Cheap cell phone service provider adds Verizon as network partner

Ting, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that currently partners with Sprint and T-Mobile, is adding service over the Verizon network later this year.

“We expect that combining the best-rated cellular network in the U.S. with Ting’s award-winning customer service will further enhance our already very compelling offering,” said Tucows CEO Elliot Noss. Ting is a division of Tucows.

Ting customers will be eligible to use the Verizon network following integration with the Verizon system later in 2019.

Ting is adding service on Verizon’s network, dropping T-Mobile 

Meanwhile, Ting has extended its network provision agreement with Sprint through September 2020 and informed T-Mobile that it won’t renew its agreement effective December 19 of this year.

As a result, Ting will migrate away from the T-Mobile network by December 19, 2020.

Two Clark.com team members have used Ting in the past. The provider has a “pay for what you use” model that’s best for people who don’t use their smartphones a lot. There’s no unlimited data plan option.

We don’t know what, if any, changes Ting will make to its rates once Verizon becomes an option for customers.

In the meantime, Ting is offering a limited-time deal that breaks from its typical pricing structure. If you sign up by July 31, you can get unlimited talk, text and 20GB of data for $20 through 2019. Service is on Sprint’s network.

Want to find a Verizon alternative now? Visible, Total Wireless and Xfinity Mobile are three of your best options. Learn about them here! 

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American Express adds new 6% cash back category to popular credit card

American Express is adding two cash back categories and dropping one from its popular Blue Cash Preferred credit card.

American Express Blue Cash Preferred changes

Starting May 9, new and existing cardholders will receive 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions like Netflix and Hulu, and 3% cash back on transit purchases like Uber and Lyft.

However, the card will no longer offer 3% cash back at select U.S. department stores after July 31, 2019.

Launched in 2011, Blue Cash Preferred is popular for its 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases per year. That valuable perk will continue.

Here’s what the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card will offer:

• 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 in purchases then 1%)
• 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions [NEW]
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
• 3% cash back on transit, including parking, tolls, trains and rideshares [NEW]
• 1% cash back on other purchases

“The Blue Cash Preferred has been one the top cash back credit cards for many years, but it’s become a bit outdated recently,” said credit card expert Jason Steele. “The most frugal shoppers that this card appeals to are also likely to be those who subscribe to streaming services rather than cable, and are using shared ride services and public transportation. At the same time, most cash conscious cardholders aren’t too likely to spend much at major department stores in malls, and they probably won’t miss the removal of this bonus category.”

Along with the bonus category changes, Blue Cash Preferred is getting a new design and will feature contactless payment.

This card has a $95 annual fee. American Express says new cardholders who apply and are approved after May 9 will receive a welcome bonus of $250 after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months.

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