Yeah, part of the gift was that I don't have to pay the bill for a year... But even so, I think it is worth it. I am in constant contact with whoever I need to be... I can check stuff online... Email, etc.. It's sweet.
SOS, im not sure how your phone is layed out, but mine has a keyboard which makes the web/chat really easy. Depending on how your phone is, I would say the extra $3 is worth it for what you get.
I also forgot to mention that the wireless web is unlimited and included in the monthly charge.