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OK, people. If you need a tip calculator, you should not be using something as complex as a cell phone! You could be seriously hurt!

Aside from that little caution, this cell phone is similar to the ones my kids use. It's compact, easy to use, and has so many features that they can do all the things they need.

As for cell phone plans…what a scam. We have AT&T because we are die-hard Apple fanatics. But we can hardly wait until Apple breaks out with any of the rumored new service providers. The service isn't stellar and, perhaps more importantly, we pay an arm and a leg for the “privilege” of being locked into a two-year contract.

If you're looking for an inexpensive phone service, TracFone is one to consider. They offer:

• No contract – you decide how long the coverage lasts, you find a better deal, you can switch with no repercussions, and you can choose from pay as you go plans with a variety of perks
• No credit checks – if the recession has hit you hard and your credit has been damaged, you can still get a cell phone
• No activation fees – startup fees no more, no hidden surprises when you open that first bill
• No cancellation fees – if you decide you no longer need TracPhone service, they don't kick you on your way out the door

Check out some real customers to get an idea of the advantages of the service.

What else can you expect? You can get simple phones for under $10. If you don't think that's big, you haven't been shopping for phones lately. Some companies will give you a “free” phone, as long as you promise your first born. With TracFone, the phone and plan are separate, and they are both prices fairly!

You can upgrade—if you choose—to phones with cameras, web access, and mp3 players for $29.99.

International calling? Same price as domestic calls for over 60 international destinations.

Cell phone services vary so widely, this is one area you can really save some money. Listen to some customers share their experience with TracFone. See if their service is right for you.

Alison Moore Smith is a 61-year-old entrepreneur who graduated from BYU in 1987. She has been (very happily) married to Samuel M. Smith for 40 years. They are parents of six incredible children and grandparents to two astounding grandsons. She is the author of The 7 Success Habits of Homeschoolers.