Emergency user
This type of user typically utilizes a fairly narrow calling area, and is unlikely to use or need long distance. A prepaid plan might work best for you if you truly are an “emergency” user (eg. to call a tow truck), which means that you pay for a set amount of minutes up front. Note, though, that these minutes will expire after 2-3 months. You’ll then need to buy more if you still want to have the phone activated. Other charges: The actual phone itself, plus activation charges. Shop around: a prepaid plan should be cheaper month-over-month than a regular phone with a low-cost monthly plan, but it’s worth it to do the math. Be truthful with yourself too about how you define an emergency. If your usage is more ‘occasional’ than ‘emergency’, figure out cost-per-minute charges, do some number crunching, then make your decision accordingly.

Average User
If you’re an average user (around $45 a month) but you find yourself going over your minute limit each month, consider this: the incremental cost of moving up a notch in plan levels isn’t usually that costly, and you often get twice as many minutes. Check back over those past few bills to track your calling patterns.

Aside from evaluating your per-minute costs, look at any long-distance calling. If you get nailed with a lot of roaming charges, consider finding a plan that eliminates those charges by rolling your long distance into the monthly rate package.

Family plans can be useful if you spend a lot of time talking to other family members. This type of plan lets you and family members share minutes on one account, but make sure you are aware of any additional charges you must pay for each phone to be on the plan.

Heavy user
Is your phone starting to feel permanently attached to your head? It can really be worth the time and effort for you to shop around, since the savings can really add up. Heavy users usually get the best per-minute rates but the extra features can add a lot to your bill. Ensure that you eliminate any features that you don’t use to save yourself some money.

Data user
Text messaging and e-mail is usually available on most types of plans, though keep in mind that you may have to pay additional fees if you’re on a lower-cost plan, while these services are often included in heavier-usage plans’ monthly costs.