You read that right, folks. Thanks to SkypeOut, the usually fee-charging service from the makers of PC-to-PC software Skype, you can now call any landline or mobile phone in the United States or Canada at zero cost.

All you need to do is install the SkypeOut software on your computer FOR FREE. Then turn on your microphone, use the software to dial any phone in the U.S. or Canada, and tell the person on the other end how awesome Punny Money is for telling you about this free program.

Be careful about getting addicted to the free service since it is only guaranteed to remain free through 2006. After that, SkypeOut will undoubtedly attach a small fee that some users may find isn’t enough to deter them from continuing to use the service.

So go call your mother and tell her how sorry you are for being too cheap to call her yesterday, and promise to make up for it by calling her five times a day through the end of the year.