PhoneBillSavings.com
"A One Stop Telephone Savings Website"

FAQ/Frequently Asked Questions:

1.      How do I choose the best long distance plan for me?

The best way to select the rate plan that’s best for you or your business is to realistically know and understand your personal (or business) habits and calling patterns.  The lowest state-to-state rate plan is not always the best rate plan.  There are no magic mathematical formulas or online rate calculators that know you or your business better than you do.  Therefore, any one of the TOP 10 rate plans may actually be your “NUMBER ONE” plan.  Read carefully through the User Information, check the rates where you call most, and when one surfaces as a plan that best describes you or your business, then that’s probably the one you should choose.  If you still need help choosing a rate plan, click on Request a Quote – complete the information – and an experienced telecom representative will contact or e-mail you their recommendations.  Or, if you prefer to chat with someone live - call 888-41Better Rate (888-412-3883) 9am-5pm M-F CST.

2.      How do I enroll for service?

Different companies have different enrollment procedures. Depending on which plan you choose, you may enroll using 1 of 4 methods  (Online,  FAX,  Mail,  or Phone).

Online – complete required application fields online - then submit.

FAX or Mail – print online form(s), complete and fill out w/ signature, then FAX toll-free or mail.

Phone – call toll-free number with appropriate I.D. # and enroll live by 3^rd party verification.

Next to each Sign Up link please note the enrollment procedures accepted by each company.

EXAMPLE:   SIGN UP – by FAX or mail!

Once received, a customer service representative may contact you to acknowledge receipt and confirm your order.  You may test your lines by dialing 1-700-555-4141.  A recorded message announces your underlying carrier of record.  To avoid problems, allow 7 to 10 days and be sure your test call matches the new “underlying carrier” – before calling to cancel previous service. 

3.      Is there a number I can call for customer service?

All long distance service companies have their own toll-free customer service number.  They will give you the number when you register for service or it will be on their phone bill. After you’re registered, if you need customer service – contact us and we’ll e-mail the appropriate number.

4.      How will I be billed?

Long distance companies typically mail out a monthly bill or invoice.  A number of the TOP 10 companies have other billing options available.  Most accept credit cards or direct withdrawal from your checking account.  For businesses, some provide online or disk billing options.

5.      Why would I want a Toll-Free number?

A toll-free number can be cheaper than a calling card when you are away from home or your business.  Parents can give a toll-free number to their children away at college or in the armed forces so they can call home at any time without having to make an expensive collect call or paying for the call themselves.  Businesses have grown extensively with the use of toll-free service.  Customers typically prefer businesses that offer them a toll-free number.

6.      Do I need another phone line for my Toll-Free number?

No, you do not need an additional phone line.  The toll-free number can be pointed to ring in on any existing phone line you have in place.  It can be used on your home’s main phone line or any other line in your home or business.  The ring to number can also be changed from time to time.

7.      If I change long distance plans, can I keep my Toll-Free number?

Yes, toll-free numbers are portable.  The subscriber must complete and fill out w/ signature a “Responsible Organization” form allowing the carrier to transfer the toll-free number to the new service.  If the company does not display this form online - contact us and we will see that you receive one.

8.      What happens if I don’t choose a long distance calling plan?

If you don’t have a long distance calling plan and you make  long distance phone calls, you will be charged extremely high “basic rates” to place those calls.  Some phone companies charge as much as $0.80 per minute for “basic rate” calls.  There are many good plans to choose from and any reputable telephone consultant will tell you - it makes good sense to have a calling plan.

9.      What’s the difference between a Calling Card and a Prepaid Phone Card?

A calling card gives you the ability to make a phone call from anywhere (a payphone, hotel room, or another country).  Calling cards are issued through long distance companies and are typically billed on your long distance bill.  The rates are usually higher than regular long distance however lower than prepaid phone cards.  Be extremely cautious of the deceptive rates of prepaid phone cards.  They are usually loaded with expensive surcharges and unusually high billing increments.  Only purchase phone cards from reputable companies, be aware of expiration dates, and carefully read the fine print.

10.  How do I get a calling card?

All long distance companies provide customers with calling cards.  Complete that portion of your application or call your carrier directly. Be prepared to supply them with an easy to remember 4 digit “PIN NUMBER” for your card.  Most companies require that you be a customer. However, a few allow you to sign-up for a “stand alone” card without using their other services. Calling card services are most often free of charge.  Whether for travel, emergencies or regular business, it’s wise to have a reliable calling card.  They will save you a great deal of money.