The memory device includes a controller that is configured to program the memory cells of a selected word line in a plurality of program-verify iterations. During a verify portion at least one of the program-verify iterations, the controller determines a threshold voltage of at least one memory cell relative to a first verify low voltage VL1, a second verify low voltage VL2, and a verify high voltage VH associated with a data state being programmed. The controller also maintains a count of program-verify iterations since the at least one memory cell passed a verify high voltage of a previously programmed data state or discharges a sense node through a channel including the at least one memory cell and compares a discharge time to predetermined sense times associated with the first and second verify low voltages and with the verify high voltage.