ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (WHAT THE TECH?) — Shopping for a new phone or internet plan is difficult no matter how you do it.

Trying to figure out what you’re getting and what you’re paying for is confusing.

Hopefully, it’s about to get a lot easier. Federal regulations now require wireless companies to put labels on their phone plans.

“The FCC, a few years back came up with this idea of coming up with a way for consumers to more easily digest the information they’re hearing from broadband providers,” said Steve Van Dinter, of Verizon.

The labels are easy to read and understand. The top line shows the monthly price of the plan and whether it’s an introductory price. Below that, are any additional charges such as connection fees. If the provider offers discounts and bundles, they’ll be listed below.

This information, which was difficult to find before now, can help you compare plans and prices from different companies side-by-side.

Cable internet providers, Comcast and Spectrum are also mandated to display the information on their websites.

It’s important when comparing plans to look at the internet speeds they promise. What you need depends on how many devices will be using the internet at the same time.

Anyone should pay attention to these labels and check our own plans. If you’re not getting the speed you’re paying for, you should call your internet service provider to find out why.

If you don’t see those broadband labels clearly displayed at the point of sale on the website or in stores, you should contact the FCC.

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