How to Access a Calling Card Number

A calling card can markedly reduce your international phone bill, especially for a cell phone.

A calling card is a prepaid card used to make domestic or international telephone calls from any phone. Calling rates per minute tend to be lower when using a calling card versus the rates of a direct telephone provider or the rates of a cell phone provider. Numerous companies offer calling cards, including well-established phone companies such as AT&T, Verizon or Sprint, as well as a multitude of online calling card services.

Things You'll Need

• Calling card
• Touch tone telephone

Instructions

1. Turn over the calling card. Use a coin to scratch off the silver coating hiding the pin number.

2. Dial the calling card company's central telephone number as listed on the back of the calling card. This is usually a 1-800 number.

3. Listen to the voice prompt from the automated operator. Type in the pin number listed on the calling card, using your telephone keypad. This will give you access to use your calling card number.

4. Type in the telephone number you are calling when prompted. Use the appropriate country and area codes for overseas and long distance phone calls. The phone call will then go through to the recipient, at the telephone rates listed on the card or the calling card company's website.

Tips & Warnings

• Check international call rates for various calling card companies before purchasing any one calling card. International call rates vary per provider.

• Watch out for calling card scams that include hidden fees or underutilized talking minutes, such as that of CTA.

References

• AT&T: How PrePaid Cards Work
• Federal Trade Commission: FTC Asks Court to Halt Prepaid Calling Card Scam