Cell phone companies are advancing in their technology and service plans. T-Mobile has just introduced their new FlexPay service. The FlexPay option is prepaid without having to sign a contract for many of the major plans offered by T-Mobile.

The service was designed for those with less than perfect credit and don't want to pay a deposit, those who don't want to have a long-term agreement, or for those who just want to budget themselves better with phone usage. This is also useful for those who are on a tight budget who may not be able to make a payment by the due date. There are no disconnection fees or reinstatement fees. However, there is a limited amount of time to reload the account before service is cancelled.

Signing up is easy. Users simply choose the rate plan they would like such as FamilyTime or myFaves. MyFaves gives users the option to call any 5 people across the U.S. without using minutes in their standard rate plan. All plans can be chosen, just prepay the amount (plus a low monthly fee unless automatic payments are setup) and you have service. Any device can be chosen. However, if opening a FlexPay account, full price of the phone has to be paid. Under a contract, rebates apply.

When you open a FlexAccount, you can add money to the account to purchase ringtones and wallpapers. T-Mobile gives an extra bonus the first time users load a refill which can be found at any T-Mobile store or online. The FlexAccount also allows for users to use their balance when they run out of minutes from their standard package (though options like nights and weekends and myFaves are still usable without using the account balance). The account also offers games, music, icons and messaging.

Features are all available as well. Messaging and T-Zone packages are available as well to get you texting and surfing the mobile web on the go anytime.

Like many cell phone carriers, T-Mobile's service area stretches far across the U.S. The service includes no long distance or roaming charges. International calls to and from Mexico and Canada are available at a long distance rate.

Comparing FlexAccount to AT&T's GoPhone service which is very similar, T-Mobile offers the more convenient and affordable plan whereas AT&T's rates are higher with less minutes and less available calling features. FlexAccount also does not require automatic deduction from a credit card or bank account whereas GoPhone takes out the monthly plan each month on a certain date. However, AT&T has a wider selection of devices that offer rebates on select phones for GoPhone.

Learn more about this author, Chase Hunt.
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