[header] How to understand pay as you go cell phone plans [title] Understand that there is a thin line between pay as you go and prepaid plans. [step] Pay as you go minutes or daily rates can last for 30 days or up to a year, depending upon the brand. Prepaid cell plans are usually monthly rates without a contract. 
[substeps] However, sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, since you also " pre-pay " for minutes plans. [title] Use a pay as you go plan if you have unlocked cell phones at your disposal.