ETF

[Droid800]

As we all know, google charges an ERF if you discontinue or change your service with T-mobile within 120 days. I have some questions about this that you guys might be able to answer.

Does Google rigorously enforce this? I tried searching for people that were actually charged it, but can't find any.

How does Google actually find out about this? The reason I ask is because I actually planned on returning my N1 when I first got it, but decided to go back on T-mobile. When they reactivated my account, instead of adding back the plan the N1 comes with, they added on a generic data/voice plan. So I'm just curious how they figure it out.

I'm planning on switching to the new iPhone when it goes on sale, but if I did it right when the iPhone comes out I would be at 90 days. If Google's really stringent about applying the ERF I'll wait until the end of July, but I was just curious if you guys had heard anything.

 

[KrispyKrink]

If you opted for the on-contract version, T-Mobile will notify Google if/when you terminate service. Google will then charge the CC you used to purchase the N1 the ETF fee of $150. T-Mobile will also charge you the $200 T-Mobile ETF fee if you terminate the actual line, they wont if you keep the line active on a different phone.

I have a co-worker who didn't mind all that as he turned around and sold the N1 for $475.

 

[Droid800]

If you opted for the on-contract version, T-Mobile will notify Google if/when you terminate service. Google will then charge the CC you used to purchase the N1 the ETF fee of $150. T-Mobile will also charge you the $200 T-Mobile ETF fee if you terminate the actual line, they wont if you keep the line active on a different phone.

I have a co-worker who didn't mind all that as he turned around and sold the N1 for $475.

I guess my question, though, is how do they know? In T-mobile's system (at least the user facing system), the Nexus One is not a recognized device.

 

[KrispyKrink]

It's part of the contract. Just like a contract through a third party seller like Wirefly. It's all part of the computer system, if you terminate service prior the 120 days, T-Mobile contacts Google to get the commission they paid out to Google for your contract, to be returned to T-Mobile. This, in turn, flags Google's system to charge you the fee.

 

[Droid800]

It's part of the contract. Just like a contract through a third party seller like Wirefly. It's all part of the computer system, if you terminate service prior the 120 days, T-Mobile contacts Google to get the commission they paid out to Google for your contract, to be returned to T-Mobile. This, in turn, flags Google's system to charge you the fee.

See but that's my question. Because the original contract no longer exists (because I canceled within the 14 days, then changed my mind) will they still assess the fee? I recently called T-mobile about a billing issue, and the rep. had NO idea what device I was using based on what she was seeing in the system.

 

[KrispyKrink]

See but that's my question. Because the original contract no longer exists (because I canceled within the 14 days, then changed my mind) will they still assess the fee? I recently called T-mobile about a billing issue, and the rep. had NO idea what device I was using based on what she was seeing in the system.

Okay, that's odd. How long has it been like that? All I can say is proceed with caution. Things may look fine then out of the blue they find a discrepancy and Google's dinging you for that fee.

 

[Droid800]

Okay, that's odd. How long has it been like that? All I can say is proceed with caution. Things may look fine then out of the blue they find a discrepancy and Google's dinging you for that fee.

Since I came back to T-mobile.

Right now my plan is T-mobile Smartphone Unlimited with Even More 500 and unlimited messaging. When I first signed up, it was the Android specific data plan.

So I guess my confusion is whether it had already been reported to Google that I had canceled so they took me out of their system, or what. I'm hesitant to ask, and I fully anticipate paying the fee. I guess I'm just curious is all.

 

[JtothaR]

See but that's my question. Because the original contract no longer exists (because I canceled within the 14 days, then changed my mind) will they still assess the fee? I recently called T-mobile about a billing issue, and the rep. had NO idea what device I was using based on what she was seeing in the system.

That rep might have just been clueless.

If you sign in to My T-Mobile, it will show an unrecognized device, but trust me, the system that the company has can see exactly what youre using. It shows unlocked iPhones, Nexus Ones, everything. Nokia N-series, whatever. Im speaking from experience, btw.

 

[Droid800]

Another question: Will T-mobile let me switch to an unlocked motorola dumbphone until I cancel my contract? (with a MUCH cheaper plan until then?) Or can they hold me to the Nexus?

 

[KrispyKrink]

Another question: Will T-mobile let me switch to an unlocked motorola dumbphone until I cancel my contract? (with a MUCH cheaper plan until then?) Or can they hold me to the Nexus?

T-Mobile will let you change plans, yes. But, changing to a lesser plan than what you're contracted to Google within the 120 day time period will trigger the fee by Google. After the 120 day period, you're free to change it without recourse from Google.

 

[Droid800]

T-Mobile will let you change plans, yes. But, changing to a lesser plan than what you're contracted to Google within the 120 day time period will trigger the fee by Google. After the 120 day period, you're free to change it without recourse from Google.

That's what I figured. I'd have to call T-mo though since the Nexus one is not an option in their online account management system.

Also; I'm still confused by the whole plan thing. Wouldn't it have already been triggered since I'm not on the Nexus one specific plan?

 

[Duvi]

If you can get T-mobile to put that you won't be charged, then you're good.

Don't tell them, but ask them if there will be any other fees from aside from the $200 associated with canceling. If they say no, ask them to notate that.