How to Use a Hybrid Cell Phone Plan

If you don't like the idea of getting locked into a cell phone plan but you don't want to pay-as-you-go, a hybrid plan may be for you. It's a cross between the two more traditional options. With a hybrid plan, there's no contract to sign, deposit or credit check. You're given more minutes than a prepaid cell phone, but less minutes on the dollar than a standard plan. Read on to learn how to use a hybrid cell phone plan.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pay toward the hybrid plan's minutes. Usually it's about $30 or $40 a month. Some cell phone carriers also offer a deal if you pay for a year's worth of minutes at once.

2. Keep your minutes charged. Make sure you keep an eye on how much your talking. If minutes run out on a hybrid plan, you won't be able to use the phone until you make a payment.

3. Know the rules. Each carrier handles it differently if your minutes run out. Some immediately disable the account and you lose your phone number. Others freeze the phone number and account, giving you a grace period. And, some deduct the monthly payment from a credit or debit card.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to use your phone a lot and you don't mind a credit check or contract, you may want to go with a standard plan. It will be more cost-effective than a hybrid cell phone plan.
• Shop around. Don't be afraid to talk to various companies to see what sort of plans and deals they offer.