The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the worldwide economy. People have lost or been furloughed from their jobs, and U.S. unemployment continue to rise. As personal and business budgets tighten across the country, many Americans are evaluating what they're paying for each month and where they might be able to save a few extra dollars.

With the cautions of shelter-in-place and changes to our daily routines – like working and learning from home – wireless has become an essential need for staying connected to a job, school and friends and family. When it comes to wireless, perhaps you could save money by switching to a new plan or operator than better suits your needs. Here’s T-Mobile's advice on what to consider:

Decide what you're willing to pay for in a rate plan.

There are monthly wireless plan options to fit every need. Consumers looking for the basics that don't include extra services like free Netflix or Disney+, or mobile hotspot data, should evaluate less expensive plans. There’s a reason some unlimited plans are more expensive than others … the extras add-up!

A few things to consider when you're looking to switch providers or plans:

Taxes and Fees: Some providers, like T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile, include taxes and fees in the plan price. With taxes and fees included, you could save an estimated $71.00 a year, per line.

Streaming services: Many plans today include free subscriptions to a streaming service like Netflix, Quibi, Hulu or Amazon Prime. If you’re already paying for a streaming service then consider a wireless plan that includes your favorite.

Hotspot data: If your phone is your primary connection to the internet, you many want a plan hotspot data so you can connect your laptop or tablet. It can be an additional cost, but worth it if you have a specific need. Plus, many providers have temporarily raised the hotspot data limit or are providing free hotspot data to help with virtual learning or working-from-home during the pandemic.

Rewards programs: If your wireless provider offers a rewards program, joining can help you score nice discounts or freebies – like meals or movie rentals – to help keep some money in your pocket.

Don't forget about prepaid options.

If you're looking to switch and save, give another look to prepaid providers like Metro by T-Mobile, Boost Mobile and Cricket. Those services all operate on nationwide networks so the network quality is on par with carriers like T-Mobile or AT&T, but prices are generally less expensive. Many prepaid providers also offer affordable or free device promotions to new customers, which will help keep your costs down.

Stores are open – but call ahead first.

Wireless is an essential service, so many operator's retail locations have stayed open or are slowly re-opening with precautions in place. Call ahead to your local provider's retail store and make sure they're open and see what safety measures or services they can provide. Many are maintaining social distancing in-store, sanitizing demo devices or even offering curbside or contactless pick-up.

And remember, companies are staffed to help. If you can't visit a retail location, customers can usually call, text, Tweet or instant message 24/7 with their operator's customer service team to get their questions answered.