Q: Damaged my iPhone 5S.  Received replacement and went through activation steps.  Everything transferred fine - I thought.  Now, phone works only when connected to wifi.  Help!

Hi,

I'm sorry to learn you aren't able to use your cellular phone... well... as a cellular phone.

I suspect the "texts" you send and receive are going through iMessage, not your cellular service provider's network. When you look at the top left of the screen, does it say "searching" or does it show as connected to your provider's network?

Have you tried the steps in If you can't connect to a cellular network or cellular data - Apple Support?

Did you transfer the SIM from the old phone to the new one?

It shouldn't have been a problem. Did the replacement come with a SIM? If so, the new SIM may be the one that's active on your account.  However, I'd give Verizon a call and have them sort to the activation problem for you. 800-922-0204.

If you can make calls, that is not over wifi. That is through your carrier and you say you can see the Verizon name in your status bar. So, it sounds like you have cell service. And wifi.

What exactly isn't working as expected?