Believe it or not, the majority of the money you spend on telecommunications is the money you send out each month for your long distance plans. A recent study discovered the average consumer pays almost 65% higher rates than necessary for their long distance plans.
You can put a stop to the overpaying trend with a little bit of money-saving savvy when you look at long distance plans. We have put together a few tips to help you keep more money in your pocket each month when you pay for your long distance plans.
Know Yourself
One of the best ways to save on your long distance plans is to make sure you sign on with long distance plans that fit your calling patterns. A tried and true way to save money is to keep yourself from spending unnecessary money. Find long distance plans that cater to the days and times you do most of your calling.
Look at your long distance bills for the last six months to figure out the right balance of days and times, whether weekends, days or nights, and decide the type of long distance plans you ought to purchase.
Be a Night and Weekender
The majority of long distance phone calls are usually made during business hours and phone companies take advantage of this by charging more for long distance from about 7 a.m. until about 7 p.m., depending on the long distance plans. Night and weekend long distance can cost significantly less with most long distance plans.
By taking advantage of this aspect of long distance plans, you can save quite a bit of money on your bills. Call your family and friends during off-peak hours so you can save your money for a trip to visit them later.
Don’t Give Up
Some people get so tired of their phone bills and long distance plans that they begin to simply write out a check every month without looking at the bill or questioning any charges. We are not saying to dispute every 14-cent phone call on your bill, but be aware of the increasing occurrence of slamming and cramming.
Slamming is when your long distance carrier is changed without your knowledge. Cramming is when your phone bill is filled with charges for services you never requested. Check your bill with a fine-tooth comb each month to make sure you are not a victim of slamming or cramming.
Hunt for Hidden Fees
Read the fine print on all long distance plans. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always ask a telemarketer to send you information in writing before you commit to any long distance plans over the phone and make your intention of reading before signing clear.
Use Your Cell Phone
With the improvement of cellular service, coverage and plans, some people are finding the way to save on their long distance plans is to simply use their cellular phones. Many cellular plans have a flat rate you pay each month for service, which includes a maximum number of peak minutes and several off-peak minutes and include their own built-in long distance plans. Some consumers decide the price is offset by the convenience and the fact that you may not need home long distance.
By D. Blair Thompson