All The Extras: Hidden Fees By Internet Provider

Hidden fees are a common issue faced by many internet users when dealing with internet service providers (ISPs). These fees can quickly add up and significantly increase the total cost of your internet bill. Here are some common hidden fees to be aware of:

• Equipment fees: Many ISPs charge a monthly rental fee for the modem or router they provide for your internet connection. These fees are often hidden in the fine print and can range from $5 to $15 per month.

• Installation fees: Some ISPs charge an installation fee when you first sign up for their service. This fee may be waived or reduced if you sign up for a long-term contract, but it’s important to check the terms and conditions carefully to avoid surprises.

• Early termination fees: Many ISPs require customers to sign a contract committing to a certain period of service. If you cancel your service before the contract is up, you may be hit with an early termination fee. This fee can be substantial and can make it difficult to switch to a different provider if you’re unhappy with the service.

• Data overage charges: Some ISPs have data caps or limits on the amount of data you can use each month. If you exceed this limit, you may be charged an additional fee for each gigabyte of data you use. These fees can quickly add up if you’re a heavy internet user.

• Administrative fees: Some ISPs charge administrative fees or regulatory fees that are not included in the advertised price of their service. These fees can be difficult to understand and may vary depending on where you live.

To avoid hidden fees, it’s important to read the fine print carefully when signing up for internet service. Make sure you understand all of the fees that may be associated with your service and ask your provider to explain any terms or conditions that are unclear. Additionally, you may want to compare prices and features across different providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs.

Don’t be taken by surprise. To understand the true cost of your internet bill, check out our supplier guide. 

You need to be vigilant when you sign up for a new internet plan; hidden fees can bring hundreds of dollars to your payment. We have explained precisely what these costs are for each service, from modem and router rental charges to early internet termination fees.

ATT

AT&T Equipment rental fee – at&t internet plans need you to rent their equipment for $10/mo.

Data Cap and over usage fees – 1TB is mostly the data allowance of most At&t plans. Particular plans such as the ATT Internet 1000 and bundles come with an unlimited data cap. There’s an option to pay $30/mo additionally for unlimited or 50GB for $10.

Late payment interest and reactivation – A late payment fee for At&T can go up to $9.25 per transaction based on their AT&T Terms of Service. If you paid by check and it bounced, there’s a charge of up to $30. If your service got disconnected because of late payment there will be an additional fee of no more than $35 to restore the service.

Cancellation fees – This one is prorated and specific to your plan, most AT&T Internet plan details, you’ll see a prorated early cancellation fee of $180.

Installation fee/ Set up Fee – For a new connection that requires a professional install, it may go up to $149. If you choose to do a self-installation there will be a $49 activation fee

Century link

Centurylink Equipment rental fee – There’s an option to lease a modem from CenturyLink for $15/month or buy it for up to $150. Also, you have the option to buy your own CenturyLink-compatible router and modem.

Data Cap and Usage fees – Every CenturyLink internet plan has a data cap of 1TB per month. But, at the moment they do not charge for using more than your data allowance. Instead, if you always go beyond your limit it might cause a restriction or suspension of service.

Late payment fee – A combination of a flat fee of up to $15/month plus a percentage of the unpaid bill (usually up to 5%).

Cancellation fee – There’s no early termination fee for CenturyLink since they offer month-to-month no-contract plans but if you have a high-speed internet service bundle, you can be charged an early termination fee related to other services.

Installation fees – A professional install fee can go up to $125, however, a self-installation is cheaper only paying up to $50 for the shipping and handling fee.

COX

Cox Equipment rental fee – If you are going to rent a Cox Panoramic Wi-Fi modem it will cost you $10.99/ month. However, you can also purchase your own modem, you just have to make sure it is compatible with Cox.

Data Cap and Usage fees – Every Cox Internet plan comes with a 1TB data cap. It will cost you a $10 fee for every 50GB of going over your limit. But you also have the option to upgrade to unlimited for an additional monthly fee or add 500GB extra whenever you need it.

Late payment fee – A charge of $25 for not paying your bill on time. And, the fee for returned payment may go up to $25.

Early termination fee – Early termination fee is prorated according to the terms of your agreement but it can go up to $120.

Installation fee – a professional install with Cox can cost up to $75 or you can choose self-installation for a $20 activation fee.