More and more people prefer prepaid cell phone plans or pay-as-you-go plans over the traditional monthly plans.The reason is simple.The idea behind the prepaid plans is : you only pay if you use the phone ; if you don't use it , then you don't pay.There is no deposit that is required to be paid.Prepaid cell phones have some big advantages over the traditional monthly contract. First of all, you're not tied by any contract with the cell phone company and there is no monthly bill.You can control your kids' cell phone usage .If you're not happy with the services provided by your prepaid cell phone company you can switch to another company whenever you want.

A recent study claims that despite a down economy , prepaid cell phone companies are prospering.People who can't win credit approval are opting for prepaid plans.Prepaid cell phone companies like MetroPCS are gaining customers : 38% gain to 5.5million.

You can choose from a number of prepaid cell phone providers : T-Mobile , AT&T , TracFone , AllTel, and Verizon.Prepaid cell phone plans include the same services as regular plans such as : caller ID, SMS , three-way calling , international calls ,picture messaging etc.Some providers offer bonuses on refills.For example T-Mobile has the "Gold Rewards" plan. Once you become e a "Gold Rewards" member, you get 15% more minutes for any refill card you purchase.

It's important to know that prepaid cell phone credits can expire.The expiration date depends on the prepaid card you bought.If you don't use your minutes within a specified period,you lose them.You can save them by adding extra minutes(buying extra minutes) before the current ones expire.

If you rarely use your phone,or use the phone only for emergencies , then prepaid cell phones are the right thing for you.