Abstract: A system and method for performing a return call telephone operation in connection with a network such as the Internet to provide real time registration and bill presentment for the customer. The method includes the steps of electronic registration with a telephone service provider via the network, assigning a unique return call initiation telephone number to the customer, performing the return call process, calculating the cost of the telephone call and presenting the cost information to the customer in real time. The network activation allows a customer to sign up and make a return call immediately after registration. The cost information can be tailored to an individual customer through the use of cost tables associated with different components of the overall cost (phone rate) of the telephone call.