If you don't pay your cell bill, how long will it still work?

[RMESMH]

For over a decade, I’ve just found that prepaid is easier. It’s not a credit issue (I’ve had an 800+ FICO for eons). I’ve had a credit balance (they owe me) with both Verizon and AT&T since at least 2008, and I’ve only had to remember to replenish it to extend the time once a year. Given that, I did forget once with each carrier, but in both cases they restored my balances when I went a bit past the 1 year mark for the renewal.

[robertpasa]

I was afraid of the late charge so I paid at the store a couple weeks ago, right before the due date.

Update: the phone company finally processed my payment, three weeks after I sent it. I just have a neg balance now.
I don't know if the delay was the mail or the phone co or both.

[robertpasa]

My bill this time is extremely small. I wonder if there would be a late fee if I didn't pay it on time?

Also I haven't gotten the paper bill yet, but I got the email. Perhaps there is no paper bill if the amount is small?

If you've ever had to pay a late fee, what was the amount?