One month you're paying $55. Then the promo ends and you're paying $80 for the same connection.
That's why the internet price lock has become one of the most important things to check before you sign up. Many providers now promise to hold your rate for three to five years, but the fine print varies a lot. Here's how they compare.
What Is an Internet Price Lock?
An internet price lock, sometimes called an internet price guarantee, is a promise that your monthly plan price won't go up for a set period. If you've ever searched "why did my internet bill go up" after a year of service, a lock is designed to stop exactly that.
Price Lock vs. Promo Price
A promo price is a discount that expires, usually after 12 months. An internet price lock holds your rate steady for the full term.
Internet Price Lock Guarantees by Provider (2026)
Here's where major providers stand at the time of writing. Offers change often, so confirm terms for your address.
| Provider | Lock length | Key condition |
|---|---|---|
| Xfinity | 5 years | Available on select plans for new customers |
| Verizon Fios | 3 or 5 years | 5 years on 1 Gig and faster; 3 years on 300 and 500 Mbps |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | 5 years | Rely, Amplified and All-In plans |
| Spectrum | Up to 3 years | Only when bundled with mobile or TV lines |
| AT&T Fiber | None published | Prices rose on some plans in 2026 |
Xfinity 5-Year Price Guarantee
Launched in April 2025, the Xfinity 5-year price guarantee starts at $55 a month. It includes unlimited data, a Wi-Fi gateway and a free year of one Xfinity Mobile line, with no annual contract.
Verizon Price Lock
Verizon Fios guarantees the base rate for five years on its 1, 2 and 5 Gig plans and three years on 300 and 500 Mbps. Setup fees, extra equipment and promo discounts aren't covered.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
T-Mobile promises not to change the price of its home internet for at least five years on eligible plans. Taxes, fees, upgrades and limited-time promotions are excluded.
Spectrum Guaranteed Pricing
Spectrum offers guaranteed pricing for up to three years, but only when you bundle internet with two lines of Spectrum Mobile or TV.
AT&T Price Guarantee: What It Really Covers
AT&T Fiber doesn't publish a formal price lock. The "AT&T Guarantee" is a credit for qualifying outages, not a price promise. In 2026, AT&T raised its standalone 1 Gig price by $15 and reportedly added a $5 increase on some plans, so get any price commitment in writing.
What an Internet Price Lock Doesn't Cover
A lock usually protects only the base plan price. These can still change:
- Taxes and government fees
- Equipment rentals or upgrades you add later
- Autopay, bundle or promo discounts
- Extra services such as TV, streaming or security add-ons
Watch Out For
Changing your plan or speed tier can end your guarantee or start a new one. Ask before you upgrade.
How to Get a Locked Rate When You Sign Up
- Ask which plans include an internet price lock and how long it lasts.
- Check the plan's FCC broadband label to confirm the price, any intro period and fees.
- Ask exactly what's excluded, especially equipment and discounts.
- Save your order confirmation showing the guaranteed rate and end date.
- Set a reminder a few months before the lock expires.
Is an Internet Price Lock Worth It?
It's Worth It If…
- You plan to stay at your address for three years or more.
- You want no price increase internet and a predictable monthly budget.
- You've been hit by promo-ending price jumps before.
It May Not Matter If…
- You move often or rent short-term.
- A cheaper plan without a lock costs less over the same period.
Do the math over the full term. A slightly higher locked rate can beat a cheap promo that jumps after a year. Compare options in our guide to cheap internet plans, or see how to lower your internet bill if you're already locked into a high rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which internet provider has the longest price lock?
Xfinity, T-Mobile Home Internet and Verizon Fios gig plans currently offer five-year guarantees, the longest among major providers. Terms vary by plan and location.
Does an internet price lock include taxes and fees?
Usually not. Most guarantees cover only the base monthly rate. Taxes, government fees, equipment add-ons and some discounts can still change.
Can existing customers get a price lock?
Sometimes. Verizon Fios offers its guarantee to new and existing customers on eligible plans. Others focus on new sign-ups, so ask about switching to an eligible plan.
Does AT&T have a price guarantee?
AT&T Fiber does not publish a formal price lock. The AT&T Guarantee is a service credit for outages, not a promise that your price will stay the same.
What happens when my price lock ends?
Your rate can move to the provider's current price. Set a reminder a few months early so you can compare plans or negotiate before it changes.
Find a Price-Locked Plan Near You
Broadband Saver works with top providers across 41 states. Share your address and a specialist will call with internet price lock options available at your home. Free, no obligation.