Having a smartphone in today’s society allows you to easily communicate with friends, play games, watch a movie or participate in social media. It’s almost imperative that you own one of these devices, but, what do you do if you have bad credit and know that it may be difficult for you to qualify for a cell phone contract? Here are five methods that you can use to obtain cell phone service, even though your credit isn’t up to par:
No Credit Check Plans
When you sign up for a cell phone service from a major provider, they may have a plan that provides you with one of the newest phones on the market. For that privilege, they want to ensure that you have the ability to pay them back. Over time, your monthly bills will slowly pay for that phone. This is a good deal for you as you get a new phone and works out well for the provider too. This is the main reason why they want to make sure that you have good credit. Fortunately, there are also plans available that do not require a credit check. The drawback is that you will have to pay for your own phone. While you may not be able to afford the latest and greatest phones that they have available, they do offer newer devices that will service your needs at a reasonable price.
Family Plan
Another way that you can obtain a smartphone and bypass a credit check or bad credit is by joining a family plan that’s being used by a friend, relative or family member. In fact, this is also a way to save some extra money on your plan as providers usually give a large discount when more people are using their service. This type of arrangement will cost you anywhere from $25-$50 each month.
Obtain A Cosigner
If you really have your heart set on a new phone with multiple features, there is the option of using a cosigner. A cosigner is someone who has good credit. They will be held responsible for the bill if you fail to make payments. Anyone can be a cosigner — friends or family. If you are trustworthy and have a good relationship with your parents, a cousin or really good friend, they may help you with this. However, be aware that their credit score is on the line if payments are not made when they are required.
Security Deposit Option
If you have bad credit, a few companies may allow you to pay a security deposit that ranges between $50-$250. If you continue to make payments when they are due and keep your account in good standing, you’ll be able to get your security deposit back. However, depending on the service provider, if you miss even one payment, you may lose your security deposit.
Pay As You Go
If you try the other four options and still aren’t able to get signed on with a cell phone plan, you can always use a pay-as-you-go plan. While this is probably the last resort that you may want to take, there are plans that provide phones with multiple features. You may not have a phone with all the bells and whistles, but this will give you a way to communicate.
Consider these options when you discover that your credit score is low. Work on rebuilding your credit so that you will have zero problems obtaining a cell phone contract in the future.
Jim Treebold is a North Carolina based writer. He lives by the mantra of “Learn 1 new thing each day”! Jim loves to write, read, pedal around on his electric bike and dream of big things. Drop him a line if you like his writing, he loves hearing from his readers!