Compare, compare, compare. There are many plans out there to fit almost every need. Once you have determined the carrier(s) for your needs then it is time to look over the plans. The frequency and amount of usage along with the number and type of wireless devices you need and the range in which you will be calling all play a factor in choosing the appropriate plan. Overestimating your planned usage may save you money in the long run. It is very easy to go over your minutes and this in turn can be quite costly.



Ask about deals and package plans. New and better plan emerge on the market habitually, so keep this in mind and do your homework before continuing with an old plan.

Family plans can be a great way to save on your wireless bill. Everyone is on one bill and minutes may be shared, phones may be offered as part of the package, additional lines are usually at a group rate. Some plans allow you to pick a certain number of callers to which you can make unlimited calls even outside our network; while other plans allow unlimited calling to callers within the same network.

Pre-paid plans help you control how many minutes and how much you are spending. If your phone usage is low or you want to be able to control usage to a certain level (for example this is a great alternative for a college student) then a prepaid plan may best suit your needs.

Push to talk options can be convenient and a cost effective way keep in instant contact with others on your same network with this capability. This is frequently used by contractors and businesses that have workers in the field and enables talking to one or a team at one time.

Nights and weekend minutes can be limited or offered free and can add up to savings depending on your usage at these times. Different carriers determine what time their night and weekend rates apply to and these do vary from carrier to carrier.

Rollover minutes are part of some plans and can save you money when you can rollover or bank unused minutes from a previous month for later use.

Are you being charged for both incoming and outgoing calls? This is usually the case but not always.

Text messaging is another option on some phones. If this is something that you will be using often then a plan that offers a package deal may save you dollars as text message rates per message can add up quickly.

Be aware of roaming fees as these charges add up quickly. Activation fees, 411 fees, long distance fees, sending/receiving test messages and pictures can add up.

Length of plan, usually 1-2 years and contract stipulations for early termination need to be considered carefully. You may be offered a lower fee for your phone if you sign a longer contract but early termination fees can start at $150 and up. Be sure to check the grace period before signing.

Don't sign up for services and options you don't need or will use! Don't feel pressured by salespersons; you can always add if you find you will need the feature. Pick the fit that is right for you. Check the grace period before you buy so in case you have second thoughts or are disappointed you will have recourse.