The number on the ad is rarely the number on your bill. Equipment rental, install fees, taxes, regulatory recovery surcharges, and the post-promo price cliff can turn a $35/mo headline into a $70/mo reality once everything stacks up.
Before you commit to any internet plan, run through this checklist with the agent. Whether you sign up with us or somewhere else, these are the ten questions that protect you.
1. What's the all-in monthly price after taxes and fees?
The headline number is usually pre-tax and pre-surcharge. Ask for the actual total you'll see on month one's bill, line item by line item.
2. How long is the promo price, and what does it become after?
Most cable promos are 12 months. After that, the price typically jumps $20–$40/mo. Get the post-promo number in writing or know it before you order.
3. Is there a contract, and what's the early termination fee?
Many providers now offer no-contract plans, but some still require 12-month or 24-month commitments to lock in promo pricing. ETFs can run $200–$400. Know which trade you're making.
4. What's the equipment fee?
Modem and router rentals run $10–$15/mo for cable. Some plans include the equipment, some don't. Some let you bring your own. Ask explicitly.
5. What's the installation fee, and is it waivable?
Pro install fees range $50–$100. They're often waived as a promo — but you have to ask, not assume. Self-install is usually free if it's an option.
6. Are there data caps?
Some cable plans have monthly data limits (often 1 TB or 1.2 TB) with overage fees. For a heavy streaming household this matters. Fiber and 5G plans typically don't cap.
7. What's the actual upload speed?
Cable plans rarely advertise upload speeds prominently. Ask for the specific upload number, especially if you work from home.
8. Is the speed tier I'm being quoted actually available at my address?
Coverage maps lie. Make the agent confirm — for your specific address — the tier you're being sold. If they hedge, walk.
9. What happens to my monthly price if I move?
Some providers honor your existing rate at the new address. Some restart the promo clock. Some can't service the new address at all. If a move is in your future, ask now.
10. What's the cancellation process?
How do you cancel — phone, online, in person? How much notice is required? Are there return fees for equipment? This is the one question almost no one asks until they need to cancel, and by then it's too late.
If you'd rather not run the gauntlet yourself, that's the whole reason this service exists. Tell us your address and what you're looking for — we'll come back with options that have all ten of these answered up front.
Want this answered for your specific home?
Tell us your service address on a quick call — we'll pull live availability and walk you through what's actually worth ordering. No forms, no spam, no obligation.