Your monthly phone bill might soon be harder to escape. According to TheStreet, Verizon is asking the FCC to waive its rule requiring phones to be unlocked after 60 days.
If granted, the lock period could extend to six months or more. That would make it tougher for customers to switch providers without paying for a new device.
Verizon argues the move would reduce fraud, but critics aren’t convinced. Consumer advocates and former customers say it would stifle competition and make it harder to leave higher-cost plans.
Why locked phones cost you more
When your phone is locked, you can’t just insert a new SIM card and start using another network. You’ll often need to purchase a new device to switch.
New phones can cost anywhere from $200 to more than $1,000. That upfront cost keeps many people from leaving their current provider.
Let’s say you could save $30 a month by switching. Over two years, that’s $720 — but if you spend $800 on a new device, you lose most of those savings.
Verizon previously agreed to the 60-day unlock rule when it acquired 700MHz spectrum and later TracFone. TheStreet notes critics say the company should continue honoring that commitment.
Some customers also argue the proposed rule change helps promote new technologies. One FCC commenter warned that eliminating the requirement would limit access to services like Starlink, which rely on unlocked phones.
Know your unlocking rights
Federal law gives you the right to unlock your phone once it’s fully paid off. However, each carrier sets different requirements and timelines for unlocking.
- Verizon must currently unlock phones after 60 days unless the FCC approves the waiver
- AT&T requires full payment and good standing
- T-Mobile unlocks after 40 days of service and full payment
- Most prepaid carriers unlock after 12 months
Before switching, check your provider’s policy. Always request the unlock before canceling service, since it’s much harder to get help after your account is closed.
How to switch carriers without getting stuck
Start by checking your phone’s lock status. On iPhones, go to Settings > General > About. On Android, look under Settings > About Phone > Status.
Then compare deals from competing providers. Some plans cost as little as $15 a month for cell service. Click here to save a bundle.
Some carriers offer bill credits or will pay off your current phone balance, but read the fine print, especially around trade-ins.
The best time to switch is after your phone is eligible for unlocking but before your next billing cycle. This helps you avoid extra charges and gives you time to transfer your number.
Don’t cancel your current plan until your new carrier has finished porting your number. If you cancel too early, you could lose it.
How to stay in control
TheStreet reports that Verizon lost 289,000 postpaid phone customers in the first quarter of 2025 — the company’s worst-ever result.
During an April earnings call, CEO Hans Vestberg admitted that recent price hikes drove many customers away. The unlocking controversy followed shortly after.
If your plan feels too expensive, this may be a good moment to recheck your options. An informed switch can save you hundreds of dollars per year.
Know your rights. Check your contract. Don’t wait until you’re locked in to realize you’re overpaying for service.
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