31 USEFUL TIPS TO REDUCE BIG TELEPHONE BILLS

1.   If the message isn't urgent, send a letter or 
     postcard instead.
2.   Avoid using coin phones.  They generally cost more in 
     the long run.
3.   Limit all phone calls to five minutes or less.
4.   Instruct all family members - including children - to 
     make only calls that are necessary.
5.   Check your directory for phone numbers.  Some 
     telephone companies now charge when you dial "Directory 
     Assistance" for information.
6.   Use your radio for time and weather information 
     instead of your phone.
7.   Dial calls "direct".  Charges increase when an 
     operator is involved.
8.   Phone during discount rate periods - evening, night 
     and weekend hours.
9.   Call when holiday rates are in effect, generally all 
     day for legal holidays such as Christmas, New Year's Day, 
     Thanksgiving, etc.
10.  Avoid calls that require the services of an operator: 
     collect calls, credit card calls, calls charged to another 
     number, time & charge, etc.
11.  Avoid "person-to-person" telephone calls.
12.  Many firms have toll-free "800" numbers.  Most 
     airlines, railways, bus lines, hotels, motels, rent-a-car 
     chains, etc.  will pay for your call.  Look them up in 
     your directory for the "800" number, or call 800-555-1212 
     to see if the firm you want has a toll-free number.
13.  Many businesses have "Zenith" or "Enterprise" 
     prefixes.  They are toll-free also.  Check your directory 
     for such numbers before dialing.
14.  Plan your phone calls in advance, especially when 
     dialing long distance.  Some areas have unassisted 
     1-minute calls that can save you money.
15.  If you phone someone frequently, "schedule" your 
     calls.  In this way, you can dial direct when the person 
     you want to reach will be there.
16.  If you reach a wrong number, call the operator right 
     away so that you won't be charged for it.  If this happens 
     with a coin phone, the telephone company will mail you a 
     refund.
17.  If you have a bad connection or get cut-off, both 
     parties should hang up.  Whoever placed the call should 
     tell the operator about the problem.  The operator will   
     then reestablish the call & make an adjustment.
18.  Extension phones cost extra.  Have them installed 
     only when necessary.
19.  If a coin phone takes your money and doesn't complete 
     the call, notify the phone company by calling from another 
     phone.  Give them the number of the faulty phone and they 
     will mail you a refund.
20.  If you are going away for over 60 days, you can 
     temporarily suspend your phone service.  This rate is 
     lower than most regular rates.
21.  When relocating, have all phone installations done at 
     the same time.
22.  There are usually no time limits on local calls.  
     However, "nearby" and long distance rates are based on 
     1-minute and 3-minute units.  Consult your directory or 
     phone company before calling, to get the lowest rate.
23.  If you dial a number often that does not appear in 
     your current phone directory, jot it down instead of 
     dialing Directory Assistance each time.
24.  Anticipate the number of calls you make each month.  
     Then talk to your phone company and select the most 
     economical type of service.
25.  Have all family members included under one directory 
     listing.
26.  Don't permit guests or business associates to use 
     your phone to make personal long distance calls.
27.  If you use your residence phone for business 
     purposes, you may be able to deduct a portion of your 
     phone bill for business purposes.  Check with your nearest 
     Internal Revenue Service office.
28.  Residence phone rates are generally less than 
     business phone rates.
29.  Pay telephone bills promptly.  If you become 
     delinquent, your phone may be disconnected.  A charge will 
     be made later to restore service.
30.  Instead of an extension phone, have a longer cord 
     installed on your phone.
31.  If possible, call long distance "collect".