TRAC Releases New Long Distance Comparison Chart
Group compares bundled services for first time
Today, the Telecommunications Research & Action Center (TRAC), the nation's leading telecommunications-focused consumer group, released the latest version of its popular residential long distance comparison chart, TeleTipsTM, featuring for the first time a comparison of bundled local and long distance plans like MCI's The Neighborhood. The January 2003 edition boasts a new easy-to-read format and includes twelve new plans of the eight largest long distance companies.
TRAC discovered that residential long distance service is becoming increasingly more expensive. According to TRAC's findings, many plans now charge a monthly minimum or fee of around $5.00, universal service fees hover at 10% or higher, and some companies have added a host of additional charges that increase each month's bill.
"TRAC research indicates an alarming trend toward higher cost long distance service. Due to increases in per minute rates, universal services fees, long distance directory assistance, calling card surcharges, and the creation of new 'taxes,' residential customers should expect to pay more for long distance service in 2003," said Kate Dean, spokesperson for TRAC. "The only category in which we noted savings was in low volume calling, and the savings are not significant."
TRAC cautions consumers to be alert for announcements of rising telephone rates, and reminds consumers to monitor their calling patterns and select a monthly plan based on individual needs, not advertisements.
"Because of rate increases and new plans like bundles, TRAC reminds consumers to evaluate their calling habits and review their service options. Use TRAC's Tele-Tips chart and follow TRAC's Hot-Tips to save," said Dean.
To order TRAC's new residential long distance comparison chart, please visit www.trac.org or mail $6.00 to TRAC at PO Box 27279, Washington, D.C., 20005.
MEDIA: To receive future press releases and updates, please sign up through TRAC's News Room at http://www.trac.org.
TRAC's HOT-TIPS FOR JANUARY 2003
- Check more often for rate hikes. Leading carriers have raised their long distance rates in the past few weeks, some more than once. MCI, for example, has increased telephone rates three times in three months. From January 2002 to the latest chart, the cost of the long distance plans TRAC examined rose by $2.00 - $4.00 per month on the average. TRAC suggests that consumers be sure and contact their carrier or check their web site more frequently. Also, be sure to watch the headlines and your monthly statement for rate increases, as many carriers forecast higher charges this spring. Become a TRAC member and sign-up on www.trac.org for regular updates on rate hikes and consumers tips.
- Bundle up. Check out new, vertically integrated plans being offered by carriers like MCI and Verizon that TRAC compares in the latest chart. Heavy users might find more savings using MCI's Neighborhood plans whereas average to high volume users might be better covered by Verizon's Veriations. Visit the web sites of your preferred long distance carrier for more information and availability.
- Take advantage of low cost alternatives. Don't make that many calls? Tired of increasing fees and surcharges? Consider asking your phone company to disconnect your long distance carrier. If you use a mobile phone, most plans allow for long distance calling. Consider your available minutes when choosing a long distance plan. Prepaid calling cards with low per minute rates and no per call surcharges, or dial around numbers (10-10-XXX) are also great tools to use, particularly for casual callers. For more information on 10-10 numbers, visit TRAC's web site, www.trac.org, to obtain a dial-around comparison chart.
- Pay bills online. Most carriers now charge $1.50 - $2.50 per month for customers to receive their local and long distance bills together. Many providers offer plans with low monthly fees if consumers pay online. If you are comfortable with the Internet, opt to pay your monthly bill online and save.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
John Breyault, TRAC, johnb@trac.org, 202-263-2943
ABOUT TRAC:
The Telecommunications Research and Action Center (TRAC), founded in 1983, is a non-profit membership organization based in Washington, DC that promotes the interests of residential telecommunications customers. TRAC staff researches telecommunications issues and publishes rate comparisons to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their long distance and local phone service options. TRAC can be found on the web at http://www.trac.org.
