T-Mobile Prepaid FAQs (Sidekick® II)

What is included in my $1.00 per day?

Included in your $1.00 per day is unlimited:
  • Short Message Service (SMS)
  • Instant Messaging (AOL® Instant Messenger™ Service (AIM®) or Yahoo!®)
  • Web Browsing
  • E-mail
  • Access to Desktop Interface
  • Personal Information Management (PIM) Sync (Contacts, To Do, Notes, Photos, etc.)
  • Access to Download Fun™ catalog (downloads cost additional, prices may vary)

My phone displays Waiting For Activation. What do I do?

Sidekicks take up to 48 hours to register with the network. This is a one-time process that only occurs for new devices. Once the device registers, you will be asked to type information, including your preferred username and password.
If you need to make or receive calls while awaiting registration, you may bypass the Waiting for Activation screen by pressing Menu and the letter L simultaneously. For best results, hold down Menu and the L key until the Waiting for Activation screen disappears. This procedure will take you to the home screen, also known as the Jump screen. From there, you can make and receive calls. Data Services will be unavailable until the registration process is complete.

What is the Desktop Interface and how do I access it?

The Desktop Interface is accessed from a desktop computer with Internet access by going to www.t-mobile.com. You will be asked to type a username and password, which will be the same username and password you chose when registering your Sidekick for the first time.

How much does Sidekick Prepaid cost?

Sidekick Prepaid costs $.15 per minute for phone calls. SMS and Data are unlimited and cost $1.00 per day.

Can I suspend or turn off my Data Services temporarily and only use the Sidekick as a phone?

No, the $1.00 per day charge and Data Service cannot be suspended. This is part of the Sidekick Prepaid service.

Can I change from a Sidekick Prepaid service to a postpaid account?

Yes, but you must first pass a credit history evaluation and agree to a 2-year service agreement. If you are interested in converting to a Postpaid account, for additional information, contact Customer Care.

I have my own Sidekick II already; can I activate it for Sidekick Prepaid?

Sidekick Prepaid service requires a special activation code, which is only available in the Sidekick Prepaid kit (which comes with the Sidekick II device). At this time, Sidekick Prepaid activation codes are only sold with Sidekick Prepaid kits and are not available separately; therefore, you cannot activate any Sidekick II for Sidekick Prepaid service. T-Mobile will sell separate activation codes for Sidekick Prepaid in the near future.

Which Sidekick devices are available with Prepaid service?

Currently, only the Sidekick II is available with Prepaid service.

Will the $1.00 be taken out of my account on days that I do not use my device?

Yes, the $1.00 is taken out of your account everyday.

Is text messaging included in the daily charge?

Yes, text messaging is included in the daily charge.

Is there a Gold Rewards program for Sidekick users?

At this time, there is no Gold Rewards program for Sidekick users.

How do I add dollars to my account?

To add dollars to your account, select one of the following:
  • Buy a refill over the phone by dialing *TOGO and have the minutes added directly to your account.
  • Purchase refill cards at a T-Mobile store or authorized dealer. To add minutes to your account, simply follow the directions located on the back of the card.

Where can I purchase more refill cards or add money to my account?

Refills are available in $10.00, $25.00, $50.00, and $100.00 increments at over 90,000 locations nationwide, including T-Mobile retail stores, authorized dealers, and other retail locations, including CircleK, Costco, Eckerd, Office Depot, 7-Eleven, Target, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, and more.
You can also refill your account via phone using a credit/debit card or checking account. Dial *ADD from your T-Mobile Prepaid phone or call 1-877-778-2106 from any phone.

How do I check my balance?

To check your balance from your phone, dial #999#. Your balance appears on the screen.

Can I roam internationally?

Not at this time. T-Mobile Prepaid service, including the Sidekick, is limited to the T-Mobile USA domestic network.

Even if I am out of funds, will changes I make to my data be saved?

Not always. If you do not have enough funds on your account for data services, any changes you make to your data (contacts, e-mail, etc.) will be lost if the battery drains completely or if you reset the device. The best way to ensure all changes are saved is to keep funds on your account.