A TracFone works differently than many other cellphones in that the user purchases time in advance, rather than signing a contract. This eliminates hidden charges, roaming fees and credit checks. The customer pays for only as much time as he needs. When he makes a call, he uses or spends his minutes. In addition to getting basic cellphone service, TracFone owners can tap into some beneficial programs just by knowing a few handy “secrets.” In order to call an international number, a user must first dial a TracFone access number. This takes the call into a phone menu which provides dialing directions. After a brief wait, the call is connected. To make connecting easier, you can store the access number as a speed dial number. All TracFones can use this service, so there is no need for users to sign up again. New users need to wait 48 hours for the service to be available to them. TracFone owners can get up to three different numbers for either Mexico or Canada, issued to the user at no cost. This means that if the user described above also has friends or family in Mazatlan and Cancun, he can request additional local numbers for those areas as well. The cost to the caller is the same as it would be to call that number if it were within the country of origin. The incoming call on the TracFone uses the same number of minutes as would any other call, including a local one. One of the best ways to get a good deal on minutes is to buy one of the special TracFone deals from the web site. Although the exact features of the deals may vary, typically a customer can purchase a TracFone which has doubled minutes for life for under $20, including shipping. Any minutes added to that phone will automatically be doubled.
