I know this blog is about prepaid cell phones but I wanted to throw this idea out there.

What about Magic Jack?

Think about it. If you work pretty much exclusively from a laptop or computer, you can make or receive phone calls for $20 a year. All you really need is a high-speed internet connection, speakers/microphone (which are automatically built into just about every computer). Or, if you don’t like the microphone/speaker option, you can opt to use a computer headset or a regular telephone.

With the right equipment you can make and receive calls for the year for just $20. No contract, no credit check, no monthly bills. All you need to do is plug the Magic Jack dongle into a USB port on your computer/laptop and start calling. It comes with the usual phone features such as voice mail, caller ID and call waiting.

Won’t Replace Cell Phones

No, it’s not as convenient as, nor will it replace a cell phone (try receiving a Magic Jack call while waiting at the bus stop), but if you spend quite a bit of time on your computer, having Magic Jack might just work out well for you

What About Text Messaging

Understand that you can’t send text messages with Magic Jack, but if you’re already on your computer, you can send text messages through your email program (emails are easier on aging eyes my book).

No contract, no credit check, no monthly bills, one annual payment of 20 bucks. Magic Jack won’t replace a cell phone, but it does have its advantages.