In today's interconnected world, long distance phone service is more important than ever before. People find themselves needing to call businesses, friends and family spread all over the country or world, and the related phone bills can be difficult to handle at the end of the month. Thankfully, there are many companies dedicated to providing cheap long distance service options - it's just a matter of finding the right one for you!

Landline Long Distance

If you have a landline phone in your home or office, you can simply call your local phone companies and compare their long distance rates. While you may already have long distance service, it may not be the cheapest available - as a matter of fact, it may be the most expensive. This is why it is important to compare rates. Be sure to look for hidden charges, taxes and fees before choosing a plan, as they can significantly raise your bill.

In recent years, "10-10" long distance services have been very popular for long distance calls. You simply dial the "10-10" plan's 7-digit access code, then the area code and number you wish to call - and receive the discounted rates offered by the "10-10" company. This is an easy way to take advantage of lower rates - without having to switch your long distance company. The Internet is a great resource for finding the rates and numbers of "10-10" companies in your area.

Cellular Long Distance

Do you have a cell phone? This is a great way to save on long distance. Many cell phone companies offer great long distance rates, on both domestic and international calls. A simple check of your cell phone provider's available plans (either on their Web site or by calling customer service) will help you find the best deals. Many companies offer unlimited long distance on nights and weekends - if you can limit your calls to these times, you stand to save a lot of money. In recent times, cell phone companies have started to provide better international long distance rates, as well. If this is something you need, be sure to ask about special offers and new rate plans. You may be pleasantly surprised!

Broadband Long Distance

Do you have a computer and a broadband Internet connection? If so, you can take advantage of one of the VOIP (voice over IP) services that have taken the market by storm.

With VOIP services, you generally pay a flat monthly fee to make unlimited local and long distance calls. This fee is often much lower than a traditional phone bill. Customers sign up for this service, and can usually keep their same phone number. They receive an adapter from their company of choice, which enables them to make and receive calls using their computer lines, rather than standard phone lines. While the technology is still somewhat new, it is growing in popularity every day.

These are just some of the ways to save money on long distance. One of the best ways to find something that will work for you is to research plans available in your area, or even better, ask friends and family what they use. Chances are, some of them have excellent cheap long distance and they will be more than happy to share their secrets on savings with you!