CHAPTER 6: Will My Rates Go Up?

With the BIG 3 raising rates periodically, it is no wonder that consumers are concerned that rate increases are becoming the norm.

While no one can guarantee 100% that rates will not go up for everyone down the road, the trend is downward in this very competitive market.

Rates seem to have bottomed out with many providers other then AT&T, and other larger companies. Rates from 2.5 to 5.5 cents per minute for the time being with the variation associated with whether one resides in or outside of the RBOC are common with many reputable companies offerring a better customer support toll free service.

Covista Communications, PowerNet Global Communications, Total Call International, Pioneer Telephone, Unitel Communications Group or any of the other providers mentioned throughout this book has not raised their rates, but rather either lowered them or added additional plans offering lower rates.

Remember, there are laws to protect you, the consumer which must be adhered to before a long distance provider can raise your rates. The provider must give you at least 30 to 90 days prior notice, depending on your State laws. This is to give you, the consumer, ample time to search out another provider prior to the higher rates becoming effective.