Saving money on internet, phone, TV, and cell service can be a game of strategy! Here are some tactics to consider:
General Strategies:
- Negotiate your current bills: Call your providers and politely but firmly negotiate a lower rate or better deal. Mention competitors’ offers or threaten to cancel. Be prepared to walk away.
- Bundle services: Consider bundling multiple services with the same provider. For example, Spectrum and AT&T both offer considerable discounts on wireless phone service when you bundle with their home internet service. But it may not make sense to bundle ALL of your services.
- Downsize your plan: Analyze your usage for internet and cell phone data. If you’re not using all the features or amount of internet speed/data in your current plan, downgrade to a cheaper one.
- Shop around: Compare prices and deals from different providers in your area. You might find a better offer than your current one.
- Look for discounts: Many providers offer discounts for seniors, students, low-income families, and military personnel. See if you qualify for any.
- Utilize free options: Explore free alternatives for TV, like streaming services with free trials or using a library card for free access to movies and audiobooks.
Specific Strategies:
- Internet:
- Reduce speed: If you don’t need blazing-fast speeds for streaming or gaming, consider a lower-tier plan.
- Read: Don’t overbuy: How to save money on your Internet service.
- Home Phone:
- Switch providers: AT&T’s home phone service is typically much costlier than Spectrum Voice.
- Considering cancelling home phone service altogether: If you’re like others, you probably get mostly telemarketing and scam calls on your home phone line. If you cancel your home phone service and just use your cell phone, you can save a lot. But consider the redundancy of having two methods of being able to communicate.
- Switch to a VoIP provider: If you still want to maintain a second phone line, consider switching to an inexpensive VoIP provider. We can assist with options and setup.
- TV:
- Cut the cord: Ditch cable or satellite TV altogether and rely on streaming services. There are many affordable options available.
- Use an antenna: Get an over-the-air antenna to receive local channels for free.
- Read: Should you really “cut the cord” to save money on TV service?
- Cell Service:
- Switch to prepaid: Prepaid plans can be cheaper than postpaid plans, especially if you don’t use a lot of data or talk minutes.
- Consider MVNOs: Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) use the networks of major carriers but offer cheaper plans.
- Look for promotions: Carriers often offer discounts and promotions, especially for new customers.
- Share a family plan: Consider sharing a family plan with multiple lines.
- Read: How to save money on your wireless cell phone service – use an MVNO
Remember:
- Do your research: Before making any changes, research your options and compare prices.
- Read the fine print: Watch out for hidden fees and surcharges when comparing plans.
- Be patient: It may take some time to find the best deal, so be patient and don’t give up.
By implementing some of these strategies, you can significantly reduce your spending on internet, phone, TV, and cell service. Don’t hesitate to get creative and explore different options to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget! There are lots of options to consider which may seem overwhelming. Fortunately Computer Techs stays on top of the latest offerings to help you decide the best methods to save you money on your telecommunications services. Contact Mark for a consultation today!