Are you happy with your cell phone provider? With so many options available today, with some careful review you may be able to find the plan or service that meets your needs and your budget too. Before you make a switch or sign up for service for the first time, take a look at these useful tips to guide you along your way.
Contract or No Contract
Before prepaid cellular service came along, cell phone users had to sign up for plans that typically tied you down to one carrier for a minimum amount of years. Now, there are so many plans to choose from along with phones, add-ons and accessories, that you’re bound to find the right one for you. Instead of being stuck in a two year contract with minimal options, prepaid cell phones offer a variety of choices and the freedom to move around if you aren’t happy with the service. While the market for prepaid or pay-as-you-go plans has expanded, some prefer to go with contract carriers for various reasons, including the ability to share minutes and data or free phone offers for signing a 2-year contract. Whatever option you choose, make sure you utilize your plan to the fullest.
Coverage
It’s important to know what coverage area your provider services. Check out coverage maps from the provider to make sure your area is covered. Also, ask different individuals how well their phones work in certain areas to get an idea of which provider provides the best coverage. Some carriers provide a grace period for you to cancel service and return phones if there are coverage problems. Check this out before buying service.
Freedom to Leave
If you want to change carriers for any reason, it’s best to make sure you are free and clear to leave before you commit to any carrier. Some contracts may come with stiff financial penalties if you cancel before the end of the contract period. Also, check to see if you can take your phone number with you if you choose to switch carriers, or if your phone is compatible with a different plan.
Check the Fine Print
Many offers for free phones, discounted service, special features, etc., come with stipulations. Read the fine print before signing up for service so you know exactly what you are getting into. Check out all associated fees, time limitations, and other restrictions to make sure the deal is worth it.
Plans and Costs
Carriers are now offering family plans in addition to individual plan options. You may be able to save money and take advantage of more options if you sign up for a shared plan. But before selecting this type of plan, consider how much usage the others on the plan use and if it is a better deal. Things to consider are:
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How many lines are needed?
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Are the devices used compatible with the plan?
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Does anyone make international calls?
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How much data does each person generally use per month?
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Payment due dates.
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What occurs if someone decides to drop out of the shared plan?
Paying for a phone is also something you should think about. You may be required to pay the full cost of the phone when you purchase service, or you may be able to split the cost and pay over time, while other plans may allow you to lease a phone. Weigh the options carefully before making a decision.
Added Features and Services
Do you need insurance on the phone? If so, consider your options to make sure the type of insurance offered fits your needs. Be sure to check the fine print to find out what is and is not covered. Some plans will not cover phones with water damage or cosmetic issues, while some don’t place those restrictions. Review the various operating systems offered with the plan. For example, do you prefer Google’s Android platform or Apple iOS? This can make a difference in which carrier you choose.
Customer Service
This is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a service since you will likely need assistance at some point. Choosing a provider that is attentive to its customers is vital. Check out their policies and check their reputation to see if they are the right choice for you. Start by checking them out with Business Consumer Alliance, where you can find customer reviews (both positive and negative), complaint experience, and other useful information.
We hope these helpful tools come in handy when you are shopping for cellular service. Don’t forget to keep up with BCA by following us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest in consumer tips, scam alerts, and much more.