Mr Gerrie says he is not aware of any other service providers that charge for paper invoices.
"Unless they hide them, I haven't noticed any charges like that on my other bills."
Wanganui Age Concern manager Tracy Lynn says it is a complaint she hears often - and not just about Telecom.
"People are also charged $1.50 for the paper bill and then charged again when they pay it," she said.
"I have written to our national manager and I've talked to Telecom about it.
"They said they are willing to look at it on a case-by-case basis if someone doesn't have a computer or cellphone with internet connection," she said.
Telecom retail relations manager Lucy Fullarton said it was understandable that customers resented paying the fee but there was a cost involved with paper invoices.
"We try to offer no-cost options, like telephone banking and direct debit banking," she said.
Although Telecom does not charge for those options, the banks do, so the only truly free option is online banking, which some Telecom customers do not have access to.
"Costs for landline services have not increased in recent times and we do try to keep them affordable," Ms Fullarton said.
"We are looking to the future and investing in improving internet services.
"That may not seem fair to people who don't use the internet but it boosts the economy and benefits everyone."
Neil Gerrie says $1.50 may not seem like much but when it comes from a fixed income it has an impact.
"That can buy a loaf of bread at some places. I have made the effort to go and pay the bill and I'm charged for my trouble."
