You need to step out Verizon’s cloud of bullshit and see the light! My son has a Moto on Verizon’s network for $21.25/mo for unlimited talk/text & 3gb. How? A 1 year prepay on an MVNO called Red Pocket that offers service on all the major US networks. I have 500min/500text/500mb service from them on ATT for $10/mo.
This is the way cell service should be sold IMO. Use your own phone and buy whatever service you like. My wife had a hand me down Verizon phone with them, when it croaked we simply got her an new sim from Redpocket for a Moto and ATT. So simple.