Each year, consumers spend billions of dollars on calling cards. These cards allow those without international calling plans, or those seeking to avoid higher rates through their plans, to place calls overseas. New immigrants or international travelers often use them to place calls to loved ones.

The card price constitutes a pre-payment on minutes, though the number of minutes depends on the country the user calls as well as any fees that may deplete the card balance. To use the calling card, you call the number on the back of the card, then follow prompts to enter a personal identification number (PIN), followed by the international prefix and phone number the person seeks to call.

Purchasing a Calling Card

Each year, consumers spend billions of dollars on calling cards. These cards allow those without international calling plans, or those seeking to avoid higher rates through their plans, to place calls overseas. New immigrants, international business people and world travelers are just some of the many potential users, using them to call back home to friends and family.

The price of the card constitutes a pre-payment on minutes, though the number of minutes provided depends on the country the user calls as well as any extra or ‘hidden’ surcharges or fees that may be incurred. To use the calling card, you call the number on the back of the card and follow the prompts to enter a personal identification number (PIN), followed by the international prefix and phone number the person wishes to call.

Purchasing a Calling Card

Calling cards are often available in local convenience stores, gas stations, and newspaper stands. Larger retailers (for example Wal-Mart and Target in the US) have also begun supplying international calling cards.

The cards proclaim rates “as low as” one or two cents per minute. However, different types of fees, such as weekly fees for owning the card, connection fees, hang-up fees, can deplete available funds from the money paid for a card. Those fees by law must be disclosed at the point of purchase, so understanding the value of your purchase requires careful attention to the terms on the calling card or its packaging.  Hidden fees are a huge downside of using a calling card.

Online Calling Card Options

In the last few years, online providers have given consumers the option to purchase international minutes without a physical calling card. Companies like Communications Fidelity, Nobel, and Rebtel allow you to register your phone number, so not only do you avoid the inconvenience of a physical card, you also save the hassle of entering a PIN every time you try to make an international call.

Just as with a physical calling card, you should review the terms and conditions of usage. By uncovering any hidden fees, you’ll be more likely to get the best value for your money.

Mobile Apps

Finally, apps are available for your iPhone, Android, or Windows Phone. Downloading the calling card apps available from providers like PennyTalk, Tel3, or Rebtel allows you to call from your contacts list, add money to your account, and use local minutes for international calls without the inconvenience of physical cards or PINs.