AT&T International Phone Cards

In addition to prepaid long distance cards, AT&T offers international phone cards that can provide you with money saving long distance alternatives. They are usually sold in denominations ranging from $10 to $100. A unique personal identification number (PIN) printed on the back of the card allows you to access international long distance service. As calls are placed using this card, money is withdrawn from the prepaid account. When the card has reached its capacity it will no longer function, unless more prepaid time is added to it. This eliminates the shock that can accompany an unpredictable monthly bill, as all time spent on the phone has already been paid for.

AT&T international phone cards allow you to place calls from a number of global regions to anywhere in the world. They are mainly used when their rates are preferable to those of a local service provider. They can also be useful for emergencies, travel, or for placing calls from a payphone. The cards are available in a variety of styles, depending on the types of calls you will be making. You should note, however, that some cards may charge additional fees if used with a payphone. In contrast, some calling cards are designed specifically for use with payphones, and can even be slid through an electronic reader built into the phone.

Types of AT&T International Phone Cards

Some AT&T international phone cards are best suited to travel. If you plan on using your card to make calls from different locations as you travel, you should look for a card that doesn't require a connection fee. Connection fee cards usually offer cheaper rates-per-minute than other phone cards, but also charge the card a set amount for every call placed. Although cards without connection fees may not initially seem to save you money, thanks to their higher long distance rates, the repeated connection fees that would come from multiple calls can rapidly deplete a card's account. Connection fee cards can be useful if you are planning on using the card to place only one or two long calls from the same location. That way you can take advantage of the lower rates without incurring too many connection fees.

Another type of international phone card can be configured to provide lower rates to a specific telephone number. These cards charge significantly higher rates if used to call any number other than the "home" number that you provide. However, if you stick to your predetermined calling plan, you can save a lot of money. If you're going on vacation overseas, and will be routinely checking in with your family back home, this is the type of card for you. These types of international cards are often known as "call home" cards. They are also popular among students studying abroad, as they provide an economical way to keep in touch with their families.