Verizon Adds 35-Day Unlock Wait for Paid-Off Devices

Verizon has introduced a 35-day waiting period for unlocking paid-off smartphones purchased through its postpaid plans, depending on the payment method used to settle the balance. The policy, which took effect on January 27, applies to devices bought on installment agreements and affects customers who pay off their remaining balances online, through the My Verizon app, over the phone, at authorized retailers, or using Verizon gift cards.

Under the updated rules, customers who complete payments via these methods must wait 35 days before Verizon processes the unlock request. The carrier states that this delay allows time to verify funds, particularly for gift card transactions, to prevent fraud from illegal or fraudulent sources. Verizon did not provide a specific explanation for extending the wait to online, app, phone, or retailer payments, though a company spokesperson told reporters that the measure supports overall fraud prevention efforts.

Customers can avoid the delay by paying off their device balance in person at a corporate Verizon store using what the carrier designates as secure payment types. These include cash, credit cards equipped with EMV chips, or contactless...