Since most plans are month-to-month and don’t require a long-term
commitment, whilst frustrating, at least you have the option to quickly
switch if you are not satisfied with the service.
VoIP & 911
Is 911 support essential to you, because only a few VoIP vendors currently
offer it. If VoIP is your only phone, then probably yes it is important, if you
have a cell phone or regular home phone as a backup for 911 calls then
probably no.
(N.B. Regular phones still work during a power outage to your house).
Use Your Existing Phone Number?
If it’s important to keep your existing phone number (most VoIP Providers
give you a new VoIP-specific number) then you need to go with someone
who can provide this.
Be aware however that even with those that can, depending on your area
code they may or may not be able to transfer your number. DSL users
should also be aware that, due to the nature of DSL, you’ll need to keep
your existing number for that service and get an additional VoIP number
from your Service Provider.
For most people it’s less of a burning issue to have another VoIP number
because they will likely keep their regular phone line and/or cell phone,
and mostly use their VoIP service to save money on outgoing calls.
VoIP Calling Plans
There are hundreds of Calling Plans already available in North America
with different call features, pricing, and the free locations that you can call
(e.g. within North America or International too). The cost of signing up for a
plan varies as well, from zero to a fixed one-time Activation Fee of $20-
$40. All plans typically include a free Telephone Adapter to connect your
home/home office phone to your Internet high-speed modem.
Pay As You Go Plans
These plans have no Monthly Calling Fee but also no minutes included;
you pay per-minute as you go. You will still need VoIP software, or an
Adapter or VoIP phone to access lower VoIP Calling Rates.

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