How to Use a Payphone
With the invention of the cell phone and the subsequent boom in the use of such devices, the need for a payphone has greatly declined over the past decade. There are still the rare sightings of payphones, especially in small towns across the United States or in convenience stores in large cities. Using such a phone is simple and can be accomplished in a variety of ways.
Instructions
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Using a Payphone
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1
Find a payphone. The most common places to find a payphone are convenience stores, street corners, bars, pubs and restaurants.
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2
Pick up the receiver. When you lift the receiver to your ear, you should hear a dial tone buzzing on the other end.
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3
Consider where you are calling. Local numbers usually require an area code and a seven-digit phone number. Long distance calls require the "1" button to be pressed before the area code and number are entered into the key pad. To call the operator, dial the "0" button.
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4
Pay for the call with coins. Depending on the type of phone you are using, you may need to put coins in the slot before dialing or dial and then listen for the amount of coins you need to deposit through the coin slot. The slot is usually located at the top left or right of the phone's base. The amount you need to put into the phone depends on where you are calling from and where you are calling to. The amount for the initial call is usually posted on the base of the payphone. If the call will require more than that, an automated operator will come onto the line and tell you how much to deposit. If the person you are trying to call does not answer, hang up the phone and your money will be refunded. However, if you are connected to an answering machine or voice mail, your money will not be refunded.
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5
Pay for the call with a calling card. If you have purchased a pre-paid calling card or are using a calling card provided by your long-distance carrier, then dial the phone number listed on the card after picking up the receiver. Follow the automated prompts, which typically instruct you to dial the phone number you wish to be connected to.
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Dial collect. If you do not have coins or a calling card, you have the option of calling someone collect. To do so, dial "0" followed by the area code and the phone number. An operator or an automated message will come on the line and ask you for your name, followed by the option to the person you are calling if he would like to accept the collect call from you. If the person you are calling accepts, then the call will be connected. If the person declines, then you will be disconnected without being able to speak with him.
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Tips & Warnings
Some calling cards have surcharges that deduct minutes or money from your pre-paid card. Make sure to read them carefully before using. If you are using a payphone in a country you are unfamiliar with and are not sure of how to correctly use the phone, dial the operator and ask for assistance. Payphones do not accept pennies--only nickels, dimes and quarters and, on rare occasions, dollar coins.
