How to Compare Cell Phone Plans

Every time you turn on the TV you see a commercial for a new cell phone or plan. There are so many options to choose from, and with companies merging right and left, comparing cell phone plans can certainly be overwhelming.

Instructions

1. Look at old cell phone bills, if you have them. Take notice of how many minutes you regularly use, and at what times (day, night, weekend). Think about other services you want, like text messaging, web access and picture mail.

2. Decide how many minutes you'd like to have. If you use about 450 daytime minutes in a month, a plan with 500 minutes might suit you. Do the same for data access and text messaging. Take into account other users who will be on the same plan or share minutes.

3. Check out offerings from each of the major cell providers. It's easiest to do this by visiting their websites. Each provider offers plans specific to their company. For instance, if you often make calls to subscribers of other networks, going with a plan that allows you to have free calls to and from them is a good idea. Compare package plans also, like plans that include a certain number of minutes, texts and data transfers, as well as family plans.

4. Choose a company that will work for you if you go out of the country a lot or if you live in a rural area. Some providers offer better service in these areas.