What are my alternatives to the local phone company?

Fortunately, there are many.  You undoubtedly are aware of this from the number of unsolicited telemarketing calls you receive.  Most of these carriers can handle your long distance, both interstate and within the state, as well as zone and "local toll" or itemized calls. 

You can select one carrier to handle your long distance, one to carry you zone and "local toll" (itemized) calls, while retaining the phone company to service only your local calls.  Package deals may get you the best rates, but not always. 

Remember low per minute rates sound good but they may be combined with a high fixed monthly charge.  Thus, the total charge (fixed plus per minute) must be divided by the total minutes to determine the true per minute cost.  Find out if the carrier rounds the calls to the minute or if not, the minimum call length and the per second rounding after the minimum is reached.

Some commercials advertise a relatively modest charge for calls of fairly long duration.  Find out if that charge applies no matter the duration.  Remember you may connect to an answering machine.

How do I choose the carrier best suited for me?

You must analyze your current bill as well as your past and expected calling patterns.  Then answer the following questions:

• What is my current cost separately for zone, "local toll" (itemized) and long distance calls?
• Including all charges, what is the per minute cost of each category?
• Are the current bills representative of my future calling habits?  For instance, my daughter just moved and her new phone number will make it an "local toll" (itemized) call instead of a zone call. 
• Rates may vary by time of day.  The basic rates for the phone company are significantly higher during the Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM time period than they are for other periods.  Some carriers offer cheaper rates in the evenings and on weekends.  When do I make most of my calls and will this pattern continue?
• What are the fixed charges per line or must I reach a minimum bill amount or be charged that amount? 

After the analysis, what next?

Do some analysis.  Make some calls.  Ask your friends who they use and whether they are satisfied.  Don't assume you have the best deal with your current provider. If possible, get quotes in writing.  If not, write down everything you were told.  Ask about all charges including the charges over which the provider claims they have no say.  If you decide to change, continue to review your bills to see if the charges are the rates and charges you agreed to. 

Before you decide to stay with the phone company, review my page entitled Detailed bill explanation.