Free calls to the US on Skype/Gmail?

[Kangol]

So I've read on many threads here that you can call the US (in particular the call centres of AA, US, Avianca etc which have 800 free call numbers) for free using Skype/Gmail.

Went to look at details and all I can see is that you need a premium account to do so:

Skype Premium - Unlimited calls, video conferencing, group screen sharing

This starts at $5.63/month (for a 12 month pack for 600 min/month) or $3.21/month for 300min/month.

Whilst this isn't bad considering there may be long wait times, when people mean free - do they mean free without any additional charge over the subscription fee?
Or is there another option that they aren't publicising, especially if they are for free call numbers in the US?

 

[moa999]

Any basic Skype account will let you do this.
(unsure if you need some credit however)

 

[Cruiser Elite]

No credit reqd for US or AA

 

[RooFlyer]

If its a Skype to Skype call (that is, totally over the internet), then there is no charge.

If you have Skype, and want to call a mobile or landline (part internet, part telecom network), then there is a charge. I've long had a pay-as-you-go account, which suits as my international calls are very much bunched with long gaps between bunches of calls. But I might review to a premium account.

So a call to an 0800 number wouldn't be 'free'.

 

[alieninperth]

all of my calls to US and AA have been free and I have the basic skype account. I havn't even registered my CC details with them.

 

[moa999]

Rooflyer,
I believe most US 0800 numbers are free on skype

 

[doctau]

Google Voice is free to all the US numbers I've tried. You can't get the official app in the Australian iTunes Store, but you can create a second iTunes account saying you are in the US.

 

[RooFlyer]

Rooflyer,
I believe most US 0800 numbers are free on skype

Good to know, thanks! That's why I'm on AFF

 

[casanovawa]

Just open up skype on your computer or phone, go to where you can make a call (sorry haven't done it in a bit so can't describe exact screen), choose US in the drop down box then on the little keypad type in the 800....... number and dial and its free, no credit needed...

 

[Fifa]

Just open up skype on your computer or phone, go to where you can make a call (sorry haven't done it in a bit so can't describe exact screen), choose US in the drop down box then on the little keypad type in the 800....... number and dial and its free, no credit needed...

This is exactly what I do.
I have phoned USDM, AA, Avianca and various other US toll free numbers over the years.

 

[AdMEL]

Rooflyer,
I believe most US 0800 numbers are free on skype

Good to know, thanks! That's why I'm on AFF

.

Agreed!

Just open up skype on your computer or phone, go to where you can make a call (sorry haven't done it in a bit so can't describe exact screen), choose US in the drop down box then on the little keypad type in the 800....... number and dial and its free, no credit needed...

Thanks all - very useful to know!

FYI - Just tried an Australian 1800 number and it was free too! Whilst this may not seem like much, most mobile phone plans charge like wounded bulls for 1800 calls, including mine! It also suggests that free call numbers in any country will probably work.

 

[Kangol]

Thanks everyone, this has been a great help - just installed Skype and it works fine!
Would be very handy when overseas and you only have access to Wifi..

 

[RooFlyer]

Just a tip - if you get a 'pay as you go' account, and calling a mobile/landline, calls to many countries are very cheap (compared to calling from landline or mobile) - but calls within Australia whilst still cheaper than ex-mobile are more expensive than o/s calls.