How can I keep my current phone when my cellular provider changes?

One on my account was not happy with the choices given in the Verizon flyer so we talked to the local Centennial office & called Verizon. We were told by Verizon that they would provide replacements which are comparable to our current phones. We then looked up Verizon phones, found one which was similar to his phone and requested Verizon provide that one as a replacement. They agreed it was comparable and entered that one as our choice.