Tip 4: Cut Cell Phone Expenses

Cell phone expenses are likely one of your biggest unnecessary expenses. They fancier your phone, the more it costs you every month. Remember, saving money is more than being thrifty; it's like you are earning more at work. Don't you deserve a raise?

In an effort to cut costs, I ended my contract with a nationwide carrier and found more affordable options. I first tried MetroPCS. The cost was right, but the reception was terrible in my area. I then found out about Straight Talk from Clark Howard on Talk 650 KSTE. Straight Talk uses the Verizon band which gives customers exceptional coverage. Phones can be purchased for less at WalMart than they can through the Straight Talk. 4website. They have two calling plans: $30 for 1000 texts, 1000 minutes, 30 MB of web access, and free 411 or $45 for unlimited calls, texts and web access, and free 411. The only complaint that I have is that it took a couple of weeks to port my number over. They "lost" my phone number and had to make a request to get it back.

I recommend beginning with the $30 plan. You may be surprised how far 1000 minutes stretch; I'm big talker and I've never run out of minutes. Also, since Straight Talk is prepaid, you can always upgrade your service the day before you expect to run out of minutes.



----------------Cost Analysis----------------

Average Cell Phone Cost:
$73 per month, or $876 per year

Straight Talk cost:
$30 per month, or $360 per year


********TOTAL SAVINGS: $516!********








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