Using Calling Cards

Using Calling Cards makes business run smoother and keeps you connected

By Kelly Shetsky, Anchor/Reporter

Using calling cards is wise when doing business because it keeps you connected, no matter where you are. Rather than give employees company cell phones and reimburse them later, telephone calling cards are a cheap and easy way to handle communication. They shorten the miles between you and loved ones while you're away on business, too.

Many business calling cards bill your company monthly for any calls made during that period of time. This cuts down on a number of issues, such as running out of minutes or getting billed for unused time. Some calling card services even offer special features such as call conferencing, speed dial, voicemail and language choices. When using calling cards:

1. Take into account that many calling card services have hidden costs and fees.

2. Look on the back of calling cards for simple instructions on how to use them.

3. Use online ratefinders to pick business calling cards that will benefit your company.

Research local and international rates from calling card services

You can buy a calling card at most news stands and stores. But they are not all created equal. To get the most out of your company's dollar, check rates for the countries you'll be calling from or to most frequently.
Try: AccuLinQ Travel Cards offers long distance calling cards with low international rates. Check the phone number you're calling online to get an exact rate. Banana Call compares rates so you can buy the best calling card for your business. Select the country you're calling from and to.

Read the back of the calling card for simple step-by-step instructions

When using phone calling cards, have your PIN ready. Some cards require you to scratch the back with a coin to reveal the PIN. Others email the PIN directly to you. Call the toll-free number on the back of the card, then enter your card number and PIN. Listen for a recorded voice to tell you to dial the phone number, including area code. The voice will also tell you how many minutes you have remaining on the card. International phone cards operate in much the same manner.
Try: IsCard is one of a handful of calling card providers that focus solely on international calls. They service more than 50 countries. Fill out an online application and once approved, your PIN will be emailed to you. SpeedyPin.com also emails you the PIN number, which you can give out to all employees who will be using the calling card.

Be on the lookout for telephone calling card companies that charge extra fees

Some domestic and international phone cards include connection and maintenance fees, along with usage, taxes and surcharges. They are seemingly small fees, but add up to be quite a bit. Check the terms and conditions online.
Try: Buy a pre-paid and post-paid business calling card from Affinity Telecom if travelling internationally. There are no sign-up or monthly fees and no minimum usage. There is a surcharge for calls in the USA but not when calling outside the USA. LD Post has a OfficeAnywhere program that forwards your customers' calls to you, no matter where you are in the world. But it's important to note that there is a monthly fee and a set-up fee.

Check the expiration date of your company's prepaid calling card. They usually expire between three months and a year from the time they're activated.

Using Calling Cards