Things You'll Need:
- Self examination
- money in your budget
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Step 1
Take an honest look at your credit and spending habit. You don't need excellent credit to qualify for a cell phone plan, but if you have a lower score you may want to go with a prepay option. Prepays cost a little more per minute, but they don't check your credit.
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Step 2
How often do you talk on the phone or think you would use text messaging? If you're really not a big talker and are just looking for a cell phone for emergencies, prepay is probably a good option. With contracts you are locked in and it is likely you will end up with a lot of unused minutes.
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Step 3
Is the phone for a child? Unless you are adding a child to an existing family plan it might be a good idea to stick with prepay, as the phone will just stop working when the minutes run out-- and you won't get a surprise bill.
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Step 4
How consistent is your lifestyle? Most cell phone plans require a 2 year contract, with considerable fees if you cancel early. Will your needs be the same in 2 years as they are now? Will you use your phone a lot one month, but not so much the next? Prepay can cost more, but offers more flexibility. Many companies have month to month plans that will save you over the per minute options. You can upgrade or downgrade as the need arises-- or even go a couple weeks without a phone without penalties
Comments
Biscuit4u said
on 1/4/2009 Nice detailed article. Thanks
Upon-Request said
on 12/26/2008 Good article. It's a great way to teach teens and the 20-somethings about cell phone responsibility!
jimdris said
on 12/26/2008 Very realistic advice on choosing a cell phone plan!
mizchulita said
on 12/26/2008 I'm definitely going to go with prepay when my kiddo hits the teenage years! :-D
alienangel555 said
on 12/26/2008 good article. very well thought out. 5