Pioneer Telephone Frequently Asked Questions

<BODY text=#000000 bgColor=#ffffff leftMargin=0 topMargin=0 marginheight="0" marginwidth="0"> <TABLE height=449 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD colSpan=2 height=72> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="37%" height=111> <TABLE height=121 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD vAlign=top height=110><IMG height=123 src="logoTop2.jpg" width=168 alt="Top Logo For Pioneer Long Distance"></TD> <TD vAlign=top height=110><IMG height=123 src="logoleft.jpg" width=205 border=0 alt="Pioneer Telephone Left Logo"></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD> <TD vAlign=top width="63%" height=111> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="1%"> </TD> <TD> </TD></TR> <TR> <TD align=left width="1%" height=60 rowSpan=2><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2></FONT><FONT color=#000099> </FONT> </TD> <TD align=right height=30> <a href="http://www.calling-plans.com/" title="Long Distance Telephone Service"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Return to Long Distance Calling Plans" border=0></a> <a href="http://www.calling-plans.com/unitel/" title="Unitel Long Distance"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Return to Unitel Long Distance" border=0></a> <a href="http://www.calling-plans.com/powernet-global/" title="Powernet Global"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="PowernetGlobal" border=0></a> <a href="http://www.calling-plans.com/capsule/" title="Capsule Communications"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Capsule Communications" border=0></a> <a href="http://www.opex-ld.com/" title="Opex Long Distance"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Opex" border=0></a> <a href="http://www.airespringld.com/" title="Global Fibernet"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Global Fibernet" border=0></a> <a href="http://long-distance.50megs.com/" title="Long Distance 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cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD vAlign=top align=left width="80%"><LINK href="articlestyle.css" type=text/css rel=stylesheet><BR> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="95%" align=left border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD align=middle> <DIV align=left> <P align=center><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=4><B><FONT color=#800080><BR>FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS</FONT><BR></B></FONT></P> <P align=left><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=3> <OL> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#36">Who is Pioneer Telephone?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#33">Where is Pioneer available?</A> </FONT> <LI><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#20"><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Why the difference in rate ?</FONT></A> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#34">Will I receive my bill on my local phone bill? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#35">Is there a toll free number for customer service ?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#27">Which carrier is actually providing the service?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#3">What are the rates for calling inside my state ?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#5">What are the billing increments?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#46">What are local toll calls?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#6">Is there any set up fee to start an account with Pioneer?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#43">Is there a minimum usage requirement?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#8">Do I have to dial any special codes to get my low Pioneer rates?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#44">How long does it take for my long distance service to be switched?</A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#47">Should I tell my previous long distance company that I am switching? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#13">Why did my local provider charge me to switch to Pioneer? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#14">Can I pay my bill online? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#99">Where is the call detail ? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#15">Can I pay my bill with a credit card?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#38"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt">What fees will be included in my phone bill</SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#38"><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">?</FONT></A></SPAN><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> </SPAN></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#17">How do I place an international call?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#18">What is an intrastate call?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#19">Why did I get a notice telling me there is restriction/block on my service when I am billing with Pioneer ?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#95">What is "slamming"? </A></FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#21">What is a LOA (letter of agency)?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#22">Does Pioneer offer calling cards?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#23">Is there any additional charge for an 800 or toll-free number?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#24">What is a RESPORG form?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#25">Is there any minimum commitment time as a customer?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#48">What is a PICC charge?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#32">Does it cost me to call an 800 number?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#53">Is there an extra charge to have my own toll-free number?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#37">What do I do if I miss the confirmation call after I have submitted my order??</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#50">Are account codes available?</A> </FONT> <LI><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#51">What are the rates to Alaska and Hawaii?</A> </FONT></LI></OL></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT><A name=36><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><B>Who is Pioneer Telephone ?</B><BR>Pioneer has been in business since 1989 and leases 101,000 miles of fiber from Frontier/Global Crossing. Pioneer Telephone is located at </FONT></FONT></FONT><A name=36><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>Pioneer Telephone 583 Warren Ave. Portland, ME 04103.</FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=1> </FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica size=1><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR>We are a privately held family business. <BR>Our motto at Pioneer is: Simple, Straightforward and Honest.  </FONT> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=33><BR><BR><B>Where is Pioneer available?</B><BR>Pioneer is now available in all states. Pioneer provides lower rates to customers who have: Ameritech, Bell South, Pac Bell, SBC, US West/Qwest and Verizon (excluding the former GTE area's) for dial tone service. If you have any other dial tone provider your state to state rate will be 3.25 cents and in state rates will vary. International and calling card calls will be the same rate. <BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><B>Why the difference rate ?<BR></B><FONT face=Verdana color=black size=2><A name=20><FONT face=Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=-1>The independent local carriers are allowed to charge much (300% higher) higher origination and termination fee's to long distance carriers versus the old Bell companies that we listed in the above paragraph.<BR><BR>When you pick up the phone and make a long distance call, not every long distance carrier has lines on the pole. All long distance carriers must pay an origination fee to the local carrier per minute and a termination fee per minute to the local carrier where the call is ending up to complete the call. (it is our job to carry it in the middle of the two points)  </P> <P>Thus a call that starts in Charlotte, NC with Bell South and ends up in California with Pac Bell and is 10 minutes in length will incur fee's of:</P> <P>BellSouth: 10 minutes of origination access fee's<BR>Pac Bell: 10 minutes of termination access fee's<BR>Pioneer: transporting the call for 10 minutes between NC & CA</P> <P>Think of it as a rental fee for the telephone poles and wires.<BR>Congress in the Telecommunication Reform Act of 1996 allowed <BR>Competitive Local Exchange providers to charge up to 300% higher <BR>access fee's to long distance companies to off set their short fall in offering cheaper dial tone to consumers.</P> <P> </P> <P><IMG height=389 src="switched_border.gif" width=518 border=0></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P> </P></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica size=1> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=34><B>Will I receive my bill on my local phone bill? </B><BR>No. Pioneer will send you a separate bill.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=35><BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR><B>Is there a toll-free customer service number?</B><BR>Yes, 1-888-492-6878 (1-888-I WANT PT) Hours of operation are: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday Eastern Time. After hours please send an email to us.  <BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT></P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=27><B>Which network is actually providing the service?</B><BR>Frontier/Global Crossing. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>You will be notified by your dial tone provider (local carrier) that a change in your service has occurred and that the service was changed to: Frontier/ Global Crossing. The local carrier may charge you $5 per line to change the service, Pioneer does not receive any of this money. As well Pioneer does not reimburse this either. Due to our low rates we cannot afford to due the same things as carriers who charge double and triple our rates.   <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=3><B>What are the in-state rates?</B><BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica size=1><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica size=2><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>Click here for the <A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006&pageID=rates">list of in-state rates</A></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>The link to the list is at the top after you click through.<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=5><B>What are the billing increments?</B><BR>They vary from plan to plan. <A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006&pageID=rates">Please refer to the sign up page. </A><BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=46><B>What are local toll calls?</B><BR>These are calls in your local area code. Pioneer can carry your local toll calls. The cost of a "local toll" call with Pioneer is the same as any <A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006&pageID=rates">in-state</A> call. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=6><B>Is there any set up fee to start an account with Pioneer?</B><BR>No. Pioneer does debit your credit card $10 upon sign up, in order to validate the card, however we credit the full amount back on your first invoice. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>(this is only if you provided a credit/debit card at sign up) <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=43><B>Is there a minimum usage requirement?</B><BR>If you receive a paper bill, there are monthly minimum usage requirements and if not met there are low usage fee's to cover billing costs. With online billing the low usage fee is reduced. <BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=8><B>Do I have to dial any special codes to get my low Pioneer rates?</B><BR>No. You dial 1 + the number. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>The plastic card (if you ordered a calling card) in the welcome letter is a calling card to be used when you are away from home. Calling card rates are higher than your normal home or office long distance rates.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=44><B>How long does it take for my long distance service to be switched?</B><BR>Approximately 10 business days. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>After 5-10 days dial 1-700-555-4141 and listen for the carrier name. The answer should be Global Crossing. If not, it is possible their was a problem with your order or that you had a "PIC Freeze" on your line. Contact us by </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="mailto:info@pioneertelephone.com">e-mail</A> if you think there is a problem with your order.<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=47><B>Should I tell my previous long distance company that I am switching? </B><BR>No, we take care of this for you.  You may want to check with them in a month or two and make sure they don't have your account still open.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>You do want to make sure your old carrier doesn't bill you for monthly fee's, etc.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=13><B>Why did my local provider charge me to switch to Pioneer? </B><BR>This is called a switching fee. Switching fees are charged to help recover the costs involved in ensuring you receive the Long Distance provider of your choice. Pioneer does not receive any of this money nor do we cover these fee's.<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=14><B>Can I pay my bill online ? </B><BR> </FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=-1></P> <P>Please visit:<STRONG> </STRONG></FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=-1><A href="http://www.mybillonline.com/"><STRONG>www.mybillonline.com</STRONG></A><BR><BR>Account Number:  Your Telephone Number<BR>Password:            See Below </P> <P><B>First time User</B>: IMPORTANT: YOU MUST CLICK ON THE NEW USER LINK.<BR>Look for:            "New User? Click <U>here</U>."  </P> <P><B>Returning User</B>:  Enter your password that you already established.</P> <P>Payment Methods:  AMEX, Discover, MasterCard & Visa<BR>Mail a Check:        </P> <BLOCKQUOTE> <BLOCKQUOTE> <P><B><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pioneer Telephone <BR>583 Warren Ave. <BR>Portland, ME 04103</FONT></B></P></BLOCKQUOTE></BLOCKQUOTE> <P><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=99><BR><BR><B>Where is the call detail ?<BR></B></FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=-1>Please visit the above website and then go to:<BR>The "Statement" Category followed by: "Long Distance Call Detail" <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P> </P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=15><B>Can I pay my bill with a credit card?</B><BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica size=1><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica size=2><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>Yes, you can pay with a credit card. Discover, Visa, Master Card and American Express. Payments for invoices under: $15 will incur a .40 cent billing fee.</FONT></FONT></FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>However to avoid the fee you can post a $15 payment and use the credit balance towards future months billings. <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT></P> <P><A name=38><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><B>What fees will be included in my phone bill?</B><BR>A USF (Universal Service Fund-Required by the FCC) charge, Federal and State Taxes, Local and Municipal taxes that vary by state.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2> We do not rate taxes, we out source this to a company who specializes in this area. </FONT></A><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>If you have a toll free line: 49 cents per number. Regulatory Fee's: PICC taxes for business lines and the Telecommunication Infra Structure Fee.  (Late fee's if applicable).<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=17><B>How do I place an international call?</B><BR>Just dial: 011 + country code + city code + local number. <BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=18><B>What is an intrastate call?</B><BR>These are calls within your state. Your state government sets part of the rate and therefore they are different</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>from our interstate rates. Here is a<A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/index.php?id=0-9-0-0-<?php print $mode; ?>-0-<?php print $size; ?>"> </A></FONT><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/index.php?id=0-9-0-0-<?php print $mode; ?>-0-<?php print $size; ?>"><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>list of in-state rates</FONT></A><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>.<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=19><B>Why did I get a notice telling me there is restriction/block on my line and I am billing with Pioneer?</B><BR>If you requested both out of state and in state service when you signed up, it is possible that one part is ok and the other service is blocked.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>Look on your previous statement and if you see you have all in state calls with Pioneer and no billing for out of state calls, then the out of state is blocked (and vice versa). As well it could be the data we have from your local phone company is not accurate, as they may not have supplied us with the newest information pertaining to your account. Pioneer feels it better to be safe and check it versus getting billed from your old carrier at rates that could be double or triple Pioneer's. <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></P> <P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=95><B>What is "slamming"? </B><BR>This is when a long distance company changes you to their long distance plan without your knowledge. Pioneer will never switch your long distance without obtaining your permission.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR></P><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=21><B>What is a LOA (letter of agency)?</B><BR>An electronic document/contract that authorizes changing the service provider.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>Congress has allowed for electronic signatures to be as valid as a written contract. At the time of your order via the internet your IP address was captured and other information that you provided forms an agreement for service.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=22><B>Does Pioneer offer calling cards?</B><BR>Yes, the calling card rate is 11.9 cents per minute for domestic calls. There is an FCC mandated payphone charge of 35 cents per payphone call. Your code will be the same as your main telephone number with an assigned PIN, you can choose the PIN #. The card can be used for domestic and international calls (international rates vary). If international calling is required please let us know, as we send the cards blocked for this type of calling service. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=23><B>Is there any additional charge for an 800 or toll-free number?</B><BR>800 numbers will be billed at the same rates as your outgoing calls.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>There is a 99 cent fee per number per month to own a toll free number.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=24><B>What is a RESPORG form?</B><BR>This is a form required to move an existing 800 number from your previous long distance carrier over to Pioneer.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>This can be at times a lengthy process because your old carrier does not want to release the 800 number and takes their time signing off on the paper work. To insure a faster transition please fax us the front page of the invoice from the current 800 provider. Send to: 1-866-543-2900   <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=25><B>Do I have to sign a long term contract?</B><BR>No. It is Pioneer's job to do a good job so that you stay with us. You are free to switch to another long distance carrier at anytime.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=48><B>What is a PICC charge?</B><BR>PICC (Pre-subscribed Interexchange Carrier Charges) are charge to business lines. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>There is no PICC fee for residential lines. There is a $4.31 PICC fee per business line. <BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=32><B>Does it cost me to call out to an 800 number?</B><BR>No. This is always free. The person or business who owns the toll-free number pays for the call.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=53><B>Is there an extra charge to have my own toll-free number?</B><BR>There is a 49 cent monthly fee per toll-free number. You will pay the same rates you pay for long distance. This is a great idea for children at college, allowing them to call home and not have to worry with long distance bills. For parents who have young ones at home, you won't have to worry about the children having money to use at a payphone. Or for a family member who lives a distance away and won't call because of the expense !<BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=37><B>What do I do if I miss the confirmation request after I have submitted my order??</B><BR>This is for customers who live in California only:  Please call: 1-866-Verify 0 . In order to receive service, you must be verified. </FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>For all other states: we have sent you an e-mail: please reply to it.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=50><B>Are account codes available?</B><BR>Yes, Pioneer offers account codes to help you track calling patterns, enabling billing back to people or projects.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2>There is no cost to set up nor no monthly fee. A great way to block unwanted use of the phone.<BR></FONT><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT></P> <P><BR><BR><FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><A name=51><B>What are the rates to Alaska and Hawaii?</B><BR>The rate for all outbound calls to Alaska is 12 cents per minute and Hawaii is 12 cents per minute. For inbound calls on your personal toll free number is 39 cents per minute and Hawaii is 26 cents per minute.</FONT> <FONT face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size=2><BR><A href="http://www.pioneertelephone.com/agentSite/index.asp?agentid=COA1006%20&pageID=questions#top">Back to top</A></FONT><BR><BR></FONT></P></FONT></DIV></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></FONT> <P></P> <P></P> <DIV></DIV></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD> <TD vAlign=top align=left width="20%"> <TABLE height=418 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=148 bgColor=#ffffff border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD align=left height=141><A href="http://www.pioneer-long-distance.com/pioneer-telephone-33.html"><IMG height=134 src="planAoff.gif" width=133 border=0 alt="Pioneer Telephone 3.3 Cent Plan"></A></TD></TR> <TR> <TD align=left height=117><A href="http://www.pioneer-long-distance.com/pioneer-telephone-35.html"><IMG height=134 src="planBoff.gif" width=133 border=0 alt="Pioneer Telephone 3.5 Cent Plan"></A></TD></TR> <TR> <TD align=left><A href="http://www.pioneer-long-distance.com/pioneer-telephone-29.html"><IMG height=134 src="bizPlanOff.gif" width=133 border=0 alt="Pioneer Telephone 1.9 Cent Plan"></A></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" background=bottombk.jpg border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="42%" height=49><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" color=#ffffff size=2><B> </B></FONT> <a href="http://www.phone-long-distance.com/" title="Pioneer Long Distance"> <Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" alt="Return to Pioneer Long Distance" border=0></a> <a href="telecom/"><Img src="calling.gif" height="20" width="20" border=0></a> </TD> <TD height=49> <DIV align=right><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" color=#ffffff size=-7>© 2002-2003 Telecom Management All rights reserved  </FONT></DIV></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE> <STYLE type=text/css>.menuurldata { FONT-SIZE: 12px; COLOR: black; FONT-FAMILY: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, san-serif; TEXT-DECORATION: none } </STYLE> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD height=31> <TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center border=0> <TBODY> <TR> <TD vAlign=top height=33> <CENTER></CENTER></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><BR><BR></BODY>