Verizon customers should expect a very slight fee hike on the company's "Administrative and Telco Recovery Charge."

Although you won't feel it as early as now, the change will take effect on Dec. 18 so you have a few days left to a small amount to your monthly mobile voice and data lines.

What's Changing in Verizon's Fees?

Verizon Increases Admin Fee Just a Little Bit

The Verge reports that Verizon has raised its administrative charge for voice lines from $3.30 to $3.50 per month. Similarly, data lines such as tablets and hotspots will see an increase from $1.40 to $1.60. This comes after a notable $1.35 hike in the same fee back in 2022.

The wireless carrier has confirmed the change. This, however, will not impact Verizon Home Internet services. Additionally, Verizon says that this fee assists in recovering regulatory compliance costs, property taxes, and other network costs.

Why Do These Fees Matter?

These administrative charges are tacked on in addition to your advertised plan rates and taxes, making it seem that the total cost of your wireless services has gone up. Telecom companies get extra money without the need to hike up their plan prices when they introduce these hidden fees.

According to Verizon's support page, these fees "are subject to change from time to time," but it is unclear whether Verizon notifies its customers of such changes in advance.

Verizon's History of Hidden Fees

In 2023, Verizon was sued by customers over its administrative fees, which one customer said were deceptive and unfair. Users receiving a settlement from the lawsuit could have filed claims for up to $100 each; however, the company retained the right to implement such fees in the future, as well as increasing them.

Likewise, hidden administrative charges sued AT&T in 2019. So, this practice is within the industry that disappoints many consumers.

What Consumers Are Doing About It

Fee increase trends have been the talk on Reddit, and users complained about the price increase for their wireless services. Indeed, these increases are frustrating because they indicate a lack of transparency that leaves most consumers paying more than the expected amount for their services.

If you are a Verizon customer, here is how to handle the fee changes:

1. Keep an Eye on Your Statement: Keep track of your additional charges every month and determine if you are overpaying.
2. Compare Other Plans: Consider switching to another provider; you might end up saving in the long run.
3. Contact Customer Care: If you have concerns about your bill, raise them with Verizon's support team, and they might be able to clarify any charges or negotiate your plan.

A Little Fee Could Go a Long Way if Accumulated

Although a $0.20 increase per line is little, it speaks to a broader issue of hidden fees across the telecom industry. Yes, it's not yet a $1 hike, but if Verizon collects it from millions of users, just imagine its profit considering that it's already earning millions of dollars per year.

Verizon subscribers need to be vigilant, constantly reviewing their bills, to make sure they are getting value for their money.

Meanwhile, AT&T launched an "Internet Backup" feature to help those users stay connected even amid interruptions.