We believe that you get what you pay for, but it’s nice to know what that includes before you sign contracts, swipe cards, and face a bill full of fees you weren’t expecting. Unless you’re in the know, you can find yourself paying hundreds of dollars for costs like equipment leases, data overage charges, installation fees, and early termination fees (ETFs).
Unfortunately, internet providers aren’t always transparent about costs. They tend to emphasize their promotional rates and the awesome discounts you can get while tucking hidden fees into boring, fine print that most people just don’t have the time to analyze.
If you’ve ever wondered exactly what you’re agreeing to, then you’re in luck. We compiled all the main fees from 18 of the most prominent internet providers in the U.S.
Overview of Hidden Internet Fees by Provider
| Provider | Activation fee | Early termination fee | Technician installation fee | Equipment lease fee | Non-return equipment fee | Data overage charge | Late payment fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | N/A | Up to $180 | Up to $149 | Up to $10 per month | Up to $150 | Up to $200 | Up to $9.25 |
| CenturyLink | Up to $29.99 | Up to $149 | $75 | From $10 per month | Up to $200 | N/A | Up to $15 per month plus 5% of the unpaid amount of bill |
| Cox | $25 | Up to $360 | $100 | $10.99 per month | $120 | $10 per 50 GB over | $25 |
| Frontier | N/A | $20 per month remaining | $75 | $10 per month | $100 | N/A | $10 and 1.5% of bill |
| Google Fiber | N/A | N/A | $300 | N/A | Up to $300 | N/A | N/A |
| Mediacom | $10 | Up to $240 | $99.99 | $11.50 per month | Up to $500 | $10 per 50 GB over | Up to $10 |
| MetroNet | N/A | N/A | Up to $75 | N/A | Up to $150 | N/A | $10 or 3% of bill, whichever is greater |
| Optimum | N/A | N/A | Up to $149.99 | $10 per month | Up to $750 | N/A | $10 |
| RCN | $9.99 | N/A | $49.99 | Up to $12.95 per device per month | Up to $330 | N/A | Up to 1.5% of remaining balance |
| Rise Broadband | N/A | $10 per month remaining | $150 | $10.99 per month | Up to $300 | $5 per 10 GB over | $20 per month |
| Spectrum | N/A | N/A | $49.99 | Up to $10 per month | Up to $78 | N/A | Up to $8.95 |
| Suddenlink | $40 | N/A | $125 | $10 per month | List price of equipment | $15 per 50 GB over | $10 |
| TDS | Up to $25 | $50 | N/A | $10 per month | List price of equipment | Up to $60 | $7 |
| Verizon | N/A | $350 | Up to $99 | Up to $15 per month | Up to $175 | N/A | $9 |
| Viasat | N/A | $345 | $99 | $10 per month | Up to $200 | N/A | $5 per month |
| Windstream | $50 | N/A | $35 | Up to $9.99 per month | $100 | N/A | Up to $10 |
| WOW! | N/A | Up to $345 | $50 | From $14 | Up to $300 | N/A | $5 |
| Xfinity | N/A | Up to $120 | $89.99 | $14 per month | Up to $210 | Up to $100 | Up to $10 |
The Real Cost of Hidden Fees on Your Internet Bill
Even scouring the fine print may not give you the clearest picture of what you’ll pay from month to month. That’s why we estimated the real cost of your monthly internet bill by combining potential internet provider fees with popular internet plan prices. Click on your internet provider below to find out the real cost of your monthly bill:
Hidden Internet Fees by Internet Provider
AT&T Internet Fees
Here’s a look at the AT&T 300M Fiber Internet plan. One of AT&T’s most widely available and popular plans, the 300M Fiber Internet starts at $45 per month, and offers upload and download speeds up to 300 Mbps. The following are estimates for what you’ll actually pay on your AT&T bill:
The Real Cost of AT&T 300M Fiber Internet: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $45 | $10 | $149 | ✘ | ✘ | $204 |
Promotional period bill | $45 | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $55 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $45 | $10 | ✘ | $9.25 | ✘ | $64.25 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $65 | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $75 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $65 | $10 | ✘ | $9.25 | ✘ | $84.25 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $65 | $10 | ✘ | $9.25 | $150 | $234.25 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How AT&T Internet Fees Work
AT&T is pretty standard when it comes to internet fees. You won’t have to worry about activation fees, data overage charges, or ETFs when you have AT&T fiber internet. However, you should keep an eye out for data overage charges if you’ve got an AT&T DSL or fixed wireless plan. Here’s what you need to know about why your AT&T internet bill is higher than you expected:
- Expect a rate hike after the promotional period. AT&T plans typically come with a 12-month promotional rate. That means you’re going to pay more for the exact same service starting in month 13 unless you make a phone call to renegotiate your bill.
- Watch out for different fees per connection type. The good news is that AT&T is making their fiber options more widely available, so chances are, you won’t ever have to worry about pricey data overage charges. On the other hand, fiber plans come with more expensive late payments, equipment fees, and often require technician installation.
- Preserve your AT&T equipment. Don’t get caught with broken or lost AT&T equipment at the end of your internet service. This cost – up to $150 – could be the reason why you lose out on some major savings. We’re not telling you to shield it with bubble wrap, but you definitely don’t want to leave your modem precariously perched near your dog’s water bowl.
Call To See If AT&T Is Available In Your Area
CenturyLink Internet Fees
This estimate of the real cost of CenturyLink internet analyzes the Price for Life 100 Mbps plan. Because of its download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps and upload speeds up to 30 Mbps for $49 per month, the Price for Life 100 Mbps plan is the most popular CenturyLink DSL plan. Here’s what you might to expect from CenturyLink monthly bills:
The Real Cost of CenturyLink Internet Price for Life 100 Mbps: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First regular bill | $49 | $29.99 | ✘ | $10 | $75 | ✘ | ✘ | $163.99 |
Regular bill | $49 | ✘ | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $59 |
Regular bill (max fees) | $49 | ✘ | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $17.45 | ✘ | $76.45 |
Final bill (max fees) | $49 | ✘ | $149 | $10 | ✘ | $17.45 | $200 | $425.45 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How CenturyLink Internet Fees Work
There are a couple of unusual CenturyLink internet fees that really set this provider apart from others. While many providers are moving away from activation fees (by offsetting the cost elsewhere), CenturyLink is still charging them on the first bill for DSL and fiber connections. Also unlike most providers, CenturyLink won’t increase their rates after a promotional period. Take a closer look at those fee arrangements:
- Get permanent Price for Life rates. CenturyLink plan prices won’t increase at the 12-month, 24-month, 48-month, 96-month (you get where we’re going with this) mark, because they guarantee that you’ll pay your sign-up price for life.
- Expect to pay an activation fee. This mysterious fee will appear on your first bill, so don’t be surprised to see your price for life suddenly appear almost $30 more expensive than advertised. The good news is that it’s a one-time fee you won’t need to worry about again after your first bill.
- Keep an eye out for data overage penalties. CenturyLink won’t charge you for using more data than the 1 TB monthly allowance included in their DSL plans. However, they will throttle your speeds. If you’re suddenly experiencing a slow internet connection, check your data usage. You may be over your limit.
Cox Internet Fees
This bill scenario uses the Cox Internet Preferred 150 plan, the cable provider’s best all-around internet plan. For $49.99 per month, you can get download speeds up to 150 Mbps and upload speeds up to 10 Mbps. The following demonstrates what you could pay each month with this plan:
The Real Cost of Cox Internet Preferred 150: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Data overage charges | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $49.99 | $25 | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | $100 | ✘ | ✘ | $185.98 |
Promotional period bill | $49.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $60.98 |
Promotional period bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $49.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | $25 | ✘ | $105.98 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $83.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $94.98 |
Non-promo bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $83.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | $25 | ✘ | $139.98 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $83.99 | ✘ | $20 | $360 | $10.99 | ✘ | $25 | $120 | $619.98 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Cox Internet Fees Work
As you can see, Cox internet fees can escalate if you aren’t careful. Cox includes just about every type of internet fee providers collect, but the pricier ones are penalties you can avoid with some planning. Here are some tips to avoid Cox’s most expensive charges:
- Monitor your data closely. All Cox internet plans come with a data cap of 1.25 TB of data, enough to watch 525 hours of HD video each month (about 17.5 hours each day). Use Cox’s data usage calculator to figure out how much data you need and their data usage meter to make sure you’re sticking to your limits.
- Anticipate a price increase after the promotional period. At the end of 12 months, the Cox Internet Preferred 150 will increase by almost $30. Be ready for this change to avoid late fees, and try negotiating with a Cox customer service agent to get a better price.
- Don’t end your Cox contract early. The largest fees Cox imposes by far are their ETF and non-return equipment fee. Cox contracts are typically 24-month-long agreements, so sign the dotted line only if you’re sure you can keep that commitment to avoid paying a nearly $400 ETF.
Frontier Internet Fees
With download and upload speeds up to 500 Mbps, the FiberOptic 500/500 Mbps Internet plan is one of Frontier’s most popular plans. Starting at $59.99 per month, this Frontier plan is competitively low at first glance. Get a more accurate picture of what your monthly bill could look like:
The Real Cost of Frontier FiberOptic 500/500 Mbps Internet: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $59.99 | ✘ | $10 | $75 | ✘ | ✘ | $144.99 |
Promotional period bill | $59.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $69.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $59.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $10.90 | ✘ | $80.89 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $69.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $79.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $69.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $11.05 | ✘ | $91.04 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + three-month ETF) | $69.99 | $60 | $10 | ✘ | $11.05 | $100 | $251.04 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Frontier Internet Fees Work
Frontier Internet fees aren’t numerous or particularly expensive. You’ll be expected to pay typical fees for equipment rentals or if you’re late making payments, but you don’t have to worry about hidden data overage charges, a massive flat rate ETF, or activation fees. Here’s the inside scoop on Frontier internet fees:
- Don’t worry about the end of Frontier’s promotional period. At the end of many internet providers’ promotional periods, you can find yourself paying more than a 50 percent increase on your monthly bill. Not so with Frontier! Expect your bill to increase by just $10 at the end of their 12-month promotional period.
- Enjoy unlimited data no matter what plan you have. Some providers only offer unlimited data if you purchase their top plan, but Frontier gives you flexibility no matter what plan you subscribe to, including their slower DSL plans.
- Wait as long as you can to end your Frontier contract. Unlike many providers, Frontier sets their ETF based on the months you have remaining on your contract. If you break your contract one month shy of its original ending date, you’ll only have to pay $20. That number is multiplied by each remaining month, though.
Google Fiber Internet Fees
When it comes to simplicity, Google Fiber is unmatched, with the Google Fiber 1 Gig plan costing $70 per month for speeds up to 1 Gbps. Here are some insights into Google Fiber’s internet fees using this plan to predict your monthly costs:
The Real Cost of Google Fiber 1 Gig: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Installation fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First regular bill | $70 | $300 | ✘ | $370 |
Second regular bill | $70 | ✘ | ✘ | $70 |
Final regular bill | $70 | ✘ | ✘ | $70 |
Final regular bill (max fees) | $70 | ✘ | $300 | $370 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Google Fiber Internet Fees Work
When it comes to fee transparency, Google Fiber puts most internet providers to shame. There are only two fees you have to worry about when you subscribe to Google Fiber: installation and non-return equipment fees. Even better, these fees aren’t really hidden at all, and with some planning, you can be ready for them. Here’s what you need to know about Google Fiber internet fees:
- Be prepared for the $300 construction fee. Unfortunately, most places in the United States don’t yet have infrastructure for fiber. If you subscribe to Google Fiber in an area that lacks the necessary wiring, you’ll be responsible for the cost of the construction.
- Know that penalties still apply for late payments. Google Fiber is definitely generous when it comes to late payments, but your service will be suspended if you don’t make your payment within 40 days of your bill’s due date. You can reactivate your service once your balance is paid in full.
- Return your equipment in good condition. Google Fiber’s flat rate includes the cost of equipment rentals, so there are no surprises there. However, if you don’t return all of your Google Fiber television, internet, and home service equipment, you could find yourself paying much, much more than you bargained for.
Mediacom Internet Fees
Let’s take a look at the Mediacom Internet 100 plan to estimate what your possible monthly bills might look like when you use Mediacom internet service. Prices start at $49.99 per month for download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps for this plan. The following bill scenarios make a more accurate prediction of your monthly Mediacom cable bill:
The Real Cost of Mediacom Internet 100: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Data overage charges | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $49.99 | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | $11.50 | $99.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $171.48 |
Promotional period bill | $49.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $11.50 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $61.49 |
Promotional period bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $49.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $11.50 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $91.49 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $79.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $11.50 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $91.49 |
Non-promo bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $79.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $11.50 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $121.49 |
Final non-promo bill | $79.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $11.50 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $91.49 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + 100 GB over limit) | $79.99 | ✘ | $20 | $240 | $11.50 | ✘ | $10 | $500 | $861.49 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Mediacom Internet Fees Work
When you sign up for Mediacom internet, be prepared to see your cable bill go up over time. Mediacom has some of the most expensive hidden fees you’ll find among providers, but the good news is that those pricier ones are avoidable. Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for Mediacom internet fees:
- Expect a rate increase after the promotional period. For 12 months, you can enjoy a competitive rate for your Mediacom Internet 100 plan. Once that time is up, your rate is going to jump by $30.
- Watch out for data caps. Most providers remove data caps when you subscribe to their fastest internet plans. With Mediacom, this isn’t the case. Monitor your data usage, because these data caps are one way for Mediacom to collect a continuously growing toll.
- Cancel your service early at your own risk. There are two things to pay attention to if you decide you want to cancel service with Mediacom: the $240 ETF and a non-return equipment fee that can be as high as $500. Avoid both by switching internet providers once your contract with Mediacom expires, and make sure you return your equipment on time and in good condition.
MetroNet Internet Fees
To investigate the real cost of MetroNet internet, we focused on the MetroNet 200/200 Mbps internet plan. Offering symmetrical internet speeds of 200 Mbps for $49.95 per month, this plan is blazing fast at a competitive rate. Check out how competitive MetroNet’s rates remain over time and in various situations:
The Real Cost of MetroNet 200/200 Mbps: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $49.95 | $9.95 | $75 | ✘ | ✘ | $134.90 |
Promotional period bill | $49.95 | $9.95 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $79.90 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $59.95 | $9.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $69.90 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $59.95 | $9.95 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $69.90 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $59.95 | $9.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $79.90 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $59.95 | $9.95 | ✘ | $10 | $150 | $229.90 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How MetroNet Internet Fees Work
MetroNet fees are on the low side (mostly), a pleasant break from internet provider tradition. You’ll never have to worry about an activation fee, data cap charge, or an ETF. However, there are ways to totally blow up your MetroNet bill, but here are some ways to avoid them:
- Look out for MetroNet’s technology fee. MetroNet has a unique fee most providers don’t impose: a “technology fee.” It’s an unavoidable $9.95 monthly fee to keep in mind when you sign up for MetroNet internet service. We included it in the table above as the equipment lease fee.
- Data is unlimited across MetroNet plans. MetroNet is one of the few providers that removes data caps on all of its plans, including its lower performance ones. This provider perk sets MetroNet apart from competitors who typically impose data limits on plans offering speeds less than 1 Gbps.
- Don’t forget to return your equipment. To use your MetroNet internet service, you’ll need an optical network terminal and a router, which could cost up to $150 to replace. While the technology fee will cover any broken items, you’ll need to send back your equipment at the end of your service to avoid any fees. On the bright side, MetroNet will pay for the shipping and handling to send it back.
Optimum Internet Fees
The highly popular Optimum 500 plan is a good choice for getting a sense of what your Optimum bill might look like each month. Starting at $70 per month, you can get download speeds up to 500 Mbps with this plan. Here’s how consistent that rate will be over time:
The Real Cost of Optimum 500: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $70 | $21 | $149.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $240.99 |
Promotional period bill | $70 | $21 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $91 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $70 | $21 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $101 |
Non-promo bill (after 24 months) | $129.99 | $21 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $150.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $129.99 | $21 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $160.99 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $129.99 | $21 | ✘ | $10 | $150 | $310.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Optimum Internet Fees Work
Optimum offers their customers enticing perks, including unlimited data, contract-free agreements, no activation fees, and two-year-long promotional rates. However, there are still internet fees you’ll need to account for in your budget. Read these tips to learn how to deal with Optimum’s not-so-optimal fees:
- Renegotiate your price after the promotional period. Once the 24-month promotion for the Optimum 500 ends, your rate will increase from $70 to $129.99 (nearly twice as much as your starting price). Make sure to call in to get a new deal when the end of your promotional period is nigh.
- Self-install and save. You can avoid Optimum’s steep technician installation fee up to $149.99 by ordering your internet service online and installing it yourself for free. If the existing wiring is not in place, this option may not be possible when you order Optimum’s fiber internet plan, but it’s worth a shot.
- Lease the Altice One to get the best equipment experience. When you sign up for an Optimum cable internet plan, you’ll need a cable box ($11 per month) and a modem ($10 per month). Rather than leasing those two separate devices, you can rent the Altice One, Optimum’s upgraded single device, for $20 per month.
RCN Internet Fees
We analyzed the 500 Mbps plan to estimate the various billing scenarios you might encounter if you sign up for RCN internet. The RCN 500 Mbps plan offers download speeds up to 500 Mbps for only $39.99 per month, a highly competitive starting rate. Get a sense of how that number may fluctuate over time:
The Real Cost of RCN 500 Mbps: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $39.99 | $9.99 | $12.95 | $49.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $102.93 |
Promotional period bill | $39.99 | ✘ | $12.95 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $52.94 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $39.99 | ✘ | $12.95 | ✘ | $9 | ✘ | $61.94 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $144.99 | ✘ | $12.95 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $157.94 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $144.99 | ✘ | $12.95 | ✘ | $9 | ✘ | $166.94 |
Final promo bill (max fees) | $144.99 | ✘ | $12.95 | ✘ | $9 | $330 | $496.94 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How RCN Internet Fees Work
It’s fantastic that RCN refrains from imposing data caps and ETFs, but there are still fees you should know about. Follow these suggestions to keep your RCN internet fees to a minimum (or avoid them all together):
- Install RCN service yourself and save. Installing cable internet service is a cinch, and RCN allows their customers to self-install for free. You may need to pay the technician installation fee if you sign up for an RCN fiber internet plan in a household without the necessary wiring infrastructure.
- Use your own equipment to save on monthly rental fees. Already have a working modem? Check RCN’s modem compatibility requirements to see if you can use your own device instead of leasing one from them.
- Take care of your equipment. If you lease RCN equipment for your internet and television service, keep it safe and make sure you follow the equipment return guidelines to a T to avoid a $525 non-return equipment fee.
Rise Broadband Internet Fees
The Rise Broadband 25 Mbps internet plan is suitable for making an accurate prediction about this fixed wireless internet provider. Starting at $34.95 per month, you can get download speeds up to 25 Mbps in areas where wired providers don’t offer coverage. See how the cost of Rise Broadband internet can change through the months:
The Real Cost of Rise Broadband 25 Mbps: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Data overage charges | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $34.95 | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | $150 | ✘ | ✘ | $195.94 |
Promotional period bill | $34.95 | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $45.94 |
Promotional period bill (max fees + 20 GB over limit) | $34.95 | $10 | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $75.94 |
Non-promo bill (after 24 months) | $49.95 | ✘ | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $60.94 |
Non-promo bill (max fees + 20 GB over limit) | $49.95 | $10 | ✘ | $10.99 | ✘ | $20 | ✘ | $90.94 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + 20 GB over limit + three-month ETF) | $49.95 | $10 | $30 | $10.99 | ✘ | $20 | $300 | $420.94 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Rise Broadband Internet Fees Work
Rise Broadband offers fixed wireless internet service. Customers can expect some perks, along with a few pesky costs. Rise Broadband internet service reaches places that most internet providers aren’t willing to cover. At the same time, the speeds are relatively slow (even slower than satellite speeds), and you’ll have to deal with data caps that aren’t too difficult to exceed. Keep reading for more details about Rise Broadband’s internet fees:
- Track your data to avoid escalating data overage charges. You’ll have to pay $5 for every 10 GB of data you use over your limit of 250 GB. Those charges can climb quite quickly and indeterminately, so keep your eyes on your Rise Broadband account throughout the month to keep your costs down.
- Budget for the mandatory installation fee. Fixed wireless internet requires the installation of specialized antenna and other equipment. Your first bill with Rise Broadband is probably going to look a lot like our estimate no matter how frugal your spending.
- Enjoy a steeply reduced promotional rate for 24 months. Finally, some good news! Unlike most providers, you get to lock in a nearly 50 percent discount for the first two years of service. Prepare for your rate to increase by $15 in month 25, though.
Spectrum Internet Fees
Take a look at the Spectrum Internet Ultra plan to estimate the possible cost of your monthly bills. Starting at $69.99 per month, the Spectrum Internet Ultra plan offers Spectrum customers download speeds up to 400 Mbps. Here’s an estimate of the various ways your Spectrum bill could change over time:
The Real Cost of Spectrum Internet Ultra: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $69.99 | $9.99 | $10 | $49.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $139.97 |
Promotional period bill | $69.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $79.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $69.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $8.95 | ✘ | $88.94 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $94.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $104.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $94.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $8.95 | ✘ | $113.94 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $94.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $8.95 | $78 | $191.94 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Spectrum Internet Fees Work
Spectrum internet fees are low compared to most providers, and that’s because of fantastic perks, including unlimited data, contract-free agreements, and the ability to self-install for a reduced price. Check out the following insider tips to optimize your savings with Spectrum:
- Get Spectrum to buy out your current contract. Stuck in a contract with another internet provider? Spectrum will reimburse your ETF from another provider up to $500 if you switch to their internet service.
- Save with self-installation. Spectrum will allow you to self-install your internet service for $9.99. That’s $40 less than what you’d pay if you opted for the technician installation, even though most internet providers charge nothing for a self-install kit.
- Use your own equipment to reduce monthly costs. Instead of leasing a modem from Spectrum (and ultimately paying more than you’d spend if you bought a modem outright), you can use your own equipment. Just make sure it’s compatible with Spectrum internet service first.
Suddenlink Internet Fees
Calculate the possible cost of Suddenlink internet by using the Internet 400 Unlimited Data plan. With download speeds reaching up to 400 Mbps starting at $50 per month, the Internet 400 Unlimited Data plan is one of Suddenlink’s highest-performing plans. Explore the following bill scenarios to see if Suddenlink’s rates are as exceptional as this plan’s speed:
The Real Cost of Suddenlink Internet 400 Unlimited Data: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $50 | $40 | $10 | $125 | ✘ | ✘ | $225 |
Promotional period bill | $50 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $60 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $50 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $70 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $139.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $149.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $139.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $159.99 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + wireless modem non-return equipment fee) | $139.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $10 | $100 | $259.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Suddenlink Internet Fees Work
Suddenlink internet fees aren’t all bad, as you do get the additional perk of unlimited data when you sign up for internet plans offering download speeds of 400 Mbps and higher. Suddenlink also offers their customers a few creative ways to save. Suddenlink promotional terms last either 12 months or 24 months before prices increase, which is nice. Here’s everything else you need to know about Suddenlink internet fees:
- Expect data caps with slower plans. The plan featured here has unlimited data, but all Suddenlink plans slower than the Internet 400 Unlimited Data plan have a 250 GB data cap. You’ll be on the hook for $15 per 50 GB over that limit.
- Get free installation when you order online. Suddenlink won’t let you install your internet service yourself, but they’ll waive the cost (most of the time) if you purchase your plan online.
- Switch to Suddenlink for a contract buyout. If you switch from your current provider to Suddenlink and accrue an ETF, Suddenlink will reimburse you up to $500 for a contract with bundled services and up to $100 for an internet-only contract.
TDS Internet Fees
We used the Ultra 300 plan to analyze the real cost of TDS internet plans. With download speeds reaching up to 300 Mbps, the Ultra 300 plan is one the most popular cable plans TDS has to offer. The Ultra 300 plan starts at $59.95 per month, but take a look at the ways that number can change depending on the month:
The Real Cost of TDS Ultra 300: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $59.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $69.95 |
Promotional period bill | $59.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $69.95 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $59.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $7 | ✘ | $76.95 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $84.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $94.95 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $84.95 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $7 | ✘ | $101.95 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees + router non-return equipment fee) | $84.95 | $50 | $10 | ✘ | $7 | $200 | $351.85 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How TDS Internet Fees Work
TDS internet fees aren’t particularly high, but they do depend on the connection type you choose. TDS offers fiber, DSL, and cable internet plans, and fees vary based on connection type and speed. For example, activation fees with TDS only apply to fiber plans. Find more subtle TDS internet nuances here:
- Find activation fees only with TDS fiber plans. Fiber plans can get fancy, and sometimes providers make you pay extra for that. TDS cable and DSL plans don’t require an activation fee, but you’ll pay $25 to get your fiber plan up and running.
- Get free installation with TDS DSL and cable plans. You can install your TDS cable and DSL internet plans yourself or through a technician for free. If you sign up for TDS fiber internet service, you’ll need to pay a $49.95 installation fee.
- Watch out for data caps with your TDS DSL plan. While data is unlimited for TDS fiber and cable plans, you’ll be on the hook for up to $60 if you exceed the 250 GB data cap imposed on TDS DSL internet plans. Yikes.
Verizon Internet Fees
To calculate the cost of Verizon internet fees, we used the Verizon Fios 400/400 fiber plan. Starting at $59.99 per month, Verizon’s Fios 400/400 is one of the most popular high-speed internet plans in the country. Look through this table to see our estimates for your various monthly Verizon internet bills:
The Real Cost of Verizon Fios 400/400: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $59.99 | ✘ | $15 | $99 | ✘ | ✘ | $173.99 |
Promotional period bill | $59.99 | ✘ | $15 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $74.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $59.99 | ✘ | $15 | ✘ | $9 | ✘ | $83.99 |
Final promotional period bill (max fees) | $59.99 | $350 | $15 | ✘ | $9 | $175 | $608.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Verizon Internet Fees Work
Verizon’s competitive promotional rates, no activation fees, and unlimited data are fantastic provider perks, especially given this provider’s impressive range of speeds. Use the following tips to save even more with Verizon, and learn what to expect from hidden fees even we couldn’t uncover:
- Save $99 by self-installing your internet. If your household has the necessary wiring for your Verizon internet plan, you can install it yourself for free. However, if the necessary infrastructure is lacking, you’ll have to pay a technician to install your internet for you.
- Don’t worry about data caps. Verizon offers DSL, fiber, and 5G internet connection types. The great news is that no matter what connection type is available in your area, Verizon won’t impose data limits on your plan.
- Be on the lookout for a price increase after your promotional period. While many providers include rate increases somewhere in the fine print, you’ll be hard-pressed to find out what happens to your rate after 12 months with a Verizon internet plan (trust us, we looked). Customer reviews report increases ranging from $10 to $20 annually.
Viasat Internet Fees
For Viasat, let’s look at the different monthly bill scenarios you could face if you sign up for the Unlimited Gold 50 satellite internet plan. Starting at $99.99 per month, you can get download speeds up to 50 Mbps no matter where in the country you are. Scan these prices to see how your Viasat internet cost can change over time:
The Real Cost of Viasat Unlimited Gold 50: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $99.99 | ✘ | $10 | $99 | ✘ | ✘ | $208.99 |
Promotional period bill | $99.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $109.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $99.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $5 | ✘ | $114.99 |
Non-promo bill (after three months) | $149.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $159.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $149.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $5 | ✘ | $164.99 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $149.99 | $345 | $10 | ✘ | $5 | $200 | $709.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Viasat Internet Fees Work
Compared to fiber, cable, and DSL internet providers, Viasat’s fees are as high as their speeds are low. However, Viasat internet plans are a lifesaver if you live in a rural or otherwise remote area that other providers won’t cover. Take a look at the following tips to be prepared for the real cost of Viasat satellite internet service:
- Don’t get used to that promotional rate. Unlike most providers, you only get to enjoy your internet promotion for three months. After that, your Viasat plan rate will shoot up by $50. Make sure your budget is ready for that change.
- Set aside money for installation fees. As much as you might want to avoid that $99 installation fee, satellite internet equipment installation is too nuanced (according to Viasat) for anyone but their technicians to attempt. Try telling that to Starlink.
- Watch your data usage to avoid throttling. The Unlimited Gold 50 comes with a monthly data allowance of 50 GB. Exceed that cap, and prepare for Viasat to reduce your internet speeds significantly, unless you buy additional data. Brace yourself if you go that route, though, as just 5 GB extra could cost you $48!
Windstream Internet Fees
Producing download speeds up to 500 Mbps for $57 per month, the Kinetic Fiber Internet 500 plan is one of the most popular plans Windstream has to offer. We used the Kinetic Fiber Internet 500 plan to assess the different ways your monthly bill might change if you subscribe to Windstream internet service:
The Real Cost of Windstream Kinetic Fiber Internet 500: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Activation fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $57 | $50 | $5.99 | $35 | ✘ | ✘ | $147.99 |
Promotional period bill | $57 | ✘ | $5.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $62.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $57 | ✘ | $5.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $72.99 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $65 | ✘ | $5.99 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $70.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $65 | ✘ | $5.99 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $80.99 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $65 | ✘ | $5.99 | ✘ | $10 | $100 | $180.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Windstream Internet Fees Work
Windstream internet fees are relatively low, but there are ways to make them even lower. Learn how to leverage this internet provider’s perks to keep your monthly internet bill as inexpensive as possible:
- Pay attention to equipment fees per connection type. If you get a fiber plan from Windstream, like the Kinetic Fiber Internet 500 plan, your equipment fees will only cost $5.99 per month. DSL equipment fees cost more at $9.99 per month.
- Save $35 by installing Windstream internet service yourself. If your home doesn’t have fiber internet infrastructure in place, you may not be able to avoid the $35 technician installation fee. However, if you’re getting a Windstream DSL plan, or there’s pre-existing fiber wiring in your home, you can self-install your internet for free.
- Get $100 instant credit. When you sign up for a Windstream Kinetic internet plan, you can get $100 credit toward your Windstream bill.
WOW! Internet Fees
By combining the Internet 500 plan with its hidden fees, you can get a clearer picture of what your monthly WOW! internet payments might look like. With download speeds reaching up to 500 Mbps and upload speeds up to 50 Mbps, this popular high speed internet plan for $49.99 per month. Here’s how that rate might change from month to month:
The Real Cost of WOW! Internet 500: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $49.99 | ✘ | $14 | $50 | ✘ | ✘ | $113.99 |
Promotional period bill | $49.99 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $63.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $49.99 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | $5 | ✘ | $68.99 |
Non-promo bill (after 24 months) | $79.99 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | 93.99 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $79.99 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | $5 | ✘ | $98.99 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $79.99 | $345 | $14 | ✘ | $5 | $300 | $743.99 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How WOW! Internet Fees Work
WOW! internet fees are pretty customary, but this internet provider does have a couple of noteworthy perks. You can enjoy unlimited data no matter what plan you choose, and you can lock in a discounted rate for an extended period of time. Check out the details on WOW! internet fees below:
- Enjoy a 24-month promotional rate. Lots of internet providers raise their rates after 12 months. With WOW!, you can expect to pay the same discounted rate for two years. However, your price will jump $30 after those sweet two years are up.
- Save with self-installation. WOW! will send you everything you need to install your internet service yourself without imposing an additional cost. With just a little elbow grease, you can shave $50 off our estimate for your first bill.
- Take note of the ridiculously high ETF. We’re thrilled about a 24-month long promotional period, but boy will you pay for it if you break your contract early. We recommend you sign up for WOW! internet service if you’re pretty certain you won’t be moving within two years.
Xfinity Internet Fees
Using the Blast! Pro+ plan you can get a good approximation of the monthly cost of Xfinity internet service. The Xfinity Blast! Pro+ internet plan starts $64.99 per month for download speeds up to 400 Mbps. Here’s where that rate might end up each month:
The Real Cost of Xfinity Blast! Pro+: Possible Monthly Bill Scenarios
Bill type | Starting monthly price | Data overage charges | Early termination fee | Equipment lease fee | Installation fee | Late payment fee | Non-return equipment fee | Total monthly price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First promotional period bill | $64.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $14 | $89.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $168.98 |
Promotional period bill | $64.99 | ✘ | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $78.99 |
Promotional period bill (max fees) | $64.99 | $100 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $188.99 |
Non-promo bill (after 12 months) | $80 | ✘ | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | $94.00 |
Non-promo bill (max fees) | $80 | $100 | ✘ | $14 | ✘ | $10 | ✘ | $204.00 |
Final non-promo bill (max fees) | $80 | $100 | $120 | $14 | ✘ | $10 | $210 | $534 |
* Prices vary by location, plan, and package. These unofficial estimates do not include tax and other surcharges that will vary by region.
How Xfinity Internet Fees Work
Xfinity internet fees can be expensive and surprising if you aren’t familiar with their terms of service. For example, you’ll be charged $10 a month unless you enroll in certain billing features, almost $90 more for installation if you go with an Xfinity technician instead of doing it yourself, and up to $100 if you don’t track your data. Here’s what you need to know to avoid Xfinity’s expensive surprises:
- Enroll in automatic payments and paperless billing. The starting prices listed in the table above assume you’ve opted into Xfinity autopay and ecobilling. If you don’t enroll in these options, you’ll have to pay an additional $10 per month.
- Self-install your Xfinity internet to save. You’ll have to cover the $20 shipping and handling fee for a self-installation kit, but that still beats the $89.99 technician installation fee Xfinity charges.
- Avoid Xfinity’s penalties with strategic planning. Xfinity’s data overage charges and late fees can quickly escalate, but you can avoid ever paying them. Enroll in autopay and save yourself the headache of having to remember to make your payments, and monitor your data usage to be sure you’re sticking to the 1.2 TB limit.
A Final Word on Hidden Internet Fees
While we have scoured internet provider websites to find these hidden internet fees in the deepest recesses of disclaimers, legal documents, and other forms of fine print, they are called “hidden” fees for a reason. Internet providers are experts at keeping these fees buried, and even though we will keep exhuming them at every turn, the best way to avoid them is to review your monthly internet statement for any suspicious charges. If you see a cost you aren’t familiar with, contact your internet provider and find out what it is. It could be the difference between saving a little and a lot on your next internet bill payment.
Because plan prices, taxes, and surcharges vary by ZIP code, it’s impossible for us to give you a conclusive price for your internet service (no matter how comprehensive we are). The estimates provided here are projections based on popular plans in a few well-populated locations. If you want to know more about internet plans in your area, enter your ZIP code in the search bar below to find a provider near you!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Internet Fees
How much should you be paying for internet service each month?
Internet prices vary based on location and plan features, but most internet providers offer plans ranging between $35 and $80. The faster the internet speeds and the more digital services you bundle into your internet plan, the higher your internet bill will be. Our own research has shown the average internet bill to be about $64.
What’s a non-return equipment fee?
Non-return equipment fees are penalties you’ll have to pay if you don’t return the equipment you’ve rented from your provider in good condition or within their required time frame. One way to avoid non-return equipment fees is to purchase and use your own internet equipment instead of leasing devices from your provider.
What an early termination fee (ETF)?
An early termination fee is a charge imposed on internet customers who break their contracts before their expiration dates. For instance, Cox charges customers up to $360 if they choose to cancel service before the initially agreed-upon contract term is up.
What’s a data overage charge fee?
Data overage charges are becoming less common, but many providers still impose them to limit the amount of data their customers consume. If you exceed Mediacom’s data caps, for example, you’ll have to pay $10 for every 50 GB of data over your monthly limit.
How do you reduce the cost of your internet fees?
You can avoid some internet fees and reduce others simply by using an app to track your data and keep it low, enrolling in autopay to avoid late payment fees, taking care of your leased internet equipment to avoid a non-return equipment fee, and subscribing to an internet provider offering no-contract plans so you don’t have to worry about ETFs.