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Most cell phone plans now include free long distance from the home calling area to the rest of the United States. As a result, more people than ever are exclusively using their cell phones to make long distance calls.
What if doing that was actually wasting money?
Okay, now you probably think we're crazy: How can free long distance be more expensive than paying for long distance? Believe it or not, this can occur in two scenarios:
While most wireless subscribers have a standard, single-line plan, family plans have been gaining in popularity over the past couple of years, and prepaid plans represent the fastest growing segment of the industry.
Does your eight-year-old need a cell phone? The cell phone industry, running out of untapped markets, would like you to think so. There are now phones specifically designed for the preteen years, as well as a new generation of cell phones with parental controls.
Messaging is the most popular data feature associated with cell phones. Several carriers recently raised the per message charge from 10 to 15 cents. That, combined with a rapid increase in smartphones (with full keyboards) targeted to consumers, may lead to unexpectedly high bills for many consumers.
Buy a plan with slightly more minutes than you think you will need; this will minimize the need to use additional minutes — which are often very expensive.
With national rate plans now the norm, additional long distance and roaming charges don't have the direct impact on wireless bills that they once did. However, these features do come into play when considering the right rate plan, and can be influential in unexpected ways.
Cell Phone Long distance
Many cell phone plans sold today include free long distance (from the plan's calling area). Plans that don't have free long distance charge about 20 cents a minute for this feature; these plans should be avoided by those who make long distance calls with their cell phone.
Two-year contracts have replaced those of shorter length. For most people, the choice is a two-year deal or a pay-as-you-go program with no contract.
As previously mentioned, since carriers tend to subsidize the phones that are sold to new postpaid customers, they generally require a contract to help ensure that they will recoup their investment in that customer.
Your cell phone isn't just for talking anymore. If you utilize data services, be sure to search for bundled or flat rate pricing to avoid any billing surprises or data overages.
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