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Making a long distance call and choosing among
flat rate long distance, prepaid long distance or something else
Making a long distance call should not be a cause for a headache,
but for some people it is. They worry too much about making a long
distance call, because their service is so expensive. If you are
one of these people, then it is time to make a change and choose
the long distance call you want. Even if you think you have a good
rate right now, we encourage you to find discount
long distance rates and choose the plan that is right for your
long distance call. The service is free and by using this simple
tool you can save up to hundreds of dollars a month on your long
distance calls.
There are several option plans you can choose from when making
a long distance call. You have probably heard of a flat rate long
distance plan. A flat rate long distance plan is when a company
charges you a flat rate for your long distance call. Another option
other than the flat rate long distance is the prepaid long distance
plan. With a prepaid long distance plan you pay ahead of time for
either a specified amount of time or number of long distance calls.
The prepaid long distance plan is good for people who have a set
budget and do not want to spend more than they can afford. A prepaid
long distance plan is also good for people who don't think they
can stop themselves from making a long distance call even if they
know they should not.
Both the prepaid long distance and flat rate long distance plan
can work for you. There are also unlimited long distance plans available.
It is up to you to choose and decide with plan for you long distance
call can help you save the most money. You can get help in finding
great rates when you search for discount
long distance rates.
Long Distance Call And 809 Phone Scam
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has become aware of
a long distance phone scam that may lead consumers to inadvertently
ring up high charges on their phone bills.
The Scam Works Something Like This
- You get an e-mail, voicemail or page telling you to call a phone
number with an 809 (or some other three-digit) area code to collect
a prize, find out about a sick relative, engage in sex talk, etc.
- You assume you are making a domestic long distance call - as
"809" (and other three-digit area codes involved in
this scam) appear to be typical three-digit U.S. area codes.
- When you dial the "809" area code, however, you're
actually connected to a phone number outside the United States.
- You don't find out about the higher international call rates
until you receive your phone bill.
To Minimize the Risk of This Happening to You
- Check any area codes before returning calls.
- If you do not otherwise make international calls, ask your local
phone company to block outgoing international calls on your line.
Filing a Complaint with the FCC
There is no charge to file an informal complaint with the FCC.
Your letter should include your name, address, telephone number
or numbers involved with your complaint, a telephone number where
you can be reached during the business day, and the name of your
long distance carrier. Your complaint letter should also provide
as much specific information as possible, such as:
- An explanation of the circumstances that led to your complaint;
- The names of all telephone or other companies involved with
your complaint;
- The names and telephone numbers of the telephone company employees
that you talked to in an effort to resolve your complaint;
- The dates that you talked with these employees; and
- Any other information that would help the FCC to process your
complaint.
Your local telephone company also often has records that are essential
to the processing of your complaint.
You should mail your complaint to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20554
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