(NC)-Cell phone use is on the upswing. If you're thinking of buying one, here is the low-down on how to pick a plan that is right for you and ensure you get what you pay for.
It's important to figure out what you want and need in a plan and then research different service providers to compare what they offer. Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself:
• How many minutes will I need during the day? At night? On weekends?
• What features do I want? There are tons out there: voice mail, text messaging, Internet browsing… Some providers let you bundle them to save money, but always keep your budget in mind and don't sign up for features you don't need.
• Do I want to commit to a contract or go the prepaid card route? A Contract usually lets you get your phone for a lower price, but cancelling one often entails a hefty fee. With prepaid cards, you only pay for what you need and you can stop using your cell phone whenever you want, without a fee. But cards often have a higher cost per minute rate and you would lose any unused minutes when the card expires.
Be aware that on top of the cost of your plan, cell phone companies generally charge activation, system access and 911 fees, as well as taxes.
Keep more money in your pocket, watch those extra minutes, downloads and texts - they add up. At 30 cents/minute, only an hour over your plan will cost you almost $20!
Look over your bills: if you are constantly using more or less minutes than your plan allows, consider changing your plan.
Notice something in your bill that you didn't sign up for? You're paying than the amount set out in your contract? Your plan is different than what the salesperson described? Contact your service provider in writing to discuss your concerns.
You can also file a complaint with the Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services (CCTS) by mail, fax, or online at http://www.ccts-cprst.ca.
For more information about contracts or your rights under Ontario's consumer protection legislation, go to www.ontario.ca/consumerprotection or call toll-free 1-866-351-5655.
- News Canada