Verizon wants you on the new plans so they can get more money from you. And entice you with unreal trade in deals to get you to sign up for their more expensive newer plans. Also, Just buy directly from Apple and never have to deal with lame “restock fees” again.
As aside, did you know Best Buy has %15 restocking fee for an opened returned iPhone!!!! Ridiculous. Verizon has a few too. Maybe 10%. Better make sure you love the phone they give you 🤣