Recent studies prove what most Americans already know: Over 91% of us are using cell phones. Not just to talk, but to text, send messages and take pictures. It is probably the most society changing invention in the 20th century, probably only second to the automobile. It is assumed that this percentage number will only increase, until every single person is using a cell phone. They are no longer and passing fad and with each model brings new improvements and applications. There are three types of plans associated with cell phones - Individual, Family and Prepaid.
Individual plans are for consumers who their cell phones regularly, replacing their permanent landline in their home. They purchase a set amount of minutes by signing a one or two year contract. All minutes are "free" until they meet their limit. If they go over their allotted time limits, say talking 500 minutes instead of the 300 they bought, they will pay an additional fee. These minutes can quickly add up.
Family plans are for families and for one or two people in a group. They save money by pooling their minutes together in a contract, which also may be from a one to two year commitment. It seems like a good idea, but only if you are able to track how much minutes each person is using. Although it may seem like an economical easy fix, the minutes can add up fast, so pay attention to what you and the other people in the plan are using.
Prepaid plans work best for students and those who prefer not to be tied down to a committed contract. Simply "load" your account with enough money to cover your allotted minutes, and you're good to go. This plan also seems to make sense for those individuals who only use their cell phone periodically or just for emergencies. Keep in mind that when the money is used up, so are your minutes.
Investigating the various cell phone plans available out there is time consuming and may seem like one of the most boring things you'll ever do. But in the end, you'll realize it's worth taking the extra time to see what works for your and your lifestyle. Also remember to pay your bill on time and not let payments pile up, eventually ending in having your phone service shut off, as this will be reported as a bad debt on your credit report.
Individual plans are for consumers who their cell phones regularly, replacing their permanent landline in their home. They purchase a set amount of minutes by signing a one or two year contract. All minutes are "free" until they meet their limit. If they go over their allotted time limits, say talking 500 minutes instead of the 300 they bought, they will pay an additional fee. These minutes can quickly add up.
Family plans are for families and for one or two people in a group. They save money by pooling their minutes together in a contract, which also may be from a one to two year commitment. It seems like a good idea, but only if you are able to track how much minutes each person is using. Although it may seem like an economical easy fix, the minutes can add up fast, so pay attention to what you and the other people in the plan are using.
Prepaid plans work best for students and those who prefer not to be tied down to a committed contract. Simply "load" your account with enough money to cover your allotted minutes, and you're good to go. This plan also seems to make sense for those individuals who only use their cell phone periodically or just for emergencies. Keep in mind that when the money is used up, so are your minutes.
Investigating the various cell phone plans available out there is time consuming and may seem like one of the most boring things you'll ever do. But in the end, you'll realize it's worth taking the extra time to see what works for your and your lifestyle. Also remember to pay your bill on time and not let payments pile up, eventually ending in having your phone service shut off, as this will be reported as a bad debt on your credit report.
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Want to find out more about cell phones, then visit Gary Blunt's site on how to best compare cell phones for your needs.
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