VZW - 2 Year Contract on the Verizon Plan? - Note 7 Questions & Answers

Hey all,
Looking to get back into the Samsung world, specifically the Note 7. Have any of you ran into this situation that I am currently in...
I have a Nexus 6P at the moment, I have the Verizon Plan (not the new one, the old one), and pay $20 per month for access charges for 3 lines. My line has no device payment. The other 2 lines do, which shouldn't matter in this scenario.
From my understanding, Verizon itself does not offer 2 year contracts any longer, thus the access charge for all phones is $20/month. But, Best Buy does offer a 2-year contract. I was able to add the pre-order of the GN7 to my cart, it says I am eligible for an upgrade and does not make mention of that $20/month access charge changing at all. My question is this - does that $20/month access charge jump up to $40/month because I would be on a 2-year contract? I knew that if you were on contract going INTO the Verizon plan you would pay $40/month until the contract was up, then it'd dip down to $20. But I see no mention of going back ONTO contract once you are on the Verizon Plan.
Sorry if that was confusing, anyone experience this?

Yes, if your phone is "under contract", you pay $40/mo for the access fee. Once the two years are up, it drops to $20/mo. It's more financially smart (costs you less if you do the math) to just pay per month for this phone I believe (it would be $384 basically when you factor in the access fee drop). I'm guessing the two year upgrade price is around $399?
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I just went into Verizon and I was eligible for an "upgrade" as I havent bought a phone from verizon since my S3 (rest have been craigslist or google) and I got my $20 fee waived.
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PsiPhiDan said:
Yes, if your phone is "under contract", you pay $40/mo for the access fee. Once the two years are up, it drops to $20/mo. It's more financially smart (costs you less if you do the math) to just pay per month for this phone I believe (it would be $384 basically when you factor in the access fee drop). I'm guessing the two year upgrade price is around $399?
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K thats what the guy was trying to explain to me but was talking way too fast for me to understand it. I went in just going to buy the GN7 full price and he talked me into doing the $36 a month for it and said I would be saving $400-500ish doing it this way. I still dont understand it really can you explain it more?

Okay so your access fee (fee for having a smartphone on VZW) is $40/mo when you don't have an upgrade available. Then, when you have your upgrade, you can do one of two things: 1) Buy the phone at a discounted rate and agree to a two year contract. In this way, you still pay $40/mo for the access fee. 2) Pay per month at full retail cost, sign no contract, and your access fee goes down to $20/mo. So essentially, that $36/mo is really only $16/mo because of the $20/mo discount you're getting for having bought the phone outright. So you save $480 ($20x24mo) off the cost, bringing the total cost to about $380 for the phone.
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PsiPhiDan said:
Okay so your access fee (fee for having a smartphone on VZW) is $40/mo when you don't have an upgrade available. Then, when you have your upgrade, you can do one of two things: 1) Buy the phone at a discounted rate and agree to a two year contract. In this way, you still pay $40/mo for the access fee. 2) Pay per month at full retail cost, sign no contract, and your access fee goes down to $20/mo. So essentially, that $36/mo is really only $16/mo because of the $20/mo discount you're getting for having bought the phone outright. So you save $480 ($20x24mo) off the cost, bringing the total cost to about $380 for the phone.
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K so it would be best to just let it run its course on the 24 months instead of me going in and paying it off completely after a month or whatever.

I'm doing 36 for 24 the math is 864 dollars. Not saving anything. Unlocked phone is closer to a grand.
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Gilley said:
K so it would be best to just let it run its course on the 24 months instead of me going in and paying it off completely after a month or whatever.
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No, that means no difference. Either way you're not on a two-yr contract so your access fee is $20/mo. I'm saying it's better as opposed to signing a two-yr contract and getting a "discounted" price on the phone, like we all used to do years ago.
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Related

Currently have a Galaxy Nexus pre-ordered on Bell on a 3 yr contract should i switch?

Hey Everyone,
I currently have a Galaxy Nexus pre-ordered on Bell on a three year contract ($185 and $50/month for 500mb of data + 150 minutes). I found out that Mobilicity is also a GSM network that will work with the Galaxy Nexus and the price per month is only $17.50/month (for unlimited data, unlimited local calling and caller ID!) but the only downside is that many people report that the network drops often and there is no HSPA+ speeds. I know this may seem like a REALLY stupid question to ask, but do you guys think I should cancel the order, and then re-order the Galaxy Nexus unlocked for $800? (Taxes + cancellation fee). I mean with the network not supporting HSPA+ and the network itself not being supported in some areas in Canada (although I don't travel much and according to the coverage map I'm fully supported), is it really worth it from switching from my current order with Bell on a 3 year contract to Mobilicity?
Note: I realize its a fairly stupid question, but I haven't been thinking straight for the past few days and your comments will be extremely appreciated.
I go through 500MB of data in a week. That plan would never work for me. I have a T-Moble/Wal-Mart $30/month unlimited data (5GB at H+), unlimited text, 100 talk mins (I never talk on the phone) and bought an unlocked GN for $850. The closest plan would cost me $99/month with Verizon.
I don't get why people can't realize that buying a good phone and then getting a cheap plan is cheaper in the long run.
Taggard said:
I go through 500MB of data in a week. That plan would never work for me. I have a T-Moble/Wal-Mart $30/month unlimited data (5GB at H+), unlimited text, 100 talk mins (I never talk on the phone) and bought an unlocked GN for $850. The closest plan would cost me $99/month with Verizon.
I don't get why people can't realize that buying a good phone and then getting a cheap plan is cheaper in the long run.
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I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
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Towle said:
I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Huh?
$30 x 24mo + $850 phone = $1570
$60 x 24mo + $150 phone = $1590
And he overpaid for the phone considering most are getting it for around ~$700 shipped. So for most in his situation it'd be more like ~$1420 for 2 years + phone. And you got a good deal on your SGSII, as T-mo advertises it for $229. So we can say most people's annual cost in your situation is ~$1670.
So if we go with real-world math its ~$1420 vs. ~$1670....
Not to mention that you're on a contract, and he isn't. Some people don't like being in a contract and that's worth it for them.
Yea I'm a heavy data user.... so I thought. But looking at several past invoices I realized I only use about 200 minutes and about 1.5-2gb a month data. I utilize wifi at work, work, and hotels when I can.
I pay $60 a month on T-Mobile for 1000 minutes and 5gb cap.
Buying the phone outright and using the Nexus on a cheap plan (Simple Mobile or Walmart special) is the way to go.
I also have a Verizon blackberry through work. I'm ditching my personal line, buying the Nexus on a new contract price on the corporate account and saving my money.
500mb of data would kill me... especially if there are overages and penalties.
G2x - 2.3.7 CM7
Transformer - 3.2 Revolver OC/UV
Towle said:
I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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$149 up front but you pay full price for the phone over the 2 years which is $15 a month or more extra on top of the 59.99 a month
martonikaj said:
Huh?
$30 x 24mo + $850 phone = $1570
$60 x 24mo + $150 phone = $1590
And he overpaid for the phone considering most are getting it for around $700 shipped.
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Correct 30x24+850=1570, which would work if there were no taxes and fees. And I did mine wrong I was going off of the time until I can upgrade again, my bad.
I'm still paying less than him after taxes and fees, and getting 10x the minutes.
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b1337 said:
$149 up front but you pay full price for the phone over the 2 years which is $15 a month or more extra on top of the 59.99 a month
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What? No. I pay $149 total for the phone, I'm not on a value plan.
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Towle said:
Correct 30x24+850=1570, which would work if there were no taxes and fees. And I did mine wrong I was going off of the time until I can upgrade again, my bad.
I'm still paying less than him after taxes and fees, and getting 10x the minutes.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Look at my post again for a better breakdown... And even if he's paying 10% sales tax on his monthly purchases (there's no carrier fees involved with a pre-pay plan), that's only another $72 over 2 years.
That walmart/T-mo prepay play is an amazing deal. I'm looking to switch to it myself from my EM+ plan.
Towle said:
What? No. I pay $149 total for the phone, I'm not on a value plan.
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pinky up i need that plan!!
The point I'm trying to make is that there is no savings in buying a phone outright and going on an off contract plan (when comparing apples to apples with the plans). The only difference is one has a contract and one doesn't. Which I don't plan on leaving Tmobile anytime soon, or ever, because everyone else is more expensive.
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Towle said:
The point I'm trying to make is that there is no savings in buying a phone outright and going on an off contract plan. The only difference is one has a contract and one doesn't. Which I don't plan on leaving Tmobile anytime soon, or ever, because everyone else is more expensive.
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Well there is considering that this phone isn't offered on T-mobile... If you're going to be buying a phone full price to get one not available on the carrier, then you're saving money by going pre-pay or some form of off-contract service. And like I said, people see value in being off contract.
I wasn't trying to say you're doing the wrong thing (everyone makes their own choice for service that works for them), but I have to point out blatant math errors when you're trying to prove your point. He really is spending less money over 2 years.
martonikaj said:
Well there is considering that this phone isn't offered on T-mobile... If you're going to be buying a phone full price to get one not available on the carrier, then you're saving money by going pre-pay or some form of off-contract service. And like I said, people see value in being off contract.
I wasn't trying to say you're doing the wrong thing (everyone makes their own choice for service that works for them), but I have to point out blatant math errors when you're trying to prove your point. He really is spending less money over 2 years.
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I'm not saying anyone is doing anything wrong by going that route either, it's all personal preference. I just didn't like the statement "I don't get why people don't realize" when it's not true.
And your comparison isn't even valid. I'm pretty sure neither of us live in fake worlds and I paid $149 for my phone and he paid $850 for his. Even if they come out to be the same price over 2 years, I'm getting 10x the minutes, and don't have to fork over $600+ at one shot. Like I said, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the other plans whatsoever, I just don't want people saying that everyone else is stupid for not going that route, when it's all personal preference.
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I'm on someones employee t-mobile plan : ) 2k minutes my faves unlimited txt web tethering and insurance for $10 a month : )
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
Towle said:
I'm not saying anyone is doing anything wrong by going that route either, it's all personal preference. I just didn't like the statement "I don't get why people don't realize" when it's not true.
And your comparison isn't even valid. I'm pretty sure neither of us live in fake worlds and I paid $149 for my phone and he paid $850 for his. Even if they come out to be the same price over 2 years, I'm getting 10x the minutes, and don't have to fork over $600+ at one shot. Like I said, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the other plans whatsoever, I just don't want people saying that everyone else is stupid for not going that route, when it's all personal preference.
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I simply covered the fact that most people are buying their Nexus' for ~$700, and T-mobile advertises the SGSII for $229.
That aside, I think his statement still holds strong. You've obviously crunched the numbers but most don't. Most people don't realize that there are fantastic off contract or pre-pay options that can save them $100's per year. Especially if they're coming from Verizon or AT&T, we're talking about moving from ~$100 per month to ~$30.
Thanks so much for the replies guys I think what I'll be doing is buying it on a three year contract, buying another phone unlocked after a year or so when it becomes TRULY obsoleted in terms of software + hardware and using the sim on that. (I also had a question: would the galaxy nexus be considered "unlocked" after I remove the sim? Or is it still locked to the carrier? Also, if it is locked to the carrier, could I just get it unlocked from an external source?) Also, I have 14 days to return the phone (as long as I don't use 15 minutes or 1.5 mb) Finally, I'm not on a two year contract, but a 3 year one. The best plan I could get is $70/month and I get 6GB of data + 200 minutes. I see how I'm losing money, but I'm in Canada and the plans here are MUCH worse than in the US.
mohitrocks said:
Thanks so much for the replies guys I think what I'll be doing is buying it on a three year contract, buying another phone unlocked after a year or so when it becomes TRULY obsoleted in terms of software + hardware and using the sim on that. (I also had a question: would the galaxy nexus be considered "unlocked" after I remove the sim? Or is it still locked to the carrier? Also, if it is locked to the carrier, could I just get it unlocked from an external source?) Also, I have 14 days to return the phone (as long as I don't use 15 minutes or 1.5 mb) Finally, I'm not on a two year contract, but a 3 year one. The best plan I could get is $70/month and I get 6GB of data + 200 minutes. I see how I'm losing money, but I'm in Canada and the plans here are MUCH worse than in the US.
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Hopefully it will be unlocked from Bell. The Nexus S was, and some people have reported Bell reps saying the Galaxy Nexus will be as well.
You should ask Bell for 6 GB though. I talked to a rep and told him that Rogers was offering me 6 GB for the 500 MB price (unadvertised, but it was all over mobile sites a week or two ago), and asked if Bell could do the same for me if I was signing a 3-year contract. He said they would. It's common for Bell and Rogers to offer the 6 GB at times... ask for it, and if you're signing a 3-year contract you might just get it. Why have only 500 MB if you can get 6 GB for the same price?
Wait, what? A THREE YEAR CONTRACT? I thought 24 months was hard enough!
momagic said:
Wait, what? A THREE YEAR CONTRACT? I thought 24 months was hard enough!
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It's the unfortunate standard for Canada. The two-year contract price for the GN is $599.99. That's F***ing ridiculous. This is why I decided to let my current contract run out in 15 months and not sign another. It's unlocked phones and the negotiating ability of switching for me now.
I'm also hoping the GN is carrier unlocked, as it should be, from Bell. Since I'm buying it outright anyways, I'll just drop my Telus SIM in and be a happy camper. Otherwise I have to wait until January when Telus and Rogers release it.
Prof-KOS said:
It's the unfortunate standard for Canada. The two-year contract price for the GN is $599.99. That's F***ing ridiculous. This is why I decided to let my current contract run out in 15 months and not sign another. It's unlocked phones and the negotiating ability of switching for me now.
I'm also hoping the GN is carrier unlocked, as it should be, from Bell. Since I'm buying it outright anyways, I'll just drop my Telus SIM in and be a happy camper. Otherwise I have to wait until January when Telus and Rogers release it.
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I can confirm that the Bell GN is unlocked. Just popped a Telus sim in and it worked.

Financing on Bestbuy

There is an option on best-buy to do a 18 month financing on the Galaxy Note 2 I dont want to sign a contract so I'd be paying $47 a month for the phone, Is that a good idea I need some opinions Im new to this financing stuff
If you're looking for opinions, then no. It's not a good deal. Financing on a credit card rarely is. In the long run you'll probably end up paying more by financing, than if you signed a 2 yr contract and actually ended up opting out of the contract early. That's just my opinion
it's 18 month interest free financing. you just have to make sure you pay it off by the 18th month or all that interest over those 18 months will be put on your card. so try to not use the card until the interest free charge is paid off. if you happen to make further purchases your payments will be split among the purchases but i'm not sure what they use to determine which purchase get the bulk of the payment - each has it's minimum taken first then the rest goes to, possibly, the oldest purchase.
it's a good deal as long as you have self control. don't forget to have them do a price match before you buy. they count price matches as refunds and the retail equation may count that as a non-receipt return if it's an online order. too many returns will put you on RE **** list and you won't be able to make any returns to a lot of stores for 90 days.
Why would you be paying $847 for the phone interest free if its $649.99 + tax off contract?
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bmoreboy02 said:
Why would you be paying $847 for the phone interest free if its $649.99 + tax off contract?
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Because Best Buy charges $799 for the phone without contract.
thunderwagn said:
If you're looking for opinions, then no. It's not a good deal. Financing on a credit card rarely is. In the long run you'll probably end up paying more by financing, than if you signed a 2 yr contract and actually ended up opting out of the contract early. That's just my opinion
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I have to COMPLETELY agree!!! Here is the thing... I understand it sucks to sign a contract... BUT... Once you buy the phone after 6 months your Early Termination Fee (ETF) goes down every month that you keep the phone by $10 a month... After just one year your ETF is $240... Saying that you only kept the thing for a year... If you were to buy the Samsung Galaxy Note II at WireFly for an upgrade at the moment you would spend $249... A year from now you get pissed off at Sprint, say FU, and cancel paying the $240... That's still WAY FRIGGIN LESS That's $490 vs. $799... That's a savings of $309... Or $25 a month savings for that year... I think it's a no brainer...
DarkManX4lf said:
Because Best Buy charges $799 for the phone without contract.
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Bestbuy will pricematch sprint or amazon. I paid $649.99 + tax for my phone on launch day. Idk why it is so many people dont know this by now bc its really a secret they tell you in there commercials. Ive walked into bestbuy and paid $30 for otterbox defenders that they were sellin for $54.99 bc amazon had it cheaper
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ourprisonplanet said:
I have to COMPLETELY agree!!! Here is the thing... I understand it sucks to sign a contract... BUT... Once you buy the phone after 6 months your Early Termination Fee (ETF) goes down every month that you keep the phone by $10 a month... After just one year your ETF is $240... Saying that you only kept the thing for a year... If you were to buy the Samsung Galaxy Note II at WireFly for an upgrade at the moment you would spend $249... A year from now you get pissed off at Sprint, say FU, and cancel paying the $240... That's still WAY FRIGGIN LESS That's $490 vs. $799... That's a savings of $309... Or $25 a month savings for that year... I think it's a no brainer...
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you can only pay that etf to get out if you quit sprint. i don't want a contract nor do i want to quit since if i quit i lose my sero - $57 for unlimited data and 500 min. not worth it to do that if i ever decide to come back to sprint after quitting.
madsquabbles said:
you can only pay that etf to get out if you quit sprint. i don't want a contract nor do i want to quit since if i quit i lose my sero - $57 for unlimited data and 500 min. not worth it to do that if i ever decide to come back to sprint after quitting.
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Have someone else create a different account if you can. Family member, friend, anyone.
Or see if you can create a business account so you don't tinker with your current one.
garwynn said:
Have someone else create a different account if you can. Family member, friend, anyone.
Or see if you can create a business account so you don't tinker with your current one.
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you also have to maintain the account for 90 days (or 60, i can't remember). otherwise you have to return the phone or pay full price. so that adds a minimum of $140 for service not used (with everyting plus referral). add the etf and the cost of the subsidized phone and you're better off just buying the phone without any headaches.

T-Mobile ending subsidized phones.

T-Mobile announced that in the coming months they will end discounted phones with a contract and go the European way and make you pay retail for any phone yet your monthly bill will go down a lot in price. How do you guys feel about this.?
Sent from my SGH-T999
Some people will love it, some will hate it. Here in the states, we are spoiled, do the majority will hate it. If it goes too bad, then they'll go back to subsidies. To keep it during hatred, the other companies will do the same. I don't mind as I buy my own phones even when I was in a contract to try the latest phones. Hey, you win some, you lose some
Sent from my Rooted Gameboy
If they're doing it the way they generally have offered as of late, they may not do a carrier subsidy the way Big Red/Yellow/Blue do, but they'll allow you to do a "handset mortgage", where you can pay a "down payment" when you get the phone and then the loan will be a separate line item until you pay it off, which can be at any point.
I actually prefer this model because it allows you to pay more or less to decrease the amount still owed for your phone and potentially decrease your bill substantially once you're done paying the phone off. It will also allow for quicker upgrades because you won't have to wait two years until your contract rolls around again.
I'm not opposed to this model at all.
Joey
voyager529 said:
If they're doing it the way they generally have offered as of late, they may not do a carrier subsidy the way Big Red/Yellow/Blue do, but they'll allow you to do a "handset mortgage", where you can pay a "down payment" when you get the phone and then the loan will be a separate line item until you pay it off, which can be at any point.
I actually prefer this model because it allows you to pay more or less to decrease the amount still owed for your phone and potentially decrease your bill substantially once you're done paying the phone off. It will also allow for quicker upgrades because you won't have to wait two years until your contract rolls around again.
I'm not opposed to this model at all.
Joey
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If they offer that. Then I'll be okay with that. But I'm not OK with paying 5-600 dollars for a phone...I got more important things to pay for lol. But then again on the bright side the bill per month is gonna drop sooo much
Sent from my SGH-T999
I'm in Charlotte, and the store I went to has already gone through this transition. The plan price went down approximately $30. The down-payment was similar to the advertised price for the subsidized phones, and the monthly payments were $20, for twenty months. Overall, I'll pay $550 for phone retailed to cost $599, with a slight savings on the rate plan.
The big savings come after twenty months, when the phone is paid off. I'm not one to upgrade immediately, so I may save money on the rate plan for 6-12 months before buying a new phone. Where before, even if I didn't buy a phone, I was paying the monthly rate that included the subsidy.
zeekx4 said:
I'm in Charlotte, and the store I went to has already gone through this transition. The plan price went down approximately $30. The down-payment was similar to the advertised price for the subsidized phones, and the monthly payments were $20, for twenty months. Overall, I'll pay $550 for phone retailed to cost $599, with a slight savings on the rate plan.
The big savings come after twenty months, when the phone is paid off. I'm not one to upgrade immediately, so I may save money on the rate plan for 6-12 months before buying a new phone. Where before, even if I didn't buy a phone, I was paying the monthly rate that included the subsidy.
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So u can still get a new phone without paying retail?
Sent from my SGH-T999
ddizzy81 said:
So u can still get a new phone without paying retail?
Sent from my SGH-T999
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Yes and No. ** I do not work for T-Mobile, but this is how I understand things **
EIP has existed for a very long time now and will continue to exist. T-Mobile is simply being upfront with customers instead of building in a subsidy into a rate plan. In almost every case, the customer wins.
Here's one way to look at it. Value Plan + EIP = Classic plan Either way, the upfront costs are similar. In one case, you call it a downpayment, in another you call it a price w/ 2 year contact extension. EIP is typically 20 months, which is better than the 24 months a full blown 2 year extension will be. Again, as far as the initial cost of the phone, the downpayment is essentially equivalent to the previously advertised price of the phone with contract.
This model does a few things from the perspective of a customer. It gives you the option of purchasing phones outright, or opting to get what essentially is a 20 month interest free loan from t-mobile on up to $400 towards the purchase price of a phone. When that loan is paid off, you are left with a nice and small bill for just the services you use, the voice, data, and text services provided by T-Mobile. This opens the door wide open for people to bring unlocked devices over to T-Mobile, and enjoy a low price monthly rate plan. Previously, the best way to do this was to buy an unlocked phone, buy a carrier phone with a 2-year extension, and sell the carrier phone and put that towards the price of the unlocked phone.
This really is a win for pretty much all consumers. People who want a low initial cost can opt for the EIP, people who bring their own devices can choose to do so and enjoy a low monthly rate, and finally people who keep their devices for a long time will enjoy a low rate after they complete their EIP payments.
The only time this is NOT advantageous is if you decide to break the contract prior to the end of the EIP term + value plan contract. For example, if I buy a new phone, start a EIP plan for 20 months, and sign up for a 2 year value plan, I would have to pay a $200 penalty to break the value plan, and also $400 to close out the EIP. Of course, the way to get around this is to sell the phone to repay the EIP.
ddizzy81 said:
T-Mobile announced that in the coming months they will end discounted phones with a contract and go the European way and make you pay retail for any phone yet your monthly bill will go down a lot in price. How do you guys feel about this.?
Sent from my SGH-T999
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as far as i know, t-mobile has already offer $50 contract free service in NYC. that includes 4g network, unlimit calling, texing, web, etc.
I am current simple mobile user, $40 each month, and it is great!
I am sure if ATT, Verizon, don't take any action, most of their customers will walk way.
My contract ends in may...its gonna be a big decision whether I'm gonna leave T-Mobile or not
Sent from my SGH-T999
About a month ago a tmo rep told me they are doing this soon.
O well doesn't bother me lol
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
Yeah its not all that new . Tmobile has been allowing people to break up their payments since they announced their even more plus plans. I think its a great option in present times for those that can't afford to fork out 500$ in one transaction.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
They already have offered this its called the "Value Plans", as apposed to the "Classic Plans" the value plans are only offered at t-mobile stores and since sept they have offered a truly unlimited data option on the value plan. thats the plan i have been on since i joined t-mobile in sept. the gs3 for me was 149.99 down with $20 for 20 months. (549.99) and my rate plan is 69.99 for unlimited everything. The one thing i dont like about the value plan is that even though you are paying full price for your phone in the end you are still on a 2 year contract with $200 early termination fee. and if you dont use all the minutes and want to lower your bill thats a whole new 2 year contract. T-mobile really shouldnt due that to its customers.
Chuckatron said:
They already have offered this its called the "Value Plans", as apposed to the "Classic Plans" the value plans are only offered at t-mobile stores and since sept they have offered a truly unlimited data option on the value plan. thats the plan i have been on since i joined t-mobile in sept. the gs3 for me was 149.99 down with $20 for 20 months. (549.99) and my rate plan is 69.99 for unlimited everything. The one thing i dont like about the value plan is that even though you are paying full price for your phone in the end you are still on a 2 year contract with $200 early termination fee. and if you dont use all the minutes and want to lower your bill thats a whole new 2 year contract. T-mobile really shouldnt due that to its customers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to be honest they kinda have to keep that early termination fee, because basically if they don't what's to keep you from leaving after you only payed 149.99 for a 800 phone. Even if you still decide to leave you only end up paying about 350. 200 fee plus the 150 you put down. This is coming from a guy who really dislike tmobile I'm just with them because I almost don't pay anything on a 5 line account. Really there's not much difference between classic and value when it comes to buying a phone both tie you to a 2 year contract and early fee.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Isn't this pretty much the same thing as their Value Plan they've had for some time now? I've been on that plan for a bit over a year now. For me, the plus side is that over the course of a two year period, I'll end up saving roughly $1200 for two lines compared to my previous plan with everything unlimited.
The downside is of course the unsubsidized pricing of all the phones...completely ineligible for any special promotions, as well. If T-Mobile keeps that same plan model, people may find themselves paying for multiple devices at a time if they run into mishaps (theft, damage, etc.). Even with insurance, you'll pay a pretty penny for a replacement but will still be responsible for paying off the original. This would be a big adjustment for a lot of people in many ways, not just financially.
It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
Edit: Chuck beat me to it LoL. I'm so not used to typing novel-length msgs on a mobile xD
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
So how the phone insurance will work, will tmobile offer this option I doubt. I'm not referring manufacturer 1 year but long term one.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
dito33 said:
So how the phone insurance will work, will tmobile offer this option I doubt. I'm not referring manufacturer 1 year but long term one.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good question
Sent from my SGH-T999
ddizzy81 said:
If they offer that. Then I'll be okay with that. But I'm not OK with paying 5-600 dollars for a phone...I got more important things to pay for lol. But then again on the bright side the bill per month is gonna drop sooo much
Sent from my SGH-T999
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL...pay now, pay later. do the math. if youre on a classic plan, you still pay full price for the phone, you just pay for it a little a time added onto your monthly bill. so, you are okay with paying 5-600 dollars for a phone...
dito33 said:
So how the phone insurance will work, will tmobile offer this option I doubt. I'm not referring manufacturer 1 year but long term one.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't see why they would stop offering the extended insurance. If you're going to be paying for you're phone for 2 years you might as well have insurance that also extends the warranty for that long.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
LiquidGlow said:
The downside is of course the unsubsidized pricing of all the phones...completely ineligible for any special promotions, as well. If T-Mobile keeps that same plan model, people may find themselves paying for multiple devices at a time if they run into mishaps (theft, damage, etc.). Even with insurance, you'll pay a pretty penny for a replacement but will still be responsible for paying off the original. This would be a big adjustment for a lot of people in many ways, not just financially.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the promos DO apply. The last sale was a zero down sale, so you get your down payment back as a rebate. So instead of a $600 phone it's only $400. It's no different than a free phone with a higher monthly payment.
I haven't had a plan for years. If you look you can find a deal on craigslist sometimes ebay

Any deals on this phone?

Anyone find any 3rd party vendors that sell this phone really cheap? I got an upgrade due.
99 dollars down at tmobile.
Sent From My GS4
ddizzy81 said:
99 dollars down at tmobile.
Sent From My GS4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What they fail to tell you is thats on good credit not even just decent credit highest down is 329 for phone plus whatever deposit is for line.... lowest is 99 for phone.. trust me unless u got grade a/b credit your spending 200-500 in store before u walk out.
They raised the credit criteria, but dont want u to realize that.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
abcdefg1234567 said:
What they fail to tell you is thats on good credit not even just decent credit highest down is 329 for phone plus whatever deposit is for line.... lowest is 99 for phone.. trust me unless u got grade a/b credit your spending 200-500 in store before u walk out.
They raised the credit criteria, but dont want u to realize that.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still, the total price for the device is $579. If they charge a bigger deposit then you either pay less than $20 per month or you pay $20 a month for fewer months. I'm not sure how they do it but either way you're only paying $579 plus applicable taxes in total.
There is always extra monthly fees when you buy phones from tmobile.
gyggyty said:
There is always extra monthly fees when you buy phones from tmobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
taxes on top of the cost of the phone maybe?
Skipjacks said:
Still, the total price for the device is $579. If they charge a bigger deposit then you either pay less than $20 per month or you pay $20 a month for fewer months. I'm not sure how they do it but either way you're only paying $579 plus applicable taxes in total.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the total price ia 579 I know that I bought a s4 on post paid I make eip payments, I was just quoting. .. that if its the amount of money that is needed down thats the concern, be aware that at worst its 329 down as the highest amount possible but yea with the 12.50 extra on top of bill theres also a possibility of a down payment needed for the line itself also, so if u ad the line deposit and the phone deposit it easily adds up well past 99$
So I was trying to help the OP know that its very possible without grade a/b credit plan to pay 200-500 for both deposits combined. ... before u even walk away with the phone on a new postpaid line...thus making the whole experience of the advertising 99 down a a complete let down once u actually get there and deal with it
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 11:31 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:25 PM ----------
realbreezy said:
taxes on top of the cost of the phone maybe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Taxes are mandatory paid once u pay the phone and line deposits.... they are put out of the way rite then and there..the remainder is the evem dollar amount eip Payments left on the phones total cost minus the taxes u just paid.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Costco has it for around $150 with a two year extension. They throw in some accessories too
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Yes, I think the best price is Costco, for $150, at least for the next couple of days.
However, they have the S3 for $0 (only pay taxes).
Is the S4 worth paying $150 more than the S3? Your opinion?
me said:
Yes, I think the best price is Costco, for $150, at least for the next couple of days.
However, they have the S3 for $0 (only pay taxes).
Is the S4 worth paying $150 more than the S3? Your opinion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes and no...
It depends on your dying need for a s4
Biggest diff is camera and home button feels nicer the built in gestures I don't even use that stuff.Speaker is was louder also.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
abcdefg1234567 said:
Yes and no...
It depends on your dying need for a s4
Biggest diff is camera and home button feels nicer the built in gestures I don't even use that stuff.Speaker is was louder also.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And the LTE. Better speeds for my tethering use.
and processor and screen and phones shape :good:
something else to consider:
Costco and a few other vendors are the last to support subsidized upgrades on t-mobile. Noone knows how long this will remain true. Which phone would you rather hold on to if you decide to stick with t-mobile, but never again have a low-cost upgrade available?
I've had a tmo family plan for over 10 years (started with omnipoint) and had spaced my upgrades out so every 6 months there was a new phone in the mix. With the rotation, I was comfortable getting last year's hot handset for free instead of plunking for the new models. This year I'm upgrading them all to the latest and greatest as soon as they're qualified.
And to the OP: Costco $150 plus some accessories is the best deal i've been able to fine since the S4 launch. There may be some better deals come Independence Day,
fg said:
something else to consider:
Costco and a few other vendors are the last to support subsidized upgrades on t-mobile. Noone knows how long this will remain true. Which phone would you rather hold on to if you decide to stick with t-mobile, but never again have a low-cost upgrade available?
I've had a tmo family plan for over 10 years (started with omnipoint) and had spaced my upgrades out so every 6 months there was a new phone in the mix. With the rotation, I was comfortable getting last year's hot handset for free instead of plunking for the new models. This year I'm upgrading them all to the latest and greatest as soon as they're qualified.
And to the OP: Costco $150 plus some accessories is the best deal i've been able to fine since the S4 launch. There may be some better deals come Independence Day,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is Costco a deal? They are charging $149.99 for the phone, but they then charge you $90.00 a month instead of T-Mobile charging you $70.00 a month for the 2 years of the Costco contract.
$20.00 X 24 = $480.00
$480 + $149.99 = $629.99
This is the SAME as buying it from T-Mobile, but you are stuck with a 2 year contract from Costco.
They also through in a cheap case that you can get on Amazon for $4 or $5.00
Am I missing something here? Costco does NOT look like a good deal at all!
If I wasn't clear above, T-Mobile charges $70.00 a month for unlimited everything. Costco charges you $90.00 for the same plan.
Ebay 480. Craigslist 480.
Sent from my SGH-M919
Mr Global said:
How is Costco a deal? They are charging $149.99 for the phone, but they then charge you $90.00 a month instead of T-Mobile charging you $70.00 a month for the 2 years of the Costco contract.
$20.00 X 24 = $480.00
$480 + $149.99 = $629.99
This is the SAME as buying it from T-Mobile, but you are stuck with a 2 year contract from Costco.
They also through in a cheap case that you can get on Amazon for $4 or $5.00
Am I missing something here? Costco does NOT look like a good deal at all!
If I wasn't clear above, T-Mobile charges $70.00 a month for unlimited everything. Costco charges you $90.00 for the same plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Costco also honors your legacy plans which are no longer offered, which T-mobile will let you keep but still not subsidize your phone. Here's my bill:
$80 - 2000 (we never go over, full unlimited available for $100) minutes and text, family plan, 2 lines
$10 - extra 2 lines @ $5
$80 - 4 unlimited data plans @ $20
$10 - family discounted international rates (not transferable to new plans, only available as a per line add-on)
---
$180 / month + taxes and international calls - corporate discounts
+$600 + taxes - 4 S4s @ $150
New Value Family Plan:
$80 - unlimited family plan, 2 lines
$20 - extra 2 lines @ $10
$80 - 4 unlimited data plans @ $20
$28 - 4 discounted international rates @ $7
---
$208 / month
+ $80 - 4 S4s @ $20
---
$288 / month + taxes and international calls - corporate discounts
+$400 + taxes - 4 S4s down payment @100
I save money because of my options, and break even just on the base.
99 down at T-Mobile
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app

[Q] Sprint 2 year renewal

Is Sprint forcing their new contracts upon renewal? I have an unlimited talk text data w/450 mins currently, but when I was trying to preorder on Amazon, I had no option to keep what I have.
jfg69 said:
Is Sprint forcing their new contracts upon renewal? I have an unlimited talk text data w/450 mins currently, but when I was trying to preorder on Amazon, I had no option to keep what I have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I spoke with sprint yesterday. (had the same plan as you) they switched me to another plan with no contract renewal. Went from $82 to $64 a month. Unlimited talk text and 600 megs of data. I average 75 megs a Month outside my house so this is a good deal for me.
Hmmm.. the $64 number is def nicer, but my data really fluctuates, mostly depending on wifi availablity at work and on the road.. I guess i'm going to have to take a look at my data over time and see.
jhill110 said:
I spoke with sprint yesterday. (had the same plan as you) they switched me to another plan with no contract renewal. Went from $82 to $64 a month. Unlimited talk text and 600 megs of data. I average 75 megs a Month outside my house so this is a good deal for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is that at all a good deal. U r losing unlimited data. I talked to Sprint and they said I can keep the same 450 unlimited data plan at $69.99 when I upgrade at best buy. I enjoy being able to use 2 gb of data or 20 and not worry about it.
I had the same plan, $69.99 + $10 premium data and $11 TEP. Sprint put me on the my way with unlimited everything for 1 cent more. They remove the 10 dollar premium data and the cost is $80. With $11 TEP it comes to the same price plus a penny. Never have to worry about number of calls or data.
Sent from my Galaxy Note 8 using Tapatalk 4
No they arent. I'm on an everything data family plan and upgrading through best buy and can keep my existing plan
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Free mobile app
ryanalan82 said:
How is that at all a good deal. U r losing unlimited data. I talked to Sprint and they said I can keep the same 450 unlimited data plan at $69.99 when I upgrade at best buy. I enjoy being able to use 2 gb of data or 20 and not worry about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also was able to keep my current plan at best buy. 1500 min for landlines calls all other calls unlimited work unlimited text and data $149.99 for 2 lines or $75 for one.. best buy has never even asked me if I wanted to changeplans. And I have always upgraded thru them
I didn't have an issue. I ordered online through Sprint.
Overall, it would have cost me the same either way. Data usage is a big deal for me since I use around 100 to 120gb per month on the phone.
I may have 450 anytime minutes, but in total, I use around 15 per month, LOL.
When I was on a family plan and bought my note 3 from amazon, they didn't change the plans, all they change is any possibility for a employee discount. I went to my own plan and had the unlimited my way. Was paying $87.00. I went to the easy pay with the preorder of the note 4, so I switched to the $60.00 unlimited plan. I'd you want to renew the discount, they just have you renew it, depending on the plan, it may just cover the data though.
Sent from my SM-N900P using XDA Premium HD app
You can carry-over your current plan. I just pre-ordered directly from Sprint (since BB didn't have any left in charcoal), and I carried over my old Everything 450 plan. The only thing that you need to do is renew for another 2 yrs.
Agfadoc said:
I had the same plan, $69.99 + $10 premium data and $11 TEP. Sprint put me on the my way with unlimited everything for 1 cent more. They remove the 10 dollar premium data and the cost is $80. With $11 TEP it comes to the same price plus a penny. Never have to worry about number of calls or data.
Sent from my Galaxy Note 8 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yoshi1221 said:
When I was on a family plan and bought my note 3 from amazon, they didn't change the plans, all they change is any possibility for a employee discount. I went to my own plan and had the unlimited my way. Was paying $87.00. I went to the easy pay with the preorder of the note 4, so I switched to the $60.00 unlimited plan. I'd you want to renew the discount, they just have you renew it, depending on the plan, it may just cover the data though.
Sent from my SM-N900P using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dont the "my way/easy way" plans have you paying full price for the phone over time?
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
jfg69 said:
Dont the "my way/easy way" plans have you paying full price for the phone over time?
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wondered that myself... It's like they are tricking people... Hey you can pay 10 less a month if you sign up for easy pay... "but that is 30 a month..."
Someone please clarify...
Blakestr said:
I wondered that myself... It's like they are tricking people... Hey you can pay 10 less a month if you sign up for easy pay... "but that is 30 a month..."
Someone please clarify...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, not so good of a deal IMO..
jfg69 said:
Yup, not so good of a deal IMO..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i am with you i don't think it is that great...i was able to carry over my current plan when i upgraded and i upgraded via amazon.
jfg69 said:
Dont the "my way/easy way" plans have you paying full price for the phone over time?
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the my way through a 2 year contract, the 60 unlimited plan is through easy pay however.
Sent from my SM-N910P using XDA Premium HD app
After a lil math
Ok I have been trying to figure out the best deal/plan combo and here is what I found.....
If you can keep your old plan and like please do because the new ones with contract renewal aren't worth it. Here is what I found and by all means correct me if I'm wrong on anything.
Unlimited my way plan is $50 unlimited talk and text $30 unlimited data=$80/month but you have the ability to upgrade after 24 months( it's suppose to be new it's not 18 months anymore).
So you pay $300 for the Note 4(if you don't do the trade in thing) +80/month = $2220 (plus taxes and fees that vary) over 2 years
The plan buying the phone out right or with Easy Pay is $30 unlimited talk and text and $30 unlimited data=$60/month but YOU DO NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO UPGRADE even after 24 months but by then your phone will be paid for so you can buy another on or do Easy Pay again.
So to buy the phone out right you pay $720 (again if you don't do the trade in thing) +$60/month =$2160 over 2 years
AND to buy the phone with Easy Pay is $0 + $90/month ($60+$30EP payment) for 42 months =$2160 over 2 years
As you can see you come out cheaper with the latter two options plus you aren't renewing your contract. I went with the Easy Pay option myself but you have to do what works for you. Again if you found different info please feel free to let everyone know.
I kept my 1500 min share plan of ole
PHAMOS1 said:
Ok I have been trying to figure out the best deal/plan combo and here is what I found.....
If you can keep your old plan and like please do because the new ones with contract renewal aren't worth it. Here is what I found and by all means correct me if I'm wrong on anything.
Unlimited my way plan is $50 unlimited talk and text $30 unlimited data=$80/month but you have the ability to upgrade after 24 months( it's suppose to be new it's not 18 months anymore).
So you pay $300 for the Note 4(if you don't do the trade in thing) +80/month = $2220 (plus taxes and fees that vary) over 2 years
The plan buying the phone out right or with Easy Pay is $30 unlimited talk and text and $30 unlimited data=$60/month but YOU DO NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO UPGRADE even after 24 months but by then your phone will be paid for so you can buy another on or do Easy Pay again.
So to buy the phone out right you pay $720 (again if you don't do the trade in thing) +$60/month =$2160 over 2 years
AND to buy the phone with Easy Pay is $0 + $90/month ($60+$30EP payment) for 42 months =$2160 over 2 years
As you can see you come out cheaper with the latter two options plus you aren't renewing your contract. I went with the Easy Pay option myself but you have to do what works for you. Again if you found different info please feel free to let everyone know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The thought of paying FULL price for a phone makes me crazy..
I was under the impression that here is some sort of subsidy that is given to them by the manufacturers for using those phones..
Meanwhile, I am happy ENOUGH to keep my current 450min/unlimited text and data plan with Sprint. If I HAVE to change plans, a big FU to Sprint and their lousy service and sub par customer service (In my experience) and I will just go with some other rip off company..
If you were a single user, and wanted to sign up with a two year plan, BB pre-order was the way to go. Traded in old phone, and with the $50 pre-order card, plus $200 trade in credit, my part at pickup was $49. Using the plan at the bottom of the page here http://www.sprint.com/landings/datashare/index_c.html?view=unlimitedtalk&INTNAV=eSLlans$85Unlimited, I was able to lower my payments from $79 a month (450min talk, unlimited txt/data for $69 + $10 premium data) to $60 a month ($30 unlimited talk/txt, $30 unlimited data). Can't beat that anywhere. I know it sucks for anyone that didn't jump on the deal. Right now, the cheapest way is to pay up front the $299, and use the $60 unlimited talk/txt/data deal. Yeah, I can wait to get a new phone every 2 years, so this one is a smaller hit per month, which is important. Biting my nails for the Note 6...lol.
Edit: I think I need to eat some crow. I just noticed the $25/month fee they are charging until I'm upgrade eligible. Think I'll be calling customer retention later this morning, and switching back to my old plan.
PHAMOS1 said:
Ok I have been trying to figure out the best deal/plan combo and here is what I found.....
If you can keep your old plan and like please do because the new ones with contract renewal aren't worth it. Here is what I found and by all means correct me if I'm wrong on anything.
Unlimited my way plan is $50 unlimited talk and text $30 unlimited data=$80/month but you have the ability to upgrade after 24 months( it's suppose to be new it's not 18 months anymore).
So you pay $300 for the Note 4(if you don't do the trade in thing) +80/month = $2220 (plus taxes and fees that vary) over 2 years
The plan buying the phone out right or with Easy Pay is $30 unlimited talk and text and $30 unlimited data=$60/month but YOU DO NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO UPGRADE even after 24 months but by then your phone will be paid for so you can buy another on or do Easy Pay again.
So to buy the phone out right you pay $720 (again if you don't do the trade in thing) +$60/month =$2160 over 2 years
AND to buy the phone with Easy Pay is $0 + $90/month ($60+$30EP payment) for 42 months =$2160 over 2 years
As you can see you come out cheaper with the latter two options plus you aren't renewing your contract. I went with the Easy Pay option myself but you have to do what works for you. Again if you found different info please feel free to let everyone know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes all correct. One thing you left out is optional $5 month upgrade fee. If you pay extra $5 month you can upgrade every 12 months. I chose this option so I can always have a new phone every yr. You just have to pay the taxes on the phone each yr. This yr for the Note 4 it was $52 in taxes and I gave the note 3 back.

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