One of the easiest ways to save money every month is by lowering your bills. It might seem daunting at first, but with a simple phone call, you could be putting more money back into your pocket. Whether it’s your cable, internet, or cell phone bill, many service providers are willing to work with you to keep your business. All you have to do is ask.
The best part is that you won’t lose any services when you pay less. In fact, you might gain some!
Start with a Friendly Call
The first step is to call your service provider. When you get through to a representative, keep the conversation friendly and polite. Let them know that you’ve been a loyal customer for a while and that you’re looking to lower your monthly bill. It’s amazing how far a kind approach can go when negotiating a lower rate. They know that you have other options, and they want to keep your business. So sometimes, just by asking nicely, the customer service representative will offer a special deal that you can take part of.
Know What You Want
Before making the call, take a few minutes to research current promotions or rates that other customers are getting. This gives you a solid foundation for your request. If you see a deal for new customers that’s better than what you’re currently paying, mention it during your conversation. Often, companies are willing to match those offers for existing customers to keep them from switching. When you show that you know what’s out there, customer service representatives are more willing to give you the deals.
When this happens, you can often not only get a lower price, but you’ll get extra channels or something else. Since you’re getting a promotion, they often include a lot of extra “stuff” and because you’ll be getting the promotion, you get it as well.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
Sometimes, simply asking for a lower rate isn’t enough. Be prepared to negotiate a little. If the representative offers you a discount, but it’s not as much as you hoped for, don’t be afraid to ask if there’s anything better they can do. You can also mention any competitive offers you’ve found from other providers. This can be a powerful tool in getting a better deal, as companies don’t want to lose your business to a competitor.
The Power of the “Cancel” Threat
If the representative isn’t budging on lowering your bill, you might need to take it a step further. Mention that you’re considering canceling your service if the price can’t be lowered enough. This isn’t about being aggressive; it’s about letting them know that you have options and are serious about saving money. Often, this will prompt them to transfer you to a retention department. Often, this is the group of people who can really help you change the price of your bills. They’ll be able to offer you a retention deal—something better than what’s initially on the table. But you must utter the word “cancel” before you’ll be able to speak to them.
Review and Confirm the New Rate
Once you’ve successfully negotiated a lower rate, make sure to review the details with the representative. Confirm the new price and any terms that come with it. It’s also a good idea to ask for a confirmation email or letter that outlines the new agreement. This ensures there are no surprises on your next bill.
Revisit Annually
Just because you’ve lowered your bill once doesn’t mean you should stop there. Prices and promotions change frequently, so make it a habit to revisit your bills annually. Often, a year later you’ll see your bills go right back up to the prices that they were before. When this happens, a quick call can ensure you’re always getting the best deal possible.
Lowering your monthly bills is a simple yet effective way to save money. A friendly phone call, a bit of research, and the willingness to negotiate can result in significant savings. Remember, it’s your money…don’t be afraid to ask for a better deal!
Enjoy,
