How to Switch Your Wireless Service

Now cell phone users can switch service and keep old number.

A a new federal law will allow customers to keep their mobile phone numbers after switching carriers, as long as the customer remains within the same area. This will imake your communications easier than ever.

The ability to transfer your wireless phone number from one carrier to another is called local number portability, or LNP. It means that you no longer have to get a NEW number when you change carriers if you stay within the same geographic area. You get to keep the same number.

How to Switch Your Cell Phone Service

Generally you get the best cell phone service deals when you establish a new account. With rebates, you can often get cash back and make hundreds of dollars by switching.

Experts agree that, if you haven't changed your plan in the last six months, you're probably paying too much. Phone companies are constantly offering new plans and new deals. Often, these aren't widely publicized.

The most cited complaints from wirelss customers is poor coverage and reception. This is becoming even more important as more people make cell phones their only phones. So if you experience a lot of dead zones, dropped calls or fuzzy reception, you should consider switching your carrier.

1. Study your usage pattern. you need to know how many minutes per month you talk, how many of those are at night or on the weekend and whether or not you need to be able to roam.
2. Find the best wireless carrier in your area.
3. Find the carrier that provide best customer service.
4. Compare service plans that meet your needs and budget
5. Compare cell phones that are compatible with the service.

Consumer Reports provides the more advice when you're switching cell service:

• Confirm the total monthly cost, including taxes, fees, and surcharges, which can really add up.
• Don't lock yourself into a long contract; two years will seem endless if you're not happy with your cell service.
• Take full advantage of the trial period to make sure you have reliable service where you need it; this is especially important, since early termination fees can cost as much as $200.