Phone Have only one phone line Reduce option packages (voice mail, caller id, three-way calling, etc.) Avoid using long distance during peak hours when rates are higher Limit long distance use Is a cell phone practical? If it is, consider dropping standard phone line. Shop around for better rates and inform your current provider of what you've found, they may offer to match the rates or even offer better ones. If not, switch to the provider with the best rates. Use prepaid phone cards and discontinue long distance service all together.