Phone Service Overview

There are some very simple rules to follow in choosing a phone service, and despite a wide range of features and services, there are only a few crucial ones.

911 service. Most but not all new phone services include 911 calling. If you use a cellphone almost all the time this may not matter to you but if not, you want 911.

Keeping your old phone number. Most people want this but not everyone. If you care, you need a service that supports transferring your number.

Faxing. If you need a fax to work with your phone then check this carefully. Many newer phone services charge extra for fax lines.

International calling. Any new phone service should save you money her, but if you call overseas a lot you can save a lot more by looking at international rates carefully.

Voicemail. If this matters to you then look into the features carefully and make sure they match what you need. If not, then whichever service you choose will offer SOME form of voicemail.

Who offers the service? Surprisingly this does matter. Here’s the nitty gritty. Old fashioned phone companies cost the most but provide the most reliable service. If you have a reliable cell phone you can steer clear. Cable/DSL/internet providers also cost a lot UNLESS you are already getting internet and TV from them. If so, get a bundle and you’ll be getting the best deal you can get. VoIP phone companies provide the best deal otherwise for real phone service – and the most features.

Try out the DialBuzz! Phone Service Chooser to see what phone service might be right for you.

To download a more comorehensive version of this overview in PDF form, click here.