How to Send Free Text Messages to Verizon Phones

Text Via Verizon's Website
1. Open your web browser. The Verizon online text messaging tools work in any browser.
2. Go to the Verizon website. The online text messaging tools are located at text.vzw.com.
3. Address the text message. In the 'Send To' field, type the 10-digit number, including area code, of the user you want to text. You can send the same message to a total of 10 users simultaneously. If you want, you can include your name and callback number on the text.
4. Compose the message. Remember that text messages sent via the Verizon website are limited to 140 characters. If longer, you must split the text into multiple messages.
5. Send the message. Click the 'Send' button in your web browser. The text will be sent on your behalf.
Via an Email Client
6. Open your email client. Alternatively, if you use web-based email, log in to your account.
7. Start a new message. Click on the 'New' or 'Compose' button, depending on your email client, to start a new message.
8. Address the message. In the 'To' field, insert the ten-digit phone number you want to text in the following format: phonenumber@vtext.com.
9. Compose your message. Your text message is limited to 140 characters, so plan accordingly when composing the message.
10. Send the message. Once your message is composed in the email client, click the 'Send' button to send it. From your end, it is sent and handled like any other email.
Via AOL Instant Messenger
11. Launch and log in to AOL Instant Messenger.
12. Start a new instant message. Click the 'People' menu at the top of the screen and select 'Send Instant Message.'
13. Address the message. In the 'To' field of the message, insert the Verizon user's cell phone number, preceded by country code (+1 for the United States). For example, if you were texting (212) 555-1212, enter +12125551212 in the 'To' field.
14. Compose the message. Type in the same composition area as used when sending a regular AOL instant message.
15. Send the message. Click the 'Send' button in the lower-right hand corner of the window to send the message to the Verizon user.