How to Save Money on Long Distance Phone Calls

It's so good to hear your voice!

If you have a child away at college, family across the country, or other friends or loved ones who are not close to home, you probably know that long distance phone calls can add up. But you don't have to give up precious time talking to those special people! Simply take the following steps to save money on those long distance calls.

Things You'll Need

• Cell phone
• Calling cards
• Internet service
• Computer microphone

Instructions

1. Use your cell phone. Chances are you have at least one cell phone in your household. Most cell phone plans include free long distance. If your loved one uses the same mobile carrier your calls may not eat up your minutes. Save more by calling during your plan's free times, such as after 7 p.m. or on weekends.

2. Purchase calling cards. Many dollar stores and local international grocery stores carry long distance calling cards at low per-minute rates.

3. Ask your phone company about any long distance plans they have. Some phone companies offer plans such as sixty minutes of long distance per month for an extra five dollars. Let them know you are thinking of switching carriers and they will likely offer you their best deal.

4. Check into Voip. Voice over Internet Protocol is a phone service that uses your existing Internet service to place phone calls. Companies such as Vonage often offer low flat rates for unlimited long distance and local calling.

5. Talk online. If you have a microphone attached to your computer, and your loved one does as well, you can chat online for free. Add a webcam and you can even see each other.

Tips & Warnings

• If you decide to use your cell phone or method other than your normal landline, call your phone company and ask them to remove long distance from your service. This can save you money on a monthly basis, as you might be paying a fee just for having long distance available.

• Before purchasing a long distance calling card, check the fine print. Some have service fees that deduct from your total for every call you place.