Verizon has officially updated its device unlocking policy, extending the waiting period from 60 days to 365 days for certain devices. The new rule applies to phones activated on or after January 20, 2026.
Previously, most Verizon devices were automatically unlocked 60 days after activation. Under the updated policy, eligible devices must now complete one full year of paid, active service before they can be unlocked.
The longer waiting period affects phones purchased through Verizon’s prepaid and value-brand carriers, including:
- Verizon
- TracFone
- Simple Mobile
- Straight Talk
- Total Wireless
- Visible
- Walmart Family Mobile
What This Means for Customers
Customers who activate a qualifying device on or after January 20, 2026, will need to maintain continuous paid service for 12 months before the device becomes eligible for unlocking. If service is suspended or payments are missed, eligibility may be delayed.
Devices activated before January 20, 2026 generally remain under the previous 60-day unlocking policy.
The updated policy is reflected on Verizon’s official device unlocking page as well as TracFone’s unlocking policy website.