With a few simple strategies, you can save money on your cable bill without compromising on the programming you enjoy. From basic tips like reducing unnecessary premiums and taking advantage of discounts to more complex solutions such as bundled services and contract negotiation, here are seven ways to help you save on your cable bill.
Shop for a better deal.
Don’t be afraid to do a bit of shopping around for the best plan and service from different providers. There may be better deals out there if you make the effort to find them. With a bit of research, you might find that another provider offers lower rates or better channels, or a longer period of time with reduced fees or zero setup costs.
Ditch your landline if you don’t need it.
If you’re one of the few that still uses a landline, it might be worthwhile to look at options to get rid of it. There are plenty of VoIP services available now that use either your existing internet connection or a cellular data plan for an inexpensive monthly fee. This can help you save on your cable bill and still provide reliable communications without needing two separate bills for cableTV/internet and phone services.
Cut out channels you don’t watch.
Many cable companies offer different packages, and while they look good on paper with all the channels included at a seemingly low price, chances are there are many that you don’t watch or actually need. Look at what is in your bundle and if there are any channels that you aren’t watching or using enough to justify the cost, have them removed from your plan. This can be an easy way to save money on your monthly bill.
Bundle services to save money.
Bundling services like internet, phone and cable is often a great way to save money. Cable companies usually have discounted packages when you bundle multiple services together with them. This will not only offer more convenience by having all your services on one bill each month, but also save you money. Look out for these kinds of promotions because sometimes they are only offered for a limited amount of time or certain geographical areas.
Negotiate with customer service reps or switch providers.
Don’t be afraid to call in to customer service and haggle for a better deal. Don’t accept the quoted price – remember, they want your business and are often willing to discuss discounts or promotions. If you can’t get what you want from the cable company, shop around and see if there’s a service provider who is offering a better rate. It never hurts to compare prices and try to negotiate, so don’t be afraid to ask and see what kind of savings they can offer you.