Long distance running, long distance relationships, long distance phone call charges: these are all things associated with much pain and discomfort, but there seems to be a partial solution, at least for the phone calls. When it comes to paying your long distance bill, many people are shocked and angered each month as their phone call to great aunt Linda just cost them their last paycheck. The prices seem to be skyrocketing and we are stuck with the bill. This doesn’t have to be the case. There are many different long distance phone call services and plans out there. It just takes some time to find the perfect plan for your needs.
With the sudden and popular outcry for cellular phones in the last few years, long distance phone companies have had to raise their prices a bit. Many cell phones offer free long distance calls as a part of an individual’s plan. This has been a great solution for many people as they make their weekly call to mom and dad or secure that business deal across the country without paying a cent. If you already have a cell phone or if you plan on getting one soon, it can be a great way to reduce or completely eliminate your long distance charges forever. However, make sure to stay within your set number of minutes. Many people find themselves in a bind when they go over their minutes and have to pay outrageous charges for each minute they go over.
Another great way to save on long distance charges is with calling cards. With so many calling cards competing on the market, the prices are rock bottom to make these calls. You can buy your card in bulk minutes to save money as well. When purchasing long distance calling cards, make sure that you know if and when the calling card will expire so you don’t waste any money. Most of these cares also provide the opportunity to recharge the card and add extra minutes whenever you need to so you don’t have to memorize 700 different numbers each time the card runs out of minutes.
If you find that you often change the amount of long distance calls you make as well as their duration, it may be a good idea to find a long distance provider who can offer you a flat fee. That way, you won’t have to worry about paying for a large number of minutes each month, even if you don’t use them. You can talk for as long as you would like without having to pay extra long distance fees. If you know you will stay within a set number of minutes, you should find a plan that charges a low cost per minute, saving you money in the long run.
Many people get frustrated with the fact that they have so many bills each month. With regular phone bills, cell phone bills, long distance charges, call waiting, caller ID, second lines and the Internet, the bills can quickly pile up and make a mess. In this case, you should consider combining the services into one provider. This will often allow you to lower your monthly fees, such as long distance, by signing up with just one company. It will also lower your stress level as you find yourself with just one bill to pay.
When you have problems with your long distance provider or plan, they can be hard to reach. You can write a letter, but it is difficult to ensure that they will get it, let alone respond. You can also call them, but then you’ll end up wasting an hour of your life while they keep you on hold. Most long distance providers have Internet sites where you can e-mail questions, comments and concerns. This is probably the best way to reach them. Most long distance providers are prompt in their response and ready and willing to fix the problem you have. However you try to contact them, just don’t give up. Shop around and take the time to find the best long distance service and plan for you and your family; your wallet will thank you in the long run.
By Maren Layton