Verizon Outage (Jan 14, 2026): What Happened + How to Claim the $20 Credit (Safely)

Last updated: Jan 17, 2026

TL;DR

Verizon had a major U.S. wireless outage on Jan 14, 2026 (voice/text/data issues; many devices showed “SOS”).
Verizon says affected customers can get a $20 account credit by accepting it inside the myVerizon app (you’ll get a text when it’s available).
If you use Verizon-owned Visible, there’s a $5 credit offer (separate from Verizon’s $20).
Watch for scams: only claim credits via the official app/site—never through random links.

What happened (and why “SOS” showed up)?

On Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026, Verizon customers across the United States reported widespread service disruptions. Many people couldn’t place calls, send texts, or use mobile data. On iPhones, a lot of users saw “SOS” or “SOS only”, which typically appears when your phone can’t connect to your carrier but can still attempt emergency calling.

Verizon said the issue was resolved later that day, though the company’s public updates focused more on restoring service and customer relief than on detailed technical causes.

How to claim Verizon’s $20 outage credit (step-by-step)

Important: Verizon says you’ll typically receive a text message when the credit is ready, and you redeem it by accepting it in the myVerizon app. Business customers are handled separately.

Open the myVerizon app (or log in on Verizon’s official site).
Look for a notice/banner about the $20 outage credit.
Tap Accept (or the equivalent confirmation button).
Save a screenshot of the confirmation for your records.

Didn’t get a text yet? Don’t panic. Credits can roll out in waves. Check again later via the app. If you believe you were affected but see nothing after a reasonable time, contact Verizon support through official channels.

Who is eligible?

Verizon’s wording indicates the credit is for customers affected by the outage and is redeemed through the myVerizon experience. Because eligibility can depend on your account type/region and how Verizon flags impacted accounts, the safest move is: check the app first.

Visible customers: the separate $5 credit

If you use Visible (Verizon-owned), reports indicate a $5 credit offer tied to the same disruption. This is not the same as Verizon’s $20 and may require following Visible’s specific redemption steps.

If your phone is still stuck on “SOS” or has no service: quick fix checklist

Restart your phone (full power off → power on).
Toggle Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds → off.
Check for carrier/settings updates (Settings → General → About on iPhone can sometimes trigger a carrier update prompt).
Reset Network Settings (last resort): this can wipe saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN/APN settings.
Try another location (to rule out local coverage issues).

Scam alert: how to claim the credit safely

Avoid “credit” phishing texts

Don’t click random links claiming you “must verify” to get $20.
Only claim credits inside the myVerizon app or Verizon’s official website.
Never share one-time passcodes (OTP) with anyone.

FAQ

Is the $20 credit automatic?

Reports and Verizon’s own update indicate most customers must accept the credit in the myVerizon app once it becomes available.

Is there a deadline to claim it?

Some reporting noted that Verizon did not clearly specify a universal deadline at the time of publication. If you see the offer in-app, accept it sooner rather than later.

What about business accounts?

Verizon said business customers will be contacted directly regarding credits.

Sources

Note: This article is informational and may be updated as Verizon releases more details.

G.Post

2026-01-16