Can my mobile phone tariff provider increase charges?
Most contracts allow the mobile provider to increase prices within reason, although there’s often a clause to say they have to let you know in advance. If you’re outside your mobile contract period, you can switch to another provider – see our customer satisfaction survey for the best mobile provider. If you’re within your tie-in period and the mobile service provider makes changes to the tariff or contract that will cost you money, you can usually cancel the contract without penalty within a month of being notified. However, this usually doesn’t apply if the price increase is due to a rise in the Retail Price Index and does not exceed this rate. Read your mobile phone contract thoroughly to check what it does and doesn’t allow. If you think your mobile provider is in breach of contract, complain to it directly and contact your local trading standards. If you’re not satisfied with the response, you may be able to take the matter to the telecommunications ombudsman (Otelo), or the Commu
