pro-rata con

[Anonymous]

Took a sim only contract with O2 two days ago with minutes to call, but found out today that they control how much you use under "pro-rata basis" ended up being charged for those calls.

Has anyone else had this issue?

[Anonymous]

One of the best companies for explaining this (for all is sins) is actually Sky.

When you sign up (on the phone at least) they do explain your first and second bill and go to some length to explain why the first one is likely to be higher.

That said I still think the idea that your billing period starts on the day your new contract starts would solve this once and for all.

[MI5]

I agree that would be clearer but there has to be a good reason why O2, and many other companies don't do it....?

[Anonymous]

Indeed the does @MI5 and I suspect it is with regard to their billing cycles and internal systems.

Doesn't mean it couldn't be changed though. Surely anything that reduces unnecessary customer contact is a good thing? Less stress, less hassle, happier customers, note customer loyalty? Right First Time is a target to be aspired to! 😆

[Anonymous]

@Toby @Anonymous has a valid point.

Can you clarify please ?

[Anonymous]

Of course ultimately it could also save o2 money and improve call centre wait times as this group of customers wouldn't be phoning in which in turn creates more space for those customers with issues.

I know some companies out there use the start date of service as the billing cycle. They must see the advantages 😀

[davethorp]

I know not all networks do this. 3 actually have a pretty good system where the first allowance is larger than a normal month as they give you the pro rata alloance and your first month as one large initial allowance which resets on your second bill after which you get a standard month's allowance.

[anticpated]

Sorry to be blunt however every contract has a cooling off period. 

Everytime i get handed anything with t&c i ask to read them before signing. It's your right as a consumer.

I know we can get caught up with the excitement of it all. Stick with what you know and follow the advice of others you trust.

C'est la vie.