For TracFone or Safelink, press one. For simple mobile, press two. For total by Verizon, press three. For net ten, press four. To repeat this menu, press zero."
People often call Tracfone's customer support to get help with accessing their account, receiving technical support, making upgrades and changes or activating service on a device. Current customers can also call to make payments, if they don't already use Tracfone's e-payment option. Once you call, you'll be told to press two for Spanish or wait on hold. You're then given a menu of options related to your specific service/device: Tracfone or Safelink Wireless, Simple Mobile, Total by Verizon or Net10 Wireless. The automated greeting moves quickly through these choices, and pressing zero will repeat the menu.
I've heard about no-contract plans through Tracfone and wanted to get more information so I selected the first option for Tracfone. After about a minute wait, a customer service representative answered and asked how I could be helped. I asked for information related to purchasing a phone and setting up service but the rep shared that this was not his expertise and he would transfer me to their sales department.
It was another brief wait before a sales rep got on the line and for a second time I shared that I was gathering information about phones and service plans. He explained that customers can purchase phones at any retailer, like Walmart or Dollar Stores, as well as on their website or over the phone. He was eager to get my personal information to begin the process but I had to explain I wasn't ready to make a purchase yet. In that case, he explained, it would be better for me to visit their website to browse the variety of phones and service plans available.
When I asked how the service worked with no contract, he said customers pay a monthly fee based on the pre-paid plan selected and the coverage needed. Plans include fees for talking and texting, plus data coverage for high-speed web use. You must purchase a service plan to activate a phone, he explained, and you can sign up for service for one month or one year. All plans are based on pre-paid usage with the option to "refill" or add to your plan as needed. The downside - data usage is not unlimited so you will need to track those minutes/texts.
In addition, he shared that customers can choose from smart phones, basic phones, refurbished devices or even hearing-aid compatible phones for older adults. He directed me to their website when I thanked him for his time and the call ended. Tracfone's website also offers a virtual assistant pop-up box where you can ask specific questions related to phones, service and plans if your time is limited and making a phone call won't work. I found this to be a great choice when taking time to browse online as I did feel a bit rushed on while the phone with the service rep. However, for those who prefer to speak with a live person, you are guaranteed quick access by calling Tracfone's support directly.