Quick question for the group. I have a client in Spokane who recently upgraded from AT&T copper T1 service to fiber. The billing department seems confused about which rate schedule applies. They're still charging the old ILEC tariff rates instead of the competitive fiber rates. Has anyone dealt with this transition billing issue? The difference is about $400/month so it's worth pursuing but AT&T keeps giving me the runaround.
AT&T fiber billing vs copper - rate schedule confusion
Cindy, I've seen this exact issue here in Montana. When AT&T transitions from regulated copper services to competitive fiber, they're supposed to switch to their competitive tariffs which are usually lower. The problem is their billing systems don't always make the change automatically. You'll need to request a service review with their tariff department and provide the fiber installation date as proof of when the change should have occurred.
In Nebraska, I've found AT&T's billing for fiber transitions is a mess. They often don't properly close out the copper service orders, so clients end up paying for both for several months. Cindy, make sure they actually disconnected the T1 and aren't double-billing. Also check if the fiber service qualifies for any business incentives or credits that weren't applied.
AT&T fiber billing here in California is equally confusing. The competitive rates are definitely lower but they don't advertise them well. Cindy, when you call AT&T, ask specifically to speak with their "tariff compliance" department, not regular billing. They understand the rate schedule differences better. I've had success getting 6-month retroactive credits for similar issues.
This is a common issue across AT&T's territory. Here in Memphis, I've handled several of these fiber transition billing problems. The key is understanding that fiber services often fall under different regulatory frameworks than traditional copper services. Get copies of both the ILEC and competitive tariffs for comparison. Also document the exact date of the fiber cutover - AT&T should provide a service order showing when the copper was disconnected and fiber activated. That's your evidence for when the rate change should have taken effect.