Consumer Cellular Saves Customers Millions

Consumers spared more than $5 million in overage fees through Cell Phone Usage Alerts program

PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Consumer Cellular (http://www.consumercellular.com), a national provider of wireless phones and services, announced that its Usage Alerts program has saved consumers nationwide more than $5 million over the last year. This milestone in wireless customer savings comes as Congress and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) revisit enacting rules to prevent consumers from experiencing cell phone "bill shock."

“This $5 million milestone in consumer savings represents a significant investment in our most valuable assets, the customers we serve,” said John Marick, Consumer Cellular CEO. “We are committed to providing value to our subscribers and will continue to enhance our benefits, plans and products to ensure our customers have a worry-free cell phone experience.”

Launched in April 2010, Usage Alerts are a complimentary service that notifies customers before they exceed their monthly cell phone data or voice allotment, ensuring that no one incurs unexpected overage fees. Subscribers can select how and when they would like to be notified. Text or e-mail alerts are sent at four pre-set levels -- 75, 100, 125 or 150 percent of their monthly plan. Each Usage Alert does three things:

• Notifies the customer of their current use and potential to exceed their monthly allotment;
• Offers the customer recommended next steps given the level of activity and projected use for the particular billing cycle; and
• Provides an easy way to implement that recommendation.

Customers are also able to change their rate plan retroactively up to the last day of the billing cycle, which allows customers to take advantage of the best possible pricing. Subscribers are never charged a Usage Alert fee nor are there any costs or penalties associated with updating a plan. Usage Alerts are an automatic benefit provided to all Consumer Cellular customers who can also opt-out of the service if they so choose.

For more about Consumer Cellular’s Usage Alerts, visit www.consumercellular.com/info/usagealerts or call (800) 686-4460.

About Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular, the exclusive wireless provider for AARP members, was founded in 1995 on the belief that everyone should have affordable access to the safety and convenience of cellular service. The company provides its customers with simple, affordable cell phones and calling plans, guaranteed satisfaction and top-ranked customer support staff all located within the United States. Plus, Consumer Cellular customers never have to sign a long-term contract in order to start service.

The Portland, Ore.-based company is privately held and utilizes the nation's largest voice and data network, covering more than 296 million people - or 97 percent of the U.S. population. Consumer Cellular is one of the nation's leading wireless wholesalers and differentiates itself from its competitors providing its customers with an unparalleled understanding of the mature marketplace, great low rates and the best cellular network available. For more information: visit ConsumerCellular.com or call (800) 686-4460.

CONTACT:

LANE PR
Jane Taber, 503-546-7888
jane@lanepr.com

KEYWORDS:   United States  North America  Oregon

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS:   Other Consumer  Technology  Telecommunications  Mobile/Wireless  Consumer

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