How much does it cost to start with AT&T?
It is not very easy to get started with AT&T Internet because of the numerous programs, devices, and accessories it offers. However, the dissolving of costs into subcategories might be helpful. Here's a look at what you can expect to pay when signing up for AT&T services.
Phone/Device Costs
In the case of a new line of internet service registration, the client would also usually require a phone or device for the line. AT&T provides a broad array of choices, which feature both Apple and Android smartphones ranging from $150-$800 retail price per model. However, AT&T has installment plans that enable customers to pay for the device in monthly installments for 24, 30, or 36 months rather than a one-off payment. These forms of installment billing options assist in reducing the start-up costs that are often incurred.
You can also go to any AT&T and just get a SIM card for your device but it must be compatible. However, do not expect to have all the new features and fast networks until your device is built to support the AT&T bands.
Monthly Phone/Data Plans
These phone plans offered by AT&T include talk time, text, and data bundles which are charged under one bill. Prepaid unlimited talk/text/data plans for individuals begin at $75 per month. However, they can greatly increase if one wants to subscribe to multiple lines or wants more data usage.
For instance, the unlimited data plan for a family of four costs between $160-$220 per month based on choosing the Unlimited Starter, Extra, or Elite packages. Every tier has extra functions and bonuses. Therefore, also consider the amount of data that will be consumed on all the devices while choosing a plan.
The basic fee structure is a monthly service charge of a few dollars, but could be slightly more expensive factoring in taxes and fees which are on average $5-$10.
One-Time Activation/Setup Fees
That initial cost includes a one-time activation fee per device which is approximately $30-$45 depending on whether one buys the device from AT&T or not. It also works in situations when there are fees for new lines of service or when an existing line of service is changed to work on a new device.
Additional features & complimentary services
AT&T also provides much flexibility to choose your plan based on the features that are important to you. This includes things like:
- How to call/text internationally
- Unlimited minutes & messages, local airtime & texts, calls & messages to Mexico & Canada
- Mobile device insurance to guard your phone against loss or damage from AT&T Mobile at $7-$18 per device per month.
- Mobile hotspot data allowance ($10 per 2GB monthly)
- Video Streaming in High Definition ($10 per month for Video Streaming in High Definition instead of Standard Definition for devices that support the feature).
It is important to note that the costs may rise sharply when you choose several add-ons across the different devices. Think about what can be considered essential to have rather than just nice to have to reduce the bill.
Bundled Packages with Internet or TV
There are several things that you can try to help you save money each month with AT&T such as getting bundled wireless packages with AT&T Internet or DIRECTV. Currently available in some areas and relatively expensive, AT&T U-Verse fiber internet is available for around $40 when bundled with wireless service. Or you can add DIRECTV or streaming TV subscriptions starting at $50 per month.
Purchasing several services as a package means that you will be given a discount on the price of the individual service. So it is always worthwhile to look at eligibility for bundles when subscribing to make sure you get the best deal.
To sum up, the costs of using AT&T wireless are your equipment and accessories, activation fees, and first month of service fees. This can easily exceed $10 or more for multiple new devices with unlimited data/text/talk for the family.
But AT&T does have a solution where installment plans for the devices are available for 24-36 months so that the costs are spread out instead of paying a hefty amount in the first place. Customers can also try to find opportunities to possibly decrease their monthly bills like selecting lower data plans, bypassing add-ons, or combining different AT&T offerings.
That being said, starting up your business is not very expensive, and several measures can be taken to minimize the initial capital one has to spend on changing the wireless service providers and deciding in favor of AT&T.
Upgrade to faster, more reliable AT&T Fiber Internet today! Call us at +1 844-905-5002 and get connected with speeds that keep you ahead.