How to Use Prepaid Phone Cards

After buying a phone card you will receive the physical card (if purchased at a store) or a virtual phone card electronically via email (if purchased on the Internet). The instructions for each type of card are exactly the same.

Each phone card will come with a unique PIN number, access numbers and instructions on how to use.

PIN Number - This is your code for the card. It is how the service provider knows your card and how much you have left on the card. If you loose your PIN number you wont be able to make any more calls. Very important - Don't loose your PIN number!

Access Numbers - These are the phone numbers that you call in order to make a phone call with a phone card. Each provider has different access number. Most phone cards come with a toll free and local access numbers.

General Instructions for Using a Phone Card:

Step 1 - Dial an access number.

Step 2 - Enter your PIN number – The balance remaining is usually given at this point so you know how much you have spent up to this call.

Step 3 - Enter the number you want to call. The rate is then determined and based on the money remaining on the card, the minutes you have for the call is given. Then the call is connected.

To make another call, don’t hang up. Press * or # depend on the service provider then dial new number.

During the conversation, when there are only a few minutes left on the card, most often you will be notified. After your minutes run out, the call is terminated. You will generally be notified so you can end the call.

Tip: If your phone card comes with both a toll free access number and a local access number, always use the local access number if within the calling area. This is because the toll free number most likely have a higher per minute charge. This results in less talk time for you.