Supposedly there's a new Verizon store on Sleater-Kinney...so I wouldn't have to go back to Tacoma if I did decide to take it back. I guess it's worth a try. Maybe they have some sales going on that would make the next one up almost a straight trade. That's if they'll take a used one back...but in general their customer service has been very good, which is one reason I'm frustrated now.
But the menu thing is worth checking, even on a new phone. I don't want to get burned again.
When we've wanted to trade up, we've waited for a buy one, get one free sale, and are just required to re-start the two year contract. No problem. Last time, we actually got four phones on the BOGOF sale, then SirKit was able to get a free one, because his old one broke. Check online for their latest specials, but also check the local store.