Why It’s Important to Check Call Costs Before Calling
Checking how much a call will cost before you dial is a simple step that can save you money and help you avoid unpleasant surprises on your phone bill. Understanding call costs is especially important as rates can vary widely depending on the type of number you’re calling – whether it’s a UK landline, a mobile, a premium-rate service, or an international number.
By checking call costs in advance, you can plan your phone usage to stay within your budget. For example, calling a standard landline is usually cheaper than calling a mobile or a premium-rate number, which can incur significantly higher charges. If you’re on a pay-as-you-go plan or have limited minutes on your contract, knowing the cost helps you make your allowance go further.
Unexpected or high charges are most common when calling premium-rate numbers (such as those starting with 09, 087, or 118) or international destinations. These calls are often not included in your standard call package and can cost several pounds per minute. The Phone-paid Services Authority regulates premium-rate numbers in the UK, and service providers are required by law to clearly display call charges. However, it’s still your responsibility to check these costs before calling, as charges can add up quickly.
Being aware of call costs also helps protect your consumer rights. For example, some scams use expensive numbers to trick people into calling and running up high charges. If you know how to check the cost of a call, you’re less likely to fall victim to these tactics. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires businesses to use basic-rate numbers for customer service lines, so if you’re asked to call a premium-rate number for help, you may want to question it or look for an alternative.
Making informed decisions about which numbers to call – and when – can help you avoid unnecessary expenses. For instance, you might choose to call during off-peak hours when rates are lower, or use alternative contact methods if a number is particularly expensive. If you’re regularly making calls that aren’t included in your plan, it might be time to review your phone contract or explore other ways of managing call costs.
In summary, checking call costs before you pick up the phone puts you in control. It helps you budget effectively, avoid surprise charges, protect yourself from scams, and make better choices about how and when you communicate.
Types of Phone Numbers and Their Call Costs
When it comes to making phone calls in the UK, the type of number you’re calling plays a big role in how much you’ll pay. Understanding the differences between landlines, mobiles, premium rate, and special service numbers can help you avoid unexpected charges and manage your call costs more effectively.
Landline Numbers
Landline numbers typically start with 01, 02, or sometimes 03. Calls to landlines are usually charged at a standard rate, but the exact cost can vary depending on your phone provider and tariff. Many phone contracts include free or discounted minutes for landline calls, especially during evenings or weekends. However, if you go over your allowance, or if your plan doesn’t include landlines, you’ll be charged per minute. It’s always best to check with your provider for the latest rates.
Mobile Numbers
Mobile numbers in the UK usually begin with 07. Calling a mobile often costs more than calling a landline, particularly from a landline phone or payphone. While many mobile contracts include bundles with free or discounted minutes, calling mobiles from a landline, public phone, or business line can be expensive. Always check your tariff to see what’s included and what rates apply outside your allowance.
Premium Rate Numbers
Premium rate numbers start with prefixes like 09 or 118. These numbers are used for services such as competitions, TV voting, technical support, or directory enquiries. Calls to premium rate numbers can be very expensive, sometimes costing several pounds per minute. By law, companies must clearly state the cost of calling these numbers in any advertising or correspondence. Before calling, make sure you understand the charges – these are usually made up of an access charge (set by your phone company) and a service charge (set by the organisation you’re calling). The total cost must be made clear under the Phone-paid Services Authority regulations.
Freephone and Special Service Numbers
Freephone numbers, such as 0800 and 0808, are usually free to call from both landlines and mobiles. However, not all numbers that look similar are free, and some special service numbers may still incur a charge. For more details on when calls to 0808 numbers are free and how they work, see our guide to 0808 free numbers in the UK.
Why It Matters
Knowing the type of number you’re calling – and the charges that apply – can help you avoid unwanted surprises on your phone bill. If you’re unsure, check with your phone provider or look up the number’s prefix before dialling. This is especially important for premium rate and special service numbers, where costs can add up quickly.
By understanding these differences, you can make informed decisions about when and how to make calls, helping you stay in control of your call expenses.
Landline and Mobile Numbers
Landline and Mobile Numbers
When making calls to UK landline or mobile numbers, the cost can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these charges can help you avoid unexpected bills and manage your phone expenses more effectively.
Typical Call Charges
For most standard landline numbers (those starting with 01, 02, or 03), and mobile numbers (usually beginning with 07), call costs are set by your phone provider. If you have a monthly plan or a bundle, calls to these numbers may be included in your allowance. However, if you exceed your minutes or call outside your plan, you could be charged extra.
Landline calls are often cheaper than calls to mobiles, but this is not always the case. For example, pay-as-you-go users and those without inclusive minutes may pay a per-minute rate for both landline and mobile calls.
How Call Costs Can Vary
Call charges can differ widely between providers and plans. For instance:
Contract vs. Pay-as-you-go: Contract plans often include a set number of minutes, while pay-as-you-go users are charged per call or per minute.
Time of Day: Some providers charge different rates during peak and off-peak hours.
Inclusive Allowances: Calls within your inclusive minutes are usually free, but calls outside this allowance can be costly.
Network Differences: Calling a mobile on a different network may cost more than calling one on the same network.
By law, phone companies must clearly display their call charges. Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, requires providers to publish up-to-date price lists and inform customers about any changes to charges (see the General Conditions of Entitlement set by Ofcom).
Tips to Check Rates Before Calling
To avoid unexpected costs, it’s important to check the rate before making a call. Here’s how you can do this:
Check Your Provider’s Website: Most phone companies list their call charges online. Look for a section on tariffs or call rates.
Review Your Plan Details: Your contract or pay-as-you-go plan should outline which numbers are included and what you’ll pay for calls outside your allowance.
Contact Customer Service: If you’re unsure about the cost, call your provider’s customer service line for clarification.
Look for Notifications: Some providers send alerts if you’re about to make a call that isn’t covered by your allowance.
Remember, even calls to landlines and mobiles can be expensive if you’re not on the right plan or if you exceed your inclusive minutes. Always check before you call, especially if you’re calling a number you don’t recognise or if you’re using your phone abroad, as roaming charges may apply.
By staying informed and checking rates in advance, you can avoid surprise charges and keep control of your phone bill.
Premium Rate and Special Service Numbers
Premium Rate and Special Service Numbers
Premium rate numbers are telephone numbers that charge higher rates than standard landline or mobile calls. These numbers are often used for services such as competitions, TV voting, technical support, directory enquiries, or adult entertainment. The extra cost is usually split between your phone provider and the organisation running the service.
Examples of Premium and Special Service Numbers
In the UK, premium rate numbers typically begin with certain prefixes. The most common examples include:
09 numbers: Used for a wide range of premium services, including competitions, information lines, and adult content. Calls to 09 numbers can be very expensive, sometimes costing several pounds per minute.
118 numbers: These are directory enquiry services. Charges for calling 118 numbers can be particularly high, often including a hefty access charge plus a service fee.
Other special service numbers may also carry higher charges, so it’s always important to check before you call.
How to Check the Cost Before You Call
Before dialling a premium rate or special service number, you should always check how much the call will cost. The price can vary depending on your phone provider and whether you call from a landline or mobile. Here’s how you can find out:
Check your provider’s tariff: Most phone companies publish detailed price lists on their websites. Look for the section on premium or non-geographic numbers.
Look for price information in adverts: By law, organisations advertising premium rate numbers must clearly display the cost of the call. This should include both the access charge (set by your phone provider) and the service charge (set by the organisation).
Contact customer service: If you’re unsure, contact your phone provider’s customer service team to ask about the specific number you want to call.
The UK’s regulator, Ofcom, requires clear pricing information for premium rate calls. Always make sure you know both the access charge and the service charge before calling.
Be Aware of Potential Scams
Unfortunately, premium rate numbers are sometimes used in scams designed to trick people into making expensive calls. Common tactics include missed call scams, fake prize draws, or messages urging you to call back an unknown number. These can result in unexpectedly high charges.
To protect yourself, be cautious about calling unfamiliar premium numbers and be wary of unsolicited messages. For more guidance on how to protect yourself from these types of scams, see our page on spotting and avoiding scams.
By understanding how premium rate and special service numbers work, and always checking the cost before you call, you can avoid unexpected charges and keep your phone bill under control.
How to Check the Cost of a Call Before You Make It
Before making a phone call, it’s important to know how much it will cost – especially if you’re calling a number you don’t recognise, or a premium rate service. Here are practical ways to check call charges in advance and avoid any unexpected bills:
1. Check Your Phone Provider’s Website or Contact Customer Service
Most phone providers in the UK publish detailed call rate information on their websites. You can usually find a price list or a call charges calculator by searching for “call charges” or “price guide” on your provider’s site. If you’re unsure, contact your provider’s customer service team directly – they can confirm the exact cost for calling specific numbers, including landlines, mobiles, and international destinations.
2. Review Official Price Guides for Premium Numbers
Calls to premium rate numbers (such as those starting with 09, 084, or 087) can be much more expensive than standard calls. These numbers often include a service charge set by the organisation you’re calling, plus an access charge from your phone provider. To avoid surprises, check your provider’s official price guide for the latest rates. Premium rate call charges must be clearly displayed by law, under rules set by Ofcom, so you have the right to know the cost before dialling.
3. Use Online Tools and Apps
Many providers and independent services offer online tools or mobile apps that estimate the cost of calls. These tools let you enter the number you want to call and will show you the expected charge based on your tariff. This can be particularly helpful if you make calls to different types of numbers or from various devices.
4. Why Checking Costs Matters for Unfamiliar or Premium Numbers
It’s especially important to check the cost before calling numbers you don’t recognise, or any premium rate, directory enquiry, or international numbers. Charges for these calls can be significantly higher than standard calls, and they may not be included in your call allowance or bundle. By checking in advance, you can avoid unexpected expenses and manage your phone budget more effectively.
For more detailed advice and step-by-step guidance on managing your phone expenses, see our page on managing call costs.
Taking the time to check the cost of a call before you make it puts you in control and helps you avoid unnecessary charges, giving you peace of mind whenever you pick up the phone.
How Checking Call Costs Helps You Avoid Unexpected Charges
Understanding how much a call will cost before you pick up the phone can save you from nasty surprises on your bill. By checking call costs in advance, you can make informed choices about which numbers to call, how long to stay on the line, and whether there might be cheaper alternatives. Here’s how this simple step can help you avoid unexpected charges and manage your phone expenses more effectively.
Avoiding Surprise Fees on Your Phone Bill
Many people are caught out by extra charges for calling certain numbers, especially premium rate lines or numbers outside their inclusive minutes. Charges for calling 084, 087, 09, or international numbers can add up quickly. By checking the cost of these calls beforehand, you can decide if it’s worth making the call, look for cheaper ways to contact the company, or even use online options instead. This helps you avoid hidden fees and budget more confidently for your monthly phone bill.
Understanding Charges When Cancelling Contracts or Services
It’s not just regular phone calls that can lead to unexpected costs. If you’re thinking about cancelling your phone, internet or TV contract, there may be charges for calling customer service or cancellation lines, especially if they use premium rate numbers. Knowing the cost of these calls in advance means you can prepare for any additional fees, or try to find alternative contact methods that won’t add to your bill. This is particularly important, as some companies may only offer expensive numbers for contract changes or cancellations.
Knowing Your Rights if You’re Charged Incorrectly
UK law requires phone companies to provide clear information about call charges, both in your contract and on your bills. If you’re charged more than you expected, or if the cost of a call wasn’t made clear, you have the right to challenge these charges. Ofcom regulations state that all call charges must be transparent and fair. If you feel you’ve been misled or overcharged, you can raise a complaint with your provider and, if necessary, escalate the issue through an independent ombudsman.
How to Dispute Unexpected Call Charges
If you spot a charge you don’t recognise, or you believe you’ve been overcharged for a call, don’t ignore it. Start by checking your itemised bill and comparing it with the advertised rates for the numbers you called. If something doesn’t add up, contact your provider to ask for an explanation or correction. For more detailed guidance on your options and how to take things further, see our advice on disputing a phone bill.
By taking a few moments to check call costs before you dial, you can avoid unwanted fees, stay in control of your spending, and know exactly what to do if something goes wrong.
Tips to Protect Yourself from High Call Charges and Scams
Tips to Protect Yourself from High Call Charges and Scams
High call charges and phone scams can catch anyone off guard, leading to unexpected bills and potential financial loss. By staying alert and following a few simple steps, you can protect yourself from costly mistakes and fraudulent activity.
Be Cautious with Premium and Unknown Numbers
Premium rate numbers – such as those starting with 09, 0871, or 118 – often carry much higher charges than standard landline or mobile calls. Scammers sometimes use these numbers to trick people into calling and racking up expensive charges. If you receive a call or message from a number you don’t recognise, especially if it asks you to call back urgently, take extra care before dialing.
Check Call Costs Before Dialing
Before making a call to a number you don’t know, always check how much it will cost. This is particularly important for numbers advertised on websites, in text messages, or on social media, as these can sometimes be linked to scams or hidden charges. Your phone provider’s website or customer service can provide up-to-date call rates for different types of numbers, helping you avoid unexpected costs.
Recognise Signs of Scam Calls
Scam calls often use pressure tactics, such as claiming you owe money, have won a prize, or need to take urgent action. Be wary if you are asked to call back on a premium or unfamiliar number, or if the caller refuses to give clear information about their identity. Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you to call expensive numbers or disclose personal details over the phone.
Use Trusted Sources to Verify Call Costs and Numbers
If you’re unsure about a number, use trusted sources to verify its legitimacy and the cost of calling it. Don’t rely on information provided by the caller or in unsolicited messages. Your phone provider and official regulatory websites can help confirm whether a number is genuine and what the charges will be.
Report Suspicious Calls
If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam or have received a suspicious call, report it to the relevant authorities. By doing so, you help protect yourself and others from falling victim in the future. Reporting scams also assists regulators in tracking and shutting down fraudulent operations.
For more detailed advice on identifying and dealing with phone scams, see our guide on spotting and avoiding scams.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can keep your phone bills under control and protect yourself from scams and high call charges.
