What is "SPECTRUM" on my bank statement?
SPECTRUM is usually a legitimate bill from Charter for internet, TV, or phone service.
Merchant: Spectrum (Charter) | Category: Telecom
What Is This Charge?
A charge from Spectrum reflects a payment for cable TV, internet, phone, or mobile services provided by Charter Communications under the Spectrum brand. Spectrum is the second-largest cable company in the United States, serving over 30 million customers across 41 states. Spectrum acquired Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks in 2016.
Why Does This Charge Appear on My Statement?
Spectrum charges appear as your monthly bill payment through autopay or a one-time payment made online, by phone, or in-person at a Spectrum Store. Monthly bills include internet service, Spectrum TV packages, Spectrum Voice (phone), Spectrum Mobile wireless service, and any add-on services. Unlike Comcast, Spectrum includes a modem at no extra charge with internet service, though a WiFi router adds $5/month.
Typical Charge Amounts
Internet plans range from $50 to $90/month depending on speed. Spectrum TV Select starts at about $60/month. Phone service (Spectrum Voice) is about $15/month. Spectrum Mobile plans range from $15 to $45/line. A typical internet + TV bundle runs $100 to $170/month. Spectrum does not require contracts, so prices are month-to-month, but promotional rates expire after 12 months.
Common Variations
Charges may appear as SPECTRUM, CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS, CHARTER COMM, SPECTRUM MOBILE, or CHARTER/SPECTRUM. Former Time Warner Cable or Bright House Networks customers may have been transitioned to Spectrum branding. Spectrum Mobile charges may be combined with or separate from your home service bill.
Is This Charge Legitimate?
Log into spectrum.net or the My Spectrum app to review your billing statements. Spectrum provides monthly statements detailing all services, taxes, and fees. Compare the bank statement amount to your Spectrum bill. If you recently signed up, your first bill may include prorated charges and a one-time activation or installation fee.
How to Dispute or Cancel
Contact Spectrum at 1-833-267-6094 or visit a Spectrum Store. Spectrum has no contracts or early termination fees, so you can cancel anytime. Return all equipment (cable boxes, router) to a Spectrum Store to avoid unreturned equipment fees. Keep your return receipt. For billing disputes, call customer service and request a supervisor if the initial agent can't resolve the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Spectrum bill go up after 12 months?
Spectrum offers promotional pricing for new customers that lasts 12 months. After the promotional period, your rate increases to the standard price, which can be $20-$40 more per month. Call Spectrum at 1-833-267-6094 and ask about current promotions. Since Spectrum has no contracts, you can also cancel and switch to a competitor — mention this when negotiating.
Does Spectrum charge for a modem?
No, Spectrum includes a modem at no extra charge with internet service. However, they charge $5/month for a WiFi router. You can avoid the router fee by purchasing your own compatible WiFi router. Spectrum's website lists compatible router models. If you see a modem charge on your bill, contact Spectrum to have it removed — it should be included free.
How do I cancel Spectrum without being charged extra?
Spectrum has no contracts or early termination fees. Call 1-833-267-6094 or visit a Spectrum Store to cancel. Your service continues through the end of your current billing period. Return all equipment (cable boxes, modem, router, remote controls) to a Spectrum Store within 15 days to avoid equipment charges of $50-$200 per item. Get a return receipt.
What happened to my Time Warner Cable account?
Charter Communications acquired Time Warner Cable in 2016 and rebranded all services as Spectrum. Your Time Warner Cable account was migrated to Spectrum. Charges now appear as SPECTRUM or CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS instead of TIME WARNER CABLE. Your account number may have changed. Log into spectrum.net with your updated credentials.
Why am I being charged for Spectrum Mobile when I only have home internet?
Spectrum Mobile is a separate service from Spectrum home internet. If someone on your account signed up for Spectrum Mobile, the wireless charges may appear on the same bill or as a separate charge. Log into your Spectrum account to review all active services. If you didn't authorize Spectrum Mobile service, call 1-833-267-6094 to investigate and remove it.
Similar Charges
- SPECTRUM
- CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS
- CHARTER COMM SPECTRUM
- SPECTRUM MOBILE
- SPECTRUM NORTHEAST