tech
February 14, 2026
Verizon imposes new roadblock on users trying to unlock paid-off phones
Verizon unlocks have 35-day waiting period after paying off device plan online.
TL;DR
- Verizon now requires a 35-day waiting period for postpaid customers to unlock devices after paying off installment plans through the app or online.
- Previously, the 35-day wait was mainly for payments made with Verizon gift cards.
- Immediate unlocks are reportedly only possible by paying off the device plan at a Verizon corporate store using specific secure payment methods.
- The policy change has been implemented with an effective date of January 27, despite the update occurring this week, suggesting retroactive application.
- Consumer advocates criticize the delay for online payments and the retroactive nature of the policy change.
- Verizon's prepaid devices have a simpler policy, requiring 365 days of paid and active service for unlocking, though some documentation suggests unlocks require a request.
- This change follows the FCC's elimination of a 60-day automatic unlocking requirement.
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