There are currently 6 major players in
local and long distance phone market in US: Sprint, AT&T, MCI, Verizon, Qwest, and SBCl. Most people are ignorant of fact that when they sign up for their local phone service and long distance, that they can do something other than automatically let company that sets up their phone line(s) be one to actually run service. But they should become more educated about it. Why? Because according to recent reports, going with any of major players (mentioned above) is often more expensive than signing up for a local carrier.
When it comes to saving money on your phone bill, it is true that across much of US, going with one of major players' competitors will save you money. This is not true in all areas—namely rural areas with less access to multiple phone companies. (In Qwest's 14 state region, Qwest competitors have access to about 312,000 lines, compared with Qwest's 2.6 million lines.)
However, in many urban and sub-urban areas, there are a variety of smaller carriers who can often help you save money every time you pick up phone. But with so many companies and different promotions in every advertisement, how do you find out which company will save you most?
The first step in saving money on your phone bill is to look for best possible rates on your long-distance and local service.
Consider these tips: Know your calling habits- when you call and where most of your calls are going to. If you make many long distance calls, find a plan with a monthly fee, but a low charge per minute. If most of your long distance calls are made in evenings or on weekends, then find a plan where rates are specific for those times. If you want to make calls to Europe, decide whether it's cheaper to use a phone card, or to switch to a company which offers more affordable rates. If you make most calls within your own area code, look for a plan that offers lowest rates for instate service and instate toll calls.
Shop around periodically. It's up to you to stay informed. Look at newest calling plans and compare rates among companies often. You can find information about various calling plans on long distance telephone company web sites.
