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Pre-paid and No-Contract Services

PhoneDog LLC
Updated on Aug 22, 06
by PhoneDog LLC,
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Pre-paid/no-contract services are available from many independent providers and from the major carriers themselves.  There are many reasons why some people will benefit from a pre-paid service - particularly if you need a temporary additional phone number, or foresee using the phone in spurts over the course of several months but not on a regular basis. Be aware, however, that you’re likely to pay a higher per-minute rate as compared to a contracted plan and you likely won’t receive a discount on the purchase of a new phone with pre-paid service.

Cons of using Pre-paid services

  • Higher per-minute rates

  • Service and Coverage Area may not be as good as a post-paid plan

  • Higher purchase price when purchasing the phone handset

  • Need to re-charge your phone when your minutes are exhausted.

  • Possible surcharges for inactivity, read the fine print.

When should I use a Pre-Paid service?

  • Your credit is unsatisfactory and you don’t qualify for a post-paid plan.

  • You are uncomfortable committing to a term contract.

  • You only use your phone for emergencies and you have no need to pay a significant fee every month.

  • You are visiting the U.S. for a short period of time and you need a cell phone while you’re in the states.

  • You are in the military and you may need to disconnect service while serving overseas

Pre-Paid Providers

  • TracFone (Largest pre-paid provider in the U.S.)

  • Cingular

  • Verizon

  • T-Mobile

  • Sprint

  • Net10

  • PowerNet Mobile
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