Verizon-Phoenix Plan and Phone

[Happs]

Hi,

First time poster and basic cell phone user. I have been with Verizon Wireless in Phoenix since 1997 and for the past two years have had the Single Rate 150 Plan I think it's called where I get 150 daytime minutes nationwide and 3000 weekend nationwide minutes for $35 a month. I use a Kyocera QCP too. My contract is up for renewal this month and I'd like to stay with Verizon since I am satisfied with their price, coverage and Kyocera phone they gave me. When I go to a Verizon store to renew my contract, what is the likelihood of them keeping me on the same plan for the same rate? Can I get more daytime minutes for the same price or for maybe $45 a month? On average I only use about 40 daytime minutes a month and maybe 80 minutes of weekend minutes a month only because they are free. Do you negotiate with the people there? Do different stores offer different deals? I am happy with my telephone but I wouldn't mind spending up to $75 or so for a telephone which hold a better charge for a longer time. Should I keep the Kyocera OCQ 2038 or pay up for a newer model? Thank you for any advice you can give me.

[Airb330]

I would get a new phone, since the one you have now is getting old and won't work as well over time. When you renew your contract, you can get phones at the advertised price. Do you often travel? If not, then the no-roaming single-rate might not be a good option. If you don't travel, then get a local plan. If you do travel might as well keep the plan you have. It does not seem like you talk much, so try to get the cheapest plan possible, that would be my advice.

[budney]

I would agree with Airb330 for your situation. As far as a phone I would go with the V60i, it is Verizon's most dependable phone. It is $80 with a one year contract, or $50 with a two year contract.

[BillRadio]

Happs,
If you want to continue with your current phone and plan, do nothing. You will continue as before, but with no contract. If you wish to upgrade your phone, yes, you can stay on your old plan. If you don't need service in every county of the U.S., you might do well to change to their America's Choice plan, which inlcudes MOST of the U.S. for the same price but more peak minutes. You can upgrade to the AZ Local plan and get lots more minutes, and get included coverage from L.A. to Denver, and all of AZ, NM, SoCAl & CO.

If you are getting poor battery life, they can install a new battery for you. You'll be amazed at the difference. Before going to the store, look through Verizon's web site. Also, feel free to call their Customer Service and ask these questions. They are among the best and probably won't hard-sell you.

-Bill