Family plans and line counts
How to compare plans when more than one person shares the bill.
Count the lines
List each person and device that needs service, including tablets or watches. Carrier pages often price plans by line count.
Total, not per line
A per line figure changes with the line count. Compare the full monthly total for your exact number of lines, with taxes and fees, and see the current price at the carrier.
Shared or separate data
Check whether each line has its own data or the lines share one pool. With a shared pool, one heavy user can use it up for everyone. Ask whether the plan lets you set a limit for each line.
Phones on payment plans
The FCC says locked phones "remain locked until all the installments are paid, or for a certain period of time." Note which phones on the account are still on payments before you move lines.
Moving lines later
The FCC says to review your contract for early termination fees and outstanding balances before you change companies. Check this for each line, not only the account.
Who holds the account
One person usually holds the account. Ask the carrier how a line can move to its own account later, and whether the number goes with it.
This is general information, not legal advice. Plan terms come from the carrier.
Sources: FCC, Cell Phone Unlocking; FCC, Porting: Keeping Your Phone Number When You Change Providers.
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