Develop Bugs

Galaxy Note II Off Contract Availability

Guys, where are you getting your Note off contract? Hopefully this thread can help members in the same situation get a galaxy note 2.
I have a pre-paid plan and do not want to be locked into any 2 year plan.
So far, it seem like only T-mobile stores are selling them for $650 + tax and that's if they want to sell it to you. What about Bestbuy? Walmart? etc.

initial_k said:
Guys, where are you getting your Note off contract? Hopefully this thread can help members in the same situation get a galaxy note 2.
I have a pre-paid plan and do not want to be locked into any 2 year plan.
So far, it seem like only T-mobile stores are selling them for $650 + tax and that's if they want to sell it to you. What about Bestbuy? Walmart? etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got mine from the T-Mobile store. I'm not sure if this really answers your question, though. It seems like you already know that the only place that's selling them right now (that I know of) are T-Mobile stores.

initial_k said:
Guys, where are you getting your Note off contract? Hopefully this thread can help members in the same situation get a galaxy note 2.
I have a pre-paid plan and do not want to be locked into any 2 year plan.
So far, it seem like only T-mobile stores are selling them for $650 + tax and that's if they want to sell it to you. What about Bestbuy? Walmart? etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am currently switching from Sprint so I'm not a customer. My local T-mobile store sold it to me off contract but I had to buy a $10 pre paid card to get it activated at the store. I had already ordered a micro sim activation kit online and was planning on activating it myself.
I think it's on a store by store basis.

blazinazn said:
I am currently switching from Sprint so I'm not a customer. My local T-mobile store sold it to me off contract but I had to buy a $10 pre paid card to get it activated at the store. I had already ordered a micro sim activation kit online and was planning on activating it myself.
I think it's on a store by store basis.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note
I will be Joining you soon leaving Sprint to get this Next Month is my final contract Month.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using xda app-developers app

I bought mine at a T in Albany NY. First I went in to said they had 2 in stock. I said I would like one and will be paying retail. Suddenly the 2 they had in stock had been shipped to another store. I asked if they could call the store to se if they were in stock. The store they shipped them to had already sold them The next store I went to said they had one. I waited for him to get the phone out before I said "I think I'll pay retail". Now I have one and love it.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 07:33 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:30 PM ----------
Also, I did not have to pay any kind of fee to get it activated.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

21stNow said:
I got mine from the T-Mobile store. I'm not sure if this really answers your question, though. It seems like you already know that the only place that's selling them right now (that I know of) are T-Mobile stores.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try wirefly which will be cheaper.Got my at Tmo retail 703 $

21stNow said:
I got mine from the T-Mobile store. I'm not sure if this really answers your question, though. It seems like you already know that the only place that's selling them right now (that I know of) are T-Mobile stores.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I'm wondering if there's any other places that I can buy the phone off contract and maybe even avoid sales tax (via online purchase). Everyone is paying about 700 for theirs.
I've visit one store yesterday but all they had were Gray only. I believe the white one are rare at the moment. They were saving it for new customers or those that are extending their contract.

simplelife said:
Try wirefly which will be cheaper.Got my at Tmo retail 703 $
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how that's cheaper... from a T-Mobile store it costs $649.99 off-contract, it's $703 off wirefly. Even with California tax (8.75%) that makes the Note II $707 from the T-Mobile store. Not to mention that wirefly charges tax to CA, so... for me the wirefly price would be $764...
But yeah, my store wouldnt sell to me, as they were saving it for new and upgrading customers.

Full Purchase Price at T-Mobile Store
I purchased my GN2 yesterday at my local T-Mobile store in the white color 16GB configuration for $683.00 after taxes. I have a SanDisk Ultra 64GB microSDHX memory card class 10 for $50 from Amazon inside it....The only problem I had was when I wanted to purchase it the sales rep at the T-Mobile store wanted me to use my upgrade and I said because I buy my phones outright and he had this shocked look on his and I was like OK....But I did purchase it with no problem though and it took all of ten minutes for me....

Got mine at the T-Mo store last night. Was just over $700 with tax. Wirefly doesn't charge tax in my state but they want I think $729 off contract for it so it was still cheaper to get it from T-Mobile and note have to wait.

Called and visited several Tmo stores. All stores had stock. Most stores had both white and grey in stock. Most said their manager would not let them sell at retail while it was "new". From the way the conversations went, I think I could have talked most stores into selling me one.
One store agreed to let me purchase a white one but not a grey one.
None of the stores seemed to be running out of stock.
$649+tax.

_Motoki_ said:
Got mine at the T-Mo store last night. Was just over $700 with tax. Wirefly doesn't charge tax in my state but they want I think $729 off contract for it so it was still cheaper to get it from T-Mobile and note have to wait.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, there's a coupon that brings it down to $704 or something on wirefly, but still, rather have it now than wait 2-3 days for $3 savings or so.
Not to mention if i have a problem, simple as walking in and exchanging.

achusaysblessyou said:
Exactly, there's a coupon that brings it down to $704 or something on wirefly, but still, rather have it now than wait 2-3 days for $3 savings or so.
Not to mention if i have a problem, simple as walking in and exchanging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought my wife one on T-Mobile website, and it came out to $684.94 shipped. I think some places will hold their inventory for "new" or upgrading customers, but most places will allow you to purchase outright.

Tidbits said:
I bought my wife one on T-Mobile website, and it came out to $684.94 shipped. I think some places will hold their inventory for "new" or upgrading customers, but most places will allow you to purchase outright.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, it's up to the managers and the two near me are greedier than most i guess.

I woke up at 10:00 in the morning and called my closest store and they had 3 Titanium Grey in stock for New activations or upgrades so I thought I would be out of luck but I went in anyways and I "upgraded" my pre-paid account to the Note 2. That is funny as hell cause that really should not be considered an upgrade as I already have to pay full price for my phones... I took em to school on that one! LOL

Yea they don't get commission when they are sold outright. At least that's the way it was when I sold phones for RadioShack.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2

05GT said:
Yea they don't get commission when they are sold outright. At least that's the way it was when I sold phones for RadioShack.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not only commissions but if they run out and someone wants to come in to start a new plan then they also lose a new subscriber. I wish I could afford it at $700 but thats like paying $30/mo for two years just for the phone.

one80oneday said:
Not only commissions but if they run out and someone wants to come in to start a new plan then they also lose a new subscriber. I wish I could afford it at $700 but thats like paying $30/mo for two years just for the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The funny thing is that some people can afford to pay a monthly bill of $100.00/month or more but if you buy your phone outright you cut that monthly fee in half and that is what pays for your phone plus more... No contract for me! :good:

Got my wife's for $702.34 at the Tmobile store inside Meadows Mall in Las Vegas.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

Bought mine on launch day at a Tmo store. They were happy to sell it to me for $650 and setup my new micro sim for me, no contract of course.

Who bought thier Phone at Walmart?

I just reserved mine at walmart, bought a $25 prepaid card to reserve it, it was supposed to be here today but they said theres a delay, hey $168.99 (regular upgrade) can't beat that my brothers, they said it should be here by the end of this week, anyone else get theirs at walmart? i don't see why anyone would do it over the phone with tmobile and pay more but hey I'm a happy camper :thumbup:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Slicktune said:
I just reserved mine at walmart, bought a $25 prepaid card to reserve it, it was supposed to be here today but they said theres a delay, hey $168.99 (regular upgrade) can't beat that my brothers, they said it should be here by the end of this week, anyone else get theirs at walmart? i don't see why anyone would do it over the phone with tmobile and pay more but hey I'm a happy camper :thumbup:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the 168.99 was only confirmed for at&t, this is fantastic news if that is the t-mo price too!

dcmtnbkr said:
I thought the 168.99 was only confirmed for at&t, this is fantastic news if that is the t-mo price too!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the same but they confirmed it for the tmobile version as well "$168.99" can't go wrong
I did the math
Regular plan: $168.99 (upgrade) + $200.00 (switch over to value plan fee)
=$368.99 = win
Value plan: $150 + 24 x 20 a month = $629.99
Ooooh yeaaaah :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Slicktune said:
I thought the same but they confirmed it for the tmobile version as well "$168.99" can't go wrong
I did the math
Regular plan: $168.99 (upgrade) + $200.00 (switch over to value plan fee)
=$368.99 = win
Value plan: $150 + 24 x 20 a month = $629.99
Ooooh yeaaaah :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was very smart of you.
Good job!
........

ThC23 said:
That was very smart of you.
Good job!
........
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
How did you get yours?

Slicktune said:
I thought the same but they confirmed it for the tmobile version as well "$168.99" can't go wrong
I did the math
Regular plan: $168.99 (upgrade) + $200.00 (switch over to value plan fee)
=$368.99 = win
Value plan: $150 + 24 x 20 a month = $629.99
Ooooh yeaaaah :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on a t-mobile family plan, but paying $600+ over two years isn't good. Would I be able to buy this at walmart w/two year agreement and use it on T-Mobile?
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

So no one purchased theirs at walmart?
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Please tell us what you did to get it reserved for tmobile?
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Slicktune said:
So no one purchased theirs at walmart?
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why they don't have the new uncarrier plans. Who deals with all these crappy contracts. Buy outright and pay monthly less.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk 2

http://www.tmonews.com/2013/05/walm...laxy-s-4-at-198-00-with-a-two-year-agreement/
Confirmed, $198 at wally world.

Slicktune said:
I thought the same but they confirmed it for the tmobile version as well "$168.99" can't go wrong
I did the math
Regular plan: $168.99 (upgrade) + $200.00 (switch over to value plan fee)
=$368.99 = win
Value plan: $150 + 24 x 20 a month = $629.99
Ooooh yeaaaah :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey is that in stores only? 168.99 or 198.99? And did you originally have the classic plan? Why move to the new value plan? I have Classic 1000 so it's shared within my family. If you are on the individual plan, it makes sense.
---------- Post added at 06:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:33 PM ----------
Edit: Probably the no-contract deal with Value Plan. Even so, if you are the only line, and you move completely to the Value, I don't know how that's gonna work for future upgrades.

GG2012 said:
Hey is that in stores only? 168.99 or 198.99? And did you originally have the classic plan? Why move to the new value plan? I have Classic 1000 so it's shared within my family. If you are on the individual plan, it makes sense.
---------- Post added at 06:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:33 PM ----------
Edit: Probably the no-contract deal with Value Plan. Even so, if you are the only line, and you move completely to the Value, I don't know how that's gonna work for future upgrades.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i would give me s3 and pay 198.00 if i was able too TwT

Slicktune said:
I thought the same but they confirmed it for the tmobile version as well "$168.99" can't go wrong
I did the math
Regular plan: $168.99 (upgrade) + $200.00 (switch over to value plan fee)
=$368.99 = win
Value plan: $150 + 24 x 20 a month = $629.99
Ooooh yeaaaah :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do have a bit of warning for you, from Walmart's Terms of Purchase for S4/other smartphones:
Rate Plan Changes, Deactivations, or Cancellations After 14 Days
We are able to offer our customers amazing prices because we are an online retailer and because of our sales volume with the nation's most popular wireless carriers. Our business model is simple. We earn commissions from our carrier partners for activating and upgrading customers on their services. We use our commissions to offer an Instant Savings Discount (ISD) on our wireless devices, enabling us to sell them to you for very low prices or free. By accepting the ISD, you agree to keep your account in good standing and keep your wireless plan and features as activated for at least 180 days.
You agree to repay $200 of this discount ($400 for smartphones, tablets, and netbooks) and authorize us to charge your credit card in repayment of this amount if, you signed up for a 2 year agreement and during the 181 days after your new equipment is activated, your carrier notifies us that the services you purchased have been suspended, disconnected, or deactivated, or if you return your purchase outside of the return and exchange provisions of our 14-day Satisfaction Guarantee.
Please note some of the reasons your carrier may notify us of a deactivation include if:
You transfer this equipment to another line of service after it is activated
You change your rate plan to a lower monthly service rate than was specifically required at the point of purchase
You deactivate texting/data features that were specifically required at the point of purchase
The new line of service activated with your order is used to replace a pre-existing account
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This same rule applies for Amazon as well, and probably Costco/Dell/other websites. That is why I only buy from T-Mo or Best Buy, because I will only be signing a contract with T-Mo. Walmart/Amazon/etc has their own contract, for which you must adhere to when activating a new phone with them and taking that discount. They get commissions from it, so if you alter your plan like you're doing, you might be charged that penalty.
I don't know how strictly enforced this is, but just be careful you know all the terms.

Getting mine on the 8th for sure. I bought my s3 from walmart last year and I wasn't required to get a data plan which is great cuz I have android preferred data plan now.
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Xcor3 said:
Getting mine on the 8th for sure. I bought my s3 from walmart last year and I wasn't required to get a data plan which is great cuz I have android preferred data plan now.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you buy it? Did you upgrade or buy full price? I am on the Classic as well with Preferred Android data plan. I don't want to lose that. I am considering it if doesn't remove my discounts.

GG2012 said:
I do have a bit of warning for you, from Walmart's Terms of Purchase for S4/other smartphones:
Rate Plan Changes, Deactivations, or Cancellations After 14 Days
We are able to offer our customers amazing prices because we are an online retailer and because of our sales volume with the nation's most popular wireless carriers. Our business model is simple. We earn commissions from our carrier partners for activating and upgrading customers on their services. We use our commissions to offer an Instant Savings Discount (ISD) on our wireless devices, enabling us to sell them to you for very low prices or free. By accepting the ISD, you agree to keep your account in good standing and keep your wireless plan and features as activated for at least 180 days.
You agree to repay $200 of this discount ($400 for smartphones, tablets, and netbooks) and authorize us to charge your credit card in repayment of this amount if, you signed up for a 2 year agreement and during the 181 days after your new equipment is activated, your carrier notifies us that the services you purchased have been suspended, disconnected, or deactivated, or if you return your purchase outside of the return and exchange provisions of our 14-day Satisfaction Guarantee.
Please note some of the reasons your carrier may notify us of a deactivation include if:
You transfer this equipment to another line of service after it is activated
You change your rate plan to a lower monthly service rate than was specifically required at the point of purchase
You deactivate texting/data features that were specifically required at the point of purchase
The new line of service activated with your order is used to replace a pre-existing account
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This same rule applies for Amazon as well, and probably Costco/Dell/other websites. That is why I only buy from T-Mo or Best Buy, because I will only be signing a contract with T-Mo. Walmart/Amazon/etc has their own contract, for which you must adhere to when activating a new phone with them and taking that discount. They get commissions from it, so if you alter your plan like you're doing, you might be charged that penalty.
I don't know how strictly enforced this is, but just be careful you know all the terms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a common Agreement that most 3rd party resellers (indirect) as they are referred to in the industry, have to protect themselves. Most companys follow through with them and do it. but then again, lots of people as a customer have their cards replaced or whatever in that time frame.
Using a pre paid card was a pain in the but for us. Then we would contact a debt collector agency to go after these people. Lots of times they were foreigners and there was no recourse since they would get up to 5 lines and leave the country.
It can really put an indirect company out of business in a hurry when that happens.

I just went to Walmart and they have them in stock, but they wouldn't price match T-Mobile, he said " they are basically 2 different phone because we have it on a contract and T-Mobile stores have them without one" and I couldn't upgrade my line because I'm on a value plan, with a 2 year contract. And they said that they couldn't switch me off, so I left with nothing
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

mobeast17 said:
I just went to Walmart and they have them in stock, but they wouldn't price match T-Mobile, he said " they are basically 2 different phone because we have it on a contract and T-Mobile stores have them without one" and I couldn't upgrade my line because I'm on a value plan, with a 2 year contract. And they said that they couldn't switch me off, so I left with nothing
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why don't you just buy it with T-Mobile then? They really still offer the cheapest plan overall. I don't know if people are trying to circumvent the system or what, but that's what I did and I think I'm gonna stick with it. $200 (down payment, tax, shipping) and then $480 for 2 years. I know, people think $650 is way too much for a smartphone. But guess what? If you want the greatest and latest tech, be willing to pay for it instead of whining it's expensive. This is not directed at you, by the way, so don't take it the wrong way. I'm just seeing people here trying to find the cheapest deals, but the sneaky way. It's a $100-$150 savings at the most. If you want a deal, go to eBay, CL, or Swappa and buy used. If you want it new and sealed, get it from T-Mobile.
Edit: I don't know if you could upgrade using the EIP or not but if you wanted to pay full price, you could always open a new account, buy/pay full price for device, and cancel service immediately.

GG2012 said:
Why don't you just buy it with T-Mobile then? They really still offer the cheapest plan overall. I don't know if people are trying to circumvent the system or what, but that's what I did and I think I'm gonna stick with it. $200 (down payment, tax, shipping) and then $480 for 2 years. I know, people think $650 is way too much for a smartphone. But guess what? If you want the greatest and latest tech, be willing to pay for it instead of whining it's expensive. This is not directed at you, by the way, so don't take it the wrong way. I'm just seeing people here trying to find the cheapest deals, but the sneaky way. It's a $100-$150 savings at the most. If you want a deal, go to eBay, CL, or Swappa and buy used. If you want it new and sealed, get it from T-Mobile.
Edit: I don't know if you could upgrade using the EIP or not but if you wanted to pay full price, you could always open a new account, buy/pay full price for device, and cancel service immediately.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went to T-Mobile first to buy it out right since the rep told me on Saturday that they will have them In today, but now he told me not till next week. So I took a chance and went to Walmart to see if they would have it. And they did, but for $699. I wanted them to price match since I only had enough cash on me for a $629 phone plus tax lol. Oh well I guess I'll just wait till next week and go to T-Mobile or just pay the extra $80+ and get it tomorrow. I just found it funny that Walmart had it and the corporate T-Mobile store didn't.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

mobeast17 said:
I went to T-Mobile first to buy it out right since the rep told me on Saturday that they will have them In today, but now he told me not till next week. So I took a chance and went to Walmart to see if they would have it. And they did, but for $699. I wanted them to price match since I only had enough cash on me for a $629 phone plus tax lol. Oh well I guess I'll just wait till next week and go to T-Mobile or just pay the extra $80+ and get it tomorrow. I just found it funny that Walmart had it and the corporate T-Mobile store didn't.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried to PM the costco price ($579.99) at Best Buy? I am going to swing buy BB today to see if they will PM costco.

Purchasing the One on a new contract, then cancel at day 15 and pay ETF?

Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.

bast525 said:
Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Other than losing tons of money I don't see an issue. Why not just pay the monthly payments and keep unlimited though?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app

bast525 said:
Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app

cstrife999 said:
Other than losing tons of money I don't see an issue. Why not just pay the monthly payments and keep unlimited though?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure I understand? Where am I losing tons of money?
wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok so as far as you know, what is the cut off where they can no longer ask me to return the phone, but will not charge me the full retail price of the phone either? After conversing with the Best Buy guy, he said this cut off is 14 days, after which they will not allow me to return the phone, and would only charge me the ETF, not the full price of the phone. Is he full of it?

wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's only if he does not pay the etf , if he pays the $350 they can't then charge for the phone .
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using Tapatalk 2

NOT TRUE. I just opened up a new account to get the phone for $149. It was my only choice since I have a concession account and Verizon would not sell me the phone unless they could attach it to a consumer account and I wasn't about to pay $699 at Best Buy. I cancelled the next day over the phone. The rep told me I was within my window to return the phone. I told him that I wanted to keep it and he said that was absolutely fine. Got my final bill about 2 weeks later and was charged $350 ETF, 1 day service $3.50, and $11.48 in taxes. They tried to charge me tax on the Activation fee which they eventually reversed since the account was cancelled within the first 3 days. In the end I paid a total of $565. The cheapest retail is at a VZW corporate store at $599. I was satisified.
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skorpyo31 said:
NOT TRUE. I just opened up a new account to get the phone for $149. It was my only choice since I have a concession account and Verizon would not sell me the phone unless they could attach it to a consumer account and I wasn't about to pay $699 at Best Buy. I cancelled the next day over the phone. The rep told me I was within my window to return the phone. I told him that I wanted to keep it and he said that was absolutely fine. Got my final bill about 2 weeks later and was charged $350 ETF, 1 day service $3.50, and $11.48 in taxes. They tried to charge me tax on the Activation fee which they eventually reversed since the account was cancelled within the first 3 days. In the end I paid a total of $565. The cheapest retail is at a VZW corporate store at $599. I was satisified.
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great info here, thank you. This is right in line with what I was expecting. Based on your experience, and the fact that the phone is now $50 on contract, I would say $465 is probably a good ballpark figure for what I should expect my total out of pocket cost to be for the phone.

wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
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If that is what they told you, that is complete bull****. That's a bs line that INDIRECT stores tell their customers. I know this because I was a store manager for one. The indirect retailers get paid when you buy a phone. When that phone/line is canceled a DAY before 6 months in term, they get their money taken back from them. Any new line or upgrade needs to be active for a complete 6 months before they are free and clear of returns and chargebacks. You tell them to shove it and call their bluff...Corporate Verizon should have NO problem doing this, I've seen it done. Hell....I've done it, but do it at your own risk because I don't work for corporate and never have, so idk what kind of guidelines they have about these types of things...
EDIT*** I thought you said the store TOLD you that, I misread. You WORKED for Verizon? Was it corporate or indirect? I've done this before, and have helped friends do it as well and there were no issues....

bast525 said:
great info here, thank you. This is right in line with what I was expecting. Based on your experience, and the fact that the phone is now $50 on contract, I would say $465 is probably a good ballpark figure for what I should expect my total out of pocket cost to be for the phone.
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Sounds right. I picked mine up from the same store that refused to sell the phone to me. I placed the order online and chose in store pickup. Phone was ready within an hour..

skorpyo31 said:
Sounds right. I picked mine up from the same store that refused to sell the phone to me. I placed the order online and chose in store pickup. Phone was ready within an hour..
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Pay full retail or do the 12 monthly payments split on your bill.

zetsumeikuro said:
Pay full retail or do the 12 monthly payments split on your bill.
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Orrr.... Pay less. By doing it his way?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using Tapatalk 2

Ok, to play devil's advocate here.
1. Don't do it at an indirect. Best buy may be ok because they're large, and probably wouldn't notice/care enough to come after you with a chargeback. At my indirect you sign a separate contract saying if you cancel within 6 months, we will bill you full retail on the phone or you must return it to us.
2. If you cancel within the first 14 days, YES, corporate can bill your account full retail on the phone. Most carriers have a "gaming" department that handles cases like these.
(Source: I used to work in a gaming dept. Charged a guy full retail on 10 blackberry bolds )
3. You'll have the cost at the POS, a $35 activation fee, half a month of service, and the ETF. Just be aware of all of these.
4. When you call in to cancel DO NOT say it was lost/stolen. Don't want your ESN getting flagged

[Q] It it advisable?

Since Tmobile has discontinued selling devices at subsidized prices anymore, let's say, if one were to buy Note 3 from Wirefly or Staples for $299 with a new line on a classic plan (they are still allowing that), and cancel the service after 14 days and pay the ETF of $200 plus the activation $35 (which can be waived) and first month's service fees $80 (minimum), then the total comes to $579 or $614. Has anyone tried this? Will Tmobile blacklist imei once you cancel the contract?
Suhas

No reason to blacklist if u paid the money

Hmmmmm you sir might be on to something here

suhas2000 said:
Since Tmobile has discontinued selling devices at subsidized prices anymore, let's say, if one were to buy Note 3 from Wirefly or Staples for $299 with a new line on a classic plan (they are still allowing that), and cancel the service after 14 days and pay the ETF of $200 plus the activation $35 (which can be waived) and first month's service fees $80 (minimum), then the total comes to $579 or $614. Has anyone tried this? Will Tmobile blacklist imei once you cancel the contract?
Suhas
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Lol. You sure etc is $200 and not $350 or more?
sent from my sm-900t.

@rbiter said:
Lol. You sure etc is $200 and not $350 or more?
sent from my sm-900t.
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I just checked myself, you got me wondering. Looks like it is $200 Check this out:
https://t-mobile.jive-mobile.com/#jive-document?content=/api/core/v2/documents/2938
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

So, who's going to be the dare devil?

I think y'all are gonna be disappointed whoever tries. Carriers got themselves covered on this. Best thing is tmobile's monthly plan.
sent from my sm-900t.

I would do this myself but I'm out of the country on vacation. But someone should just call tmo and just ask that. But if you early term and pay etf they can't blacklist your phone. But there is still the thought if you do early terminate you may have to pay out the phone possibly. Idk.

A few years back when I worked for one of the major carriers, if you did not return the phone when you canceled within the grace period then you would have to pay the full price of the phone and if you didn't then they would send the bill to collections. This phone is awesome but not worth the harassment of debt collectors and getting your credit score screwed.

I know on amazon you had to keep the service for 6 months. If you didn't you had to return the phone or pay the full price.
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I read up on all TM stipulations about 2 weeks before the note 3 came out. I'm not sure about buying the phone on amazon but if you buy it though TM, you are basically refinancing the phone. You're paying a little more each month (I think for me it's like 15 it varies depending on how much you put down), plus you get the jump program included in your insurence. Also if you cancel, you will have to pay off the remaining balance on the phone's "loan".

OP this is exactly how I got both my note 2. Tmo had just stopped the classic plan. Walmart still offered it though. I signed up then the very next day switched to a value plan, paid the 200 fee ( on one of them because I sweet talked the Rep and got the other waived) and was set. I got me and the wife note 2s for 600 bucks total (this is when they were still the hot phone)
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Thanks for that info!

Too late, both, Wirefly and Staples, have now taken down the classic plans and are showing the full price for Note 3 Oh well, you snooze, you definitely lose! I will wait for some time b4 the price comes down a little...

How to get a Note 5 for ATT without contract??

ATT has really screwed around with their plans and phone upgrades.
They want to boost the "access" charge on the share plans and after you add up the price for the phone charge and the upcharge it's closing in on $975 to get the 64GB phone.
Anyway to do any better than this?

les_garten said:
ATT has really screwed around with their plans and phone upgrades.
They want to boost the "access" charge on the share plans and after you add up the price for the phone charge and the upcharge it's closing in on $975 to get the 64GB phone.
Anyway to do any better than this?
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Yes.. here : https://swappa.com/buy/samsung-galaxy-note-5-att

norbarb said:
Yes.. here : https://swappa.com/buy/samsung-galaxy-note-5-att
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I'm leery of Swappa.
What happens when the phone gets banned by ATT for the orig buyer not fullfilling the contract or reporting it stolen?

les_garten said:
I'm leery of Swappa.
What happens when the phone gets banned by ATT for the orig buyer not fullfilling the contract or reporting it stolen?
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He can't report stolen because you have proof of purchase from PayPal. Swappa is checking if phone is under contract or not. If it is under contract you not allowed to post for sale. Read this : https://swappa.com/faq
I personally buying and selling on swappa and never had problems.

norbarb said:
He can't report stolen because you have proof of purchase from PayPal. Swappa is checking if phone is under contract or not. If it is under contract you not allowed to post for sale. Read this : https://swappa.com/faq
I personally buying and selling on swappa and never had problems.
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I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later

les_garten said:
I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later
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If you scared go to AT&T and pay full price.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app

norbarb said:
If you scared go to AT&T and pay full price.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
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I would, but doing that changes my plan radically because of the upgrade.

les_garten said:
I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later
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I wouldn't worry too much on AT&T. They aren't like T-Mobile. If someone stops paying off a phone on AT&T, they don't blacklist the phone. Instead they ding the persons credit and go after them that way. T-Mobile does it different and will blacklist the phone.

WizeGuyDezignz said:
I wouldn't worry too much on AT&T. They aren't like T-Mobile. If someone stops paying off a phone on AT&T, they don't blacklist the phone. Instead they ding the persons credit and go after them that way. T-Mobile does it different and will blacklist the phone.
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Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.

les_garten said:
Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.
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That is just what I've always been told. But definitely don't take it as gospel as I've never experienced being blacklisted myself.

les_garten said:
Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.
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BTW.. IF you get phone and go at&t store with PayPal receipt and register phone on your account how someone who you get phone from can blacklisted? You legally purchased phone and now is register on your account. Other person have no access to it anymore as he is not owner.

If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.

Ruturaj001 said:
If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.
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You got phone for $30(old phone from ebay)+$222 (down payment)+$518 (for 28 months) = $770. Unless I got my math wrong...
I got my phone from swappa for $540, phone was never activated. Brand new.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app

norbarb said:
BTW.. IF you get phone and go at&t store with PayPal receipt and register phone on your account how someone who you get phone from can blacklisted? You legally purchased phone and now is register on your account. Other person have no access to it anymore as he is not owner.
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I don't think you understand what I am talking about. Lots of people have had this problem. If the contract is not paid off, the person who sold the phone did not own it, get it? AT&T owns it till it is paid off.

Ruturaj001 said:
If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.
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I don't want to do any type of upgrade on my account. I went to upgrade my phones with ATT after fulfilling my last contract and I am getting all kinds of BS about upping the price of my current share plan. That's what started this is their "new" policies about not really providing subsidized phones anymore.

norbarb said:
You got phone for $30(old phone from ebay)+$222 (down payment)+$518 (for 28 months) = $770. Unless I got my math wrong...
I got my phone from swappa for $540, phone was never activated. Brand new.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
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You got it wrong
I paid $30 for phone from ebay + $222 down payment + $59.2 tax + $518 for 28 months - $200 gift card for trade in - $45 giftcard for getting phone on at&t next - Wireless charger ( which I think is worth $30) = $554.2
I used gift card to pay for down payment and tax
---------- Post added 9th November 2015 at 12:02 AM ---------- Previous post was 8th November 2015 at 11:55 PM ----------
les_garten said:
I don't want to do any type of upgrade on my account. I went to upgrade my phones with ATT after fulfilling my last contract and I am getting all kinds of BS about upping the price of my current share plan. That's what started this is their "new" policies about not really providing subsidized phones anymore.
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At&t next is different than getting phone on contract. Right now my phone is not on 2 year contract, I am paying $15 for line (and $80 for share data plan), if I have got it on contract that would have raised that to $40.
If you are on very old type of plan, those you can not get now then you shouldn't go with at&t next.

Ruturaj001 said:
At&t nest is different than getting phone on contract. Right now my phone is not on 2 year contract, I am paying $15 for line (and $80 for share data plan), if I have got it on contract that would have raised that to $40.
If you are on very old type of plan, those you can not get now then you shouldn't go with at&t next.
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I think I am on the same plan as you but I have 3 phones on it at $15 per. I read the fine print and if I upgrade, they raise that to $40. I have 10GB shared data plan.
For my Note 3 I bought a T-mobile and a $10 plan and swapped out SIM card. Rooted, etc, etc
Trying to figure out how to go now as cheap as possible without getting a Blacklisted phone. and screwing up my Plan.

les_garten said:
I don't think you understand what I am talking about. Lots of people have had this problem. If the contract is not paid off, the person who sold the phone did not own it, get it? AT&T owns it till it is paid off.
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No. If you paid in full even from third party you own it. At&t is charging person who you purchased phone full price or remaining of balance on phone on next bill. I had exactly this situation. I purchase phone and ask at&t for unlocking sim card code. Phone was not paid in full and they did not want me to send it. Then I get my pay pal receipt and go to at&t store, present them that I purchase this phone from third party. They switch phone to my account and told me they will charge account that phone was buy on for remaining balance. I get my unlocking code two days later. They told me that phone is on my account and is paid in full according to my account.

norbarb said:
No. If you paid in full even from third party you own it. At&t is charging person who you purchased phone full price or remaining of balance on phone on next bill. I had exactly this situation. I purchase phone and ask at&t for unlocking sim card code. Phone was not paid in full and they did not want me to send it. Then I get my pay pal receipt and go to at&t store, present them that I purchase this phone from third party. They switch phone to my account and told me they will charge account that phone was buy on for remaining balance. I get my unlocking code two days later. They told me that phone is on my account and is paid in full according to my account.
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Glad it worked out for you. Others have had different experiences, thus my questions.
Some people don't complete contract, report phone stolen, sell it, , IMEI/ESN is blacklisted.

les_garten said:
Glad it worked out for you. Others have had different experiences, thus my questions.
Some people don't complete contract, report phone stolen, sell it, , IMEI/ESN is blacklisted.
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Explain to me how they can report stolen if you have prof of purchase and real name and address from who did you get phone ?
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