This includes any setup fees, service fees, minimum-usage charges, costs for added features and calling cards, dedicated line charges, and taxes. Don't be taken in by selective rate comparisons. Companies will try to entice you with a low rate from, say, Roanoke to New York, then charge lots more from Roanoke to Washington. Always get a written proposal, and make sure the proposal includes all calls and minutes broken out by time of day and category, like those listed earlier. Compare the calls exactly, and use your most current bill for the comparison so the rates will be accurate.
Good companies offer satisfaction guarantees.
Call the Better Business Bureau or the Virginia State Corporation Commission to find out if a long-distance company has been in trouble. They can also tell you if the company is certified to do business in Virginia.