Tariffs and calling options

When choosing your new mobile phone package or switching provider, you may find yourself confused by talk of 'tariffs.' Your tariff is essentially the contract you sign with your phone company, whereby you agree to pay the required monthly charges and other associated costs during the term of your contract.



Fixed rate tariffs can be an effective way to save money on your phone bills if you use your mobile frequently, and will typically involve a number of free minutes and texts that can be used each month, depending on your pricing plan. However, you should be aware that prices can vary considerably between different types of calls, and that not all calls will be covered by your free minute allowances.



Long-distance calls, particularly calls abroad, often cost more than local calls and calls to other mobiles on the same network - so if you're likely to make many such calls during your contract period, you should talk to your provider to find the most suitable tariff for your needs. Even if it means paying a little more each month, the savings you could be making on long-distance calls could be well worth it.

Depending on the company you sign up with, your tariff could also include other options such as free internet access, picture and video messaging and ringtone and application downloads. Evaluating your needs could help you find the ideal plan for you when comparing mobile phone tariffs, by disregarding features you don't need and adding ones you do, as part of a more customised package.



If you are comparing companies for your next contract, it's a good idea to look at three to five companies to get a wider perspective rather than just two. You should also be aware of internet phone services that allow you to make free calls to other users, and also offer competitive rates when calling mobiles.



The wide range of phone tariffs available means there are options to suit everyone - from business people who rely on their phones to keep abreast of company details to teenagers with hectic social lives. Even if you don't use your phone regularly and feel that mobile contracts aren't financially viable for your situation, you could benefit from pay as you go tariffs. While it may cost you more to call mobiles and other phones than a user on a contract, the overall amount you spend could be less.