travels with the phone. 
    Any thoughts?
    Thanks!

    Here's my scenario and what I was told.
    If anyone is on an older family plan like I am, here's the solution that came straight from Verizon customer service. You can call them to verify.
    I'm currentyly on the 1400 minute family plan. Have 2 smartphones (with Grandfathered unlimited data) and 2 basic phones on the plan. We wanted to upgrade and of course like everyone did not want to lose unlimited data. So I called Verizon 3 or 4 times and threatened to leave when finally I got to the right person.
    First, you have to be eligible for upgrade. Transfer or use the upgrade for one of the basic phones on the basic phone line. You'll have to go through the whole process of selecting data for that phone etc... Select the minimum for everything. If you order online your total should come to $349 for the 32gb i5 after taxes and fees. Once you receive the iPhone, you'll activate it on the basic phone line. Then turn straight around and reactivate the basic phone on that same line. The plan will go back to a basic plan for that phone and will leave the i5 open to use on any other line on your plan. Then just transfer your phone line to that phone and you're all set. No change in that lines plan, just a change in phone, thus your unlimited data remains.
    Double bonus for me, I'm on a promotional $9.99 per month for unlimited data on my line. It doesn't end until Feb. 2013 so I don't loose that either!
    Only question I have now after reading other posts and forums is do I actually activate the phone to the basic phone line or once I receive the phone do I activate it on my smartphone line? Seems to be conflicting opinions on this!!
    ***UPDATE: 9/20/12  9:54am EST
    Just had a chat with Verizon online. Below is what I was told:
      info: Please hold for a Verizon Wireless sales
      representative to assist you with your order.  Thank you for your
      patience.
      info: You are now chatting with 'Faith'
      Faith: Hello. Thank you for visiting our chat
      service.  May I help you with your order today?
      Chris: Hi I recently received advice from customer
      service about a method to use to keep my unlimited data for the smartphone
      lines. After reading some of the forums i'm seeing conflicting info. I'd like
      to verify with you what I was told
      Faith: The only way to keep that unlimited data
      will be to buy the phone at full retail price
      Chris: I was told by 2 different reps that i could
      update one of the basic phone lines on our plan to the iPhone 5
      Chris: then when i get the phone activate it on the
      basic line
      Chris: then, reactivate the basic phone on that line
      and it would open up the i5 to use on any other line
      Faith: Yes you can do that as well if that line
      has an upgrade you can put it on the line that has the unlimited data and
      keep that
      Chris: the conflicting comments i see is do I activate
      the i5 on the basic line once i receive it and then switch it over to the
      unlimited data line?
      Chris: Or when i get the phone can i just activate it
      on the unlimited data line?
      Faith: You will activate the phone on the line with
      the unlimited data when you get the phone however you will need to call into
      customer service to do so
      Chris: and in doing that i will NOT lose my unlimited
      data? Because i'm not changing that lines plan. Just the phone. Is that
      correct?
      Chris: Still there?
      Faith: Yes I am here and no you will not lose the
      data that is why you need to call in once the phone comes and let customer
      service activate it for you
      Chris: Gotcha. Thank you so much for the help. Last
      question. Once i activate the phone on my unlimited data line, do i have to
      do anything on the basic line or will nothing change for it since the i5 was
      not activated on that line?
      Faith: That line should remain the same since it
      will not be activated on that line. Are you ready to begin and I will help
      you?
      Chris: I haven't received the i5 yet. Status says it's
      scheduled to ship Oct. 5th. I've already ordered based on the other reps
      telling me about this process to keep the unlimited data. I just wanted to
      make sure this was acurate prior to activating the phone when i receive it.
      Faith: Do you have any further questions today?
      Chris: No you have been very helpful. Thank you for
      all the help!!
      Faith: It has been my pleasure to chat with you
      today! Please feel free to re-open the chat session if you need further
      assistance . Thank you and have a great day!
      Faith: Sorry

  • Have you been successful porting your number and keeping unlimited data?

    Hi , I am trying to save money by getting rid of my texting plan($20) and having Google Voice as my SMS provider. I want to keep my number so I will port my number to GV. For a 1-time fee of $20. The Problem is that during the process some people lose their UNLIMITED DATA package. I, of course don't want this to happen. I have searched the interwebs and found that this forum had the good information on it.
    https://community.verizonwireless.com/thread/779321?start=0&tstart=0
    https://community.verizonwireless.com/thread/779321?start=80&tstart=0
    See post # 3 and # 85 for detailed instructions. I was in the process of doing it but Google Wallet denied my transaction because I needed to verify my account. This process takes 3 days. So I will wait and try again. I would like to know if the rest of the verizon community has been succesful or has regretted doing this.
    I feel that this process should work and would like to keep this discussion open so other people can do the same. We all know sms and voice mins are cheap and carriers are just milking money from data plans.
    PS. I felt # 85 was really straight forward
    Joined the community to thank the OP - and to add in another success story. Before I start my 'experience share', I think its pertinent to mention that I have the Galaxy S4 [Android]
    Started the GV Port on Monday at about 3PM. Provided GV with personal details, phone number, billing PIN (you can set one up or change your current PIN on the VZW website after logging on to your account) and my account number (excluded the -00001 after my account number as suggested by other posters on this thread). Google charged me $20 to complete the port.
    On Tuesday morning, approximately at about 11AM, I logged into my VZW account and requested a new number (VZW's website states that this process is free if done online). At this time, my GV Port status showed "Number Change Pending". Once the new number was assigned to me by VZW (the number is issued instantly), I had to turn my phone off and wait a few minutes before turning it back on. When I turned my phone back on, it showed that the new number was active (no VZW notifications - just tried a test call from my landline).
    Almost 24 Hours down to the minute (so at about 3PM on Tuesday), I got an email from GV stating that my port was complete. On the GV website, I then added in my new number (under Settings>Phones), and set all calls (and texts) to forward to my new number. GV walked me through a couple of programming steps - and confirmed that my GV calls would be forwarded to my new VZW number. Please note that if you want GV to pick up your VM's, then you will need to activate Google voicemail on the GV website (Settings>Phones). Else, VZW voicemail will end up picking up your calls - and a message like "this user has a VM box that has not been set up" will play.
    I also opened up the GV app on my phone and changed the settings to "Make all calls through Google Voice". Also, I turned off the 'Messaging' app, and set the GV app as the default app for handling all texts.
    As of now, I can make and receive calls via the setup described above. Folks receiving calls from me see my GV number on their displays (so no need to update folks with my new number), and when I receive calls on my GV number, my VZW phone displays the number of the person trying to reach me (so no updating my contacts list). Low priced international calls, desktop-based texting, unlimited storage of texts/VM's/call-logs, here I come!
    My texts arent working yet, but GV states that it takes about 3 days before texting becomes active. When it does, I'm hoping that all texts will be routed via the GV app (I'm fairly certain that it will)
    Other things to note:
    Banking Apps: Some banking apps that require verification codes to be sent via text might stop working. I just got an email from BOFA this morning asking me to reverify my mobile number. Need to fix this once GV texting becomes active
    Messaging: Existing texts on your device cannot be backed up/imported into GV. That said, Google Play has a couple of free apps that backup your entire message archive under a separate label within your Gmail account
    Hope this helps someone else out there in taking the plunge. Seems like the process is fairly straightforward unless you decide to skip some steps or if you are impatient and try to change things too quickly (I would really urge you against skipping steps, hurrying things up, etc. GV is completely automated, and getting "support" is almost impossible).
    All the best!"

    You won't lose your unlimited data as long as your account stays active and you don't purchase a subsidized phone. I just did this yesterday and it took just a few minutes over 24 hours to port my number over to GV. I still have unlimited data. I pretty much followed the instructions you have above except I waited about 7 hours to get a new number from VZW just to make sure there were no hiccups. VZW says you may get some overages if you change your number immediately as opposed to on the first day of your billing cycle because they prorate your minutes and texts used. Luckily I have unlimited everything so it didn't make a difference for me. I'm planning on going over to T-Mobile. My home is a dead zone for cell phones and I always have a weak signal and sometimes don't get my calls. I figure if I'm going to pay for an unsubsidized phone, I might as well go with a company that has wifi calling and a cheaper unlimited plan. I pay $94/mo before taxes with VZW; I'll only be paying $59.50 with T-Mobile for the same plan with 2.5 GB tethering included. T-Mobile here in LA is pretty good and even if I don't get LTE, I can fall back on their HSPA+ network, which is way better than VZW's crippled 3G network. No regrets porting over. The ONLY way I'll stay with VZW is if they allow me to keep my unlimited data (not going to do Verizon Max) and get a subsidized phone. CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW VERIZON?

  • UNLIMITED DATA PLANS! PLEASE BRING IT BACK VERIZON TO EVERYONE!

    I think Verizon should bring back the Unlimited Data Plans because, many students uses so much Data for Videos for their homework and Videos takes up so much Data and there is no way an average family can afford to pay over $100 for a 20GB more Data plan and I think it would nice of Verizon if they would bring back the Unlimited Data Plan around $59/month at least because there are some people that need it for their homes. If you would also offer Unlimited Data Plan to the Mifi service, this would be a big competition with DSL and Cable providers for home internet. When families uses so much Data for Netflix or Rhapsody and Crackle, it takes so much Data and it is important for families to have Unlimited Data Usage for this entertainment. Verizon, I am going to say this, people like me does not like to be limited on how much we use the Internet. I am thankful even on my phone I have the Grandfather Unlimited Data Plan but if you ever take it away from me, I will leave Verizon and switch to Straight Talk. I have many friends I can tell and stir up some stuff with Verizon if this ever happens to me because, my Unlimited Data Plan means so much to me, the only reason I am bringing this up, to help other people who needs it too. I think Verizon has the best Coverage of all than any other provider but all I am asking is, do not take my Unlimited Data Plan from me and please bring it back for other people who needs it. Thanks so much time your time and support. Verizon Wireless Customers, please leave comments, I would love to hear your comments and thanks and have a Great Day!  

    Why are fixed income families on the most expensive carrier? Let alone owning smartphones.
    I don't agree with tiered data either way. I wish they would do like a flat cap of 10gb for x amount of dollars and if you go over that, then you pay more. Put a data cap that no one can realistically hit without absuing, i mean REALLY abusing the service.
    There is a disadvantage to unlimited data though, the person who is streaming and downloading all day can ruin it for a whole bunch of people in that area. But hey, they don't care, as long as they get theirs right? On one end, we have the happy user paying 30 bucks a month and doing like 200gb per month, while everyone else in the area has to suffer with sub par speeds because of this one individual.
    Normal counter arguments is that the premiums are high, ceo gave him self a raise, vz is in the big profits, unlimited means unlimited no matter what, and a couple others I forget. They're valid points, and i do agree that the ceo could take some of his yearly earnings and put some of it back in the network. At the same time though, aren't projects like building cell towers done on a contract basis normally? So even if he is making ridiculous bank, it would be a moot point if he had already paid for the work to be done to the network.
    Government isn't gonna do squat because it's each and every company's right to structure their plans how they wish and charge however much they wish.
    Again, complaining doesn't do anything. Disconnect.

  • Penalizing long term customers for keeping their unlimited data plan is unwise an business

    Dear Verizon President and Employees,
    I have spoken to three Verizon employees via the phone today who have failed to be able to tell me why I should stay with Verizon. You see I have a very small portion of my plan that is unlimited data, I have it because I have been a long time customer. I don't use a lot of data but when I got I thought I would never use any data. Times change people change in fact my family has changed and I was thinking of adding another line to my account for my son. Maybe at xmas I will buy a tablet but I need to update my phone. I found out that if I tried to upgrade my phone I would lose my unlimited data package plan. Now I understand why Verizon no longer carries an unlimited plan. I actually have worked for a competeing wireless company and they don't offer the plan either. So yes I can understand telling people its a grandfathered plan and we honor our loyal longtime customers who have that plan by continuing to carry the plan as long as they don't remove it from their accounts. I Can understand why if you switch to the convenience of the mobile share plan you couldn't switch back. What I can't understand is why you are forcing your long time customers to question why they should be with you. I don't use huge amounts of data right now but I have been happy not having to worry about my plan and after all I have spent a lot of money with Verizon wireless over the years. In fact lets do a little math I have spent on average on my single line at least $120 a month for the last six years (I am being conservative its probably more like 150 but I think we should be conservative) that's 8640 to Verizon for the last six years... I am looking at wanting another line (Probably will add 50 a month to my phone bill) I am thinking about adding a tablet at xmas. I understand I have to get a separate data plan for the tablet or I would lose my unlimited data another 40 so saying I wanted my two year contract that's almost 200 a month for the next two years in fact lets say its an even two hundred  that's $4800 you would get from me for the next four years. Am I such an unimportant customer you would sacrifice that for $300-400 on a phone? It doesn't make good business sense. If I am going lose my plan when I am already shelling out that much money I should look at other carriers who don't penalize their long time customers by saying you can only keep your plan buy paying full price on a phone. You see its dumb your taking away your own juicy carrot. As long as I had something with you I knew I couldn't get with anyone else I wasn't going to look at another service provider. I can get a limited data package plan anywhere and there are very competitive offers. Customers should be able to choose when they want to drop their plans... not be penalized into doing so. Why do you offer a discounted price on a phone? Because the customer is signing a contract they will stay with you for two years. You are guaranteed to get those fees. You have already told me it doesn't have to to do with the phone... if I can bring my own phone to the plan. It has to do with trying to bribe people if you want this phone at this price you have to give up your unlimited data... sadly its a poor choice... I can get that phone at a nice price and give up my unlimited data by going somewhere else... I will pay the same price and you... you will lose  not only my money but loyalty... all because I wanted 400 off a phone like your other people get when they sign a 2 year contract and to stay my current plan. Yes I know that you said 95% of people use 2 GB or less that may be true but I want the freedom to be able to choose I am an individual not 95%. And I should be important as a customer. I have been a customer for a long time. My current contract ends in October, So again I ask why should I stay loyal to a company who doesn't stay loyal to its long time customers.
    Sincerely
    Candice M.

    It comes down to money and profits.
    The juicy carrot of unlimited is still there. But you buy the device at full price. You pay no upgrade fees and you have no contract. The data costs are not carrots but gardens of green. (money) Those same 95% are now seeing huge overage fees and that is more green to the company and the stock holders.
    Sprint & T-Mobile offer unlimited data but their buildouts of 4G LTE are way behind Verizon & AT&T so you may not want their service. AT&T has no unlimited and price and coverage wise are almost identical so no savings there.
    Loyality is an over used word. You are a customer like everyone else, no distinction is made because you paid $5,000 or $2,000 it just depends on what service is right for you.
    I never take subsidize devices, I don't like contracts and personally I use Verizon for the coverage and I think I have called them less than five times over 30+ years for any service requests or anything.
    America is profit generated and you have to remember that. When the customers leave in droves due to lower costs at another provider that is when Verizon will take a long look at trying to get customers back. But that will be many years in the future
    Good Luck

  • Canadian Using NationWide Canada + 29.99 Unlimited Data Plan

    I think this question has been answered before, however I just finished talking to 2 seperate customer service reps online and I get a different story.
    I live in Canada but work in the US quite frequently.
    I use a Rogers Digital One rate for Canada and the US but am interested in switching to
    Verizons NationWide + Canada 900 plan and the 29.99 unlimited data.
    I understand that I can use the phone anywhere in canada and the us without roaming charges up to 900 mins.
    However can I use the unlimited data package with this plan in CANADA and not get charged any additional fees?
    The $2 per meg...
    Both customer service reps told me there we no additional fees for data in canada.. unlimited..
    Is there anyone who has experience using these 2 plans, and data in Canada? Do you or do you not get charged extra??
    Thanks!

    And this again from another live chat rep, I also asked him to ask a manager.
    Next step to see what the 1800 number rep says...
    Getting frustrating to find a consistent answer.
    Please wait for a Verizon Wireless sales representative to assist you with your order. Thank you for your patience!
     A Verizon Wireless online pre-sales specialist has joined the chat. You are now chatting with Zachery
    Zachery: Hello. Thank you for visiting our chat service.  May I help you with your order today?
    Jason: I'm abit confused about a plan.. I'll explain as best as I can
    Zachery: ok
    Jason: I want the NationWide Plus 900 Canada plan and The Unlimted Email and Web Browsing on a droid x
    Jason: I live in canada, work in the US so I want to use the phone in both countries.
    Jason: my main question is:
    Jason: When I am in Canada and use DATA will I be charged anything extra other than the 29.99
    Jason: I have had 4 reps here tell me I will not be charged.. however I went to the store and the rep tells me I will be charged $2 meg and suggests I use some Global data plan for 64.99..
    Zachery: No there will be no extra and you can add the canada plan through customer service after you order.
    Jason: so the rep at the store is wrong?
    Zachery: To my knowledge, yes. Calling customer service would be the best way to find out though because it will have to be added through them if the data plan he was talking about does exist.
    Zachery: 1-800-922-0204
    Jason: so your telling me I do not need to have this Global Data plan while I am in canada, the 29.99 unlimted data plan will not cost me anything extra while I am in Canada... I will call the number you gave me
    Jason: providing I have the Nationwide Plus Canada 900 plan too
    Zachery: Yes, that is what our info says but yes that number would bet the final call you will need to make.
    Jason: Do you have a manager by any chance you could ask this question 2. I am just getting a little fustrated at the different answers I get
    Zachery: I can ask them but the number will still be the best way to find out.
    Zachery: It is not handled in our dept so we only have limited info.
    Jason: If you could ask I would appreciate. I will also call the number
    Zachery: Yes she said there would be no extra charge
    Jason: ok thanks I will call.
    Zachery: Thank you for visiting Verizon Wireless, I look forward to speaking with you again.  Have a great day!
     Your chat session has been ended by your Verizon Wireless online agent.

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