How to Compare Prepaid Cellular Phone Plans

Cell phones are one of the most popular products on the market today. There was a time when prepaid cell phones were not very popular, nor very appealing, but times have changed. Today there are a variety of prepaid options to choose from, such as pay-as-you-go, unlimited and limited plans. The best attribute about prepaid cell phones is no contract and no credit checks.

1. 
   

   Keep
   track for a month of how many minutes you are using on your current
   cell phone. This will give you an idea of the type plan you need. If
   you use more than 1500 minutes per month, the unlimited prepaid
   option is probably your best option.

   
   


2. 
   

   Find
   out which carriers in your area offer a prepaid option by searching online.  Most of the large carriers
   including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint all offer prepaid
   options, which makes it convenient and easy to find a service
   provider to fit your needs.

   
   


3. 
   

   Check each carrier's website to see different offers, since some
   are unlimited minutes and texting for a flat rate fee each month,
   but some do not have this option. Therefore, read the fine print
   before you proceed with your phone purchase.

   
   


4. 
   

   Keep
   in mind that unlike contract-based cell plans that often give you a
   phone for free, with prepaid plans you have to buy your own phone
   upfront. However, if you do not use your phone much, a basic phone
   can often be purchased for $15 to $20.

   
   


5. 
   

   Check
   how costly the prepaid options are, since many
   times this can be the determining factor if you want to start at lowest cost possible.  However, also compare the price
   per minute, especially if choosing the pay-as-you-go option.

   
   


6. 
   

   Decide
   on your plan based on your research. Once you have your phone you will need to activate it and select the plan you wish to have.
   Some limited plans offer a select amount of minutes each
   month, such as $1,500 for a flat fee, or there is an unlimited option. The pay-as-you-go means you have to add minutes as
   you need them or every 60 to 90 days. With a bit of research and
   comparisons you will be able to have the perfect prepaid cell
   phone.