Buying a cell phone
Cell phone companies charge you a per-minute fee for using the phone. Bundled into plans are free minutes and whether the call is local, regional or national, and a free or discounted phone. Hidden costs include
- talking outside of your plan's area,
- using more minutes than your plan allows,
- using costly extras like directory assistance, text messaging, and media messaging (photos taken with your cell phone).
First determine why you are getting a cell phone. Do you see yourself using it just for emergencies or do you anticipate it will be a constant companion for business or personal use? Or are you getting a second or third family phone to keep in touch with your family? Will you be calling locally during the day, or at night to friends across the country? Keep the answers to these questions in mind as you search for a specific provider and plan.
If you are making a first time cell phone purchase, it's best to look at the service provider and plan before choosing the phone itself. If you choose a plan that is not a good fit just for the phone, you may find yourself over paying each month.
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