Mar 09
5
Cutting costs: Is a measured rate phone line for you?
In this economy, many of us are looking to cut costs. As people become more reliant on cell phones, many are making the choice to abandon the landline altogether. But what about those of us who need the landline for home security systems or DSL? Well, there is an option that the phone companies don’t promote but exists due to regulations called the measured rate or metered line.
What is a measured rate line? It is basically the ultimate bare bones phone line that charges you based on usage (much like your cell phone). The savings aren’t huge, but it can add up. Prices vary by market, but here in the Houston market AT&T offers a measured rate line for $8.55 a month plus fees, which is $5.50 a month ($66 a year) less than the $14.05 charge for a basic residential line. Included in the measured rate fee is up to 25 outgoing calls per month and unlimited incoming calls, with additional outgoing calls being $0.05 each. So if you make fewer than 135 outgoing calls per month, you would save money with a measured rate line over a standard basic line.
If you are interested in changing to a measured rate, be sure to call and get the details on the charge and what is included. You’ll probably have to anyway because AT&T doesn’t have any details about the measured rate plans on their website. If like us your phone line is only to support your security system and DSL and allow the occasional telemarketer to call, this could be an easy savings.