Get a Calling Card

A calling card with 1-800 access can come in handy and save you money. Here are some tips on using calling cards:

• Use it at a hotel: Hotels often charge higher rates for calls made from your room. If you have a calling card, your calls will be billed by your regular telephone carrier. Some hotels charge a small fee for making calling card calls, typically $.75 to $1.00.

• Use it at a payphone: Calling cards can also be used at pay telephones anywhere in the country and can save you money.

• If you only use your calling card while on vacation, be sure to pick one that does not have a minimum fee or minimum usage requirement. If you don't, you could end up paying even if you do not use the card.

Prepaid telephone cards can also save you money when calling from a hotel or payphone. It makes sense to buy cards issued by a reputable company. Shop carefully, the per-minute rates on prepaid telephone cards vary widely. Some cards also have initiation fees, minimum call length requirements, and first minute surcharges.

Small Business Tips

Small businesses should take the time to choose the telephone company and services that are best for them. Here are some additional tips for small businesses:

• Make sure your telephone company is as flexible as your company has to be when adjusting to changes in the market. For example, if you are asked to sign a long-term service contract, make sure you can end the agreement, if you are not happy with the service.

• Every small business is different. Make sure your company will design a customized calling plan that fits your needs.

• If you need multiple line service, cellular, paging, Internet and other services, check to see if you can save by purchasing all of them from one company or from more than one company on an a-la-carte basis.

• If your company relies on customers who let their fingers do the walking, make sure your company offers access to Yellow Pages service.

• Make sure your telephone company can provide 24-hour emergency backup service if it is needed.

• When you receive an offer for service make sure to look at all the details. Check out the rates, the size of the local calling area, minimum calling charges, if any, and monthly and other special surcharges. Some offers are too good to be true!