Many consumers are choosing to cut their landline phone lines, but consider your total ownership cost before you do. This will help you decide if keeping your landline is a good idea.
Some people find that landlines sound better and can also be helpful for emergencies as some phones offer 911 locations, unlike cell phone services.
1. Cost of Installation
Adding a landline phone involves a one-time installation fee ranging from $20 to $265. This cost is based on the work needed to get the line in your home and whether you need a new jack or if the jack needs to be relocated. Consider the associated cost of landline alternatives when evaluating communication options for a comprehensive understanding of available choices.
Local and federal taxes may also be tacked onto your monthly bill. These charges typically make up under 1% of your total bill.
Some companies offer bundled services to save upfront costs and help you stay connected to your family and friends. Plans that include long-distance and local calling run $30 to $45 per month. These plans usually have features like call waiting, voicemail, and caller ID.
A landline offers a secure connection that doesn’t rely on cellular networks, which can falter during natural disasters and other emergencies. Additionally, some medical alert systems require a landline to work. This ensures your loved ones can still contact you even if a power outage or a cell network is down.
2. Call Costs
If you choose a traditional landline, you’ll likely have to pay for local and long-distance call charges. You may also be charged for additional services like voicemail and call waiting. Late fees will also increase if you don’t keep up with your billing.
The good news is that, compared to the cost of a VoIP system, landlines are relatively affordable. However, this is only true if you don’t need to scale your business’s phone service as much as you might with a VoIP solution.
The most significant benefit of a landline is its reliability during emergencies. A landline is the only way to contact emergency services in areas with inadequate cell coverage. Plus, unlike wireless phones, landlines don’t rely on electricity or a power source to work. This makes them a reliable option in storms or other disasters. It’s essential to consider this before choosing a traditional landline. This will help you determine the best choice for your needs.
3. Long-Distance Costs
A landline phone provides clear, consistent communication and a backup for emergencies. Various providers offer high-quality service. Some even work without the Internet or power that connects to cell towers for seamless communications.
Unlike cellular phones, landlines don’t rely on a centralized infrastructure and are less likely to fail during natural disasters or large-scale emergencies. Additionally, because a landline’s number is tied to an exact address, 911 responders can locate your home more quickly, saving lives in critical situations.
Although many people no longer use their landlines, it can be essential to a family plan for home security and emergency response. It can also protect your home from robocalls and sales calls because the phone’s number is listed in the directory. Some one-time fees may be charged for account setup and maintenance insurance.
4. Equipment Costs
Some people choose to use landlines because of their clarity and reliability. Additionally, they’re a good option for households with poor cell phone reception or those concerned about potential health risks from cellphone radiation.
Conclusion
Local and federal taxes are also typically a part of the cost of a landline, which can add up to under 1% of your total bill. Many plans also include maintenance insurance, usually a small fee on top of the monthly charge, and can cover costs like repair or equipment replacement.
Many companies offer bundle deals and savings on their services, including home phones. For example, bundling your landline service with your Internet and cable may be cheaper.