Exactly as for dial arond systems, there are many different billing systems for these services. Each carrier has their own system. Consumers are well advised to study the options available before choosing a dial around service. A little time spent on research will result in the engagement of a solid carrier. Here are several options and items to look for:-
- There are two basic payment systems:-
- PrePaid Call Back:-
This is exactly as it appears, you prepay an amount (usually in $25 increments) against calls you intend to make using your international call back carrier. When the amount runs out, the service stops. You are normally warned in advance so that you can "top up" your account and continue service.- Monthly Billed Callback:-
Once more this is exactly as appears. You open an account with the call back service provider, who then bills you monthly in arrears. Payment can be made by check, credit card or wire transfer. Each carrier will have their own acceptable payment system. Predominantly payment is linked to a major credit card. Systems like PayPal are also acceptable.- There may be an initial setup or connection fee:-
- Initial Setup:-
Some carriers charge you a one time fee to set up your account. They do this to cover their admin costs and as an initial test of your credit.- Connection Fee:-
This is a grey area. It can mean the one time set up above. It can also refer to a fixed charge per call which is charged up front to make the connections for you. This second type is charged irrespective of the call duration.- There may be a monthly or annual service fee:-
- Monthly Fees:-
These are set at a nominal figure and typically are in the $1 to $5 range.- Annual Fees:-
This is a yearly charge and is often deducted irrespective of usage.- Billing increments:-
- Minimum Increment:-
Carriers cover the initial connection cost by either having a connection fee or a minimum call duration. Minimum call durations are normally adman 1 minute. They can be zero. Values of 18 seconds and 30 seconds are common. This indicates the minimum duration of a call. You will be charged for the minimum increment even if your call is of shorter duration.- Billing Increment:-
This is the time unit you will be charged for. Typical increments are:- 1 sec, 6 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute (60 seconds) and 3 minutes. Assuming there is a minimum call duration as described above, the billing increment describes the time increment that you will be charged for on completion of the minimum.Fof example:- Carrier A has a minimum of 60 seconds with a billing increment of 6 seconds. Any calls less than 60 seconds will be charged the full 60 seconds. After 60 seconds the charge is racked up in 6 second intervals. Obviously the shorter the increment the better the option from a consumer point of view.
