By Susan
When you want to compare cell phone packages, the wireless plans that are offered should be considered first. The plan itself is the most essential and basic feature due to the fact that it dictates all aspects of your cell phone use, from minutes to data consumption. Most of the time, the plan you choose will determine the types of phones that are available to you as well. Some plans include smartphones, while others don’t.
Click here to compare cell phone packages from top wireless carriers
As far as wireless plans are concerned, there are three primary plans that are available. These include:
- No contract plans
- Single line plans
- Family plans
Contracts
Whether you are on a single or a family plan, you may have to sign a contract unless you opt for the prepaid (no contract) option — technically, there is a contract but it is not long term (month-to-month). If you decide that you don’t want to be bothered with the hassle of a contract, you have the option of a no contract plan. The no contract plan is often referred to as a prepaid plan as it is one that requires you to make a payment in advance.
As far as family and individual contract plans are concerned, you will more than likely have to sign a one- or two-year contract. Before you sign and finalize your wireless agreement, make sure that you have all the features and services that you need. Making changes to your plan during the contract period could result in you having to pay more money, when this instance could have been avoided in the first place.
When you decide to obtain a wireless contract, make sure that you pay close attention to the minutes, data, and text messaging services that are available. A set monthly limit kicks in for each of these features, unless you decide to pay extra for unlimited features and services.
Carriers
The carrier that you select also plays an important role when you are comparing cell phone packages. Contrary to popular belief, the carrier that you select can benefit you greatly or set you back by several hundred dollars every year. There may be several different carriers available in your area, so choosing one may become a difficult task. When it comes to selecting carriers, the best way to choose one is to look at the coverage that the wireless carrier offers.
When you are checking the coverage that is available, look at the places where you travel frequently and see if you have coverage there. Needless to say, the more coverage that is available, the better off you will be.
Price
The price of the entire plan package is what most people concern themselves with most. The price is yet another essential factor that needs to be considered. The starting price may or may not be more than the monthly bill. If you decide to go with the prepaid plan, the only thing that you have to do is refill your account in order to add more minutes to your account. In the event that you have chosen a contract plan, the price is important because you need to make sure that your bill is paid on time. If you miss payments and your wireless service is deactivated, it will affect your credit score. You may also have a more difficult time obtaining wireless service in the future.
Perks
You may receive discounts on the price of the phone, the cell phone package itself, or both. If your credit is good, you may qualify to have your wireless service activated without having to pay the activation fee as well. Although this benefit may vary from carrier to carrier. In addition to waiving the activation fee, some cell phone packages include other benefits such as extra minutes, unlimited plans, steep discounts, and other perks, some of which may be limited to the introductory period.
Click here to compare cell phone packages from top wireless carriers
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