I didn't think of that!
HorizonNets' Long Distance Tellecommunications information page
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the lowest cost long distance carrier. I know it sounds simple, but we all bring a shopping list to the market! So let's go shopping!Monthly fees: something as simple as a $5.99 per month fee can raise your costs significantly. At 300 minutes a month you are paying an extra 2¢ a minute and at 100 minutes a whooping 6¢ a minute!
Billing Increments: What is the minimum time that you will be billed for and at what time interval there after? If you only make a few calls a month but talk for a long time full minute billing with a cheaper per minute rate might be for you. But if you make many calls at a smaller incremental time even at a higher per minute rate could save you money!
Instate Rates: Don't over look this area. Always look to see what the instate rates are for the plan you are considering. These charges are sometimes different than the state to state charges and based on your calling patterns could make a big difference.
Instate Rates II: Remember you don't have to add this service. It's your choice based on who has the best rate. Also don't let the lingo confuse you when signing up for service. Instate is a confusing term in this industry and doesn't mean what it sounds like. Our Glossary has a list of long distance telecommunication definitions to help you and I created this page to help demystify the interlata and intralata confusion.
Minimum Usage: A lot of plans require that you use a minimum amount of service per month or you will be billed the difference. Here you just need to view your average minutes per month and multiply them by the new plans rate. Don't quite reach the minimum? A plan with a slightly higher per minute rate and no minimum could be cheaper for you!
Toll Free Service: Some plans charge more per minute for your “800” number. If you expect to receive a lot of calls on your toll free line check out the costs here as well.
Calling Cards: There is a war going on with these items. Some list a fantastic per minute rate but the small print can get you. There can be a per call charge and a monthly maintenance charge just for having the card. Don't let an “Emergency” card rot to nothing while sitting in your wallet!
USF and PICC fees will vary from carrier to carrier. The impact that they have on the final cost can easily overcome any perceived savings on a cheaper per-minute rate. Always look at the final cost when evaluating a plan.
Want to learn more?
The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has lots of information.The Consumer Information Bureau is a great resource for basic consumer information and more. There is also contact information if you need assistance concerning FCC regulated telecommunication maters.
The Consumer Information Bureau (CIB) is the link between the FCC and consumers.
Just who is the Universal Service Administrative Company? The nonprofit corporation that is responsible for administrating the USF. Read more about them here.
Universal Service Administrative Company
Miscellaneous links page.
More info
Interlata? Intralata? What is this?
Are you giving money to your phone company? How to shop for long distance service.
