Techniques to configure quality of service (QoS) for communication are described. An access terminal configures a first QoS profile prior to a call. This QoS profile is for a set of QoS parameters that provides certain QoS. The access terminal thereafter establishes (e.g., originates or terminates) a call with an access network. If the first QoS profile is appropriate for the call, then QoS is not reconfigured. However, the access terminal may determine that a second QoS profile is to be used for the call, e.g., based on a format or a rate set supported by a remote/other terminal for the call. The access terminal would then configure the second QoS profile during the call. The access terminal may exchange data in accordance with (a) the first QoS profile before the second QoS profile is configured and activated and (b) the second QoS profile after it is configured and activated.