T-Mobile details quirky prorated ETF policy - almost useless

T-Mobile, facing ETF-pressures from consumers and the Feds alike , have finally given in to the prorated ETF trend. But, we really can't fathom why America's favorite (at least according to JD Power) wireless carrier wouldn't give customers a bigger break on their ETF (early termination fee) policy. While the rest of the Big Four will be rolling out , or have already introduced, prorated ETF policies that decrease the penalty fee on a sliding scale (proportional to the remaining contract length), T-Mobile has gone the decidedly more questionable route. T-Mobile's prorating policy breaks down the $200 T-Mobile ETF to a much more wallet-friendly $100 once the contract dwindles down to 6 months in remaining length. With 3 months left on the commitment-clock, T-Mobile will forgive all but $50 of your ETF. The last 30 days will cut your ETF down to $50 or the remainder of your wireless bill (whichever is less). So, T-Mobile's prorated ETF policy is almost completely useless for most people looking to get a break on their ETF mid-contract. But, for those of you looking to jump ship just a bit early of the contract's expiration, T-Mo's 6-month cutoff might be just the kind of prorating you're looking for. Still, it would have been nice to see T-Mobile follow suit with the rest of the national US wireless carriers. --- Related Articles at IntoMobile:

• T-Mobile gives in, allows pro-rated early termination fees
• AT&T Wireless introduces pro-rated Early Termination Fees (ETF)
• AT&T prorates ETF - Early Termination Fees now pro-rated on AT&T
• The FCC's plan for early termination fees (ETF)
• Sprint: Yes we raised our SMS text message rates, No you can't cancel your contract without an ETF