How do I fix a new Verizon SIM that only allows emergency calls?
Answer
Emergency calls only after a plan change usually means the new SIM is not seated, not activated, or the phone is still reading stale SIM data. Reseat the SIM, wait a few minutes after reboot, confirm Mobile network is on, and verify the phone shows the new Verizon SIM number before contacting Verizon if the line still is not provisioned.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Stop if a site or popup asks you to pay to unlock service or install unknown software.
- Do not factory-reset or remove Google accounts just to fix emergency-calls-only service.
Follow these steps
Reseat the new Verizon SIM
Power the phone off, remove the Verizon SIM, then reinsert it so it sits flat in the tray with the contacts facing the correct way.
You should see: The tray closes fully and the SIM is not loose.
Wait after powering on
Turn the phone back on and wait 2 to 3 minutes without switching SIMs or turning on Airplane Mode repeatedly.
You should see: The phone finishes searching for service and updates the status bar.
Turn on Mobile network
Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and make sure Mobile network is turned on.
You should see: Mobile network is enabled and the phone begins registering again.
Confirm the phone shows the new SIM number
Open Settings > Connections > SIM card manager, or About phone > Status information, and check whether the ICCID or SIM number matches the new Verizon card instead of the old one.
You should see: The status screen shows the new SIM identity.
Set network operators to automatic
Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and set Mobile network operators to automatic if that option is available.
You should see: The phone selects Verizon automatically instead of staying on a manual operator.
Check signal and contact Verizon if needed
Look for normal signal bars. If it still says emergency calls only or still shows the old SIM number, contact Verizon with the new SIM ICCID and ask them to activate or refresh the line on this device.
You should see: Either regular service appears, or Verizon confirms the SIM provisioning next step.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Emergency calls only on the status bar, the SIM number shown under SIM card manager or Status information, and whether Mobile network is turned on.
Before you change anything: Keep both the old and new SIM labels until service works. Note the account phone number and the new SIM ICCID from the card packaging. Do not factory-reset the phone just to fix emergency-calls-only. Sign in only through official Verizon channels if account help is needed.