AT&T's wireless bills can be confusing. Maybe you're a new AT&T customer or perhaps you're taking a closer look at your bill because it was higher than you expected. Whatever the case, understanding the different parts of your wireless bill is important to making sure you have a plan you like.
In this guide, we cover what to expect from your first AT&T wireless bill, an explanation of the most common taxes and fees, and what to do if your AT&T bill is higher than you expected. Plus, we list out the best alternative plans from AT&T if you find your current plan isn't what you want.
Your first AT&T wireless bill
Before you can understand your wireless bill, you need to be able to find it. The two easiest ways to find your bill are with the myAT&T app and the AT&T website. Both of these options will allow you to track your data use, review your charges, and pay your bill.
Once you pull up your bill, you'll notice there is a ton of information. AT&T itemizes everything, so you'll be able to see the cost of plans, devices, individual fees, and any active discounts added to your account.
When you get your first AT&T bill, you might be surprised to see it's a bit higher than advertised. When it comes to AT&T's plans–they're willing to give you TV, speed, unlimited data, and more for one low(ish) price—but there's usually a few extras tacked on your first bill. Check out what you can expect from your first AT&T bill below:
AT&T's first bill details
- Your first month will include a full month of service, plus applicable taxes and fees.
- Most deals you've received—like a BOGO deal—will need to run through 2-3 full charges before your billing credits kick in.
- AT&T has a one-time activation fee of $35/line for new plans and upgraded devices.
AT&T wireless bill details: Fees and credits
Here's a detailed explanation of each of the fees you might see on your wireless bill from AT&T. Of course, if you see something that you think shouldn't be on your bill, do not hesitate to contact their customer support to rectify the issue.
AT&T's wireless bill terms explained
| Fee/Credit Type | Explanation | Estimated Fee Range |
|---|---|---|
| Activation Fee | One time fee upon activating your account | $35/new line |
| Upgrade Fee | This is the fee you pay for upgrading your device | $45/new upgrade |
| Line Access Charge | This is the fee you are charged for access to your phone line (may specifically include 4G LTE or 5G access depending on plan) |
$20/line, per month |
| AT&T Surcharges | Administrative Charges (your fee accruals from talking to someone on another mobile network - to cell site rental fees) |
It varies, depending on your plan |
| Taxes and Government Fees | Federal, State, and County Taxes |
8.74% of your monthly bill to just under 27.55% Some states have much higher fees than others |
| Device Payment | This your monthly device payment | Depends on device |
| Higher Device Payments (than expected) | If you received a discount on your device, it might take 1-3 billing cycles for the discount to show up on your bill | Depends on device |
| Data Overage Fees | If you are on a "pay-by-the-gig" plan, you will be charged overages | $14.99 for an additional 250MB on a 250MB plan $10 for an additional GB on 3GB and 5GB plans |
| Billing Credit | If you got a discount on your device, it often shows up on your bill as a billing credit | Depends on the device discount you have received |
| AutoPay | When you allow AT&T to automatically charge your card each billing cycle, they'll give you a discount | $5/month one line, $10/month multi-line discount |
| Late Fee | AT&T does not have a Grace Period for late payments, so if you are a day late—a fee will show up on your bill | It varies depending on the amount owed and your delinquency - at a minimum it will be $9. |
Is your AT&T bill higher than expected?
If you're a little surprised by the fees associated with your AT&T account, don't be! Most major mobile carriers such as Verizon, T-Mobile, and many MVNOs have similar fees associated with their services. In fact, knowing that each of these fees and charges exist, will help you to avoid them. Whether you're thinking of switching to AT&T or you're already one of their valued customers, here are some helpful tips on avoiding many of these additional fees and charges.
AT&T wireless bill tips
- Set your bill to AutoPay
- Rather than going for device discounts upon signing up—ask for discounts like, "waived activation fees" - you'd be surprised how often they'll oblige
- Ask an AT&T specialist when their billing cycles begin and wait to activate your line on that day–let them know in advance that you want to avoid paying the prorated fees
Once you have done those three things, you will have cut out most of the additional fees and charges.
Find the perfect AT&T wireless plan
Now that you know how to avoid most of the unnecessary fees and charges on your AT&T wireless bill, it's time to start comparing their plans so you can switch to AT&T or pick a better plan if you don't like the price of your current one.
AT&T's most popular options are the three postpaid unlimited plans. The basic Value 2.0 plan includes unlimited data on AT&T's 5G network and a 3GB mobile hotspot starting at $50/month. However, this plan can be deprioritized at any point. AT&T's mid-tier plan is the Extra 2.0 plan. It includes 100GB of premium data—which is priority data that can't be slowed—and a 50GB mobile hotspot for $70/month. If you exceed the 100GB limit of premium data your speeds may slow during network congestion, but you'll still have unlimited data. Finally, AT&T's top plan is the Premium 2.0 plan. This plan includes unlimited premium data, so it should never slow down. Plus, it's got extra goodies like a 100GB mobile hotspot and 4K UHD streaming. That said, this is the most expensive plan costing $90/month.
|
#1
|
AT&T
Value 2.0℠
$50.00/mo
+ $35 Upfront
|
|
#2
|
AT&T
Extra 2.0℠
$70.00/mo
+ $35 Upfront
|
|
#3
|
AT&T
Premium 2.0℠
$90.00/mo
+ $35 Upfront
|
How to pay your AT&T bill: FAQs
Where can I pay my AT&T bill?
You can pay your AT&T bill on the myAT&T app, on AT&T's website, or by calling AT&T customer service.
Why is my AT&T bill so high?
If your AT&T bill is higher than normal, it's probably because something recently changed with your bill. Common AT&T fees include activation fees for new phones and lines, late fees for paying your bill late, and overage fees if you go over your data allotment on a limited data plan. AT&T has also implemented price hikes over the years, so be aware of changes to your plan by staying informed and checking AT&T's support page.
Does AT&T charge activation fees?
AT&T charges a $35 activation fee for new lines or upgrading devices.
Can I get AT&T fees waived?
Yes, AT&T often waives fees for longtime customers or as part of special offers. If you are opening a new line, consider asking AT&T's customer service if they will waive your fees. While the carrier is not obligated to waive fees, individual employees will sometimes do it as a courtesy if you ask.
What is an AT&T line access charge?
Line access charges from AT&T are the fees you pay for your phone service. It is usually $20/line per month. Each phone on your plan will receive an individual charge.
How long do AT&T deals take to start?
Most AT&T deals take two to three billing cycles before they are reflected on your wireless bill.
Lauren Hannula
Managing Editor
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