How I Saved $20 A Month For My Mother-In-Law

If you know about cell phones and your mother in law, uncle, or parents don't, then you may be able to help them just by checking their cell phone bill. Those who are tech-naive can be easily intimidated by tricky telesales agents. That happened to a relative of mine when she called to complain about a higher than expected bill. The operator then suggested a plan that offered 200 long-distance minutes per month for $20. What wasn't explained was that the new $20 was not the base monthly price, it was "on top" of her plan's monthly fee.

So much for clarity. I called her cell phone company and got them to waive the fee and cancel that scandalously costly long distance plan. I also educated her about how to handle long distance and roaming charges. Sometimes, it's better to call people than to be called, especially if you are away from your local area and locals from the place you are visiting want to talk to you: just tell them you will call back in a minute. I also explained her that she could use her long distance calling card with a cell phone.