Posted on: 05-09-05 20:39:49
Hey all
I've only been in Toronto for 4 days now and am looking for a cell phone. Most of the regular plans from Bell require a credit history which obviously I do not have.
I can go for a pre-paid plan, but that's expensive (unless I make calls very infrequently in which case having the phone is meaningless) and for pre-paid plans, even incoming calls get charged.
Any suggestions for someone who's new and who does not yet have a credit history?
You can try other companies, Telus, Rogers, Fido, Virgin.
When I was new, I got phone with $200 deposit with contract from Telus, Rogers were asking for $1000 deposit then. Go for short contract if you want flexibility though you may not get free phone.
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and Bell
Quote:
Orginally posted by Desi # 1
and Bell
If you go to Bell and give your information again, then will make one more unneccessary enquiry on your credit history. When you make enquiries, ask from companies how much deposit they require without giving your SIN number(I guess you do not have one right now), etc.
You can compare rate plans at
http://www.comparecellular.com/
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Quote:I am surprised that cell phone company like Bell and others are asking for credit history to give you a calling plan.
Orginally posted by Fonzie
Hey all
I've only been in Toronto for 4 days now and am looking for a cell phone. Most of the regular plans from Bell require a credit history which obviously I do not have.
I can go for a pre-paid plan, but that's expensive (unless I make calls very infrequently in which case having the phone is meaningless) and for pre-paid plans, even incoming calls get charged.
Any suggestions for someone who's new and who does not yet have a credit history?
Are you looking for a fancy, free phone, or are you ready to buy the phone?
I think if you are ready to pay for the phone, then it will be easier for you to "qualify" for a calling plan.
Just agree to buy the cheapest, most boring phone for now, don't sign-up for a contract and ask for the cheapest possible plan.
My experience with Bell was that I paid for the phone and did not agree to a contract and got a plan I liked.
They said nothing about checking credit, and like you, I was new here and did not have a credit history - did not even have a SIN# at that time.
It is ironic that cell phone companies, who are the king of rip-offs, first want you to have good "credit" to "qualify" to get ripped-off
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"Mah deah, there is much more money to be made in the destruction of civilization than in building it up."
-- Rhett Butler in "Gone with the Wind"
Quote:
Orginally posted by Fonzie
Hey all
I've only been in Toronto for 4 days now and am looking for a cell phone. Most of the regular plans from Bell require a credit history which obviously I do not have.
I can go for a pre-paid plan, but that's expensive (unless I make calls very infrequently in which case having the phone is meaningless) and for pre-paid plans, even incoming calls get charged.
Any suggestions for someone who's new and who does not yet have a credit history?
Since you are in Toronto, try to get City Fido service which gives unlimited local calling.. this way you don't have to worry about usage( which will be high because of interviews etc.) in the initial days.
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Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.
Hey guys
Thanks for your replies. I am gonna try and get one of these phones this weekend :-)
