Starlink, the satellite internet service aiming to provide high-speed internet globally, operates on a monthly subscription basis. Understanding how Starlink billing works is crucial for users to manage their service effectively. This article breaks down the Starlink monthly service billing cycle to provide clarity and ensure you are informed about your payments.
Activation and Your First Billing Cycle
Your Starlink monthly service billing cycle is determined by your activation date. The moment you activate your Starlink kit, your billing cycle commences. Upon activation, your first statement, or invoice, will be generated in your Starlink account. Simultaneously, the payment method you have on file will be automatically charged for your first month of service.
It’s important to note that if you do not manually activate your Starlink kit within 30 days of shipment, the system will automatically activate it. This ensures that your service and billing cycle begin even if you haven’t set up your dish immediately.
Let’s illustrate with an example: If you activate your Starlink service on July 15th, your billing cycle will run from July 15th to August 14th. You will be billed on July 15th, and your payment will be due on the same day, July 15th. Consequently, your next billing cycle will span from August 15th to September 14th, with billing and payment due on August 15th. Remember that these dates are examples, and your specific billing cycle dates will be unique to your activation date. You can always find your exact billing cycle and payment due date in the billing section of your Starlink account online.
Understanding Your Payment Due Date
The payment due date for your Starlink monthly subscription is consistently the first day of your billing cycle. Starlink operates on an automatic payment system for subscriptions. This means that on your Payment Due Date, the subscription fee will be automatically charged to your registered payment method.
For users who utilize Mobile Money payments, the process is slightly different. Instead of automatic charging, you will need to manually log into your Starlink account each month on your Payment Due Date to authorize and complete your payment.
It is important to be aware that Starlink does not currently support changes or delays to billing dates. The billing cycle and payment dates are fixed based on your initial activation.
Previewing Upcoming Charges
Starlink provides a useful feature that allows you to preview your upcoming monthly service invoice at any time. By accessing your account and clicking on the “Preview Next Invoice” option, you can see an estimate of your next month’s charges.
This invoice preview is dynamic and updates daily. It reflects all charges that are due as of the current day. This includes the standard monthly service fee, as well as any potential overage data usage from your current billing cycle or charges resulting from recent modifications to your service plan. This preview feature helps you stay informed about your upcoming expenses and manage your Starlink account proactively.
Special Note for Brazil
For Starlink customers in Brazil, there is a specific condition regarding the first invoice. The initial invoice in Brazil comes with a net 7 payment term. This means that payment for the first invoice is due 7 calendar days from the invoice date, providing a slightly extended payment window for new subscribers in Brazil. This condition applies exclusively to the very first invoice; subsequent invoices will follow the standard payment due date on the first day of each billing cycle.
By understanding these aspects of Starlink’s monthly billing cycle, users can effectively manage their accounts and ensure uninterrupted service. Starlink’s system is designed to be straightforward, with clear billing cycles and payment processes to enhance user experience.