ThirdRock

Does anyone use the Tello mobile plan that allows you to create an account, receive a US phone number (not a VOIP number) and receive SMS/2FA messages from US banks and credit card companies? I have had the same Wells Fargo account, same US address and US phone number, which I switched to CallCentric in order to receive calls here, for nearly 20 years. For many years I have used Wise to transfer money to my Thai bank account, but this past week their application said my Wells Fargo account was 'discontinued". Logged on Wells Fargo to do a wire transfer from their site and got a similar error. After spending an hour with a very helpful, I found out US banks are starting to "fire" or cancel accounts for some expats due to security concerns. I told him I receive SMS/2FA messages on my CallCentric phone number, but he explained the systems know it is a VOIP number so it rejects it. He said what institutions are suggesting is getting an actual US mobile phone, even if all I use it for is to receive those messages when logging in. After a lot of research with AI, I found Tello, which works sort of like CallCentric, except the number assigned to your account shows up as a US mobile phone number and not a VOIP number. Since incoming text messages are free, you can open an account, register, get a SIM card or use eSIM and get a US mobile number, and use a pre-paid plan. Since incoming texts are free, if not making calls on that SIM, a $10 pre-paid deposit would last almost indefinitely. I have read a lot of expats have added this to their phone and just wondered if any Forum members have any experience with Tello.

I have been told by three friends in the Jomtien area over the last 3 weeks that their online 90-day submissions were rejected and they had to go to the office. They have all used the online method for some time, and they were approved at the office for another 90 days with no questions asked. Is the online system not working? My reporting period is a few weeks away and just hoping it can be done online. On a different topic -- did they do away with the ability to book an appointment for other services like the annual renewal?

UPDATE - I arrived early to get copies and a photo, and asked a couple of people whether to check in at Reception in Building B or jus proceed to main build. Everyone said "get a number". There was a queue of about 15 people at Reception and I was 20 minutes early for my appointment, so out of curiosity I walked around to the ramp entrance to the main building (injured leg and couldn't do steps), opened the door and the guy in the lobby walked up. Showed him the printout for appointment and he pointed to Desk 8 and said "go". There were 6-8 people seated waiting their number to be called. I just held up my printout and the clerk helping someone else pointed to the two girls at the end of the counter who return the passports after processing and said "they do appointments". One of the girls took my paperwork and checked it, had me fill in that extra form they hand you, collected the 1,900 and said "tomorrow 2PM". I was in and out in 5 minutes and the 6-8 people were still waiting for their number to be called. Not sure if all appointments for annual renewal are handled by those girls vs the regular clerks or if this afternoon was just a one-off. So at least in my case, the online appointment worked beautifully. I did not need a number from reception in Bldg B. I was on my way home about 15 minutes before I was even scheduled to appear. Easiest in 17 years. And based on the appointments already made for the next 2-3 days on the booking site, seems others are beginning to use it. It would be helpful if there was a note on the appointment scheduling website explaining the check-in process.

I have read mixed comments about the online appointment application being used again at Jomtien. And based on the appointments booked on the site for the next week, it seems pople are using it. One reader was kind enough to relate his eperience several weeks ago but at that point he ran into some confusion on what to do upon arrival. For a Non-O [Ret.] annual renewal, does anyone have recent experience with the process? Do you still go to Reception in Bldg A, or do you proceed directly to the main building with you appointment printout?

Am in Jomtien - Did last one 6:00 PM 12th Oct, and it was approved 5:00 PM next day, which was a holiday for the King's passing. I assumed Immigration would be closed and would not receive until following Monday. Quite surprised.

Like Zenobit above, I am confused by new announcement. I have been part-owner of a house for over 15 years, have lived in same house 13 years without leaving the country, have done all extensions and check-ins during that time, and have no TM-30 in my passport. The article said you need the TM-30 if you need service from Immigration. I just did 90-day online yesterday and have not received approval or rejection yet. But annual extension is just 4-5 months away, so I assume I will need the TM-30 by then. I am one of three owners of the house, but my name is not on house papers since I bought in after the fact. For annual extensions I just provide a utility bill. Have never had a need for further proof. Any ideas on what I need to do? It seems like this is standard procedure, like new tax plans -- make a big announcement but give no details!

We have noticed the house water pump has begun to run constantly, even if all faucets/taps/toilets are not running. We can find no obvious leaks in walls or floors, and no soggy areas or indication in the lawn there is a leak. We have used a company in the USA before relocating here that used ultrasonic or sonar equipment to locate a water leak under the house or around the pool. That company charged a flat fee only if a leak was found. We are at the point that we are turning off the water pump, and only turning it on for 15-minute periods two or three times a day for showers, toilets, etc. Is there a company in the Pattaya area who provides such a service. Any help or advice will be appreciated!