Step 1 – Compare prices of all of the telephone companies that service your area. There are now many more options for home telephone service than were previously available. There are local telephone companies, Internet telephone companies, cell phone companies and other wireless services to choose from.
Make a list of all of the options that you are looking for in a telephone plan so that you can compare apples to apples. Find out where the listing will be printed if you opt for a telephone service that is not local. Ask if you will receive call waiting, caller id, call return and other services that you want.
Step 2 – Look into combining your services to save money. Some telephone companies will now combine your local telephone service, long distance telephone service, cable television, and Internet to save you money.
This is sometimes the best deal available if it is available in your area. Typically these package deals are only available in metropolitan areas where high speed cable Internet is available.
Compare prices to see if combining your services will save you money. Keep in mind that, if you are unhappy with one of the services, you may lose your great deal if you cancel.
Step 3 – Ask your local telephone company if they offer low cost home telephone service to low-income families. Many telephone companies offer a flat rate low cost phone service to families that meet certain financial criteria.
To be accepted for this low cost program, you will need to prove that you qualify for this program.
This program does typically restrict the use of your telephone service. It only covers certain basic services. Make sure that you understand what services you will receive before you apply for the program. Ask you local telephone company what the requirements are and how to apply for the program.