Calling Cards

There are several things you should consider when purchasing a calling card: Basic price, terms and conditions, convenience, and quality. Most calling cards have the same basic features, but they are not all identical. Look closely to determine which card will give you the best value for your dollar. When you compare cards, be sure to read all the fine print in the terms and conditions, compare the costs, and ask any questions you may have regarding limits and restrictions. Then you can make a knowledgeable purchase.

Instructions you should follow:

1. Make a comparison of the charges for each card. When considering card fees, don’t only include what you pay for the card itself. To best understand the cost-per-call value and rate of the prepaid calling card you are considering, think about the following: *How much is the activation fee? *How much is the connection fee for each call? *What is the cost per billing cycle or billing rate per call? *Will the cost be applied per 30 or 60 second increments? *How much is the monthly or yearly service fee?

2. Analyze the various features offered with each card. Be sure that you will always be able to check on how much value is left on the card by looking online or calling a toll free customer service number. Remember that not every calling card has a toll free customer service number. You may end up paying money and minutes to get help.

3. Find out how many countries are covered with any calling card you are considering. Get a list of the countries that you can call using your calling card. Not every card can be used to call every country. Be sure to find a card that provides service in the countries you call most often for the most affordable rate. On a domestic calling card, international fees might be more than those on an international calling card.

4. Examine how easy one card is to use as compared to another. Find out if it is easy to add money and minutes to the card. Check with the company by mail, phone, e mail or in person to determine this. Also, find out what you should do if your card is lost, damaged, or stolen. Who will be liable? Understand that, the majority of the time, you will be. Make sure you understand all the conditions and terms that pertain to your calling card. A user friendly card will have lots of good features and convenient customer service.

5. Look into their terms of service for customers. Make sure you will always have customer service available to you. Find out if the company has fixed hours or 24/7 service. Think about such inconveniences as the need to call during business hours, even though you may live in a different time zone.