Thanks to competition in the telephone industry, consumers may now pick the long distance carrier of their choice, and in some areas, the local telephone company of their choice. With choice comes more responsibility for consumers: consumers may select from a range of different calling plans and prices, from a large number of carriers. The Minnesota Department of Commerce can assist consumers in making their selections, by asking the following information of any carrier:
Thanks to competition in the telephone industry, consumers may now pick the long distance carrier of their choice, and in some areas, the local telephone company of their choice. With choice comes more responsibility for consumers: consumers may select from a range of different calling plans and prices, from a large number of carriers. The Minnesota Department of Commerce can assist consumers in making their selections, by asking the following information of any carrier:
Most companies offer similar services to stay competitive, but there may be small differences that can affect your bill or your degree of satisfaction. Here are a few questions that will help identify some of the more important differences.
Does the company offer service in your area? (Not all long distance or local companies offer statewide service.)
Does the company provide fully functioning 911 service?
Is the long distance billing rate based on 1-minute increments or 6-second increments? Some companies may quote you a rate that appears to be per minute, but is actually based upon smaller increments.
Does the company charge a monthly service fee, or is there a minimum monthly usage amount required?
Are the rates distance sensitive or time-of-day sensitive?
If you often use a calling card, ask about the company's calling card rates and if there is a surcharge for each call placed.
Does the company have 24-hour customer service?
When in doubt, ask the carrier to put the rates they are quoting you in writing. All carriers must disclose their rates in writing. Be suspicious of any carrier that refuses to put their rates in writing before you agree to sign up with them.
If you would like to see a list of companies licensed to provide long distance service in Minnesota, go to this page on the website.
If you would like a list of companies certified to provide local service in your area, go to this page on the website.
Check out the Internet for more information about calling plans.
Many major long distance companies offer special plans if you sign up on the Internet and are billed via a credit card. Your bills are delivered on the Internet too. These are often the least expensive plans for the carriers, but not always for the customer. Carriers may only provide your bills electronically if you have authorized it in writing; you have the option to receive your bills by mail. You need to compare!
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Minnesota Department of Commerce + 85 Seventh Place East + Saint Paul, MN 55101