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How to Choose an Affordable Cellular Phone Service

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Cellular phones are a communications device affording their users convenience, luxury and entertainment. Not only can you travel while keeping in touch with your friends and family, you can check your stocks, send an email, and text message your date all from your cell phone. No wonder there are so many phones and service plans to choose from. Learn how to choose an affordable cellular phone service, blending cost-effectiveness with features.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Internet access
  • Knowledge of cellular providers
  • Decent credit
  1. Step 1

    Pay attention to commercials. Yes, you may feel like a victim of consumerism. But, cellular providers often advertise their newest deals and specials via television or radio spots. Many plans are offered for a limited time only, so calling in when an ad catches your eye (or ear) is a must.

  2. Step 2

    Go with a flexible mobile phone plan. Prepaid, no-contract providers like Virgin Mobile and Boost Mobile are all the rage these days. Not only can you pay as you go, you can sign up for monthly plans if you should desire to do so. The keyword is flexibility. No hidden costs. No two-year contracts. They're also very affordable.

  3. Step 3

    Look at your options. T-Mobile is a cellular provider that advertises family plans, MyFaves plans, and other minute package savers. They offer so many plans, it's virtually impossible not to find one that fits your budget and needs. Speak with a customer service representative and bargain with them. Tell them you're willing to pay a certain amount if they throw in extra minutes or free text messaging.

  4. Step 4

    Go for a plan that offers a lot. Sprint, for instance, offers plans specially designed for their Palm Centro PDA phones. You can sign up for plans including unlimited talk time, text messaging, picture messaging, Internet and email usage. Get more for your money with one of these plans.

  5. Step 5

    Opt for a service that gives you unlimited talk time. Metro PCS is a great option for many that want to spend a little and get a lot.

  6. Step 6

    Sign up for a several-year contract. Yes, you may be wary of doing so. But, you can often bring down your monthly bill by committing to several years of service. If you're happy with your provider, why not go for it?

Tips & Warnings
  • Know your rights. Know what you get with which plan, how long your service is for, and what fees apply to you.
  • Never sign on the dotted line without reading all of the fine print.
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