Phone & Wireless

Pay less for your phone plan

Many households pay for more data, lines or extras than they use. A few minutes with your bill can show where to trim.

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5 ways to lower your phone bill

Check what you actually use

Your carrier’s app or bill shows how much data each line used in recent months. If you rarely come close to your limit, a smaller plan may fit.

Consider prepaid

Illinois’ Citizens Utility Board suggests looking at prepaid plans, which avoid long contracts. Check the coverage map for your home and work before you switch.

Source: CUB

Watch flat-rate bundles

CUB warns that bundled landline packages can include features you don’t use. If your cell service is good at home, ask whether you still need the landline. CUB also offers a free analysis of your phone bill.

Source: CUB

Review line-by-line extras

Look for device insurance, hotspot add-ons, international features and lines nobody uses anymore. Remove what you don’t need.

See if you qualify for Lifeline

Lifeline gives up to $9.25 a month off qualifying broadband or bundled service, or $5.25 a month for voice-only service, for eligible households (one per household).

Source: FCC

Compare wireless plans

When you compare, look at the full monthly price with taxes and fees, the network coverage at your address, and any device balance you still owe.

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Common questions

Can I keep my phone number if I switch?

In most cases, yes. FCC number portability rules let you keep your number when you switch carriers, as long as you stay in the same area. Don’t cancel your old service until the new one is active.

Do I have to pay off my phone first?

If you’re paying off a device through your carrier, the remaining balance may come due when you leave. Ask your carrier for your payoff amount and whether your phone is unlocked.

Is prepaid coverage worse?

Not necessarily. Many prepaid brands run on a major national network. Check the coverage map for the addresses you care about before you switch.

Does MegaSavings get paid if I switch?

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