subject: The Benefits Of Prepaid Phone Cards [print this page] A phone card is a small plastic account card that is used to pay for telephone services. Introduced in Italy in 1976 as a method of dealing with coin shortages, the novelty of it quickly spread throughout the world in the following years.
Standard calling cards can be bought and used without dealing with a phone company or any other type of account facility. The system for payment and the method in which the card is used to place a telephone call vary from maker to maker. Generally, it works by giving a fixed amount of credit and can be discarded when that credit is used up. There is also a rechargeable card that can be refilled or collect payment in arrears. One known as a remote memory card has a personal identification (PIN) associated with a specific land-line telephone account; calls using the card are billed to the associated account.
Cheaper Rates
Prepaid telephone cards have cheaper long distance rates than other forms of long distance service carriers including Voice IP. This applies for both international and domestic long distance calls. There is no need to switch carriers to receive the rates, and some companies even provide flexible discount services for returning customers.
No Hidden Fees
Prices are fixed on each prepaid calling cards. Thus, there are no unknown charges or additional fees when utilizing it. It has also been known to help users budget their monthly long distance bills by not allowing one to spend more than is provided on it.
Accessibility & Mobility
Prepaid calling cards are easily accessible. Phone cards are available on web sites and from nearly every newsstand and drugstore. It can be used on home phones, cell phones, pay phones, smart phones, at the office or even via a computer that has an Internet connection without having to discontinue existing service. In most instances, the physical card itself is not needed. All that is required is knowledge of the access telephone number to dial and the PIN.
Anonymity
Telephone cards typically offer complete anonymity. Phone cards are already active at the time of purchase by the customer without any knowledge of who that customer is.
Saves Time With Improved Features
Prepaid plans now typically include last number redialing, call continue, which eliminates the need to hang with the press of a button, and recharging. Newer versions offer even more convenient time-saving features, like PIN-less dialing, language options, speed dialing and the ability to use local access numbers.
Ideal for Travelers
Purchasing a prepaid phone cards is cheaper, more convenient and prevents having to deal with potential currency or language issues while traveling in other countries.
