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updated November 20, 2017
MyTab changed again "recently". Honestly, I don't know exactly when, but it was a little while ago.
Things are no longer as they were. MyTab no longer works the way the old WindTab did.
In a nutshell, Freedom Mobile removed the $100 "basic" MyTab (at no cost to you) and replaced it with nothing (literally). MyTab is now quite literally just an interest free loan over 2 years.
On November 20, this page was updated to reflect the current MyTab tiers (promos not included) and the change that all boost levels are not necessarily available for all rate plans.
For those that don't want to wade through the whole page to get a summary here it is. MyTab = Just a name for the loan Freedom Mobile "may" give you. MyTab Boost = The amount you pay each month to pay down your MyTab MyTab no longer means $100 off the cost of your phone. It is now simply a name for the loan/program Freedom Mobile extends to some customers to help them pay for a device over time. MyTab Boost means you pay a higher monthly rate to defer the cost of a new phone. Used intelligently (with the right denomination on the right phone) MyTab boost is simply an interest free loan over 24 months. What you pay and what you get * *Note that not all Boost tiers are available with all rate plans.
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Understanding MyTab and MyTab Boost
The first thing to understand is that the "old way" doesn't exist anymore. Gone are the days of "free phones". Now you can defer the cost, but you still pay for the whole thing (barring the occasional promo), MyTab is the name of the loan and MyTab Boost is the level of the loan (and required payment). Although I have done my best to ensure the accuracy of this text, it's always possible that I am mistaken or that policies have changed since I wrote this. Find yourself a grain of salt and "take with".
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If you have come here looking to understand if you qualify for the "extra savings" on various phones, the answer is probably "No".
Unless you meet the exact criteria stated on those special offers (most of which require you to be on a CURRENT plan of a specific value) you probably only qualify for the "normal" MyTab conditions (as laid out here). Specifically, if a special deal says you qualify with a current $40 plan for a saving of xx dollars and you have an older $40 plan (like the Holiday Miracle plan for example) you do NOT qualify for the savings because in spite of the fact that it is a $40 plan, it is not a CURRENT plan. A current plan is one which is available "right now". If you can not get a new line with your same plan right now, it's not a current plan. You can probably still get the phone on MyTab WITHOUT the extra savings. Or, of course, you could switch to a current in market plan of the specified value (which is what they want you to do) and get the additional savings. This document does not attempt to explain any "special deals" or promotions involving MyTab. It only deals with the standard MyTab and MyTab Boost. For details about a specific promo or discount, please speak to a Freedom Mobile salesperson directly.
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So, before I start, some quick answers to some of the most common questions.
What is MyTab?
MyTab is the name of the loan/program of Freedom Mobile which allows you to spead the cost of a phone over 2 years. They reduce the amount owing each month by the amount outstanding divided by the number of months remaining until the payoff promise(approximately 1/24th of the original amount) until you owe them nothing. If you don't stay until the payoff promise becomes effective (2 years), you simply pay the portion remaining when you leave.
What is MyTab Boost?
MyTab Boost is the "level" or amount of the loan and or payment. Essentially a "boost" is 'they lend you x dollars to buy a phone and you pay y dollars' each month until it's paid off.
I don't get it. What's the difference between MyTab and MyTab Boost?
There really is no difference. The distinction is now almost pointless. Think of MyTab as the total amount you owe, and MyTab Boost as the extra amount added to your bill each month to pay it back.
My MyTab used to be more than $100. Do I only get $100 now for MyTab?
This is where's it's going to be confusing. The "old" program and new program use the same names but work somewhat differently. According to the Freedom Mobile salespeople in store . . . "as of this moment" your MyTab conditions are set at the time you signed up for your plan. This document attempts to explain the current scheme. If you signed up under the old scheme, you are best to check with Freedom Mobile to see if things have changed or if your original arrangement still applies. But as for "right now", what you had before they made this change, you still have as long as you don't change plans.
Where can I find the official terms and conditions for MyTab?
As of this moment, the official terms and conditions are available here. That may, however, become unavailable or outdated in which case I recommend that you search Freedom Mobile's web site.
Where can I find the official terms and conditions for MyTab Boost?
MyTab Boost is a part of MyTab and is therefore covered by the terms and conditions of MyTab.
Do all of Freedom Mobile's plans qualify for MyTab and MyTab Boost?
No. As of this writing, all plans costing $30 or more per month do qualify for MyTab.
Do payments made to MyTab Boost count toward lowering the MyTab?
No. The MyTab boost amount you pay is a FEE and must be paid every month for the entire 2 years (unless you pay off the MyTab early). No portion goes directly toward the MyTab.
Can I make payments directly to the MyTab to lower my balance?
Yes, But DON'T, unless you are going to pay off the entire balance. You can make a payment and use it to reduce the outstanding balance, but doing so will not relieve you of (or lower) the MyTab Boost monthly fee, so it amounts to simply throwing the money away. The amount that Freedom Mobile reduces the MyTab by each month is based on the amount outstanding, so unless you pay it off completely, making a payment toward the MyTab simply lowers the amount Freedom Mobile has to credit you (good for them, bad for you). The exception, of course, would be if you had just wanted to use MyTab to spread the cost over a few months and would be using these payments to reduce the amount to $0 over those few months. This might be handy if for instance you wanted an $800 dollar phone and could pay $200 each month for 4 months, since once it was fully paid off, the MyTab Boost FEE would no longer be charged,
Can I get MyTab Boost without getting MyTab?
No. MyTab Boost is a part of MyTab.
Can I get more than one device on MyTab (Boost)?
Yes. If your credit allows, you can get one device for each qualifying line (up to whatever credit limit Freedom Mobile has established for you).
Can I activate 3 lines, get 3 devices and then cancel 2 of the lines and keep the MyTab (Boost) going for all three devices?
No. Freedom Mobile attaches one device to each line, when you cancel that line, you will be required to pay the MyTab balance(s) owing on the device related to the cancelled line(s).
Can I change plans after getting the MyTab (Boost)?
Yes BUT... When you change plans, all conditions related to MyTab are defined by the plan you switch to. So, while you are allowed to switch plans, doing so may change your MyTab eligibility and / or conditions. For example, switching from a plan with the old style MyTab (with the built in device credit of $100-250) to a new plan may cost you that credit on a permanent ongoing basis. If you switch to a program which is not eligible for MyTab, you will be required to pay all outstanding balances on your MyTab at that time. There may be a rate change fee applied when you change plans.
What happens if I have 2 lines and 1 device on MyTab (Boost)?
The MyTab and MyTab Boost will be "attached" to one line or the other. If you cancel the line that the MyTab is attached to, you will have to pay off the MyTab (even if you still have another active line). So be sure they attach the MyTab to the line you are most likely to keep active (although not official policy, you might be able to get them to transfer the MyTab and MyTab Boost to the active line - but don't count on it).
If I got my MyTab before these latest changes, do the new rules apply to me?
No! At least not yet. Instore salepeople were very clear to point out that there are no guarantees that existing MyTab's won't be changed to conform to the new policy. However, as of this writing the changes did not affect MyTabs which started before the most recent changes.
Does Freedom Mobile pay the $5 ($10,$15, $25 or $35) MyTab Boost Payment each month?
NO! You pay the MyTab Boost FEE in addition to your usual service charges. When your MyTab reaches $0, the FEE is no longer required.
Do I own the phone?
Yes. Freedom Mobile has simply extended you a loan and called it MyTab. The phone is yours (but you haven't finished paying for it yet).
Can I get the phone unlocked if I still owe on the MyTab (Boost)?
According to the Wireless Code of Conduct, Canadian providers MUST provide you with the unlock code if you request it, after you have owned to phone for 90 days or immediately if the phone is paid for in full. They may however charge a fee for this service (and Freedom Mobile does). If you qualify for this. check the "My Account" section of Freedom Mobile and click "Get Unlock Code". The cost as of March 2016 was $30. You MUST be an active Freedom Mobile customer for this to apply (Freedom Mobile's policy is to NOT supply unlock codes to non-customers).
A change to the Wireless code of conduct means this fee will be removed in 2018, and after that time all phones will be sold unlocked.
Is MyTab (Boost) available for Mobile Internet Devices like Data Sticks?
No. Freedom Mobile used to allow these on MyTab, but has since stopped the practice.
What if I don't like the service? Can I return the device and cancel my MyTab (Boost)?
Yes and no. If you cancel your service within the first 15 days, you can return the device and cancel the service as per Freedom Mobile's policy (other conditions apply) and the Wireless Code of Conduct. If you take longer (or fail to meet any other of their conditions) then you can still cancel the service, but you will have to pay the MyTab as well as any outstanding service fees.
How is the MyTab any different than a contract? Or from the major carrier's Tab plans?
It's not really any different than a term contract now that the CRTC has implemented the Wireless Code of Conduct (which essentially forces the other carriers to do what Freedom Mobile has always done when it comes to cancelling the service with money owing on a device).
Is MyTab (Boost) better or worse than the competitors' Tab programs?
I don't have the answer to this any more. The Tab programs are all changing almost constantly. The only way to be sure is to compare yourself. But one advantage to the MyTab program is that it can save you as money off the cost of your device (under certain circumstances).
Should the MyTab (Boost) factor into my decision whether or not to go with Freedom Mobile?
Very little. I am of the opinion that you should find the best service that suits you for the best price. For me that's Freedom Mobile (with or without the MyTab). I don't think you should base your choice on the TAB offerings unless the plans are otherwise the same. And at that point figure out which serves you better. MyTab and MyTab Boost are better described as things to take advantage of once you do decide to go with Freedom Mobile.
Is MyTab (Boost) better than a term contract?
Once not too long ago it was. However, now there are no actual savings provided by MyTab It could go either way depending on your personal priorities. Keep in mind that opting to use the MyTab Boost could (under some circumstances) cost you more than putting the phone on a credit card.
If I've decide to go with Freedom Mobile, should I get the MyTab?
That's truly a personal choice. Since there are no savings to be had, it's simply a matter of how you want to pay for your phone. If you want to spread the cost over 2 years, then yes. Otherwise, no.
And on that note . . .
In order to qualify for a MyTab (or MyTab Boost),
- You must pass Freedom Mobile's credit check (requires photo ID and a valid credit card)
- You must be a Pay After customer on an elegible plan.
- You must not already have a device on MyTab.
- If you activate an additional new line you can add a device at that time to an existing MyTab (if your credit is good enough to allow a second device).
- If you have not "added" a device to (or started) your MyTab in the last 12 months, you can pay off the existing MyTab (or MyTab Boost) and start again.
Lets start with a breakdown
MyTab is paid down each month by Freedom Mobile (not by you) by "the amount outstanding" divided by "the number of months remaining until the payoff promise" (approximately 1/24 of the original MyTab amount). This amount is "usually" the same as your MyTab Boost fee but can differ due to promotional offers or other circumstances.
MyTab Boost is a FEE paid by YOU each month in addition to your service charges. The amount due each month depends on the initial amount borrowed.
Basically, you sign up for a plan, pick a phone, and defer the cost of all or some of the phone by using one of the following options.
- Pay $5 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $120
- Pay $10 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $240
- Pay $15 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $360
- Pay $20 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $480
- Pay $25 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $600
- Pay $35 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $840
- Pay $40 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $960
- Pay $50 per month to pay down an original MyTab balance of $1200
*Note that not all Boost tiers are available with all rate plans.
At the end of 2 years, Freedom Mobile will clear any outstanding balance on your MyTab (although it is now structured so that balance will always be $0).
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There used to be tables and comparisons in this section to explain the convoluted workings of MyTab, but now it is as simple as stated above. You borrow some and you pay back some each month.
The Problem With MyTab
The real problem with MyTab (and all Tab type programs) is that they encourage you to get a more expensive phone than you might if you paid for the phone up front. When moving to a company like Freedom Mobile from one of the three established providers, this can be a very big mistake as indebting yourself substantially for the phone is likely only sensible if you know you will get full use of the phone. Many (but not all of) Freedom Mobile's handsets are generally usable on other networks but you could find yourself stuck with an unusable handset that you still owe money on (if you are unhappy with Freedom Mobile's service). So please, if you elect to use the MyTab, ensure that you're getting a phone that you want and can use (and perhaps even one you can use on another network (just in case)). There are a number of handsets available that work on Freedom Mobile as well as the "Big Three". It might be wise to invest in one of those if you're new to Freedom Mobile.
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**** outdated old version of this page ****
What follows is the page as it appeared prior to June 15 2017. This portion applies only to people who signed on during the "Old" MyTab scheme (and then only to the most recent version of it). It is left as an aid for those who might still be on that version although salespeople seem to believe that this version of MyTab is destined to be forced into conformity with the current version at some future date.
Today Wind Mobile ceased to exist. Freedom Mobile will be introducing a number of changes over the coming months. I have no way of knowing what those changes will be. Indications at this moment (by surfing their website) are that Freedom Mobile is "currently" simply a rebranding of Wind Mobile. That is to say that everything at Freedom Mobile is exactly as it was at Wind Mobile, but under a new name.
Wind Mobile = Freedom Mobile
WindTab = MYTAB
WindTab BOOST = MYTAB BOOST
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Okay Freedom Mobile has changed the MyTab terms yet again (March 22, 2016). I'm getting really tired of updating this page but... Here we go again
And again on April 14, I find they have updated the amounts available making all prior examples invalid.
On June 22, 2016 Freedom Mobile dropped MyTab elegibility for grandfathered (old existing) plans with a monthly fee of less than $35. Also, they limited the maximum MyTab amount allowed on grandfathered plans to $250.
Since the changes made in March 2016 are retroactive, all prior content (stuff previously left for historical reasons) was removed with that update.
Freedom Mobile has changed the MyTab terms and conditions most recently in what appears to be a reaction to the similarity to the incumbents' 2 year contracts. So now the MyTab appears to work virtually identically to the contract terms used by the incumbents.
Don't let anyone tell you Freedom Mobile does not have contracts. MyTab is a contract and now works virtually the same as other phone company contracts (albeit at a lower cost).
For those that don't want to wade through the whole page to get a summary here it is. MyTab = GOOD (saves you $100 over 2 years) MyTab Boost = Okay to Bad depending on individual circumstances MyTab means $100 off the cost of your phone if you stay for the full term. Lesser savings if you leave early. Used intelligently (with the right denomination on the right phone) MyTab boost can be as nice as simply an interest free loan over 24 months. But for that to be true you have to get at least $600 on the $25 boost ($360 on the $15 boost or $120 on the $5 boost). It should be noted that at the time of this update, Freedom Mobile is offering $650, $450 and $250 as their maximum boosts on the $25, $15, and $5 MyTab Boosts respectively. What you pay and what you get This means that the only option that actually adds any value to the MyTab saving is the lowest one ($5 per month) which (if used for the full amount) could still save you an additional $30 over the term. Using MyTab Boost for anything other than the maximum for it's category could be costly and before you do that, consider paying a little more up front and using the next lower boost to maximize your savings). i.e. before you use MyTab Boost to cover $500 on the $25 option (which will cost you $600 over the term), consider paying the $50 difference up front to lower the monthly cost to $15 to finance $450 over the term (at a cost of $360). This example would save you $190. |
Understanding MyTab and MyTab Boost
The following is my understanding of the workings of Freedom Mobile's MyTab program based on the information currently available from Freedom Mobile and my personal experience. Although I have done my best to ensure the accuracy of this text, it's always possible that I am mistaken or that policies have changed since I wrote this. Find yourself a grain of salt and "take with".
A simplified explanation of MyTab.
MyTab is an option available from Freedom Mobile, whereby they will lend you up to $100 toward the purchase of a phone. This $100 is reduced each month by "the amount currently owed" divided by "the number of months remaining until the pay-off promise" (in essence, this means they reduce it by 1/24 of the original MyTab each month for the 2 years until the payoff promise). There is no cost to you. After 2 years of paid service any outstanding balance is forgiven.
A simplified explanation of MyTab Boost.
MyTab Boost is a way for you to increase that $100 MyTab limit up to as much as $650. The catch is that you now also have to make a monthly payment in addition to your services (and continue the monthly payments until the MyTab is paid in full). Using MyTab Boost typically reduces the financial benefit of the MyTab program. It then becomes a financing program whereby you will make full payment for your device over time (and unless you boost to the maximum amount, you will likely pay more than the original purchase price of the device).
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So, before I start, some quick answers to some of the most common questions.
What is MyTab?
MyTab is an option whereby Freedom Mobile will subsidize a portion of the cost of one or more handsets (one per line maximum) in exchange for your service loyalty. The current MyTab basically comes in the form of a $100 subsidy. Essentially, they lend you up to $100 to buy the phone. Then they reduce the amount owing each month by the amount outstanding divided by the number of months remaining until the payoff promise(approximately 1/24th of the original amount) until you owe them nothing. If you don't stay until the payoff promise becomes effective (2 years), you simply pay the portion remaining when you leave.
What is MyTab Boost?
MyTab Boost is a way to increase the amount of the MyTab by agreeing to pay a monthly fee until the MyTab is reduced to $0. Freedom Mobile will lower the immediate cost of a device by up to $650 which is then reduced (as explained in the MyTab portion above).
I don't get it. What's the difference between MyTab and MyTab Boost?
There is no difference really. MyTab is the base amount which is at no cost to you. If you use the MyTab Boost, you are simply allowed to increase that amount at the cost of a monthly fee. The easiest way to explain it is by example. Assume you're going to join Freedom Mobile and buy a Samsung Galaxy S7. The price of that phone is currently $899 (with no discounts). So assuming you qualify for MyTab, you sign up for any of the MyTab eligible plans and buy that phone.
Now, you can simply pay the $899 (plus tax) and go about your business, or you can defer the cost using MyTab with or without MyTab Boost.
If you choose to use the MyTab, Freedom Mobile will reduce the cost of the phone by $100, so you pay $799 now and then you owe them $100. That $100 is reduced each month (at no additional cost to you) until it reaches $0. If you leave before it reaches $0, you pay the reduced amount at the time you leave. If you stay for the full 2 years the phone has only cost you $799. That's MyTab.
If you choose to use MyTab Boost, you pay $149 for your phone (at that moment). Freedom Mobile will then add $25 to your bill each month until the phone is paid for (typically 24 months). Freedom Mobile will still lower the balance each month by approximately 1/24 of the original amount and will forgive any outstanding balance after 2 years (there won't be one).
In this example, it would add $25 to your monthly payment, but other (less expensive) phones could be paid off with $5 or $15 monthly payments (in addition to your service plan) or alternately you could pay a larger portion of the phone cost up front and have a lower monthly payment.
My MyTab used to be more than $100. Do I only get $100 now for MyTab?
According to the Freedom Mobile salespeople in store . . . The amount of your MyTab is established when your plan first became eligible for MyTab. Changes made in June,of 2016 decreased the maximum grandfathered amount. Customers previously with a MyTab elegibility of more than $250 have now had that eleigibility reduced to $250 (balances currently outstanding are not affected by this change). Beware though, that all other conditions of the current MyTab terms and conditons apply, so using the MyTab Boost could severely depreciate or eliminate any savings the grandfathered amount might have afforded. In other works think twice before using the Boost.
Where can I find the official terms and conditions for MyTab?
As of this moment, the official terms and conditions are available here. That may, however, become unavailable or outdated in which case I recommend that you search Freedom Mobile's web site.
Where can I find the official terms and conditions for MyTab Boost?
MyTab Boost is a part of MyTab and is therefore covered by the terms and conditions of MyTab.
Do all of Freedom Mobile's plans qualify for MyTab and MyTab Boost?
No. As of this writing, all plans costing $35 or more per month do qualify for MyTab. Additionally in June 2016, plans with a monthly fee below $35 which used to be MyTab elegible no longer will be.
Do payments made to MyTab Boost count toward lowering the MyTab?
No. The MyTab boost amount you pay is a FEE and must be paid every month for the entire 2 years (unless you pay off the MyTab early). No portion goes directly toward the MyTab.
Can I make payments directly to the MyTab to lower my balance?
Yes, But DON'T, unless you are going to pay off the entire balance. You can make a payment and use it to reduce the outstanding balance, but doing so will not relieve you of (or lower) the MyTab Boost monthly fee, so it amounts to simply throwing the money away. The amount that Freedom Mobile reduces the MyTab by each month is based on the amount outstanding, so unless you pay it off completely, making a payment toward the MyTab simply lowers the amount Freedom Mobile has to credit you (good for them, bad for you). The exception, of course, would be if you had just wanted to use MyTab to spread the cost over a few months and would be using these payments to reduce the amount to $0 over those few months. This might be handy if for instance you wanted an $800 dollar phone and could pay $200 each month for 4 months, since once it was fully paid off, the MyTab Boost FEE would no longer be charged,
Can I get MyTab Boost without getting MyTab?
No. MyTab Boost is an extension of MyTab.
Do I need a subsidized phone?
Many people do. But don't always assume that a subsidized phone is cheaper. In the past for instance, Google has made phones available for less than carriers for the EXACT same phone. You should always look for the best deal from legitimate sources. Sometimes though, it's simply safer and more convenient to purchase your handset directly from your provider.
Can I get more than one device on MyTab (Boost)?
Yes. If your credit allows, you can get one device for each qualifying line (up to whatever credit limit Freedom Mobile has established for you).
Can I activate 3 lines, get 3 devices and then cancel 2 of the lines and keep the MyTab (Boost) going for all three devices?
No. Freedom Mobile attaches one device to each line, when you cancel that line, you will be required to pay the MyTab balance(s) owing on the device related to the cancelled line(s).
Can I change plans after getting the MyTab (Boost)?
Yes BUT... You can change to any of the other MyTab eligible plans without affecting your MyTab. If, however, you switch to a program which is not eligible for MyTab, you will be required to pay all outstanding balances on your MyTab at that time. There may be a rate change fee applied when you change plans.
What happens if I have 2 lines and 1 device on MyTab (Boost)?
The MyTab and MyTab Boost will be "attached" to one line or the other. If you cancel the line that the MyTab is attached to, you will have to pay off the MyTab (even if you still have another active line). So be sure they attach the MyTab to the line you are most likely to keep active (although not official policy, you might be able to get them to transfer the MyTab and MyTab Boost to the active line - but don't count on it). In regard to reducing the MyTab.
If I got my MyTab before these latest changes, do the new rules apply to me?
Yes. Changes made to MyTab this time (not including dollar amounts) are retroactive and will be reflected on your billing. As far as I can tell there are no adverse affects of this change to existing clients. Most clients will have benefitted via a reduction in their outstanding MyTab balance on all affected lines on their bill immediately following March 22, 2016. The paydown scheme for all MyTabs (existing and new) after that date will follow the new procedure (which is virtually always more beneficial to the customer than the previous method). The $100 limit does not apply to existing accounts (which may have limits previously set at more than $100) according to in store salespeople.
Does Freedom Mobile pay the $5 ($15 or $25) MyTab Boost Payment each month?
NO! You pay the MyTab Boost FEE in addition to your usual service charges. When your MyTab reaches $0, the FEE is no longer required.
Do I own the phone?
Yes. Freedom Mobile has simply extended you a loan and called it MyTab. The phone is yours (but you haven't finished paying for it yet).
Can I get the phone unlocked if I still owe on the MyTab (Boost)?
According to the Wireless Code of Conduct, Canadian providers MUST provide you with the unlock code if you request it, after you have owned to phone for 90 days or immediately if the phone is paid for in full. They may however charge a fee for this service (and Freedom Mobile does). If you qualify for this. check the "My Account" section of Freedom Mobile and click "Get Unlock Code". The cost as of March 2016 was $30. You MUST be an active Freedom Mobile customer for this to apply (Freedom Mobile's policy is to NOT supply unlock codes to non-customers).
Is MyTab (Boost) available for Mobile Internet Devices like Data Sticks?
No. Freedom Mobile used to allow these on MyTab, but has since stopped the practice.
What if I don't like the service? Can I return the device and cancel my MyTab (Boost)?
Yes and no. If you cancel your service within the first 15 days, you can return the device and cancel the service as per Freedom Mobile's policy (other conditions apply) and the Wireless Code of Conduct. If you take longer (or fail to meet any other of their conditions) then you can still cancel the service, but you will have to pay the MyTab as well as any outstanding service fees.
How is the MyTab any different than a contract? Or from the major carrier's Tab plans?
It's not really any different than a term contract now that the CRTC has implemented the Wireless Code of Conduct (which essentially forces the other carriers to do what Freedom Mobile has always done when it comes to cancelling the service with money owing on a device).
Is MyTab (Boost) better or worse than the competitors' Tab programs?
I don't have the answer to this any more. The Tab programs are all changing almost constantly. The only way to be sure is to compare yourself. But one advantage to the MyTab program is that it can save you as money off the cost of your device (under certain circumstances).
Should the MyTab (Boost) factor into my decision whether or not to go with Freedom Mobile?
Very little. I am of the opinion that you should find the best service that suits you for the best price. For me that's Freedom Mobile (with or without the MyTab). I don't think you should base your choice on the TAB offerings unless the plans are otherwise the same. And at that point figure out which serves you better. MyTab and MyTab Boost are better described as things to take advantage of once you do decide to go with Freedom Mobile.
Is MyTab (Boost) better than a term contract?
Once not too long ago it was. However, now the actual savings provided by the old MyTab is markedly decreased in this new version. That makes it less attractive from a savings point of view. However the addition of the MyTab Boost means you can now spread the cost of more expensive devices over the term which gives it added value. It could go either way depending on your personal priorities. Keep in mind that opting to use the MyTab Boost can (under some circumstances) cost you more than putting the phone on a credit card.
If I've decide to go with Freedom Mobile, should I get the MyTab?
As a general rule, if you qualify for MyTab then it will probably save you a few dollars. If you want an expensive phone and can't afford to pay for it in full, then MyTab Boost is definitely the way to go. But be aware that using MyTab Boost for anything other then the full amount allowed can cost you more than purchasing the phone outright.
And on that note . . .
In order to qualify for a MyTab (or MyTab Boost),
- You must pass Freedom Mobile's credit check (requires photo ID and a valid credit card)
- You must be a Pay After customer on an elegible plan.
- You must not already have a device on MyTab.
- If you activate an additional new line you can add a device at that time to an existing MyTab (if your credit is good enough to allow a second device).
- If you have not "added" a device to (or started) your MyTab in the last 12 months, you can pay off the existing MyTab (or MyTab Boost) and start again.
Lets start with a breakdown
The old MyTab used to have differing amounts depending on your monthly plan. Now, all eligible plans can have a $100 MyTab and up to $650 with MyTab Boost (depending on your credit worthiness).
MyTab is paid down each month by Freedom Mobile (not by you) by "the amount outstanding" divided by "the number of months remaining until the payoff promise" (approximately 1/24 of the original MyTab amount).
MyTab Boost is a FEE paid by YOU each month in addition to your service charges. The amount due each month depends on the initial amount borrowed.
- a starting balance of $5.01 to $250, has a monthly fee of $5 per month
- a starting balance of $250.01 to $450, has a monthly fee of $15 per month
- a starting balance of $450.01 to $650, has a monthly fee of $25 per month
At the end of 2 years, Freedom Mobile will clear any outstanding balance on your MyTab (although it is now structured so that balance will always be $0).
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What's always been missing from this page is a simple table showing what happens with MyTab, so here's a sample of what your MyTab balance will look like if you go 2 years on the $50 plan with a new Samsung Galaxy S7 assuming a signup date of March 22, 2015. This chart assumes you never use any extra services completely ignores the pro-rated first month that would happen in real life. It also assumes that the MyTab (and MyTab Boost) was used for $650 (the usual maximum allowed). Taxes are completely excluded for simplicity. If you opted to leave any time during this period, you would owe any outstanding bills as well as the amounts shown in the MyTab Balance column
* This table is for demonstration purposes only and does not purport to be accurate for any real life situation.
** BIll Is The $50 Plan Fee + $25 MyTab Boost Fee ($75.00)
*** To MyTab is the amount the MyTab will be reduced
| Month | Bill Date | Bill $** | To MyTab*** | MyTab Balance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Mar 22, 2016 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $650.00 |
| 1 | Apr 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $622.92 |
| 2 | May 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $595.84 |
| 3 | Jun 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $568.76 |
| 4 | Jul 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $541.68 |
| 5 | Aug 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $514.60 |
| 6 | Sep 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $487.52 |
| 7 | Oct 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $460.44 |
| 8 | Nov 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $433.36 |
| 9 | Dec 22, 2016 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $406.27 |
| 10 | Jan 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $379.19 |
| 11 | Feb 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $352.10 |
| 12 | Mar 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $325.02 |
| 13 | Apr 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $297.93 |
| 14 | May 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $270.85 |
| 15 | Jun 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $243.76 |
| 16 | Jul 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $216.68 |
| 17 | Aug 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $189.59 |
| 18 | Sep 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $162.51 |
| 19 | Oct 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $135.42 |
| 20 | Nov 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $108.34 |
| 21 | Dec 22, 2017 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $81.25 |
| 22 | Jan 22, 2018 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $54.17 |
| 23 | Feb 22, 2018 | $75.00 | $27.09 | $27.08 |
| 24 | Mar 22, 2018 | $75.00 | $27.08 | $0 |
| 25 | Apr 22, 2018 | $50.00 | $0 | $0 |
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Our first comparison will be Rogers Share Everything with 2.5 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 with a 2 year term vs Freedom Mobile's $35 with 2 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 assuming you stay for 24 months (full 2 year term). Comparison is based on the similarity of stated services and does not account for service areas or quality.
| Provider | Phone Deposit | Monthly Pymt | Total Plan Fees | Termination Costs | Total Expense |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rogers* | $399.99 | $95.00 | $2280 ($95 x 24) | $0 (DSRF + ADSRF) | $2679.99 |
| Freedom (w MyTab) | $799 | $35.00 | $840 ($35 x 24) | $0 (MyTab balance) | $1639.00 |
| Freedom (w MT Boost) | $249 | $60.00 ($35+$25) | $1440 ($60 x 24) | $0 (MyTab balance) | $1689.00 |
*prices and information obtained from web sites on March 31, 2016.
*As you can see, MyTab is $50 cheaer than it is with MyTab Boost and Freedom Mobile is cheaper literally all the way around.
And our second comparison will be Rogers Share Everything with 9 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 with a 2 year term vs Freedom Mobile's $50 with 10 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 assuming you stay for 24 months (full 2 year term). Comparison is based on the similarity of stated services and does not account for service areas or quality.
| Provider | Phone Deposit | Monthly Pymt | Total Plan Fees | Termination Costs | Total Expense |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rogers* | $399.99 | $135.00 | $3240 ($135 x 24) | $0 (DSRF + ADSRF) | $3729.99 |
| Freedom (w MyTab) | $799 | $50.00 | $1200 ($50 x 24) | $0 (MyTab balance) | $1999.00 |
| Freedom (w MT Boost) | $249 | $75.00 ($50+$25) | $1800 ($50 x 24) | $0 (MyTab balance) | $2049.00 |
*prices and information obtained from web sites on March 31, 2016.
*As you can see, MyTab is $50 cheaer than it is with MyTab Boost and Freedom Mobile is cheaper literally all the way around.
And what if we leave early? Our third comparison will be Rogers Share Everything with 2.5 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 with a 2 year term vs Freedom Mobile's $50 with 10 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 on MyTab vs Freedom Mobile's $35 with 2 GB DATA and a Galaxy S7 on MyTab assuming you leave after 18 months. Comparison is based on the similarity of stated services and does not account for service areas or quality.
| Provider | Phone Deposit | Monthly Pymt | Total Plan Fees | Termination Costs | Total Expense |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rogers* | $399.99 | $95.00 | $1620 ($90 x 18) | $125.00 (DSRF + ADSRF) | $2144.99 |
| Freedom $50 (w MyTab) | $799 | $50.00 | $900 ($50 x 18) | $25 (MyTab balance) | $1724.00 |
| Freedom $50 (w MT Boost) | $249 | $75.00 | $1350 ($75 x 18) | $162.50 (MyTab balance) | $1761.50 |
| Freedom $35 (w MyTab) | $799 | $35.00 | $630 ($35 x 18) | $25 (MyTab balance) | $1454.00 |
| Freedom $35 (w MT Boost) | $249 | $60.00 | $1080 ($60 x 18) | $162.50 (MyTab balance) | $1491.50 |
*prices and information obtained from web sites on March 31, 2016.
As you can see, Freedom Mobile is still cheaper.
Verdict
Freedom Mobile's MyTab can save you up to $100 if used alone. When used with MyTab Boost you have an increased chance of paying more for your handset than if you had bought it outright, but in either case, it was still less expensive than Rogers
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MyTab vs No MyTab
Assuming that you have decided to go with Freedom Mobile. The question now becomes "Should you or should you not get the MyTab?". And the answer is "Absolutely YES!" (assuming that you can afford the higher device cost). Freedom Mobile does not give you a "discount" for bringing your own device (although there is a credit available for "extras"). So your plan cost will not go down if you buy your phone outright. What this means is that you will pay the same regardless of whether you buy your device outright or let Freedom Mobile subsidize it on MyTab. Some might argue that the "credits" available to people who buy or bring their own device makes it the same value as a MyTab. And while it is "possible" to get the same amount in credits as is available on MyTab, there are many circumstances where you won't end up getting the same amount in the end. If however, you are planning to stay with Freedom Mobile for 20 months or less and will ALWAYS use enough extras to get the full credits each month, then you could come out ahead. But for most of us, the MyTab will save us money. Alternately, if it's an option, you could always start without using the MyTab and take advantage of the credits, and then when the credits are no longer available, invoke the MyTab on a new device (have your cake and eat it too!).
In previous version of this document there was a chart here showing the saving of the various plans and their differing MyTab amounts. Now there is really no point.
MyTab will save you up to $100 off the cost of your device over a 2 year period (vs buying it outright from Freedom Mobile).
MyTab Boost can allow you to pay for your device using monthly payments (but may negate any saving you might have gotten from using the MyTab and will in fact cost you more than buying the phone outright in "some" cases).
If you leave before the 2 years, MyTab will save you "about" $4.17 for each month that you had service.
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The Problem With MyTab
The real problem with MyTab (and all Tab type programs) is that they encourage you to get a more expensive phone than you might if you paid for the phone up front. When moving to a company like Freedom Mobile from one of the three established providers, this can be a very big mistake as indebting yourself substantially for the phone is likely only sensible if you know you will get full use of the phone. Many (but not all of) Freedom Mobile's handsets are generally usable on other networks but you could find yourself stuck with an unusable handset that you still owe money on (if you are unhappy with Freedom Mobile's service). So please, if you elect to use the MyTab, ensure that you're getting a phone that you want and can use (and perhaps even one you can use on another network (just in case)). There are a number of handsets available that work on Freedom Mobile as well as the "Big Three". It might be wise to invest in one of those if you're new to Freedom Mobile.