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1. Make Sure You Can Do Without:
If you use DSL broadband or TV
from the phone
company, make sure dropping your
landline
doesn't affect those services.
You could
lose a promotional price or 'price
for life'
guarantee on your connection
by cancelling
your phone service. You may have
a "custom"
phone package or a bundle and
don't realize
how disconnecting your home phone
may affect
your Cellular or TV service.
Don't forget
you might have a wired house
alarm or door
answering system. Also, if other
household
members or visitors depend on
your land line,
don't leave them with no phone
when you leave. |
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2. Review the Checklist:
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3. Sign Up With Your New Alternative:
If you're not already using it, check to
see if they require a contract. Some alternatives
need a software download. Broadband alternatives
often need a piece of equipment, most supply
it for free. If you're using an existing
cellular account, be sure to check the Cellular Considerations. Don't cancel your home line, yet. If you
are transferring your old home phone number to your new service,
let the alternative supplier
initiate the
cancellation process. Another way to keep your old phone number
active is to transfer it to a cheap cellular phone that you can check from time to time to
see if anyone calls the old number. Credit
card companies and pizza shops may not know
you've turned that line into wireless. That
phone can alert you of a new voice mail at
another number. |
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4. Get Your Alternative Up & Running:
Make sure it all works the way you thought
it would. Now is the time to reverse your
decision, if necessary. Your telephone company
will welcome you back if you want, but there
may be a charge if you have already cancelled
your old account. |
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5. Start the Cancellation Process for Your Old
Landline:
If you want to keep the old line
connected
for a short time, switch to a
more basic
or measured plan. You may have
unforeseen
problems that may leave you without
phone
service. You can still answer
the old phone
to tell friends of your new calling
situation.
You might want to use Call Forwarding
if
you have a different number for
incoming
calls. Check our Re-Think Your Wireline list. Then, when you feel comfortable, kiss
your old phone company goodbye.
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