Today there are two main competing types of long distance carriers, cellular phone companies and regular phone companies. There are advantages and disadvantages to each. With both types of long distance carriers, though, it’s important to compare options before you buy, so you can save money. It’s also important to carefully review any billing statements you receive, since long distance carriers are capable of making mistakes like anyone else. You should also be aware of possible fees and hidden charges that may be associated with long distance carriers.
Cell phone long distance carriers vs. regular long distance carriers:
Many cell phone plans offer unlimited long distance. And most of today’s cell phone plans come with either a free phone, or a phone that, with the rebate, is nearly free. Often, getting a long distance cell phone plan will end up being around the same price as signing up with long distance carriers for a plan, and you have the convenience of being able to take your phone (and your ability to call long distance) with you anywhere. The main down side to cell phones as opposed to regular long distance carriers is that the minutes are not unlimited, and going over your minutes can be expensive. Through regular long distance carriers, you may get unlimited minutes, depending on the plan you choose, and if you go over your minutes, it is usually something like 7 or 10 cents per extra minute, not the 35 or 50 cents that you will wind up paying if you go over your cell phone limits. Also, you’ll have to remember to constantly recharge your cell phone’s battery.
Long distance carriers vs. pre-paid phone cards:
Avoid calling cards with hidden fees. They may appear inexpensive but usually end up as a rip-off since they usually include many hidden surcharges. Often they will automatically round all your calls up to the nearest five minutes.
Hidden charges you may encounter from long distance carriers, and what to do about them:
- “Processing” fee. Some long distance carriers charge an extra processing fee to have your long distance bill included with your local phone bill. Request a separate statement and the charge will be removed.
- Billing fee. Some providers charge extra to give you a paper billing statement. Opting for direct payment or credit card payment will eliminate this cost.
- Extra charges billed. Long distance carriers are capable of mistakes. Review your billing statement, and let the long distance carriers know if there are any problems. If you cannot resolve a problem with the carrier, you may file a complaint with the FCC.
How to get the most for your money:
- Compare options. The value of any plan depends on your calling patterns. Since everyone’s calling patterns are different, the only way to find the best long distance carriers for you is to shop around and compare. Before you actually sign up for a particular long distance carrier, you might want to keep track of your own calling patterns for about a month. Are you a morning, daytime, or evening caller? Do you make most calls on weekends or during the week?
- Package deals. Find out about package deals from long distance carriers where you can get cable TV, Internet and long distance from the same company, long distance carriers will usually give you a discount if you have multiple services provided by them.
- Plan-to-plan unlimited minutes. Many cell phone and other long distance carriers offer this option. Because of this, it might pay to sign up with a certain company if many of your friends or relatives also have.
If you take your needs into account and do some careful shopping, you’ll be satisfied with the outcome. There are many good long distance carriers out there and they continue to try to drop prices in order to compete with each other. If you encounter any irresolvable problems with billing or service, the FCC is there to protect you. We hope this information will help you in your search for the best long distance carriers.
By Riannon Cutler
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