Video:Tips for Choosing a Cell Phone Plan
with Michael WatkinsBefore choosing a cell phone plan, consider how you will be using your cell phone and try to find a plan that aligns with your needs. Watch this About.com video to get an idea options available in cell phone plans.See Transcript
Transcript:Tips for Choosing a Cell Phone Plan
Hi, I’m Michael Watkins for About.com. And today we’re going to give you tips for how to choose a cell phone plan.
Cell Phone Plans are a Contract
Choosing a cell phone plan today takes careful consideration. Most companies require you to sign a long-term contract when you sign up for their service. There are three basic types of services, contract services, prepaid services and flat fee services.
Most of the larger carriers require you to sign a one or two year contract, that if not totally fulfilled can cost you a termination fee. A prepaid contract allows you to purchase in advance based on your anticipated amount of usage. A flat fee contract, for example, the ones offered by metro pcs, will allow you to pay one flat rate, which includes text and minutes for your monthly usage.
If you do a lot of texting you’ll want to pay close attention to the text plan that’s included with the plan that you go with. Some text plans included a set amount of text but can be adjusted to an unlimited plan for only a few dollars more.
Smartphones Require Date Plans
If you’re purchasing a smart phone, you’ll be required to include what’s called a data plan. This allows you to access services like push email and web browsing. But keep in mind there are data limits that if you go over, can incur fees. Always use a WiFi connection with your smart phone whenever possible. Tethering is another service that most of the major carriers offer. This allows you to connect your laptop and other devices so you can search the web and use your cell phone as a WiFi hotspot.
Check Cell Phone Bill for Additional Fees
Inspect and review your bill when you receive it; activation fees can range anywhere between 20 and 45 dollars. Another charge to watch out for is roaming charge. Pay attention to the service area of your plan.
If you go outside of the areas, you can incur charges that you might not be expecting. For more information visit us online at About.com.