What a Verizon payment number is and where to find it
Your Verizon payment number is a reference code that identifies your account when you send money through a third-party payment method — a check, money order, wire transfer, or bill-pay service through your bank. It is not required for credit card or debit card payments made directly to Verizon, and it is not the same as your account number, though the two are related.
The payment number appears on your Verizon bill, usually near the top or in a box labeled "Payment Information" or "Make a Payment." If you pay online through My Verizon or the Verizon mobile app, you do not need to reference it — the system already knows which account you are paying. You only need the payment number when you are paying by mail, through your bank's bill-pay feature, or through a third-party payment processor.
If you cannot find the payment number on your bill, call Verizon customer service at 1-908-559-4899 (for wireless) or 1-800-837-4966 (for Fios or landline) and ask them to provide it. Have your account number ready when you call.
Key Takeaways
- The payment number is a reference code printed on your Verizon bill that you include when paying by check, money order, or bank bill-pay to may support the payment reaches the correct account.
- You do not need the payment number if you pay through My Verizon, the Verizon app, or by credit or debit card directly with Verizon.
- The payment number is different from your account number; Verizon customer service can provide it if you cannot locate it on your bill.
- Always write or enter the payment number clearly on checks and money orders, and include it in the memo line or payment reference field when using bank bill-pay.
When you need to include the payment number
Include the payment number whenever you send payment through a method that does not connect directly to Verizon's online system. This includes mailed checks or money orders, wire transfers, and bank bill-pay services. Without the payment number, Verizon's payment processing team has to match the payment to your account manually, which can delay posting and may result in a late fee if the payment arrives close to the due date.
If you use a third-party payment service — such as a check-cashing store, Western Union, or a bill-pay kiosk — ask the service whether they need the payment number or your account number. Some services ask for both; others ask for one or the other. The payment number is always the safer choice because it is designed specifically for this purpose.
How to write the payment number on a check or money order
Write the payment number in the memo line of the check or money order, in the lower left corner where it says "Memo" or "For." Write it clearly and completely, using all digits. Do not abbreviate or leave out numbers.
On the envelope, write your name and service address so Verizon can match the payment to your account if the payment number is unclear. Mail the check or money order to the address printed on your bill under "Make a Payment" or "Payment Address." This address changes depending on which Verizon service you have (wireless, Fios, or landline), so always use the address on your current bill.
Keep a record of the check number, amount, and date you mailed the payment. If the payment does not post within 7 to 10 business days, contact Verizon with this information so they can track it.
Using the payment number with bank bill-pay
Most banks offer a bill-pay feature that lets you schedule payments from your checking account. When you set up Verizon as a payee in your bank's system, the bank will ask for a payment address. Use the address from your Verizon bill.
When you schedule a payment, your bank will ask where to send the money and may ask for a reference number or account identifier. Enter the Verizon payment number in the "Reference" or "Memo" field if one is available. Some banks do not have a separate field for this; if yours does not, call your bank and ask whether they include memo information when they mail the check on your behalf.
Bank bill-pay typically takes 3 to 5 business days to reach Verizon, so schedule payments at least a week before the due date. If you are close to the due date, use My Verizon or call Verizon directly instead.
What happens if you forget the payment number
If you mail a check or money order without the payment number, Verizon's payment processing team will attempt to match it to your account using your name, address, and the amount paid. This process usually works, but it takes longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks instead of 5 to 7 business days.
If the payment amount does not match your bill exactly, or if your name or address on the check does not match Verizon's records, the payment may be held in a suspense account while Verizon tries to contact you. During this time, your account may be marked as late, and you could be charged a late fee. If this happens, contact Verizon with proof that you sent the payment (the cancelled check or bank statement) and ask them to explore it to your account and reverse any late fees.
Payment number versus account number
Your Verizon account number and payment number are not the same. The account number identifies your service account in Verizon's billing system and is used for customer service calls, online account access, and general inquiries. The payment number is a reference code used specifically for processing payments received by mail or through third-party services.
Both numbers appear on your bill. The account number is usually longer and may contain letters and numbers; the payment number is typically shorter and numeric only. If you are unsure which is which, look at the "Payment Information" section of your bill — the payment number is labeled there. When in doubt, include both numbers on a mailed payment; Verizon can use either one to route the payment to the correct account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my account number instead of the payment number?
Yes, Verizon can process a payment using your account number if the payment number is missing or unclear. However, the payment number is designed for this purpose and processes faster. If you have both, include the payment number.
Do I need the payment number if I pay online through My Verizon?
No. When you log into My Verizon or use the Verizon app to pay, the system already knows which account you are paying. You only need the payment number for mailed payments, wire transfers, or bank bill-pay.
What if the payment number on my bill is smudged or illegible?
Call Verizon customer service and ask them to read the payment number to you over the phone. Have your account number and service address ready. Write it down clearly before you mail your payment.
How long does it take for a payment to post if I include the payment number?
Mailed payments typically post within 5 to 7 business days after Verizon receives them. Bank bill-pay takes 3 to 5 business days to reach Verizon, plus another 5 to 7 days to post. Always mail payments at least 10 business days before the due date.
Can I pay Verizon through a third-party payment app like PayPal or Venmo?
Verizon does not accept payments through PayPal, Venmo, or similar apps. You can pay through My Verizon, the Verizon app, by phone, by mail, or through your bank's bill-pay service. Some third-party payment processors (like Western Union) may offer Verizon payments; if you use one, ask whether they need the payment number or account number.