How to get Autopay Discount on your Verizon Bill without providing your bank account number

As many Verizon users are now aware, Verizon recently made a change requiring customers to link their bank accounts to continue receiving the Autopay discount (or use the Verizon credit card). Unfortunately, simply linking a debit or credit card no longer qualifies for the discount.

This change has raised concerns for users who rely on Verizon’s coverage but are hesitant to provide direct bank account information. With frequent data breaches in the telecom industry, it’s no wonder people feel uneasy about sharing such sensitive details.

But don’t worry—TheFrugalFella has found a clever workaround that lets you enjoy the Autopay discount without sharing your bank details directly with Verizon!

The Solution: Use PayPal to Pay Your Verizon Bill

Here’s how you can bypass linking your bank account while still receiving the Autopay discount:

1. Create a PayPal Account (if you don’t already have one):
   Sign up for a free PayPal account here. PayPal is a secure platform, and creating an account is quick and simple.
2. Sign Up for the PayPal Debit Card:
   Once you’ve set up your PayPal account, apply for the PayPal Debit Card. This card is free and links directly to your PayPal balance. (Bonus tip: PayPal’s debit card offers 5% cashback on a category of your choice every month. We use it for groceries, and it works with Instacart and meal delivery kits like HelloFresh—but more on that in another post!).
3. Obtain PayPal’s Account and Routing Numbers:
   Once your PayPal Debit Card is active, PayPal will provide you with an account number and a routing number. You can find these by clicking on “More Details” in your PayPal Balance section. In this section select “Enable Payments.” to enable ACH payment using your Paypal Balance.

4. Enter PayPal’s Account Info into Verizon Autopay:
   In the Autopay section of your Verizon account, enter PayPal’s account and routing numbers as if you’re entering a regular bank account. We named the “bank” Bancorp, as this is the institution that manages most PayPal-related accounts.

5. Maintain a PayPal Balance:
   When your Verizon bill is due, ensure there are enough funds in your PayPal balance. We usually load money into our PayPal Balance account instantly by using our bank debit card linked to Paypal (for extra security we lock/unlock the Debit Card whenever is needed through our bank mobile app), using the Paypal balance only to pay for the Verizon bill and groceries. This method keeps our actual bank account details separate from Verizon.

Why This Method Works

This workaround leverages PayPal’s banking features to protect your main bank account information. PayPal acts as a buffer, allowing you to pay Verizon through a “bank account” that’s really just your PayPal balance.

Conclusion

This method offers a secure way to retain your Autopay discount without handing over sensitive bank details to Verizon. By using PayPal, you get both security and flexibility, along with a nice cashback bonus if you use the PayPal Debit Card for other purchases.