What Questions Should I Ask Google Fi When Shopping for a Cellphone Provider?

Cellphones can be used for a variety of tasks, and every phone owner uses theirs in a different way. Before signing a contract with Google Fi for cellphone service, evaluate how much data you use each month with your phone. Don't forget to factor in other costs to your monthly bill, such as a leased phone, insurance, or sales taxes.

If you're in the market for a new Google Fi cellphone plan, you'll want to feel assured that your plan is the best possible one. Here are questions you should ask the Google Fi customer service representative about cellphone service.

How Much Data Can I Use?

Take some time to think about how you use your phone, and where you use it. Do you mostly take it where there's Wi-Fi? Do you send a lot of text messages or media messages? How many minutes a month do you spend on phone conversations? And don't forget mobile apps! A map or GPS app, like Google Apps or Waze, can use up a lot of data (and usually not where there's a good Wi-Fi connection), as can streaming entertainment apps like Netflix or HBO Go.

What Are the Overage Penalties?

No matter which plan you choose, likely there will come a month in which you use more data or minutes than you paid for. In this case, it's good to know how much you might be expected to pay. While you're asking about overage penalties, also ask about options for tracking your data usage. Many services will send you a text when you've used up 75% or 90% of your monthly data.

If the overage penalties seem steep, make sure you check how good the coverage is in your area.

How Much Are Extra Lines?

Many cellphone providers, including Google, let you add additional phone lines, usually at a discount. However, make sure to check in with anyone who would be on this 'family plan' with you, and ask how much data they themselves use.

Do Phones Come With the Plan?

Some plans come with a subsidized or even free cellphone. For other plans, you may have to sign a separate lease agreement.

If your plan comes with a free or discounted cellphone, check out the specs before signing. Make sure that the offered phone has the features you need. For instance, if you plan to use your phone for TikTok or Instagram, you'll want to make sure the cameras are top-notch. Whereas if you like using your phone to play mobile games, storage capacity becomes a priority. And don't forget headphones! Some models are moving away from including a 3.5mm jack and require you to have Bluetooth earbuds. Customers are sharply divided on the question, so whichever you prefer, make sure the phone model has the feature you want.

Either way, be sure to ask if you'll be expected to pay extra for a phone, either upfront or every month (or sometimes both). That leads into the next question you ought to ask.

Are There Any Extra Fees?

In many places, the number given on the plan may not be what you end up paying. As indicated previously, some plans include a separate lease for your phone. Other sources of extra fees might be state taxes, insurance coverage, or even the ever-present but vaguely worded service charge. Always ask your Google Fi customer service rep what extra charges you might expect to see on your phone bill, and factor that into your overall budget decisions.

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