--          Read over your bill every month to be sure what you are paying for. For service, only your line charge and a few mandated federal charges are required. Everything else is optional and may be removed.

--          Research the features on your line. If you have anything other than a plain line, call your service provider to ask for competitive rates. Remove the equipment maintenance protection from your bill. This plan is optional and can cost more than your phone.

--          If you do not want a particular service that incurs charges, like 900 number calling, ask the company to block it. With most carriers, the blocking service is free. Blocking 900 number calling will help you to avoid steep charges—even if they are misapplied or accidental.

--          Keep phone directories around for frequent or sporadic number searches. Most telephone companies charge when you dial directory assistance for information. Save online phone directories to your Internet favorites in order to reduce the urge to use directory assistance.

--          Do not allow guests or business associates to use your phone to make personal long distance calls.

--          Pay telephone bills on time. If you become disconnected, you may be charged a large fee to reactivate your service.

Other Options That Can Help Increase Savings

--          If you own one, use your cell phone instead of your landline for long distance calls during evening, night, and weekend hours. Many cell phone carriers provide  “anytime” minutes as an incentive to customers. Take advantage of this opportunity to talk long distance for free. Check with your carrier for free coverage times and areas.

--          Remove long-distance service from your landline if you have other phone service available. Some long-distance providers charge a monthly fee even if you do not use the service. Check with your mobile carrier and find out if they offer a discount for landlines. If the rates are better than those provided by your current carrier, make the switch. Or, consider dropping your landline altogether and simply using a cell phone for telephone services.

--          Research newer phone technology, such as Internet phone, VoIP and PC-to-phone services.

--          If you have internet access, utilize email as an alternate form of communication. You can chat with anyone in the world for a rate that is included in what you may already be paying.

--          Explore pay as you go cell-phone options.

Research Online and Follow Referral Leads

Some Web sites offer information and additional resources to find other phone services and providers in your area. Check rates and services offered by traditional phone service providers and compare them to those offered by technologically-advanced providers.

Visit the CNET’s Reviews Web site (reviews.cnet.com/) for more information on Internet phone service. Visit TelcoBusters.com at www.telcobusters.com for a comparison of the rates and service of competing local and Internet phone carriers. Also visit MyRatePlan.com for cell phone carrier comparisons.

Final Suggestions

--          Based on your income level, you may qualify for governmental assistance for a basic phone line through GCI Services. GCI offers Lifeline and LinkUp Assistance to consumers from low-income homes or who meet qualifications based on eligibility for governmental assistance.

--          Speak with your telephone company for suggestions to save on service costs.

--          Senior citizens, low-income, and unemployed consumers should learn if assistance is available from their state, by phone providers, or through any government assistance program. Many carriers have different payment plans for senior citizens on a fixed income.

--          The U.S. Department of Human and Health Services may offer grants and services that help low-income families make long-term changes to help with their phone service needs.

Additional Resources:

--          USA.gov:  http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Benefits.shtml

--          American Dial Tone:  http://www.americandialtone.com