Verizon is temporarily scrapping its $40 activation fee for customers who purchase a new smartphone through the carrier’s online store. The credit appears on the first or second bill after the order ships, effectively eliminating the hidden cost that often shows up at checkout. Shoppers must add a line on one of Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Ultimate plans to qualify.

Because activation fees have become a routine surcharge, the waiver gives price‑sensitive buyers a tangible break, especially when paired with Verizon’s existing handset promotions. The carrier markets the deal as a way to score a “truly free” device once a new line is activated under its unlimited bundles. Credits post within one to two billing cycles, so savings show up quickly.

Consumers who act before the promotion expires can lock in a Verizon $40 saving without altering their monthly plan price. While Verizon hasn’t disclosed an end date, the limited‑time nature pushes shoppers toward immediate purchase, reinforcing the carrier’s strategy of bundling service contracts with device incentives. The offer effectively lowers the total cost of entry for new subscribers.