Hey there, fellow moms! Are you feeling the pinch from those ever-rising cable and internet bills?
You’re not alone.
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It seems like every month, our bills are creeping up, leaving us wondering how we can keep up without cutting corners on the quality and service our families need.
But don’t fret! I’m here to share some savvy tips and tricks on how to save money on internet and cable bills.
From negotiating with your internet provider to choosing the right plan and even buying your own equipment, there are plenty of ways to trim those bills down to size. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into how we can keep more money in our pockets while still staying connected to the world.
Understanding Your Current Cable and Internet Bills
Moms, let’s get real for a moment. When was the last time you actually looked at your cable and internet bills? I mean, really looked at them, beyond the lump sum that vanishes from our bank accounts each month? Understanding the ins and outs of your monthly bill is the first step to saving up on your cable and internet bill.
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You see, many internet service providers (ISPs) and cable companies love to sneak in little extras here and there. Maybe it’s a “modem rental fee” or a “service protection plan” you never signed up for.
Sometimes, it’s just that your internet plan includes way more speed—or data—than your family actually uses for streaming services or online gaming. And let’s not even start on the cable TV packages full of channels we never watch.
Take a moment, sit down with your bill, and look at the details. See what you’re actually paying for. You might be surprised at how much you could save just by eliminating services you don’t use or by noticing a price hike that slipped in unannounced.
Strategies to Lower Your Internet Bill
Alright, now that we’ve done our homework, it’s time to take action to lower your internet bill. Here’s where the real fun begins—saving money without having to compromise on the essentials.
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Audit Your Speed Needs
Internet providers love to sell us on the need for high-speed internet, but do you really need that much speed for checking emails, watching a bit of TV online, or letting the kids do their homework? Probably not. Review how much data and what download speed you actually need—downgrading your plan could slash your monthly bill.
Lisa Iscrupe and Hannah Whatley in USA Today offer the following guidelines to check if your internet speed works for you:
- Fewer than five connected devices can run fine on 100 Mbps.
- For 5–10 or fewer connected devices, speeds of 100–300 Mbps are enough to support online activities, including gaming or streaming.
- If you have 10–20 devices doing multiple high-speed activities, try 300–800 Mbps. More than 20 devices should stick with 1 GB.
Own Your Equipment
Did you know that renting a modem and router from your provider can add up to $10–$20 to your monthly bill? Buying your own can save you a significant amount over a few years. Yes, there’s an upfront cost, but it’s a purchase that pays for itself before you know it.
Negotiating Costs With Your Provider
This might sound daunting, but you’d be surprised at how you can actually negotiate for a lower bill. Reach out to your internet service provider’s customer service rep and ask if there are any promotions or a cheaper internet plan available. Mention that you’re considering switching providers for a better deal—loyalty can sometimes unlock savings you didn’t know were possible.
Consider Switching Providers or Bundling Services
Sometimes, the threat of leaving isn’t enough, and that’s okay! Exploring other providers can lead to better deals, especially for new customers. Also, bundling your home internet with other services like cable or phone plans with the same provider can often lead to monthly discounts.
Tap Into Federal Programs
For families eligible for programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there are federal programs and subsidies designed to help lower your internet bill. These can provide significant monthly savings, ensuring your family stays connected without breaking the bank.
Saving Money on Cable Bills
Are your cable bills looking more like a luxury car payment these days? It’s time we talk about slashing those costs without having to miss out on our favorite shows. After all, who says you can’t enjoy great TV and save money?
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Cut the Cord or Downsize Your Package: Let’s face it, with the plethora of streaming services available, paying for hundreds of channels feels a bit… outdated. Many families are saving a bundle simply by switching to streaming services or by using an antenna to catch free local channels. If you’re not ready to cut the cord completely, consider downsizing your cable package. Chances are, there are channels you’re paying for but never watch.
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Buy Your Own Equipment: Remember how we talked about buying your own modem and router for internet services? The same goes for cable boxes and DVRs. Cable companies often charge a monthly rental fee for these devices. Buying your own can lead to significant savings over time.
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Negotiate Your Bill: Yes, you can negotiate your cable bill! Armed with offers from other providers and a friendly chat with your cable company’s customer service rep, you might be surprised at the discounts or promotional prices you can unlock. Remember, it’s all about how much they value keeping you as a customer.
Just like what consumer expert Tobie Stanger told CTV News: “…if you do not continually bug them about the service you are getting and the price you are paying, they’re going to assume you don’t care, but you do care. So it’s worth checking to see how they can give you a better deal.”
Maximizing Savings Through Bundling and Contracts
Moving on, let’s tackle another great way to keep more money in your purse – bundling services and understanding contracts.
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Bundle Internet and Cable
Many internet service providers offer bundled packages for internet and cable TV at a lower monthly cost. This not only simplifies your bills (one bill, one provider) but can also unlock discounts you wouldn’t get otherwise. If you’re satisfied with your provider’s service for both internet and cable, this could be a win-win situation.
Contract Negotiations and Lock-In Deals
Sometimes, committing to a contract can work in your favor. Providers often offer a price lock guarantee to customers who sign up for a year or two. This can protect you from unexpected price hikes and provide a consistent monthly bill. Plus, don’t forget to ask about new customer deals or sign-up bonuses. Even if you’re an existing customer, expressing your interest in these promotions can lead to a better deal.
Keep an Eye on Your Bill
Even after you’ve negotiated a great deal or bundled your services, stay vigilant. Companies can change their billing structures or add new fees. Regularly reviewing your monthly bill can help you catch any changes and address them promptly.
Advanced Tips for Further Savings
Alright, moms, you’ve nailed the basics of saving on your cable and internet bills. But who’s ready to level up? Let’s dive into some advanced tips that can help us squeeze even more savings out of our monthly bills. Because, let’s be honest, there’s always something better we could be spending that money on (hello, spa day!).
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Make a Budget Plan
Tanya Peterson, the Vice President of Freedom Financial Network, talks about how we should begin saving money by creating a budget plan and standing by it in Reader’s Digest. She says, “It doesn’t seem exciting, but it is the best way to save on household bills.” In fact, studies have shown that those who were more financially stable or well-off had at least budgeted at some point in their lives and that low-income individuals are more likely the ones who don’t track their financials.
Leverage Competitor Rates
Knowledge is power, my friends. Many internet service providers and cable companies are in a constant tug-of-war for customers. Take a bit of time to research the offers from other providers. You don’t necessarily have to switch, but armed with this information, you can negotiate a much better deal with your current provider.
Explore Government Programs
Did you know there are federal and state programs aimed at making internet access more affordable? Programs through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or based on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility can provide discounts on your monthly internet bill. It’s worth checking out if your family qualifies for these savings.
Opt for Lower Data Caps or Speeds
We often overestimate how much data or speed we need. Streaming services, online gaming, and even multiple devices connected don’t always require the highest plans. By opting for a plan with a lower data cap or speed that still meets your needs, you can see a significant drop in your monthly internet bill.
Sign Up for Alerts and Promotions
Keep an eye out for promotional prices and sign-up bonuses from internet and cable providers. Sometimes, these deals are only advertised online or to new customers. A quick chat with a customer service rep might reveal some hidden gems that could lower your monthly costs even further.
Check Out These Great Amazon Finds
- TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21): Want to save up on renting a router from your service provider? Own your equipment starting with this best-selling router on Amazon.
- Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air (OTA) DVR: Speaking of saving on rent, here’s another best-selling item to add to your cart. This DVR boasts no subscription fees or hidden fees and a whole lot of features for you to check out.
- ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem: If you’re okay with spending a little more for quality, then check out this best-selling modem on Amazon.
Conclusion: Taking Action to Reduce Your Internet Bill
Phew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From understanding your current bills to negotiating like a pro and even exploring government programs for extra savings. Remember, the goal isn’t just to save money on your family’s cable and internet bills—it’s about empowering yourself to make informed decisions that benefit your household budget and, ultimately, your family’s well-being.
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Taking action doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, maybe with a call to your internet service provider or a review of your current internet and cable packages. Every step you take can lead to savings, and those savings add up to more freedom in your monthly budget.
So, fellow moms, let’s commit to not just accepting those high monthly bills as a fact of life. With a bit of effort, savvy shopping, and negotiation, we can lower our internet and cable bills, giving us more breathing room in our budgets. And who knows? Maybe that saved money can go towards a family vacation, a new home project, or simply into the savings account for a rainy day.
Here’s to smarter spending, better deals, and more money in our pockets. We’ve got this, moms! Let’s show those bills who’s boss.
As a Google Certified Project Manager and an expert in Google Analytics, I bring a wealth of knowledge in digital strategy and online visibility. My certifications from Digital Marketer in Email Marketing and Inbound Social Media Marketing further my ability to connect with families digitally, offering them valuable resources and insights to kickstart their journey towards financial independence.
Professionally, I lead as an SEO Project Leader at a leading boutique SEO agency in Boulder, Colorado. My expertise has not only propelled businesses to the forefront of their industries but has also been instrumental in crafting a strategic approach to my family’s financial growth. This unique blend of professional achievements and certifications equips me with the tools to guide other families towards achieving their financial goals with confidence.
Beyond my desk, I’m a CrossFit enthusiast, an avid hiker, and a lover of nature. These passions keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of a life well-lived—not just in financial terms, but in the wealth of experiences, happiness, and time spent with loved ones.
Through this blog, I aim to share my journey towards financial freedom, drawing on my professional expertise and personal experiences. My goal is to retire in the next 3-5 years, enjoying a life enriched with what truly matters—family, nature, and freedom. I invite you to join me and many other families on this journey, sharing insights, support, and practical advice to help each other achieve financial independence and live our dreams to the fullest.
Let’s empower each other to make informed financial decisions, leveraging our collective knowledge and experiences to build a community where financial freedom is accessible to all.
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