Phones can do a lot of amazing things these days, and it’s tempting to take advantage of all of them. Trouble is, the cost of talking, surfing, and texting can really add up. If you’re not careful, your mobile phone bill can start looking like a car payment! So phone smarter by trying these five tips to saving on your mobile bill:

1. Negotiate! A lot of mobile phone companies want your business and they’re willing to compete to get it. No, they probably won’t create a custom plan for you, but you may be able to bargain for waived fees or rebate offers that save you cash.
   
   
2. Family time. Most providers offer plans that significantly reduce rates when multiple family members sign up together. These plans also allow you to call family members without using up valuable minutes.
   
   
3. Sign up for the right plan. Say you signed up for a smartphone and you find yourself texting and emailing more, while calling less. You might not need that 800-minute calling plan any more. Check your monthly usage and adjust to the cheapest plan that fits your current phone habits.
   
   
4. Shop around for accessories. Looking for a phone case, ear buds, or Bluetooth headset? Shop around -- your phone provider probably offers the most expensive options. You’ll do better online or at local stores.
   
   
5. Use WIFI instead of your 3G/4G minutes. Data usage (especially when you go over your allotted amount) accounts for big bucks on your smartphone bill. If you’re in a coffee shop, restaurant, or other public place, check for free wifi and save your data for another time.