What is Total by Verizon?

What is Total by Verizon?

Total by Verizon is a prepaid wireless service brand offered by Verizon Communications. It provides customers with affordable mobile phone plans that do not require a contract or credit checks. Total by Verizon is designed to cater to customers who want the reliability and coverage of Verizon’s network but without the commitment or higher prices of traditional postpaid plans. It offers a variety of plans, including data, talk, and text, with options for unlimited data.

2. What Happened to Total by Verizon?

It is still active as a prepaid brand, but there has been some rebranding and consolidation of Verizon’s prepaid offerings. Total Wireless, another prepaid brand under Verizon’s umbrella, was previously seen as a separate entity. In 2021, Verizon started aligning its various prepaid services under the Total by Verizon name, making it easier for customers to identify it as a part of Verizon’s portfolio.

The brand Total Wireless was rebranded to Total by Verizon, aiming to offer a more unified prepaid experience and provide customers with Verizon’s nationwide coverage without the need for long-term contracts or high prices. This is part of Verizon’s broader strategy to streamline its prepaid service offerings.

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3. Is Total Compatible with Verizon?

Yes, it is fully compatible with Verizon’s network. Since it is owned by Verizon, Total by Verizon customers have access to Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE and 5G networks (depending on their plan and coverage area). The brand is specifically designed to provide the same reliable coverage and performance as Verizon’s postpaid services, but at a more affordable price and with flexible prepaid plans.

4. Who Owns Total by Verizon?

Total by Verizon is owned by Verizon Communications, one of the largest wireless service providers in the U.S. Verizon Communications owns several other wireless brands, including Verizon Wireless (its postpaid service) and TracFone Wireless, which also offers prepaid plans under various brands like Total Wireless, Straight Talk, and others.

Verizon acquired TracFone Wireless in 2021, which helped bring Total Wireless (now) under Verizon’s umbrella as part of its broader prepaid portfolio.

5. Is Total by Verizon Really Unlimited?

It offers unlimited plans as part of their prepaid lineup, but it’s important to understand the details:

• Unlimited Data: Many of the plans feature unlimited data, but there are data deprioritization clauses. This means that while your data will not be capped at a specific amount, your speeds may be slowed down during times of network congestion, similar to how some postpaid carriers handle unlimited data plans.
• Other Limits: Some plans may have data limits for high-speed data (e.g., 20GB or 30GB of high-speed data), after which speeds may be reduced. So, while you can access data “unlimited,” there might be some restrictions on high-speed access after a certain threshold.

So, it is really unlimited in terms of the basic access to data, but be mindful of data deprioritization during high traffic periods and limits on high-speed data.

6. Who is the CEO of Total Wireless?

The CEO of Total Wireless (now rebranded as Total by Verizon) is part of the Verizon leadership team. However, specific executive titles for individual brands like Total Wireless may not always be publicly listed because it operates as a subsidiary under the broader Verizon umbrella. As of the latest information, Hans Vestberg is the CEO of Verizon Communications, the parent company of Total by Verizon.

7. Is Total by Verizon a Contract?

No, it operates on a prepaid basis, meaning there are no contracts involved. You can pay for your plan on a monthly basis, and you’re free to change or cancel your plan at any time without facing early termination fees. Prepaid plans are ideal for customers who prefer to have control over their spending and avoid the long-term commitments associated with traditional postpaid services.

8. Does Total by Verizon Have 5G?

Yes, Total by Verizon offers 5G connectivity, provided you are on a compatible plan and device. Verizon’s 5G network is available in many areas, and users with 5G-enabled devices can access Verizon’s nationwide 5G coverage if they’re on an eligible plan.

It has been gradually rolling out access to 5G for prepaid customers as part of its effort to bring high-speed network access to a broader range of users. Check the specific plan details and your location for availability, as 5G coverage may vary depending on your area.

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Pros and Cons, Pricing, Where to Buy

Pros

1. Nationwide Coverage on Verizon’s Network: It uses Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE and 5G networks, offering reliable coverage and fast speeds, which is a major benefit over many other prepaid carriers. Verizon is widely recognized for having one of the most reliable networks in the U.S., particularly in rural and suburban areas.
2. No Contracts: As a prepaid service, Total by Verizon does not require a long-term contract or credit check. You can switch or cancel plans at any time without facing any early termination fees, making it an excellent option for customers who want flexibility.
3. Affordable Plans: Total by Verizon offers competitive pricing compared to traditional postpaid Verizon plans. While not always the cheapest prepaid service, it provides great value for users who want to take advantage of Verizon’s network without the high price tag.
4. Multiple Plan Options: Total by Verizon offers a variety of prepaid plans that can cater to different needs, including:
   • Unlimited talk, text, and data plans.Data plans with varying amounts of high-speed data (e.g., 5GB, 15GB, 30GB).International options for calls and data when traveling.
   You can choose between low-data options or unlimited data plans, depending on your needs and budget.
5. 5G Access: Depending on your device and plan, you can get access to Verizon’s 5G network. If you have a 5G-compatible phone, you can enjoy faster speeds where 5G coverage is available.
6. Family Plans: Total by Verizon offers family plans, which can help save money for multiple users. Family plans typically offer discounts per line, making it an economical option for families or groups who want to share a plan.
7. Easy to Manage: The app makes it easy to manage your account, view usage, pay bills, and more. It provides a user-friendly experience for customers who prefer to manage their prepaid accounts online.

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Cons

1. Data Deprioritization: While many Total by Verizon plans offer unlimited data, the data may be deprioritized during times of high network traffic. This means your speeds could slow down if Verizon’s network is congested, especially if you’re using a lot of data in busy areas or during peak times.
2. Limited High-Speed Data: Some plans come with a fixed amount of high-speed data (e.g., 5GB, 15GB, or 30GB), and once you hit that limit, your speeds will be throttled. Even with the unlimited data plans, once you exceed a certain data threshold, your speeds may slow down, especially if you’re in a congested area.
3. Higher Prices Compared to Other Prepaid Services: Although Total by Verizon provides great coverage, the service can be more expensive compared to other prepaid providers like Mint Mobile, Visible, or Metro by T-Mobile, which often offer lower prices for comparable data and services.
4. Limited International Options: While Total by Verizon offers some international calling options, the global coverage is not as extensive as some competitors. If you frequently travel internationally, you may find that other carriers provide better international data and calling rates.
5. Limited Features for Lower-Tier Plans: Some of the lower-priced plans, especially those with limited data, lack extra features that can be found in premium plans, such as mobile hotspot capabilities or streaming benefits (e.g., Netflix or Disney+ subscriptions) offered by postpaid carriers.
6. Device Compatibility: Though Total by Verizon works on Verizon’s network, not all devices are compatible. If you bring your own device, make sure it’s unlocked and supported on Verizon’s network, particularly if you’re using a non-Verizon device.

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Pricing of Plans

The pricing for Total by Verizon plans varies based on the level of service and data you choose. Here are some of the typical pricing options (though prices may vary slightly by region and promotions):

1. Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data Plans:
   • $30/month: Includes unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of high-speed data (after 5GB, speeds may be reduced).
   • $40/month: Unlimited talk, text, and 15GB of high-speed data (with potential deprioritization after 15GB).
   • $50/month: Unlimited talk, text, and 30GB of high-speed data (with deprioritization after 30GB).
   • $60/month: Unlimited talk, text, and unlimited high-speed data (may still be deprioritized during network congestion).
2. Low Data Plans:
   • $25/month: Includes 500MB of high-speed data (after that, speeds are throttled).
3. Family Plans:
   • Discounted pricing for family members on select plans. For example, each additional line on a family plan might cost between $10–$20 per month, depending on the plan.
4. International Plans:
   • International calls and data may incur additional charges or may be included as part of specific international add-ons or plans. It’s best to check Total by Verizon’s website for international pricing options.

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Where to Buy

You can purchase Total by Verizon plans and devices from several locations:

1. Online:
   • Verizon’s official website: You can view, compare, and purchase Total by Verizon plans directly from Verizon’s website.
   • Total by Verizon website: Total’s own website also offers a direct way to check out available plans, sign up, and buy phones.
   • Amazon: You can also find Total by Verizon SIM cards and phones on Amazon.
2. Physical Retail Stores:
   • Verizon Stores: Total by Verizon is available at Verizon stores across the country. Verizon employees can help you choose a plan and set up your service in-store.
   • Best Buy: Best Buy sells Total by Verizon SIM cards, devices, and accessories.
   • Target: Target offers Total by Verizon devices and plans at some locations and online.
   • Walmart: You can find Total by Verizon prepaid phones and SIM cards at many Walmart locations.
3. Third-Party Retailers:
   • Retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club may also offer Total by Verizon plans and devices, sometimes with additional discounts.

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Care Tips

To make the most of your Total by Verizon service, here are a few care tips:

1. Keep Your Account Up to Date: Since Total by Verizon is a prepaid service, make sure to top up your account before your payment cycle ends to avoid service interruptions.
2. Monitor Your Data Usage: If you’re on a plan with limited high-speed data, it’s important to keep track of your usage through the Total by Verizon app or your online account to avoid slow speeds after your high-speed data limit is exceeded.
3. Device Compatibility: If you’re bringing your own device, ensure it’s unlocked and compatible with Verizon’s network (LTE and 5G). You can check device compatibility on the Total by Verizon website.
4. Take Advantage of Family Plans: If you have multiple users, consider adding family members to your plan for discounted rates.
5. Check for Promotions: Verizon occasionally offers discounts or promotional pricing on Total by Verizon plans, especially around holidays or special events. Be sure to look for these offers if you want to save money.

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Conclusion

Total by Verizon offers a great option for those who want Verizon’s reliable network without the high cost of a traditional postpaid plan. It’s ideal for users who prefer prepaid plans with no contracts and flexible options. With affordable pricing, nationwide coverage, and the option to use 5G, it’s a strong choice for budget-conscious customers. However, you should be aware of possible data deprioritization during peak times and limits on high-speed data in some plans.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to access Verizon’s robust network, it is a solid option. Just make sure to consider your data needs and check for any applicable promotions to get the best deal.

• Ownership: Owned by Verizon Communications.
• Prepaid Service: No contracts, no credit checks, and flexible payment options.
• Network Compatibility: Uses Verizon’s network for coverage (4G LTE and 5G where available).
• Unlimited Plans: Offers unlimited data, but with possible deprioritization and data speed reductions after a certain amount of high-speed data usage.
• 5G: Available on 5G-enabled devices with eligible plans.
• Plans: Prepaid, month-to-month, no commitment, and a variety of options to suit different data needs.

It offers a convenient option for users who want reliable coverage and flexibility at an affordable price, but with some limitations on high-speed data and possible deprioritization during peak network times.