Verizon plans explained simply: Verizon currently offers two main categories you can sign up for, current unlimited plans and prepaid plans, while older unlimited plans and shared data plans are retired and can no longer be added to new accounts. This breakdown covers what is available now, what each plan includes, and what to know about grandfathered options so you can pick the right fit for your needs and budget.
Verizon plans explained: what's available now
Verizon documents its plan options in four groups: current unlimited plans, older unlimited plans that can no longer be added, prepaid plans, and shared data plans that can no longer be added to accounts. If you are a new customer or adding a line, your choices are the current unlimited lineup or a prepaid plan. Existing subscribers on older plans can keep using them, but those plans are no longer open to new activations.
Current Verizon unlimited plans
Verizon’s current unlimited plans are marketed as “Unlimited 5G” and include optional perks for entertainment, travel, shopping, and more. These plans are managed through the My Verizon website and the My Verizon app. For example, the Unlimited Ultimate plan includes Identity Secure and Verizon Family Plus, and it is managed under “My Verizon Website - Manage Plan” and “My Verizon App - Manage Plan.” Unlimited Ultimate 1.0 was retired on 5/7/26, and the current Unlimited Ultimate differs from that older version by including Identity Secure, Verizon Family Plus, and more. During times of high network congestion, your data speeds may be temporarily slowed down on unlimited plans.
You can control video streaming quality and mobile hotspot use directly in My Verizon online, the My Verizon app, or by calling customer service, provided your plan offers that option and your device supports it. For video, 4K UHD streaming is available on capable smartphones inside the 5G Ultra Wideband coverage area, and 720p HD streaming is available inside 5G and 4G LTE coverage areas when turned on by the customer; otherwise, streaming defaults to lower resolutions. Mobile hotspot and tethering are permitted but limited to the amount of data allocated with your plan.
Verizon prepaid plans
Verizon prepaid plans are pay-in-advance with no credit check, deposit, or long-term contract. They include voice, text, data, and mobile hotspot on a wireless device. Prepaid plans offer the ability to bring your own device. To set up a prepaid plan as a new customer, Verizon’s prepaid FAQs are the current support entry point. Service is managed through prepaid support pages, though the available documentation does not include a specific app menu path or an exact device compatibility list. When comparing your options, keep in mind that prepaid gives you flexibility without a contract, while the current unlimited lineup offers more premium features and perks.
Older Verizon plans you can no longer add
Verizon has retired several older plans that cannot be added to accounts. These include shared data plans, specifically the Shared Data Plan 5GB and Shared Data Plan 10GB, which are described as 'Data for you or to share with your family,' as well as older unlimited plans such as The Verizon Plan Unlimited, 5G Start, 5G Play More, 5G Do More, and 5G Get More. Current subscribers on these plans can still use their respective FAQs for support and plan management. If you are already on one of these grandfathered plans, you can keep it, but switching to a current plan means you cannot return to the older option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own phone to a Verizon plan?
Yes, Verizon supports a wide range of devices, including both Android and iOS smartphones. Before switching, check that your phone is compatible with Verizon’s network to ensure it will work properly.
How do I switch between Verizon plans?
You can switch plans at any time through the My Verizon website or app. Keep in mind that moving to a current unlimited or prepaid plan is straightforward, but once you leave a grandfathered plan, you cannot return to it.
Are there additional fees beyond the monthly plan price?
Yes, your monthly bill may include device payments if you are on an installment plan, plus taxes and surcharges. Review the plan details and terms to understand all associated costs before signing up.
What is the difference between Verizon prepaid and current unlimited plans?
Prepaid plans require no credit check or contract and are pay-in-advance, making them a flexible, budget-friendly option. Current unlimited plans offer premium features like 5G Ultra Wideband access, optional perks, and plan management through My Verizon, but they typically involve a credit check and a postpaid billing arrangement.
Can I still use an older unlimited plan if I already have one?
Yes, if you are a current subscriber on a grandfathered plan like The Verizon Plan Unlimited or 5G Get More, you can keep using it. Verizon still provides support FAQs for those plans, but they cannot be added to new accounts or reactivated once changed.
For the wider topic, see Verizon and prepaid plan options.
