If you’re considering buying a new cellphone for yourself or someone in your family, today’s wireless devices have incredible capabilities and there are a lot of different service plan options to consider. We want to recommend some helpful tips for you to think about as you consider your purchase.
Decide What You’ll Use it for: to Talk, Text, Work, or Browse
One of the first considerations is what you want to do with your wireless device. They have many different functions and capabilities, so learn about them and then match the device with you want to do. It’s also important to understand how you will be charged for voice usage, and data and text service. The minimum amount might be enough to suit your needs, or perhaps an unlimited plan is the most economical if you are a heavy wireless user. Just as with the different kinds of devices, there’s a wide range of pricing plans from which you may select.
Understand the Tools Available to Help You Keep Track of Your Use
All of the major cellphone companies offer tools to help you keep track of and manage your wireless use any time you want – make sure you use them and avoid any unnecessary surprises!
Know the Bottom Line Cost: Consider Taxes and Fees
Many wireless carriers will provide you with a sample monthly bill before you purchase service, so you will have a good idea of what to expect. It’s still important to remember that government taxes and fees are separate charges than what you pay a wireless company for service, and, depending on where you live, they can contribute significantly to what you pay on a monthly bill. Also make sure you understand how late fees are calculated, whether you’ll be charged a fee if you change your plan and ask if you will be responsible for an Early Termination Fee (ETF) if you end your contract before the term is up.
Keep Track of the Trial Period
You have a period of no less than 14 days to try out your service without being subject to an ETF if you cancel within that period. Many carriers offer longer trial periods, so ask the customer service representative what their carrier provides. However, usage charges during that period of time will probably still apply.
Consider Options without a Contract
There are a number of pre-paid plans that allow you to purchase a set amount of minutes, much like a calling card. Some plans also include text messaging and data services. With these plans, you can be certain you will never exceed your monthly bill and they can be good for those on fixed incomes or for kids and teens who could inadvertently rack up a higher-than-expected monthly bill. However, pre-paid plans often include a higher-per-minute cost than post-paid plans, and you might have fewer choices in devices than if you sign a contract.
Check Out the Coverage Area
All major cellphone carriers have coverage maps available to consumers on their websites. Make sure you check them out before you buy so that your needs are covered. It might be helpful to talk to neighbors or co-workers to hear about their experiences regarding coverage in areas that might also be popular with you.
Keep an Eye on Downloadable Content
Downloadable content is anything you download or access from your device. For example, many apps, ringtones and videos can fall in that category. Make sure you understand what you are downloading or using, and what additional fees or data usage you may incur. Most carriers offer the ability to block downloadable content, but you must contact your carrier’s customer service representative to sign up for this service.
Learn About International Services and Rates
Many phones nowadays are able to function abroad, but make sure you understand your plan before you go as an unaware consumer can easily rack up some hefty international charges. Most companies offer you resources on their website and/or the ability to temporarily shut off your data service while traveling abroad to prevent international data roaming. If you have any questions about international service, contact your carrier’s customer service representative line before you take your trip.
Utilize Parental Controls
You can learn about the parental controls offered by the various wireless companies, which can be utilized to help you ensure your kids and teens responsibly use their wireless devices.