General Questions
1What is TalknSave?
TalknSave is the leader in cell phone rentals for Israel. No matter how long your stay in Israel, TalknSave has a plan for you!
Think of TalknSave as a bridge between you and the Israeli 4G Networks. Receive an uncompromising connection to home with the benefits of local SIM plans. TalknSave works with Pelephone, Israel's oldest provider with the largest 4G network. TalknSave brings you their great service and country-wide coverage combined with English-speaking customer service, great rates and flexible options.
2What services does TalknSave offer in Israel?
SIM Rentals
If you already own a compatible phone, you can just rent a SIM card from TalknSave for short or long term use. See our compatibility FAQ for more information.
Phone Rentals
Rent a smartphone to use for your stay in Israel. We have daily, monthly, yearly rentals and even extended plans for olim. We specialize in great deals for students. For short trips, you can rent an android or iPhone
SIM4Life
If you travel to Israel more than once a year, our SIM4Life program is the best way to have a permanent number in Israel. Invaluable for business travelers and immeasurably convenient for families; stop renting phones and save the most.
Stay Local Number
Stay Local Number attaches a virtual US number to your cell phone plan in Israel. Your family & friends back home dial this number and reach you in Israel. It doesn't cost them more than the price of a local call. Now, we've expanded the plan to include more minute packages, more countries with local numbers (currently the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium and France, with more options on the way!), and of course, great call quality and service. Service is available for all TalknSave rentals!
SurfnSave
Rent a netstick for your laptop, giving you internet access anywhere in Israel. Avoid high hotel WIFI fees, skip the internet cafés and unplug! Economical choices and great service – sounds like TalknSave! More details here.
Mobile Hotspot (MIFI)
Connect to the internet anywhere! Use our Mobile Hotspot to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously! More information here.
If you already own a compatible phone, you can just rent a SIM card from TalknSave for short or long term use. See our compatibility FAQ for more information.
Phone Rentals
Rent a smartphone to use for your stay in Israel. We have daily, monthly, yearly rentals and even extended plans for olim. We specialize in great deals for students. For short trips, you can rent an android or iPhone
SIM4Life
If you travel to Israel more than once a year, our SIM4Life program is the best way to have a permanent number in Israel. Invaluable for business travelers and immeasurably convenient for families; stop renting phones and save the most.
Stay Local Number
Stay Local Number attaches a virtual US number to your cell phone plan in Israel. Your family & friends back home dial this number and reach you in Israel. It doesn't cost them more than the price of a local call. Now, we've expanded the plan to include more minute packages, more countries with local numbers (currently the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium and France, with more options on the way!), and of course, great call quality and service. Service is available for all TalknSave rentals!
SurfnSave
Rent a netstick for your laptop, giving you internet access anywhere in Israel. Avoid high hotel WIFI fees, skip the internet cafés and unplug! Economical choices and great service – sounds like TalknSave! More details here.
Mobile Hotspot (MIFI)
Connect to the internet anywhere! Use our Mobile Hotspot to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously! More information here.
3Where is TalknSave located?
TalknSave has offices in Jerusalem, New York, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas, Australia, Ohio, Toronto, Montreal, and London, all committed to giving you the best service possible. Additional locations are in the works! Find the nearest store to you.
Our flagship office in Jerusalem has a large staff of native English-speaking customer service representatives to ensure that when you need us, we're there for you! (We also visit our TalknSave partner schools in Israel throughout the school year.)
Contact us via email, phone, fax, or drop by our Jerusalem office anytime! For full information and directions, please see our contact us section.
Our flagship office in Jerusalem has a large staff of native English-speaking customer service representatives to ensure that when you need us, we're there for you! (We also visit our TalknSave partner schools in Israel throughout the school year.)
Contact us via email, phone, fax, or drop by our Jerusalem office anytime! For full information and directions, please see our contact us section.
4Where can I use my TalknSave Israel SIM card?
With our providers' fantastic nationwide services, you have excellent reception throughout the entire country of Israel. Our SIM cards and plans are not intended to be used outside of Israel. Customers using their SIM outside Israel will incur roaming charges.
5How do I use my TalknSave service?
See our User Guide at talknsave.net/help for important dialing directions, setup information and more!
6What does Unlimited SMS mean?
Your SMS plan includes unlimited texts within Israel.
7What does Unlimited Data/ Internet mean?
TalknSave gives you unlimited data, meaning the data does not stop.
Internet will be throttled to 2G speeds after you have completed your alotted fast data (dependent on your plan).
8What do I do if my phone is lost or stolen?
Immediately call us at 02-655-033 to have the line disconnected. If you can not reach us, please email info@talknsave.net with the subject URGENT: Phone Lost/Stolen. You are responsible for any calls made from the phone until the request is made.
When you are ready to replace your equipment, be in touch with TalknSave to arrange for a new phone or SIM card. Please note that once you have filed an insurance claim on your equipment, it cannot be undone – even if you find the missing equipment.
When you are ready to replace your equipment, be in touch with TalknSave to arrange for a new phone or SIM card. Please note that once you have filed an insurance claim on your equipment, it cannot be undone – even if you find the missing equipment.
9How Do I Unlock My Phone?
Please follow the instructions here to unlock your phone.
10Is the SIM compatible with my phone?
Student Rental Questions
1Do I want a phone or a SIM card?
With TalknSave, you can rent a phone or a SIM card. (What is a SIM card?) See our FAQ on phone compatibility for more information on using our SIM in your phone from home.
TalknSave's rental phones are all old 3G models with advanced features and ease of use.
We also offer "kosher" phones. Several communities in Israel (and several schools) are strict about only using these cell phones. Kosher phones have no text messaging ability (incoming or outgoing), no internet or media capabilities and are part of a special number block. All of TalknSave's kosher phones are certified by the Vaad Hatikshoret. If you're interested in a kosher phone and don't see the option on your sign up form, just ask – we'd be happy to honor your request whenever possible.
TalknSave's rental phones are all old 3G models with advanced features and ease of use.
We also offer "kosher" phones. Several communities in Israel (and several schools) are strict about only using these cell phones. Kosher phones have no text messaging ability (incoming or outgoing), no internet or media capabilities and are part of a special number block. All of TalknSave's kosher phones are certified by the Vaad Hatikshoret. If you're interested in a kosher phone and don't see the option on your sign up form, just ask – we'd be happy to honor your request whenever possible.
2How do I get my phone or SIM card?
We have delivery options in the USA, Europe and Israel (and we're working on other countries as well). Most schools have free delivery options at their orientation at the beginning of the school year. No matter where you choose delivery, you can usually get your phone number in advance of your rental start date.
3How do I return my equipment?
Keep your SIM card and use it again for your next trip. Just reactivate it beforehand and avoid shipping hassles the second time. If you choose to return your rental equipment at the end of the rental period, you will return it in Israel. If you received a SIM card the rental will end on the end date that you have chosen. See our equipment return pages for the most updated information.
4How do I close my account?
At the end of your rental, you will need to return your phone in Israel before your departure (see our equipment return pages for the most updated information).
SIM cards do not need to be returned, but you must update the end date. Just call us on (02)-655-0333 or email us info@talknsave.net with the date you are leaving.
SIM cards do not need to be returned, but you must update the end date. Just call us on (02)-655-0333 or email us info@talknsave.net with the date you are leaving.
5What do I do if my phone is lost or stolen?
Immediately call us at 02-655-033 to have the line disconnected. If you cannot reach us, please email info@talknsave.net with the subject URGENT: Phone Lost/Stolen. You are responsible for any calls made from the phone until the request is made.
When you are ready to replace your equipment, be in touch with TalknSave to arrange for a new phone or SIM card. Please note that once you have filed an insurance claim on your equipment, it cannot be undone – even if you find the missing equipment.
When you are ready to replace your equipment, be in touch with TalknSave to arrange for a new phone or SIM card. Please note that once you have filed an insurance claim on your equipment, it cannot be undone – even if you find the missing equipment.
6What is the "Stay Local" number?
With our ''Stay Local'' number, you can have a local US* number that rings on your phone in Israel. Parents love this feature – there are no codes to remember, no PINs, no need to top off minutes. We're sure you're going to love it too!
*Not from the USA? No problem – we have lots of other country choices too.
*Not from the USA? No problem – we have lots of other country choices too.
7Do I need insurance coverage?
Insurance on your rental phone covers all repairs as long as the phone is repairable. If the phone is damaged beyond repair, lost or stolen, then the insurance coverage provides for replacement of the handset by payment of a deductible (the deductible is generally about 25%-50% of the full replacement value of the phone). We strongly recommend insurance coverage for all of our customers. Insurance cannot be added in the middle of the rental period.
SIM cards do not require insurance coverage. Replacement of a lost SIM card is $10.00.
SIM cards do not require insurance coverage. Replacement of a lost SIM card is $10.00.
8Can I get internet / email on my phone?
If you bring a smartphone like an iPhone, or Android (etc), we can give you 4G data when you rent a SIM card.
We are also offer SurfnSave or Mobile Hotspots. These are our net-sticks - for use with your laptop, or Mobile Hotspot (MIFI) which creates personal Wi-Fi network available for both long-term and short-term rentals.
We are also offer SurfnSave or Mobile Hotspots. These are our net-sticks - for use with your laptop, or Mobile Hotspot (MIFI) which creates personal Wi-Fi network available for both long-term and short-term rentals.
Student Billing Questions
1Is there a security deposit on my account? When is it charged and returned?
There is currently a $99 security deposit for students renting a SIM card only, and a $199 deposit for those also renting a phone. These deposits are returned one billing cycle after the account is closed to ensure that there are no extra charges.
2How can I change my billing details?
Simple. Log on to My TalknSave and make the change there. Or, if you'd prefer to speak to a person, just contact us at 02-655-0333.
3"I left Israel a long time ago - why am I still being charged?"
You are still receiving bills from TalknSave because a billing cycle is still pending, or because the account is still open.
Your itemized bill notes which days of the billing cycle are on your statement, so you can be confident 'when' you are being charged for.
Open account / unreturned equipment
Your itemized bill notes which days of the billing cycle are on your statement, so you can be confident 'when' you are being charged for.
Open account / unreturned equipment
4What is VAT?
VAT is the Israeli Value Added Tax. It's currently 17% (the Israeli government has raised and lowered it a couple of times in the last few years). It is a tax applied to all non-essential goods and services in Israel, including cellular service.
While Israeli law does allow for tourists to receive a VAT refund on specific exportable goods and some services, there is no such provision for cellular service. We wish there was!
While Israeli law does allow for tourists to receive a VAT refund on specific exportable goods and some services, there is no such provision for cellular service. We wish there was!
Smart Phone Insurance
1How do I file a claim?
To file a claim, you may call Customer Service who will work with you to process your claim at 02-655-0333.
2What does insurance cover?
You are eligible for a maximum of 2 approved claims within a 12-month period for accidental damage, loss or theft.
A per occurrence limit of $1,500 applies to each covered loss based upon cost of phone in Israel.
A per occurrence limit of $1,500 applies to each covered loss based upon cost of phone in Israel.
3Will I get a new phone in case of loss or theft?
Replacement devices may be either a refurbished or new device of the same model and quality as your phone.
Replacement devices come with a 6-month warranty. If a replacement device is not available you will receive a loaner phone until the device arrives.
Replacement devices come with a 6-month warranty. If a replacement device is not available you will receive a loaner phone until the device arrives.
4What about other damages?
Approved mechanical damage claims will be at no cost.
Please remember that damaged or malfunctioning devices must be returned upon receiving your replacement device.
Please remember that damaged or malfunctioning devices must be returned upon receiving your replacement device.
5Can I cancel my insurance plan?
There is a 5 month minimum for the insurance plan. To cancel after 5 months please contact customer service
6Is there a deductible?
A non-refundable deductible of between $49 -$400 will be applied depending on your device, to each approved loss and theft claim.
Handset Protection covers the device and certain accessories, when required. Accessories covered as part of a loss include standard chargers, batteries, and SIM cards.
A non-refundable deductible of between $49 -$99 will be applied depending on your device for all screen replacement claims
Handset Protection covers the device and certain accessories, when required. Accessories covered as part of a loss include standard chargers, batteries, and SIM cards.
A non-refundable deductible of between $49 -$99 will be applied depending on your device for all screen replacement claims
7What is not covered?
Damage caused or resulting from the following are not covered:
- Corrosion or rust
- Pre-existing conditions
- Failure to follow manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations
- Intentional or dishonest acts
Tourist Rental FAQs
1How do I get my phone or SIM card?
We have delivery options in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, South Africa, and Israel, including several convenient local agents. (We're working on other countries as well!). No matter where you choose delivery, you can usually get your phone number in advance of your rental start date. At the end of your rental, there is no need to return your SIM card; you can save it for next time!
If you did rent a phone please see our equipment return pages for the most updated information.
If you did rent a phone please see our equipment return pages for the most updated information.
2Can I get internet / email on my phone?
If you bring a smartphone like an iPhone or Android , we can give you full internet and email on your device when you rent a SIM card!
We also offer SurfnSave for use with your laptop, or Mobile Hotspot which creates a personal Wi-Fi network. This is available for both long-term and short-term rentals!
3What do I do if my phone is lost or stolen?
Immediately call Pelephone or us to have the line disconnected, preventing any outgoing calls from being made. Ask the Pelephone representative to have the line temporarily disconnected. You are responsible for any calls made from the phone until it is disconnected, so this step is crucial. Pelephone can be reached at 03-572-7766 (from outside of Israel, dial +972-3-572-7766).
When you are ready to replace your equipment, be in touch with TalknSave to arrange for a new phone or SIM card. Please note that once you have filed an insurance claim on your equipment, it cannot be undone – even if you find the missing equipment.
4What if my SIM needs service while I'm in Israel?
We know your time is precious while you're visiting Israel, so if you have a problem, we'll do our best to get your SIM up and running as soon as possible.
Most issues can be fixed over the phone or even via email!
We have our full-service office in Jerusalem where you can walk in and walk out in minutes. We also have courier options available around the country. Give us a call!
Phone: 02-6550333
Email: info@talknsave.net
Most issues can be fixed over the phone or even via email!
We have our full-service office in Jerusalem where you can walk in and walk out in minutes. We also have courier options available around the country. Give us a call!
Phone: 02-6550333
Email: info@talknsave.net
5I'm coming to Israel with a whole group. Can we get a discount?
We're happy to accommodate tour groups, large family trips, missions, etc. Don't hesitate to contact our Groups Department for a custom solution just for your needs! Email groups@talknsave.net now.
6How do I return my equipment at the end of my trip?
At the end of your rental, you will return your rental equipment in the same country you received it. If you received a SIM card the rental will end on the end date that you have chosen. See our equipment return pages for the most updated information.
''Stay Local'' Numbers
1How does my ''Stay Local'' number on my Israeli phone work?
''Stay Local'' number is a number with a local area code for the country of your choice - directly on your Israeli cellular number. Local numbers are currently available for US (area codes in all cities available!), the UK, Canada, France, Australia and more! Let friends and family call your Israeli cell phone as if it were a local call! You are charged for the minutes of the call(s).
Additionally, you can call forward your home number to your ''Stay Local'' number and receive all your phone calls as if you were back home!
Additionally, you can call forward your home number to your ''Stay Local'' number and receive all your phone calls as if you were back home!
2How am I billed for my ''Stay Local'' number?
For the majority of customers, your "Stay Local" number will be billed on your regular TalknSave bill marked in your invoice as the "Stay Local" number.
3Can I receive text messages sent to my ''Stay Local'' number?
At this time, the technology isn't quite there, so you cannot receive text messages that are sent to your ''Stay Local'' number.
Of course, friends and family in Israel or abroad can send texts to your Israeli number.
Of course, friends and family in Israel or abroad can send texts to your Israeli number.
4 When will I get my ''Stay Local'' number?
It will be emailed to you a few days before the start of your rental.
5Can I keep track of my ''Stay Local'' number usage?
Yes, but as our plans are all unlimited there is no need to!
You can log on to My TalknSave and check your usage. Fully itemized bills are published immediately at the end of the calendar month.
You can log on to My TalknSave and check your usage. Fully itemized bills are published immediately at the end of the calendar month.
Netsticks and Hotspots
1How do I get technical assistance with my SurfnSave modem? What do I do if it is lost or broken?
Just Contact us!
Phone number: 02-6550333
Email: info@talknsave.net
Phone number: 02-6550333
Email: info@talknsave.net
2Will the SurfnSave work on my computer?
Windows OS:
We can support Windows XP, Vista, 7 and 8 (may need a driver). Our USB stick modems (netsticks) have full plug-and-play functionality.
Mac OS:
We can support all OS over 10.4, with the exception of 10.10 (Yosemite). If you are running Yosemite please order a Mobile Hotspot instead.
All modems are truly plug-and-play, pre-programmed to dial up and connect to the internet. If your model requires any documentation or drivers, it will be included on a disc or USB flash drive.
We can support Windows XP, Vista, 7 and 8 (may need a driver). Our USB stick modems (netsticks) have full plug-and-play functionality.
Mac OS:
We can support all OS over 10.4, with the exception of 10.10 (Yosemite). If you are running Yosemite please order a Mobile Hotspot instead.
All modems are truly plug-and-play, pre-programmed to dial up and connect to the internet. If your model requires any documentation or drivers, it will be included on a disc or USB flash drive.
Phone Compatibility
1New: Phone compatibility chart
2How do I unlock my phone? How do I check if it's unlocked?
The best way to check if your phone is unlocked is to contact your provider and make sure that it is unlocked for foreign providers.
Need more information? Read more here!
Need more information? Read more here!
3Special note for Sprint Galaxy S5 phones
There is currently an known issue with data settings on the Samsung Galaxy S5 from Sprint USA. At this time we do not have a solution to enable data service on those phone models.
4Is there anything else I need to know about using my smartphone with TalknSave?
Once in Israel, please disable roaming and any TDMA/CDMA service before using our SIM card. You may not use our service for 'tethering' to a laptop, etc.; such usage will incur additional fees.
If you have any confusion about compatibility, please check your phone's manual, or call your phone retailer.
NOTE: We cannot guarantee compatibility of outside phones. Cancellation of a smartphone SIM card rental due to locking or inadequate compatibility may be subject to a $15 fee.
If you have any confusion about compatibility, please check your phone's manual, or call your phone retailer.
NOTE: We cannot guarantee compatibility of outside phones. Cancellation of a smartphone SIM card rental due to locking or inadequate compatibility may be subject to a $15 fee.
5Can TalknSave unlock my phone?
We're sorry, but no, TalknSave does not unlock or jail-break any type of phones, including iPhones. However, many stores in Israel will do so for a small fee. The best way is to ask your original provider to unlock it.
6My phone is incompatible. What are my options?
TalknSave offers Smartphone rentals for tourists coming to Israel! Want to find out more? Order here!
7Have a phone not listed above? Phone compatibility requirements explained here!
Bringing your cell phone from home to Israel is easy - but to use our service, there are some technical requirements.
*Your phone must use SIM cards
*Your phone must be unlocked (i.e. not programmed to only work with your original carrier's network) - see note below
*Your phone must be a 3G (UMTS/HSDPA) phone, operating on a minimum dualband frequency of 2100/850.
Confused? Try this: Go to your phone manual or an online site (we recommend GSM Arena), and look up your phone model. What you want to see is:
*Your phone must use SIM cards
*Your phone must be unlocked (i.e. not programmed to only work with your original carrier's network) - see note below
*Your phone must be a 3G (UMTS/HSDPA) phone, operating on a minimum dualband frequency of 2100/850.
Confused? Try this: Go to your phone manual or an online site (we recommend GSM Arena), and look up your phone model. What you want to see is:
8Special note for Android Verizon phones
A significant percentage of Verizon Android phones running Jelly Bean have a known issue that prevents adding APN settings. Effectively, this would keep data from working in Israel. This will not be an issue on rooted phones.
You can check this on your own: In your phone menu go to Settings -> More Settings -> Mobile Networks -> Access Point Names. If you have the ability to add a new one (press your options menu button to check) then you're fine. If that option is not there, you may have a compatibility issue.
You can check this on your own: In your phone menu go to Settings -> More Settings -> Mobile Networks -> Access Point Names. If you have the ability to add a new one (press your options menu button to check) then you're fine. If that option is not there, you may have a compatibility issue.
9Do I need a Full-Sized SIM Card, a MicroSIM or a NanoSIM?
Thanks to TalknSave's 3 in 1 SIM there is no need to choose!
10What about KOSHER phone compatibility?
Users who want to use a TalknSave KOSHER SIM card in their own phones need to make sure their phones are:
Just ask the store where you purchased the phone. If you have any questions, give us a call.
- KOSHER certified phones from Israel
- 3G 850 / 2100 (just like regular phones)
- Configured to work on the Pelephone network
Just ask the store where you purchased the phone. If you have any questions, give us a call.
11What happens if my phone from home gets damaged or lost in Israel?
Phones that are owned by our customers and not by TalknSave are not insured or warrantied by us. If damaged, they will need to be fixed at your own expense, and if lost*, they will need to be replaced at your own expense.
*If your phone is lost or stolen with a TalknSave SIM card in it, it is still vital that you take steps to have the line disconnected to prevent unwanted calls. See "What do I do if my phone is lost or stolen?" under the 'General Questions' FAQ.
*If your phone is lost or stolen with a TalknSave SIM card in it, it is still vital that you take steps to have the line disconnected to prevent unwanted calls. See "What do I do if my phone is lost or stolen?" under the 'General Questions' FAQ.
12Smartphone setup help
Please see our online user guide for setting up your smartphone here.
Countries in Anywhere™ Minutes
1What countries can I call as part of my Anywhere™ minute package?
Check your phone on our Anywhere™ List. If it's not on our list, call us on 02-655-0333 and we'll try to add it.
2Can I call anywhere within Israel?
Unlimited packages include all nationwide calls to any landline or mobile phone in Israel.
What's not included? Calls to Information (144) or other paid services, most * calls and any calling card / forwarding access numbers.
What's not included? Calls to Information (144) or other paid services, most * calls and any calling card / forwarding access numbers.
3What will I pay for destinations that are not included in my package?
calls to mobile phones in 'landline only' countries
and
Calls to countries not mentioned on this site
are in this category. These calls will be charged at a per-minute rate, depending on the location. Feel free to contact TalknSave to ask about specific destinations.
are in this category. These calls will be charged at a per-minute rate, depending on the location. Feel free to contact TalknSave to ask about specific destinations.
