Reducing day-to-day expenses is an easy way to free up cash, whether it’s to pay off debt or add to your emergency fund. Specifically, saving on your internet bill is easier than you think. With the tips below, you can save money on your internet bills every month.
Do not worry. Saving money on internet expenses doesn’t always mean you have to sacrifice internet quality. If you’re looking for ways to boost your internet speed without paying a premium price, find out how to get Faster internet at home for free (opens in a new tab).
The following tips can help you reduce internet bill costs and put more money in your pocket each month.
Buy your own modem and router
Buying your own modem and router, as opposed to renting, could save you money in the long run. Rental fees generally range from $10 to $15 per month, or around $240 to $360 over the course of the year. You can find a decent modem/router combo for less than this, so if you’re planning on sticking with an ISP for a while, this could be a good way to save some money.
Check best cable modems (opens in a new tab) and best wifi routers (opens in a new tab) for 2022.
Choose the right internet speed
Just because ISPs offer high-speed packages doesn’t mean you need that level of service. In fact, reducing your internet speed can reduce your monthly internet bill by $26 (opens in a new tab) in some cases. Especially if you live in a household with few people and few devices, you get along just fine with lower internet speeds. If you use the internet for basic tasks, like simple web browsing and sending emails, you won’t have to worry about your internet quality either.
Bundled services
Bundling your Internet connection with other services, like cable TV or your cell phone, can also help you save money. Many providers offer discounts on various packages (opens in a new tab) which can help you save costs. However, make sure you don’t accept any upsell your provider might try to do, whether it’s adding different channels or increasing internet speeds.
Also, keep in mind that bundling is only a good option for services you’ve already committed to using. So if you only use streaming services, you won’t necessarily save by paying for an internet and cable TV plan. If you can reduce the number of devices used, you will use less bandwidth and also save money.
Take advantage of government assistance
If you find it difficult to pay Internet charges each month, you may be eligible for assistance. The Affordable Connectivity Program (opens in a new tab) is an FCC benefits program designed to help households afford the Internet they need. To be eligible for the program, your household income must be equal to or less than 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (opens in a new tab). Also, if someone in your household experiences one of these Criteria (opens in a new tab)you will also be entitled to assistance.
If you qualify for the program, you will receive $30 per month for internet services or $75 per month if you live on tribal land. Households will also be offered a $100 credit towards the purchase of a computer if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 towards the purchase price.
Negotiate for the best deal
Before checking out the available competitors, you’ll first want to figure out what exactly you’re using the internet for and how many devices you have. From there, you can choose the appropriate internet speed for your usage. Once you know that, you can then start shopping around for the best deals by comparing the costs with what you’re currently paying. Many providers offer discounted introductory prices. If you find that your current supplier is the best option for you, try negotiating with them. You could potentially get a lower monthly price.
Here’s what you’re going need to know when negotiating (opens in a new tab).
- Amount of the monthly invoice when you register
- Amounts and reasons for any bill increases
- Duration, to date, of your subscription
- List of all service issues you have encountered
- Competitor plans and sign-up bonuses in your area
- Sign-up bonuses offered by your current provider
Mention the good reputation of your account, as well as any disappointments or problems you have had with the service. Make sure to be polite, but pushy.
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