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How do I Choose the Best Mobile Service Plan?

B. Miller
B. Miller

There are a number of different factors to consider when trying to choose the best mobile service plan. The two most important issues are generally quality of service in your area and price. In addition, it is necessary to factor in any extras, such as text messaging plans or data plans.

The first step when choosing a new mobile service plan is selecting a service provider. It is a good idea to speak to current customers in the area to find out what service provider they use, and if they are happy with the service. You will want to find a service that offers good call quality in your specific area; certain service providers simply work better in some areas than others. If you are particular about the type of phone you desire, be sure to consider what phone models each provider offers.

A group wireless service plan should be able to cover all the needs of the individuals who will use it.
A group wireless service plan should be able to cover all the needs of the individuals who will use it.

Once you have selected a service provider, you can begin comparing the various mobile service plans the company offers. Considering whether you will need a single mobile service plan, for one person, or a family plan for multiple people. If there are multiple people who will need service plans, selecting a family plan will typically save some money.

Smartphone users may be able to save money on their service plan by taking advantage of free public internet availability at various hotspots.
Smartphone users may be able to save money on their service plan by taking advantage of free public internet availability at various hotspots.

Next, compare the different features of the cellular service plans. It is important to see how many minutes are included with the plan, and what the overage charges will be if you go over the allotted amount. Some plans offer the option of rolling over your unused minutes, allowing you to keep the minutes from month to month. Others even offer unlimited minutes. Another feature to consider is a text messaging plan, which may or may not be included in your monthly plan. If it is not included, that is an extra feature that will need to be added on at an extra cost, if desired.

Service plans should include texting.
Service plans should include texting.

In addition to the standard features of a mobile service plan, you might want to add a data plan to view the Internet or download songs and games. Data plans can add significantly to the monthly cost of a mobile service plan, but with some cell phones, it is a necessary choice. To get a clear idea of the cost of the monthly bill, it may be a good idea to ask the service provider about any taxes and extra fees that will be added.

Family plans often offer the best rates when two or more people are using a cell plan.
Family plans often offer the best rates when two or more people are using a cell plan.

Nearly all mobile service plans require their customers to sign a contract, which will have a significant cancellation fee if the contract is not honored. The contract typically lasts two years. If you would rather not sign this binding contract, prepaid service plans are another option that may be less expensive, and are certainly easier to cancel if your plans change.

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    • A group wireless service plan should be able to cover all the needs of the individuals who will use it.
      By: Robert Kneschke
      A group wireless service plan should be able to cover all the needs of the individuals who will use it.
    • Smartphone users may be able to save money on their service plan by taking advantage of free public internet availability at various hotspots.
      By: arenaphotouk
      Smartphone users may be able to save money on their service plan by taking advantage of free public internet availability at various hotspots.
    • Service plans should include texting.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Service plans should include texting.
    • Family plans often offer the best rates when two or more people are using a cell plan.
      By: svetamart
      Family plans often offer the best rates when two or more people are using a cell plan.