It's understandable that you'd want to avoid those pesky installation fees when setting up your new Verizon service! While they can sometimes seem like an unavoidable cost, there are indeed strategies and scenarios where you can get them waived or significantly reduced. This lengthy guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.
Unlocking Savings: Your Comprehensive Guide to Waiving Verizon Installation Fees
So, you're ready to dive into the world of Verizon's blazing-fast internet and crystal-clear TV, but that installation fee is a bit of a buzzkill, isn't it? Don't fret! Many customers successfully navigate this hurdle and secure a waiver. Imagine enjoying your new service without that extra charge on your first bill! Let's get started on making that a reality.
Step 1: Engage and Research – Your Power Play!
Before you even think about calling Verizon, let's empower you with knowledge. This is your secret weapon!
Sub-heading: Understanding the "Why" Behind the Fee
Verizon typically charges an installation fee (often around $99 for Fios, but it can vary based on service and location) for a few key reasons:
Professional Installation: A technician comes to your home, installs the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) if it's not already present, runs necessary cabling, connects your router, and ensures everything is working correctly. This involves labor and expertise.
New Infrastructure: If your home has never had Verizon Fios before, the technician might need to run fiber optic cables from the street to your house, which is a more involved process.
Complex Setup: Even if fiber is present, some installations might require more intricate wiring or troubleshooting, justifying the professional fee.
Sub-heading: What Kind of Installation Are You Facing?
Knowing this will help you immensely:
Full Professional Installation: This is when a technician needs to bring the fiber connection into your home and install all the necessary equipment. This is typically when the full fee applies.
Self-Installation Kit Eligibility: If your home has had Verizon Fios previously and the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is already installed and active, you might be eligible for self-installation. This is often the easiest way to avoid the fee altogether, as you're doing the work yourself. Verizon usually ships you the equipment (router, set-top boxes, etc.) and provides instructions.
Sub-heading: Explore Current Verizon Promotions (Crucial!)
Before you do anything else, visit the official Verizon Fios or Verizon Home Internet website. Look for banners, special offers, or promotional sections. Many times, Verizon offers deals that include a waived installation fee for new customers, especially if you sign up for higher-speed plans (like Gigabit or 2 Gigabit) or specific bundles.
Look for phrases like: "Installation fee waived," "Free setup," "No setup charge," or "Get a [specific plan] with free installation."
Pay attention to terms and conditions: Sometimes the waiver is contingent on signing a contract, maintaining a certain speed for a period, or bundling services.
Check third-party retailers: Websites like Groupon or other authorized Verizon dealers might have exclusive offers that include waived fees. These change frequently, so keep an eye out!
Step 2: The Direct Approach – Engaging Verizon Directly
Once you've done your research, it's time to communicate with Verizon. There are a few avenues, and being polite yet firm is key.
Sub-heading: Option A: Online Chat (Highly Recommended!)
Many users report the most success with waiving fees through Verizon's online chat.
Initiate Chat: Go to the Verizon Fios or Home Internet website and look for the "Chat" or "Live Chat" icon. It might appear in the bottom corner of the screen.
State Your Intent Clearly: When the agent connects, politely state that you are interested in signing up for a new service, but the installation fee is a significant barrier for you.
Example: "Hi, I'm very interested in signing up for Verizon Fios 500 Mbps internet. However, I noticed there's a $99 installation fee. Is there any way this fee can be waived, perhaps as part of a new customer promotion?"
Mention Competitors (Tactfully): If you've researched other providers in your area, you can subtly mention it.
Example: "I'm also looking at options from [Competitor Name], and they are offering free installation. I'd really prefer Verizon, but the installation fee is making me hesitate."
Inquire about Self-Installation: Ask if your address is eligible for self-installation. This is a common way to avoid the fee entirely.
Example: "Would my address qualify for a self-installation kit? I'm comfortable setting up the equipment myself if that's an option."
Be Patient and Polite: The agent might need to check with a supervisor or look up specific promotions. Avoid being aggressive or demanding. A friendly demeanor often goes a long way.
Confirm in Writing: If they agree to waive the fee, ask for confirmation in the chat transcript or an email. This is crucial for your records in case the fee appears on your first bill.
Sub-heading: Option B: Calling Customer Service
While online chat is often more convenient for documentation, a phone call can also be effective.
Find the Right Number: Dial Verizon's new customer sales line for Fios or Home Internet. Avoid general customer service lines if possible, as sales representatives often have more leeway with new customer incentives.
Explain Your Situation: Similar to the chat, clearly express your interest in the service but highlight the installation fee as a deterrent.
Negotiate (If Necessary): If they initially say no, you can try:
Asking for a partial waiver.
Requesting a bill credit to offset the fee.
Inquiring about bundling other services (TV, phone) to see if that triggers a waiver.
Mentioning loyalty (if applicable): If you're an existing Verizon wireless customer, sometimes bundling or "new customer" deals on home internet can be extended to you.
Confirm the Waiver: Before you hang up, confirm that the installation fee has been removed from your order. Ask for an order confirmation number and reiterate that you expect the fee to be $0.
Step 3: Leveraging Specific Scenarios for a Waiver
Certain situations make it more likely for Verizon to waive the installation fee.
Sub-heading: New Customer Promotions
As mentioned in Step 1, this is your primary opportunity. Verizon is constantly vying for new customers, and a waived installation fee is a common incentive. Be sure to specifically ask about any and all new customer promotions that might include installation waivers.
Sub-heading: High-Speed Plans
Often, Verizon will waive the installation fee for customers who sign up for their higher-tier internet plans, such as 1 Gig or 2 Gig Fios. The reasoning is that the higher monthly revenue justifies the cost of installation. If you were already considering a faster plan, this could be your golden ticket.
Sub-heading: Bundling Services
If you're considering getting Fios internet, TV, and/or phone services, inquire about bundles. Verizon frequently offers incentives, including waived installation fees, when you sign up for multiple services. They want your entire telecommunications business!
Sub-heading: Moving to an Existing Fios-Ready Location
If you're moving into a home or apartment where Verizon Fios was previously installed and the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is still present and functional, you have a strong case for self-installation, which inherently bypasses the professional installation fee. Always check the ONT's presence and condition.
Sub-heading: Economic Assistance Programs
Verizon offers programs like Verizon Forward which provide discounted internet service to eligible low-income households. If you qualify for federal assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline), you may not only get a reduced monthly rate but also have installation fees waived. Check their website for eligibility requirements.
Step 4: What to Do if the Fee Still Appears
Even after getting confirmation, sometimes mistakes happen. Don't panic, but be prepared to act!
Review Your First Bill Carefully: As soon as your first bill arrives, scrutinize it for the installation fee.
Gather Your Evidence: If the fee is present, refer back to your:
Online chat transcript where the waiver was confirmed.
Email confirmation from Verizon.
Order confirmation number where the $0 installation fee was noted.
Contact Customer Service Again: Call or use the online chat. Politely but firmly explain that the installation fee was supposed to be waived and you have documentation to prove it. Refer to the date and time of your previous conversation or the order number.
Escalate if Necessary: If the initial representative is unhelpful, politely ask to speak with a supervisor. Sometimes, it takes a higher-level representative to issue the credit or correct the billing error.
File a Complaint (Last Resort): If all else fails, you can consider filing a complaint with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) or the Better Business Bureau. This should be a last resort, but it can sometimes prompt a quicker resolution from the provider.
Conclusion: Persistence Pays Off!
Waiving the Verizon installation fee might require a bit of effort and negotiation, but it's absolutely achievable. By doing your research, being aware of promotions, choosing the right communication method, and politely but firmly advocating for yourself, you can save that extra money and start enjoying your new Verizon service without the added cost. Happy streaming!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if my address is eligible for Verizon Fios self-installation?
You can typically check your eligibility for self-installation directly on the Verizon Fios website when you enter your address to check for service availability. If it's a Fios-ready location with an active ONT, self-installation will likely be offered as an option.
How to know if the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is already installed at my home?
The ONT is usually a small box, often white or gray, mounted on a wall inside your home (e.g., in a basement, garage, utility closet, or near where the fiber enters your house). It will have various ports, including an optical input and an Ethernet output.
How to negotiate for a waived installation fee if I'm not a new customer?
While new customers have the most leverage, existing customers can sometimes negotiate by calling customer retention or sales and expressing dissatisfaction with the fee, especially if upgrading to a higher-tier plan or bundling new services. Mentioning competitor offers can also help.
How to ensure the installation fee waiver is properly applied to my account?
Always get a confirmation in writing (chat transcript, email) that the fee is waived and note the date, time, and name/ID of the representative you spoke with. Check your first bill carefully to ensure the waiver appears as a credit.
How to prepare for a Verizon Fios self-installation?
Ensure you have received all the necessary equipment (router, cables), locate your ONT, and have access to power outlets. Review the self-installation guide provided by Verizon or look up online video tutorials beforehand.
How to upgrade my Verizon Fios plan to a higher speed to qualify for a waived fee?
You can upgrade your plan through the My Verizon app, your online account, or by contacting customer service. Inquire about current promotions for higher speeds that might include an installation fee waiver, even if it's considered an "upgrade" for an existing customer.
How to use the Verizon Forward program to avoid installation fees?
If you qualify for Verizon Forward based on participation in federal assistance programs (e.g., Lifeline, SNAP), apply for the program through the Verizon website. Once approved, the benefits often include discounted service and waived installation fees.
How to find current Verizon Fios promotions that waive installation fees?
Regularly check the "Deals" or "Offers" section on the official Verizon Fios website. Also, search online for "Verizon Fios promotions installation fee waiver" and look at reputable tech news sites or coupon aggregators.
How to connect my own router instead of using Verizon's to potentially avoid fees?
While using your own router might avoid a monthly rental fee, it generally doesn't waive the installation fee itself, especially if a technician is required to set up the fiber connection and ONT. You can often connect your own router to Verizon's ONT directly, but ensure it's compatible.
How to dispute an incorrect installation fee charge on my bill?
Gather all your documentation (chat transcripts, emails, order confirmations) proving the waiver. Contact Verizon customer service and politely but firmly explain the discrepancy. Be prepared to provide your evidence and, if necessary, ask to speak with a supervisor.
