Forum Discussion

talbayed's avatar
talbayed
Network Novice
10 months ago

Inquiry Regarding Unlocking iPhone 15 Pro Max and Monthly Bill Credit

Dear T-Mobile Customer Support,

I am writing to inquire about the process of unlocking my iPhone 15 Pro Max, which was purchased on September 15, 2023, through a 24-month installment plan with a monthly credit.

Due to frequent travel to Europe, I am interested in unlocking my phone for international use. I am aware that, in order to unlock the device, I need to pay off the remaining balance in full. I am willing to settle the full amount to proceed with the unlocking process.

However, I have received conflicting information from different sources within T-Mobile regarding the continuation of the monthly bill credit that was part of the original offer. When I visited a local T-Mobile retail shop, I was informed that paying off the remaining amount would result in the loss of the monthly credit for the phone. On the contrary, when I contacted Customer Support, they assured me that the monthly credit would still be applicable even after the remaining balance is paid off.

To clarify my understanding, I would appreciate it if you could provide me with accurate information regarding the continuation of the monthly bill credit after settling the remaining amount for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. I am willing to pay the full price for unlocking the device but want to ensure that I can retain the benefits of the monthly credit.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter, and I look forward to your clarification.

Sincerely,

  • you’ll need to contact TMO either by calling in (tier 1 support) or through either Facebook or Twitter (tier 2 support). but correct..if you pay off the device early you’ll lose the promo credits. you might be able to request a temp unlock but those are rare to be kicked out as well.

     

    @gramps28 am i thinking correctly on this one?

  • gramps28's avatar
    gramps28
    Router Royalty

    The phone will need to be paid off to get an unlock code  and Apple doesn't offer temporary unlock codes. It's all or nothing.

  • HeavenM's avatar
    HeavenM
    Community Manager

    Gramps28 is correct that Apple devices do not offer a temporary unlock, so the phone does need to be paid off to qualify for a full unlock. The promo credits can be super confusing and there are a lot of different situations that affect the credits differently. Since you got your phone in September 2023, the EIP (equipment installment plan) and credits should be fully established and showing on your bill regularly. That means that you are good to pay off the device and continue getting the promotional credits as long as you continue to meet the other eligibility requirements (right number of lines, account in good standing, etc.). If you just bought the phone and did not yet see the EIP or promotion enrollment on your account, then you would not get your credits if you paid it off. It’s all about timing. 

    Getting mixed messages can leave your head spinning. I wanted to step in and provide the “logic” that the “system” looks for when it provides those credits so it makes more sense, and you can feel more comfortable knowing that you will still get your credits if you pay off your phone to use while traveling.