Telephones in Germany are much different than in the states. Below is some information that all newcomers should know!

Deutsch Telekom English Hotline: 0800-338-3535

Local calls: Unlike the US, Germans pay for their local calls. It costs €0.05 Euro cents per minute to call someone in the same town. You could call someone in the same building and still be charged!

Cell Phones: Watch out for phone calls to cell phones. It costs €0.21 Euro cents per minute. Many people get caught off guard and end up with a several hundred-dollar phone bill, especially when your spouse is in the field.

Calling the US: For a cheaper way to call the states, dial “01040” or "01051" before you dial 001-(area code)-xxx-xxxx This will charge you around $0.05 cents per minute compared to $0.10 cents/minute through Deutsch Telekom. These codes sometimes change, so check with neighbors or your FRG for current codes.

Internet: If you have a computer, you’ll want Internet access, but again, unlike the US, Germans pay over double what Americans pay. If you are like me and are constantly on the internet, there are several options. First, visit your local Deutsch Telekom chain. There are usually one on post, or ask at the Bundespost. T-Online used to offer a Flat Rate for € 35, but I think they have changed that. I've heard that you can spend a little more and get a DSL line for a lot cheaper. If you only use it occasionally, you can use FreeNet. They charge €0.025 cents per minute.
            T-Online: To sign up, you must go to a Deutsch Telekom Office. They will give you written instructions.
            FreeNet: This is much simpler. No sign up. Just make a new dial-up connection, phone numer is 0101901929 and use your phone number as your user id (no password). Charges will show up on your phone bill.

Paying your Bill: You will receive your bill usually at your German address. To pay the bill, you can pay at the Community Bank or the Bundespost (German post office).