8 Dangers Of Using Phone Cards To Call Overseas
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Finance -> subcategory Wealth Building.
8 Risks of Using Phone Cards for International Calls
Summary
Phone card providers often market their cards based on low per-minute call rates, but hidden fees can make these cards more expensive than they appear. Understanding these hidden costs is crucial for making economical choices when calling overseas.
Common Hidden Costs
1. Surcharges: Unlike a simple connection fee, surcharges are applied based on call duration. For instance, a fee might be added after 5 or 10 minutes to make up for lower call rates. These fees can vary based on your call destination.
2. Peak Rate Charges: Cards advertised with off-peak rates may be cheaper, but these rates are often during inconvenient hours, such as 3 a.m. Always compare peak rates to ensure you're getting the best deal.
3. Maintenance Fees: Some cards deduct daily, weekly, or monthly service fees, reducing your credit even when unused. Consider purchasing smaller denominations like $5 or $10 to use quickly.
4. Expiry Dates: Phone cards typically expire within 1 to 12 months, with an average lifespan of 3 months. Avoid cards with very short lifespans to prevent losing unused credit.
5. Auto-Recharge: Ensure your card doesn’t automatically charge your credit card for additional minutes without your consent.
6. Call Duration Limits: Frequent disconnections may indicate call duration limits, often set at 1 or 2 hours. They can be costly if combined with high connection fees as you'll incur additional charges when redialing.
7. Billing Increments: Phone cards usually round up call times to the nearest minute. If a card bills in 10-minute increments, you’re charged for 20 minutes if your call lasts 13 minutes. Compare this with standard landline services which bill in smaller increments.
8. Credit Card Transaction Fees: Be aware of transaction fees when purchasing with a credit card, often an additional 2% on your statement.
Additional Considerations
- Card Replacement: Lost phone cards are not replaced, as anyone who finds them can use the remaining balance. Record your PIN securely, separate from the card itself.
- Online Options: Online suppliers, like ephonecards.com.au, store your PIN in your account and send it via email, providing easy access even if the physical card is misplaced.
When selecting a phone card, review and compare all potential hidden costs. Services like Ephonecards offer comparisons and reviews for choosing reliable options in Australia.
---
By understanding these potential pitfalls, you'll be better equipped to select a phone card that truly meets your international calling needs without unexpected expenses.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: 8 Dangers Of Using Phone Cards To Call Overseas.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.