Figured I'd give an update (from my post in SD).
The verizon guy came today to install our "new" service. We've been existing customers but I signed up under my wife's name. The tech came and we were straight up with him. He's like "so are you sure you don't want to just stick with the same service?" We explained that I tried 3 times with their moronic customer service reps. We advised that there is such a disconnect between the reps and both the techs and retentions, etc. Moreover they reap what they sew when Make people disconnect just to get the current rates that any Joe off the street will get. I really have no sympathy for them. The tech totally understood. Really nice guy. Gave us brand new equipment. Had to do a bit of rewiring but not much. While I was away at work, he reprogrammed our remote so everything is through one (DVD, 360, and cable). He set up not one, but 3 computers and made sure they all got on. He tested them with speedtest because he left it up on them. We paid for 25/25 but I'm getting 30/25 tonight. Our old email was working (which was mortal hell last time we disconnected) and he called a guy who is *allegedly* porting over our same number tomorrow morning. It was totally painless. (Edit: He did do this - we had our old number working literally the next day!) I am planning on complete anarchy my first bill - but it is what it is, as they say. Just show them your screen prints.
Again, we were existing customers, but out of contract. Did a complete disconnect and reinstall same day. Our old service is already terminated and we are up and running. (Although I sure wish the DVR for life was an option for my particular area instead of the gift card.) They've told me "no" twice now. I notice others are getting it done. Must be in the correct market? I am in RI. Thought I'd share.