The internet is an integral part of our lives; we turn to social media to connect with people and real-life events, and we stream the latest movies, shows, and games on our devices. Even our appliances are connected to Wi-Fi. With all of these factors, it’s easy for an internet bill to skyrocket. Depending on your connection type, you may be paying an average of $64 per month. Luckily, it’s easy to lower your bill with these money-saving hacks.
Look for Hidden Fees
When you sign up for internet service, your internet service provider (ISP) gives you a price that is far lower than what’s on the bill. Usually after a year, you’ll then see that price go up, whether from hidden fees or the promotional rate ending. Hidden fees may include activation fees, equipment rentals, or overdue payments. Hidden fees vary by ISP, but it’s rare for one not to have any.
Use Your Own Equipment
As mentioned above, ISPs will often charge you for renting their equipment. The typical MO is a flat installation fee, with additional fees for each month borrowed. If you call your internet provider to activate the service, that’s another charge on the bill. Even having the equipment removed could cost extra! Thankfully, it’s easy to obtain and install a router without your provider’s help. Retailers like Target, Best Buy, and Staples all offer affordable routers.
Try Some DIY
Problems will inevitably arise, whether you use the provider’s equipment or your own. While your first instinct may be to call for repair, it’s possible you can fix the issue yourself. Many technical issues, like a weak signal, can be solved with a reset. Online guides for more complex problems can be found through a simple web search.
Not every issue can be solved without an expert’s help. In these scenarios, you may still want to avoid calling your internet provider. Non-ISP specialists like Geek Squad may offer cheaper assistance than your provider. Before calling anyone, compare prices and find the nearest store location. Some groups charge for distance traveled, so take that into account.
Drop the Bundle
Bundling your internet with TV, phone, and/or home security may sound like a sweet deal. You get the internet service you need along with extra perks – all for one price! Bundles can sometimes be cheaper than high-tiered, internet-only plans.
But then the realization hits: You don’t watch much TV, much less all the channels at your disposal. You live in a safe neighborhood with little need for extra security. Who even needs a landline anymore? And then there are the installation fees. If an ISP has a partnership with a cable TV company like DISH or DIRECTV, you might have to deal with contracts. Similarly, you may be charged for the cable box or receiver.
Internet-only plans might not offer the same value as bundles, but they’re ultimately cheaper. This depends on your specific circumstances. If you watch a lot of TV, investing in a bundle is probably the right move. But don’t opt for a bundle just because it looks cheaper on paper. Make the decision based on your personal needs.
Find a Suitable Speed
Modern internet users thrive on instant gratification – we want fast. As frustrating as it can be to watch a video buffer, it’s probably cheaper than loading it all at once. We aren’t suggesting that you return to the age of dial-up (slow and steady may win the race, but there is such a thing as too slow.) Depending on your internet usage, you might not need the fastest download speeds. Again, this is relative to your personal habits. You’ll need the best download speeds available if you’re an avid gamer, for example. But someone who only watches the occasional Netflix special and browses the web could save money by choosing a plan with lower speeds.
Monitor Your Data Usage
Similar to speeds, unlimited data might be unnecessary. Most major ISPs don’t have data caps on their plans, but some still do. If you aren’t constantly online and/or stick to low-data websites and apps, you’re better off purchasing a cheaper plan with a data cap. Keep in mind that if you exceed your data usage for the month, that may lead to data overage fees. Most ISPs offer a way to track data usage, though.
Even if you do use a lot of data, there are ways to avoid reaching your data cap. Lowering the quality of streaming services such as Spotify and Netflix can drastically reduce the number of gigabytes used per hour. The same goes for YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok. Some companies also feature “data bonus zones,” or specific times when data usage isn’t counted. These frequently occur during off-peak hours, such as the middle of the night – perfect for some late-night bingeing. Try to track your data usage, then see if you can find a more affordable plan.
Apply for Financial Support
Almost every major ISP offers some form of financial support. These can range from discounts for those with disabilities and veterans to affordable plans for low-income households. Plans for senior citizens and students are also usually available. You can find many forms of financial support available, depending on eligibility requirements.
Many schools offer free or reduced-cost internet for students and their families as well. This practice took off at the start of the pandemic. While some have retired the policy as in-school learning has resumed, some schools still offer it. Check with your local government, school district, or college to see if low-cost or free internet service is available.
Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate
Above all else, ISPs want two things: profit and your business. This means that the consumer has some sway over the company, rather than the other way around. So don’t be afraid to negotiate! If you were guaranteed a certain rate, mention it. Did an add-on you never requested appear on your bill? Dispute it. More often than not, your ISP will acquiesce and offer you a better price. Remember to be polite yet firm.
For more serious negotiations, you may want to hire a third party. These professionals will make your case for you to the internet provider while also proving how serious you are. After all, you wouldn’t hire someone over a simple matter! Even just the threat of bringing in a third-party negotiator may be enough to smooth things out.
But the biggest threat any person can make is threatening to leave. Again, all an ISP wants is your business; your dollar speaks louder than words. Don’t follow through with the threat unless your ISP absolutely refuses to budge. Most providers have an early-termination fee if you sign a contract, so even if you walk, they’ll still get your money in the end.