How
To Choose A Long-Distance Service
Finding
the best long-distance calling plan can sometimes seem overwhelming.
In examining each plan, watch for hidden costs like minimum monthly
service fees which can make a $.05 per minute call much more expensive.
A wide
variety of plan choices exist to meet the differing needs of frequent
callers, low-use callers and international callers. Both local phone
companies like Bell Atlantic and internet telecommunications companies
like Qwest are entering the competitive long-distance market, so the
competition may start to provide increased savings for customers.
TRAC
is a consumer organization with good information on finding the best
long-distance service, learning the time periods of the biggest long-distance
companies, avoiding getting "slammed" or changing a customer's
long-distance service without their permission:
http://www.trac.org/
Some
of the major long-distance services are:
Hotel Calls:
When making long-distance calls from your hotel, make sure to inquire
at the front desk about the rate per minute. Many hotels can charge
up to several dollars a minute. The best option is to use your calling
card at a hotel whenever possible.
Stand-alone
calling card plans like BigZoo.com
offer pre-paid calling credits from $10 to $50 per month for very low
rates.
Check their
international rates as well.
Cellphones
Both local
and long-distance companies, as well as wireless providers, now offer
reasonably priced cell phone packages (often including a free phone).
These can cost as low as $40 per month plus any extra charges that may
for calling outside the prescribed area ("roaming charges").
!
If considering a cellphone purchase, make sure you understand all the
costs involved. Some companies' per minute charges can be prohibitive,
whether you make the call or receive it.
