Some long distance companies will pay this charge if you switch to their service. Companies offer these deals because it helps them retain customers, and consumers like them because it simplifies the billing process. It could, however, be cheaper to buy separately only the services needed, rather than an entire package. Make sure you purchase what you truly want and can afford. Your current local telephone company may tell you that you can avoid negative marketing tactics by signing up for a program that requires you to directly contact your local telephone company to change carriers.
Some local companies require written permission.
While written permission will help protect you from slamming, it can make it more difficult to take advantage of new competitors offering lower prices or better service. Depending on their per-minute rate, prepaid calling cards can save money on long distance calls of short duration. If you use prepaid cards for calls from home or for local calls, however, you may pay more than if you used your regular telephone service. In addition, some companies that sold consumers calling cards have gone out of business before the customer can use the full value of the card. Only prepay if you know and trust the company making an offer.