How to Buy a Prepaid Cell Phone Plan

The contracts that come with most cell phones are unfair to users. You aren't able to change the plan even if you have a good reason. If you need a cell phone for your job but can't pass the credit check, you are out of luck. There is, however, a better option. Many of the latest prepaid cell phone plans allow you the same perks you would get with major companies requiring contracts but without all of the restrictions. Read on to learn how to buy a prepaid cell phone plan.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Lean How the Plans Work

1. Compare various prepaid cell phone plans with the help of Internet sites designed to do just that. They show the cost of the phones and the shipping charges.

2. Realize that you almost always have to buy a phone to match the plan (even with contract plans). You may be able to buy the phones through eBay or some other retail site and save money.

3. Choose the account that is best for you. Pay for the airtime up front once you open your account. Use it as long as you want. When you do not want the plan any more, just let it lapse.

Compare the Top Plans

4. Investigate Virgin Wireless. Hailed as the best all around by many comparison sites, Virgin uses the Sprint Nextel network to send and receive calls. They offer good call quality with free night and weekend minutes with their top plan. You can roll over your unused minutes as well.

5. Examine AT&T's Go Phone. They use Motorola phones and their customers have been pleased with this arrangement. Get unlimited mobile to mobile minutes on their top plan. No deposit or credit check is required. You can recharge your account and add minutes to your plan online or by phone.

6. Pore over the facts on T-Mobile. This well-known service uses Nokia phones with no contract required. They currently offer a free phone and have several other phones for purchase. Use refillable cards to add to your plan by phone or online. As with every plan, the more minutes you buy, the cheaper they are. Add five numbers to which you can make unlimited calls.

Tips & Warnings

• Some arrangements come with incentive bonuses to purchase their prepaid cell phone plan.
• Don't forget about prepaid phone cards. They can be a good thing to use instead of prepaid cell phones.
• Read all of the information about pricing and available minutes so you are well-informed. It is important to note that minutes will cost more with a prepaid cell phone plan.
• Beware of running totally out of minutes. The phone service will cut off when you are out--even if you are in the middle of a conversation.

Resources

• Wirefly for Information About Various Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
• Consumer Research for Prepaid Cell Phone Plan Information
• Comparison of Prepaid Cell Phone Plans in Your Area