AutoRecharge explained: how to get better value from your Optus prepaid plan

Prepaid plans unlock flexibility and choice, allowing you to switch your data inclusion at or before your next recharge, and pick up more comprehensive perks when you need them most. But one of the perks you might not know about with Optus’ prepaid plans is AutoRecharge available on selected plans – and the benefits that it brings.

We’re talking all about AutoRecharge in this article and why you should consider switching it on when signing up for a prepaid plan, or signing up for a plan that offers AutoRecharge only. Let’s get stuck in.

AutoRecharge is a feature available on select Optus Flex Plus plans that, depending on the plan, offers additional data or unlimited data on weekends, and added value like eGift cards ⁽¹⁾ on selected plans.

The perk offers the convenience of automatically recharging your prepaid plan on the day of recharge expiry or when your data or credit balance becomes low before expiry (depending on your plan), restarting the regular payment cycle. For most Optus Flex Plus plans, the service will be automatically recharged upon the expiry period or when you reach a low balance (whichever comes first). AutoRecharge Only SIMs recharge at the point of expiry. Note that AutoRecharge is not available on Optus Flex Plus Traveller plans.

With AutoRecharge enabled and maintained, you could get bonus data with your recharge every time you recharge your eligible prepaid plan. On selected Optus Flex Plus plans, AutoRecharge also unlocks the added value of eGift(1) cards from your second eligible recharge, giving you even more from your recharge.

You may also enjoy Unlimited Data Weekends on select Optus Flex Plus plans, allowing you to download without worrying about running over your data allocation ⁽²⁾.

Check the terms of your Optus Flex Plus prepaid plan to see what AutoRecharge perks are available to you.

When you purchase an Optus prepaid SIM and begin the setup process, you’ll be given the option of enabling AutoRecharge from the beginning of your service when you activate your SIM using a debit or credit card (available for Optus Flex Plus only). Some Optus Flex Plus plans offer AutoRecharge Only, meaning the perk will be activated from the get-go and must be maintained for the plan to remain active.

Alternatively, AutoRecharge can be activated through My Optus app: tap ‘Recharge’ > Set Up AutoRecharge and follow the prompts.

You can also text the word MENU to 9999 and follow the prompts to setup AutoRecharge if you have a saved payment method. If you don't have a saved card, you will be given the option to add one via a secure one-time web link.

AutoRecharge is one of those things that you should consider as an additional tool in your kit. You may not need the additional value brought by AutoRecharge every payment cycle, however over a plan period, for example, where you’ve been on the go regularly and need to constantly access streaming services, social media and work files (all of which would eat into your data allocation), you may appreciate perks including the Unlimited Data Weekends or additional data to see you through (available on select prepaid plans).

Alternatively, you may prefer an AutoRecharge Only plan, where the perk is built into the plan (and can’t be activated or deactivated – it just automatically recharges at the expiry period). It’s a handy perk to have up your sleeve in case you need the additional data.

Disclaimers

1) Available on select Optus Flex Plus plans with AutoRecharge activated and maintained. Plan is available for new services only. Receive an eGift Card from your 2nd eligible recharge. Claim code sent when eligibility met, must then be redeemed within 28 days. eGift Card expiry set by participating brands. Terms apply. For more details and participating brands see optus.com.au/egiftcard
2) Unlimited Data Weekends: Fair Go Policy applies. Unlimited data will be available each weekend from 12.01am Sat to 11.59pm Sun (local time) when you activate or recharge with AutoRecharge on an eligible plan. If you activate or AutoRecharge on the weekend, access will be provided from the following weekend day. Not available for manual recharges or after recharge expiry. For use on mobiles, may not be accessible on other devices. Refer to our Prepaid Mobile Plans page for full Terms and FAQs.