5 Smart Ways to Cut Smart Phone Costs

Analyze Plans at Comparison Sites Smart phone plan costs are dipping. So, check out a slew of comparison sites where you can target recent deals.For example, BillShrink.com helps you analyze plans by matching you with optimal ones that fit your needs. MyRatePlan.com also analyzes various wireless plans for you. Allan Keiter, president of MyRatePlan.com, suggests looking at lighter usage plans as a way to cut costs."For people only using e-mail or browsing a few Web pages, you can get away with it," he says.Another strategy to save money is by shopping for the best data and text deals. For example, Verizon and AT&T offer $15-per-month data plans. T-Mobile's is $10. AT&T's text plan gives you 200 texts for $5 per month.Usually, data is less costly than voice. The key is tracking usage so you don't get slapped with costly extra charges. One way to do that is to download free "minute tracker" apps for your iPhone. AT&T and Verizon also offer online data calculators that you can use to analyze usage to target the best plan."Once you start streaming game playing or downloading apps, data usage adds up quickly," adds Keiter. "Be careful."

Avoid costly add-ons to your plan

Smart phone add-ons can add up.

Take big expenses such as warranties and gadget insurance. Warranties can cost $4 to $6 per month, and there's usually a $50 deductible. Many smart phones already come with one-year warranties.

"You've usually got two weeks to 30 days to return something if you've got a problem with it," says Sue Ann Macomber, supervisor at Utility Consumers Action Network's Fraud Squad, based in San Diego. She adds that tech gadgets quickly become outdated after a year or two anyway.

And gadget insurance is also questionable. For example, iPhone insurance can run $12 per month, with a hefty $150-plus deductible. AT&T also offers detailed billing that breaks down monthly costs for $2 per month.

And the add-ons don't stop there. Roadside assistance service can cost you $3 per month.

Save your money for apps.

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