Many people are finding themselves cutting costs wherever possible throughout their everyday life. The fact of the matter is that cell phones have become such a vital life line and everyday necessity that nobody is willing to let go. Who knew that a technological invention that has now been around for years would cost us so much money in the long run!
You have to be smart with your cell phone usage and figuring out what works best for you, otherwise you will find yourself stuck with a huge bill at the end of the month.
1. Do Your Homework – This may sound silly because all major providers offer nationwide coverage right? However, not all of them offer equal coverage in all areas of the country. You want to make sure first and foremost that your cell phone will have great service in your house. Many people don’t have land lines anymore, but there are still some that didn’t check their coverage and are stuck with horrible reception while at home. This defeats the purpose doesn’t it? Also, if you travel a lot for work (or pleasure) you want to figure out what cell phone provider offers the best coverage to the places you travel. The same goes with international travel or calling. If you don’t do your homework, these regular fees will add up quickly!
2. Limit Text Messaging – I know this is hard, but really these additional costs will kill you. If you cannot get unlimited text messaging for a decent amount of money, then you should probably just cut back on the amount you text. Realize that it is not just outgoing text messages that you are charged for, the incoming ones count too! Many people don’t realize that they are sending/receiving so many messages until their bill comes in the mail. Try to avoid having a full out conversation through text messaging unless they are free. It will be must faster (and cheaper) if you have a few minutes left on your phone to just pick it up and make the call.
3. Be Nice to Customer Service – According to an article from our partners at MainStreet.com, just being courteous to your providers customer service calling center can benefit you a great deal. As the article states, “Place yourself in the shoes of a customer service agent who are you likely to help: The person that shrieks or the person that is warm and friendly.” It makes sense right? If I was a customer service person I would definitely block out anyone that was yelling at me. It is much easier to talk through your concerns about your cell phone bill than to get into an argument with your only lifeline on the other end.
4. Monitor Your Account Online – Just like you do with your bank account, check your cell phone account online as well. I think many (if not all) providers allow you to check your account online as well as pay your bill. It is simple to go on and check where you stand with your minutes and your text messaging before you go over your allotted amount. It is so simple, takes about 5 minutes out of your day, and doesn’t cost you anything. It beats guessing how many minutes and messages you have left just to be completely off when your overly large bill arrives.
5. See What Other Providers People Have – Many providers today offer free in-calling to people who have the same provider as you. I know often times you are “stuck” in a 2-year plan, but if you realize that all of your friends have Verizon for instance and you still have Sprint, consider switching in order to save yourself some money. Or, work out a family plan. If you have recently gotten married or gotten your kids cell phones, make sure you are utilizing a family plan (regardless of how much your kids may want a different provider). This way you are typically paying much less money to have other people attached to the same plan.
When money needs to be saved, there is no point in spending extra for things like picture text messaging and the internet unless you absolutely need it. I know many people who got BlackBerry’s just because they wanted them, not because they needed them for work. Although this is great and if you have the money, go for it! But if you are looking to save, consider cutting out some of the extravagant accessories and additions to your cell phone bill that you do not use every day. You might be surprised how much doing this and utilizing these easy suggestions will save you in the long run.
Photo: Mary R. Vogt
Related Articles:
Common Cents: How to Reduce Your Cell Phone Bill
What You Need to Know Before You Change Cell Phone Plans
Cell Phones vs. Landlines: The Surprising Truths
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