Prepaid Calling Cards

When you college-age child heads off on a vacation traveling around the U.S. this summer, do you think of the cost for all those long distance phone bills?

I'm Shirley Rooker for the Federal Trade Commission.

Should you give your child a calling card with unlimited access to the world, or should you consider another option? For example, you can purchase prepaid calling cards that can be customized to dial only certain numbers. The card allows parents to preprogram up to six frequently called numbers that can be retrieved with the push of a button. Once programmed, calling is limited to those pre-selected numbers.

In addition to restricting your child’s access to unlimited phone calls, these prepaid cards reduce the likelihood of theft, fraud, or misuse.

While they may cost more per minute than a regular prepaid calling card, the expense may be offset by the restrictions on calls. Check with your long distance company to see what options may be available and the cost.

I'm Shirley Rooker, director of WTOP radio's Call For Action for the Federal Trade Commission.

January 2002