[jodi]

It really depends on how much you use it. I've have trouble with my Nextel plan in the past, but right now I have an awesome (unadvertised) deal. After my contract was up, I called to tell them I was switching. They asked me why, and I told them (to get a friends and family plan, to get a cheaper plan). They offered me 600 minutes for $32, plus took off an additional 20% to match the discount I would have gotten with Verizon through my job. Then they allowed me free calls from three numbers that I call frequently, since they didn't have a friends/family plan to meet my needs. If you have a current provider, but are no longer on a contract, you can try to call them to tell them you are switching and see what they offer. Some companies do have the ability to offer you a better deal than what they advertise. Also, check to see if any offers discounts through your employer. I have the opportunity for various discounts through my job (state employee), my union, or through being a member of the Realtor Association.