What a Verizon Transfer PIN is and when you need one

A Verizon Transfer PIN is a four-digit security code that prevents someone else from moving your phone number to a different carrier without your permission. You need this PIN if you want to switch to another wireless company — the new carrier will ask for it before they can complete the transfer of your number.

Verizon does not send you a Transfer PIN automatically. You have to request one yourself, either online, by phone, or in a store. The PIN is different from your account PIN (which you use to verify your identity when calling customer service) and different from your voicemail PIN.

If you lose or forget your Transfer PIN, you can request a new one at any time. There is no charge for getting one, and it does not expire until you use it or change it.

Key Takeaways

  • You request a Transfer PIN through My Verizon online, by calling Verizon customer service, or by visiting a Verizon store in person.
  • The PIN is a four-digit code that the new carrier will ask for when you switch your phone number away from Verizon.
  • You can request a new Transfer PIN at any time if you forget the old one, and there is no cost.
  • The PIN protects your number from being transferred without your knowledge, so keep it private and do not share it with anyone except your new carrier.

Getting your Transfer PIN through My Verizon online

The fastest way to get your Transfer PIN is through the My Verizon website or app. Log in with your Verizon account username and password. If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one at verizon.com using your phone number and account information.

Once you are logged in, look for the account or settings section. The exact location varies depending on whether you are using the website or the mobile app, but search for "Transfer PIN" or "port PIN" in the help section if you cannot find it when ready. Select the option to view or request your Transfer PIN. Verizon will display your existing PIN if you have one, or offer to create a new one.

If you are requesting a new PIN for the first time, Verizon will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions or verifying information on file. The PIN appears on your screen right away — write it down or take a screenshot, because you will need it when you contact your new carrier.

Requesting a Transfer PIN by phone

Call Verizon customer service at 611 from your Verizon phone, or 1-908-559-4899 from any phone. Have your account number and phone number ready. You can find your account number on your Verizon bill or in the My Verizon app.

Tell the representative that you need your Transfer PIN. They will verify your identity by asking for your account PIN, the last four digits of your Social Security number, or answers to security questions you set up on your account. Once verified, they will give you your four-digit Transfer PIN over the phone.

Ask the representative to repeat the PIN back to you to make sure you have it correct. Write it down when ready after the call, or send yourself a text message or email with the number so you do not lose it.

Getting your Transfer PIN in a Verizon store

Walk into any Verizon store with a photo ID and your phone. Tell the associate you need your Transfer PIN. They will look up your account, verify your identity, and provide the PIN on a receipt or write it down for you.

This method works well if you want to switch carriers the same day, because you can get the PIN when ready and hand it to the new carrier's representative while you are still in the Verizon store. Bring your ID and be prepared to wait if the store is busy.

What to do after you have your Transfer PIN

Once you have your Transfer PIN, contact the wireless carrier you want to switch to. They will ask for your phone number, account information, and your Transfer PIN. The new carrier will submit a request to Verizon to transfer your number.

The transfer usually takes between 24 hours and a few business days. During this time, your service may be interrupted for a few minutes while the number switches over. Keep your Verizon phone turned on during the transfer so the new carrier can set up your number on their network.

After the transfer is complete, your old Verizon service will stop, and your number will work on the new carrier's network. You may receive a final bill from Verizon for any remaining balance on your account.

Protecting your Transfer PIN from misuse

Your Transfer PIN is like a password for your phone number. Do not share it with anyone except the carrier you are actually switching to. Scammers sometimes call pretending to be from a wireless company and ask for your Transfer PIN so they can steal your number.

If someone calls you asking for your Transfer PIN and you did not initiate a switch, hang up and call your carrier directly using the number on your bill. Do not use a phone number the caller provides.

If you suspect someone has your Transfer PIN and you did not authorize a switch, call Verizon when ready at 611 or 1-908-559-4899 and ask them to lock your account or change your PIN. Verizon can also place a note on your account to prevent unauthorized transfers.

What happens if you forget your Transfer PIN

If you requested a Transfer PIN weeks ago and cannot find it, you can request a new one using any of the three methods above — online, by phone, or in a store. There is no limit to how many times you can request a new PIN, and each new request replaces the old one.

If you are in the middle of switching carriers and realize you do not have your PIN, contact your new carrier and ask them to pause the transfer request. Then get a new PIN from Verizon and provide it to the new carrier to resume the switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone transfer my number without my Transfer PIN?

No. Verizon requires the Transfer PIN before releasing your number to another carrier. Without it, the transfer request will be rejected. This is the main reason Verizon requires the PIN — it protects your number from being stolen.

Is my Transfer PIN the same as my account PIN?

No. Your account PIN is used when you call Verizon customer service to verify your identity. Your Transfer PIN is only used when switching to another carrier. They are separate codes.

How long does a Transfer PIN last before it expires?

Your Transfer PIN does not expire. It remains valid until you use it to switch carriers or until you request a new one. You can keep the same PIN for months if you want.

Do I need a Transfer PIN if I am switching from Verizon to a prepaid carrier?

Yes. Any carrier that wants to use your existing Verizon phone number will ask for your Transfer PIN, whether they are a major carrier like AT&T or T-Mobile, or a smaller prepaid company.

What if Verizon will not give me my Transfer PIN?

Verizon must provide your Transfer PIN if you request it and verify your identity. If a representative refuses, ask to speak to a supervisor or contact Verizon's customer service line. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission if you believe Verizon is blocking your ability to switch carriers.