Internet Calling Cards

If you are not ready to commit to getting Broadband Phone Service or you find using Skype on your computer too cumbersome, you can still get all the benefits by buying an internet calling card. You will get a an access number and a pin. The access number is usually a local number or a toll-free 800 number, so it shouldn't cost you anything to call. Then you will enter your pin and phone number you are trying to reach. The phone call with be routed through the internet and you will be charged cheap internet rates for your call. The cards can be purchased in $5, $10 or $20, so if you just want to try it out, it won't cost you very much.

Other Benefits

You can use this card to call from anywhere - not just from your home. This means you can use the calling card from your cell phone where international calls are normally very expensive. You can just program the access number and pin into your phone, so it's as easy as making a normal call. You can also use the internet calling card from hotels where they allow you to make 800 calls for free, but charge you a fortune for everything else. So if you want to travel to the US, for example, and want to call home, all your calls will be cheap.

Where to get Internet Calling Cards

There are many websites that sell internet calling cards. You might be able to get calling cards at a neighborhood corner store, but the websites usually give you a more comprehensive comparison and they will email you the access numers and your pin, so you can start making calls right away. They are usually listed as pre-paid phone cards or just plain calling cards. Most of the calling cards specialize in calls to a particular country or region, so you will need to do a little hunting to find the best one for your situation.

There are a few things to consider when selecting calling cards, because the fine print on them can be very different. Some of them round every minute, some of them expire in 180 days, some of them have a weekly service charge. We have put together a page of calling card fine print to help you with your selection process.