A young man in a denim jacket holds a phone while covering his face with one hand; next to him, the AT&T logo in a red circle.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

AT&T Just Confirmed It: Millions of Americans Didn't Expect This Change

Users receive news they weren't expecting and that will somehow affect their wallet

Recently, AT&T has confirmed a significant change that will affect many of its customers. The company has decided to reduce its monthly discount for automatic payments. A measure that surely won't be well received by the majority of users.

This adjustment comes just as other major telecommunications companies, like T-Mobile and Verizon, have made similar decisions. Although the news hasn't caused surprise, it does mark an important change in discount policies. It could have a direct impact on consumers' finances.

What Change Has AT&T Confirmed?

Starting April 24, customers enrolled in the automatic payment and electronic billing program with a debit card will receive a $5 discount. Not $10 as was previously applied.

Montage of a background with a girl using a phone and in front of it an angry man showing his fists
The Discounts Will Be Lower in a Matter of Days | Minerva Studio

This reduction will not only affect users with debit cards. Customers who pay with credit cards (unless they use the AT&T Points Plus card) will also stop receiving the automatic payment discount.

Meanwhile, customers who use a bank account for payment will continue to receive the full $10 discount. Both in internet plans and wireless plans, as long as they are on an eligible plan.

This change is part of a broader effort by AT&T to reduce its operating costs. The company seeks to encourage users to pay with bank accounts to avoid the additional fees associated with credit card use. In addition to reducing issues related to failed transactions or fraud.

A smiling man in a blue jersey points to the AT&T logo inside a red circle.
The company warns that there are other ways to save | Getty Images, AT&T

The Context Behind the Reduction of Discounts

This measure is not a complete surprise. Other major telecommunications companies have also reduced their discounts for customers using credit cards. These companies are adopting similar strategies to protect their profit margins and reduce operating costs.

It seems the goal is to avoid increasing the prices of base plans, which could generate a negative reaction among consumers. Despite the reduction in discounts, consumers can still find ways to save on their phone and internet bills. They indicate that the key is to be alert to promotions or hidden benefits included in the contracts.

Some of the options users can explore include packages that combine internet services with streaming platforms. Or even checking if they are paying for data features they aren't using. Additionally, there is always the possibility of negotiating with customer service to obtain better rates or access special offers.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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