Verizon rolled out changes to its AutoPay Discount that require you to re-read the fine print.
Starting February 14, customers need to connect their bank account information or use a Verizon Visa Card and sign up for paperless billing to get the $10 discount. That’s a change from the prior policy, which allowed you to use any debit you wanted. While the carrier announced this change last year, it’s finally making it effective this month.
The good news is customers who joined before February 14 will keep the $10 discount while still using their debit card, even if they switch to a different plan or upload a new debit card. Eligible plans include Unlimited Ultimate, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Welcome. Credit cards, unfortunately, are not welcome.
Several companies have switched to this policy of focusing on bank accounts AutoPay discount. Last July, T-Mobile made the change, and in October, AT&T also switched from a discount for anyone who signed up for AutoPay to excluding those paying with a debit or credit card. T-Mobile and AT&T cap their Autopay discount at six lines, while Verizon’s policy covers every line on an account. This is a way for service providers to avoid paying debit and credit card fees. When a customer pays via their bank account, or in Verizon’s case, the Verizon Visa Card, the companies aren’t charged a fee per transaction.
If you haven’t set up AutoPay yet, go to My Verizon and follow the prompts. You can also sign up through the My Verizon app. Under Menu, tap Bill, then follow the instructions to set it up and select your AutoPay date. And don’t forget to sign up for paperless billing while you’re there — since that’s also required for the discount. The savings will be applied to the next bill cycle after enrollment in both programs.
If you’re already set up for AutoPay but need to change your payment method, go to the Manage Your Payment settings page. Enter your bank account or Verizon Visa Card information to qualify for the $10 discount.