How Hard Is It To Switch From Cricket Wireless To Verizon - Complete Guide

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Switching from Cricket Wireless to Verizon isn't hard at all—in fact, it's one of the easiest carrier transitions you can make. The process typically takes 15-30 minutes and can be done entirely online or over the phone. However, before making the jump to Verizon's expensive postpaid plans, consider Visible, which runs on the same Verizon network for just $25/month with taxes included.

The Simple Switching Process

Switching from Cricket Wireless to any Verizon-based carrier follows the same straightforward process. You'll use something called number porting, which transfers your existing phone number to your new carrier while automatically canceling your Cricket service.

The entire process involves three main steps: gathering your account information from Cricket, choosing your new carrier and plan, and initiating the port. Most people complete this in 15-30 minutes, though the actual number transfer can take up to 24 hours to fully complete.

You won't need to visit any stores or wait for new SIM cards to arrive if you choose an eSIM-compatible carrier like Visible. The process happens entirely through apps or websites, making it remarkably convenient.

What You'll Need Before Switching

Before starting your switch, gather your Cricket account information. You'll need your Cricket account number, which appears on your monthly bill or in the Cricket app under account settings. You'll also need your account PIN or password—the 4-digit security code you set up when joining Cricket.

Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Verizon's network. Most modern phones work across all carriers, but it's worth checking compatibility on your new carrier's website. If your phone is locked to Cricket, you can request an unlock through Cricket's customer service once you meet their unlock requirements.

Have a backup payment method ready since you'll be setting up service with your new carrier. Credit cards work best, though many carriers now accept debit cards and bank transfers.

Why Visible Beats Direct Verizon

Here's where most people make a costly mistake: they assume switching to Verizon means paying $65-90+ monthly for postpaid service. Instead, Visible offers the exact same Verizon network for just $25/month, taxes included.

Visible earned our highest rating at 10/11 because it combines Verizon's excellent coverage with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. You get unlimited talk, text, and data with mobile hotspot included. The service runs on Verizon's premium network, not a deprioritized version.

The switching process to Visible is actually easier than going directly to Verizon. There's no credit check, no annual contract, and no store visit required. You can port your number from Cricket and activate service entirely through Visible's app in under 20 minutes.

Compared to Cricket's AT&T network, you'll likely see improved coverage and data speeds, especially in rural areas where Verizon significantly outperforms AT&T. The $25 monthly cost is often comparable to or less than Cricket's unlimited plans, but with much better network performance.

Alternative Carriers to Consider

While Visible tops our rankings, other carriers might better suit specific needs. US Mobile (9.5/11) offers incredible flexibility with build-your-own plans starting around $15/month. They provide access to all three major networks, including Verizon, letting you choose the best coverage for your area.

Tello (9.5/11) runs on T-Mobile's network and offers plans from just $8/month. If T-Mobile has strong coverage in your area, Tello provides excellent value with unlimited mobile hotspot and transparent pricing. Their customer service consistently receives high marks from users.

For those wanting to stick with Verizon's network but needing cheaper options than Visible, US Mobile's Verizon plans start around $25/month for lighter data users. Twigby (7.6/11) also uses Verizon and offers good customer service, though at higher prices than our top picks.

Step-by-Step Switching Guide

Start by choosing your new carrier and plan. If you're following our recommendation, visit Visible's website or download their app. Select your plan—there's really only one choice at $25/month—and proceed to the checkout process.

When prompted, select "Keep my current number" or "Port my number." Enter your Cricket account number and PIN when requested. Double-check this information carefully, as errors will delay the porting process.

Complete your order and payment setup. If you're using an eSIM-compatible phone, you can activate immediately. For physical SIM cards, wait for delivery before proceeding, though many carriers now offer same-day pickup at local stores.

Once you receive confirmation that your port is complete, test your new service by making a call and sending a text. Your Cricket service will automatically cancel once the port finishes—you don't need to call Cricket to cancel.

What Happens to Your Cricket Service

Cricket automatically cancels your service when your number successfully ports to another carrier. This means you won't be charged for overlapping service or need to make a separate cancellation call. However, you're still responsible for any remaining charges on your Cricket account.

If you're on a monthly plan, you won't receive a refund for unused days in your current billing cycle. Cricket prepaid plans work this way—you pay for the full month upfront. Annual plan customers may be eligible for partial refunds, but you'll need to contact Cricket customer service to discuss your specific situation.

Your Cricket phone number becomes active on your new carrier typically within a few hours, though complex ports can take up to 24 hours. During this transition period, you might experience brief service interruptions.

Common Switching Challenges and Solutions

The most common issue people encounter is incorrect Cricket account information. Double-check your account number and PIN before starting the port. If you're unsure about your PIN, call Cricket customer service at 1-800-CRICKET to verify or reset it.

Phone compatibility occasionally causes problems, especially with older devices. Before switching, verify your phone supports Verizon's LTE and 5G bands. Most phones sold in the past five years work across all networks, but it's worth confirming.

Some users experience delays if they're switching during peak times or if there are issues with their Cricket account, such as past-due balances. Ensure your Cricket account is in good standing before initiating the port to avoid complications.

Network Performance Comparison

Switching from Cricket's AT&T network to Verizon typically results in noticeable improvements, especially in rural and suburban areas. Verizon consistently ranks highest in independent network studies, offering better coverage in 70% more geographic area than AT&T.

Data speeds often improve significantly after switching to a Verizon-based carrier like Visible. While Cricket throttles speeds during network congestion and limits video streaming quality, Visible provides full-speed access to Verizon's network with minimal restrictions.

Rural coverage sees the most dramatic improvement. Verizon's network reaches many areas where AT&T has weak or no coverage, making this switch particularly beneficial for users in smaller towns or countryside locations.

Cost Analysis: Cricket vs Verizon Options

Cricket's unlimited plans range from $40-60/month depending on features and autopay discounts. Verizon's direct postpaid plans cost $65-90+ monthly for similar service levels, making them significantly more expensive than your current Cricket plan.

This is precisely why Visible makes the most sense. At $25/month with taxes included, you'll likely save money compared to Cricket while getting superior network performance. Over a year, that's $180-420 in savings compared to Cricket's plans, and $480-780 saved versus direct Verizon service.

US Mobile provides even cheaper options if you use less data, with plans starting around $15/month on Verizon's network. Their build-a-plan approach lets you pay only for what you actually use, potentially saving heavy users and light users alike.

Best Phone to Pair With This Plan

If you need an unlocked phone that works perfectly with Verizon-based carriers, we recommend the Google Pixel 9a. It's our top budget phone pick for 2026:

• Works with all US carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T networks)
• Supports eSIM + physical SIM for easy switching
• 7 years of software updates
• Excellent camera and battery life
• Around $499 unlocked

View Pixel 9a on Amazon →

Timing Your Switch

You can switch from Cricket to a Verizon-based carrier at any time without early termination fees or penalties. However, timing your switch strategically can maximize value from your current Cricket payment.

Since Cricket operates on a prepaid model, you pay for service upfront each month. Switching mid-cycle means losing those prepaid days, so many users prefer switching close to their renewal date. However, the monthly savings from switching to Visible often outweigh losing a few days of Cricket service.

If you're on Cricket's annual plan, the calculation becomes more complex. You might want to contact Cricket about partial refunds before switching, though their policies typically don't favor early departures from annual commitments.

Customer Service and Support

One advantage of switching to Visible is their modern, app-based customer service approach. Unlike traditional carriers with long phone wait times, Visible provides support through their app's chat feature and social media. Response times are typically much faster than Cricket's phone-based support.

US Mobile offers excellent customer service with real human agents available via chat, phone, and email. Their support team consistently receives high ratings for helpfulness and technical knowledge.

Traditional Verizon postpaid service includes in-store support at thousands of locations nationwide, but you'll pay significantly more for this convenience. Most technical issues can be resolved remotely, making the premium for in-person support unnecessary for most users.

The Bottom Line

Switching from Cricket Wireless to Verizon is incredibly easy—the hard part is choosing the right Verizon-based option. Skip expensive postpaid Verizon plans and go with Visible instead. You'll get the same excellent Verizon network coverage for just $25/month, saving hundreds annually while enjoying better service than Cricket's AT&T network. The entire switching process takes under 30 minutes through Visible's app, and you'll keep your current phone number throughout the transition.

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