Nowadays, the internet is like an additional family member to every household. No matter how high the bills will get, no one would ever think of giving it up. That’s why there should be some ways around having to pay these high internet bills. Believe it or not, the average American pays around $61 for internet bills every month. It’s a high cost, especially if you’re someone who’s stretching his paycheck thin. Luckily, we’re here to help you out! In this article, we’ll put in your hands 8 ways you can try to lower your internet bill. Let’s go through each way below!
1. Reduce Your Internet Speed
If you’re paying too much for the internet, that might have to do with paying for a high speed you don’t even need. Obviously, internet service providers (ISPs) will charge you more for plans with higher speed. However, if you’re someone who doesn’t use the internet except for social media and watching your favorite series, you won’t need that much speed after all. Thus, you should consider going for a different plan. You’ll be saving yourself around 20$ per month depending on your carrier. Keep in mind, that you’ll need to figure out your minimum viable download speed first before choosing which plan suits you better.
2. Lower Your Data Usage
Just like you have to know the perfect speed for you, you also have to know the maximum data usage you require every month. This will help you choose the right plan without having to pay extra for some gigabytes you won’t end up using. Thus, you have to determine your needs and stick by that while comparing internet plans. For example, why go for unlimited data that will cost you more when you only need the internet for some chatting and browsing? That doesn’t make sense. That’s why it’s up to you to evaluate the perfect plan that suits your needs, and wallet too!
3. Get Your Own Modem and Router
In the beginning, you may think that renting equipment from your internet provider is the best choice you’ve got. However, adding these fees up every month will cost you up to $150 per year. While buying a good router and modem will cost you more, around 200$, it’s still more affordable for you in the long run. You can even buy used and refurbished pieces of equipment which will probably cost you less. Thus, this step will turn into your benefit over time and help you to lower your internet bill.
4. Switch Internet Providers
It’s always a good idea to have a look at other service providers in your area. Ensure you compare the prices of internet plans while searching for the best deal you can get. However, you have to always keep in mind the speed and internet data you’ll need every month. That way you can know what plans to look for. Another good tip would be to wait around for special days when service providers offer some discounts. Just play your cards right and secure the best deal!
5. Switch to Mobile Data
If you’re living on your own or with another individual, it might be right to consider switching to mobile data only. You won’t have many people using the internet, and you can just choose a mobile data plan that suits your usage needs. Not to mention, most unlimited data plans won’t cost you more than 70$. In addition, you can benefit from using the mobile hotspot option to connect your other devices to your mobile internet. In some scenarios, switching to mobile data will be very helpful to lower your internet bill. However, be aware to check the connection of 4G mobile internet in your area first.
6. Negotiate Your Bills
Don’t convince yourself that there’s no way around your high internet bills. Sometimes, you can be fortunate enough to get a lower rate if you negotiate this with your internet service provider. All you have to do is call them and discuss what’s bothering you about your plan, and then listen to what offers they have to suggest. You might even have to bring up some competitors’ names and the plans they provide to stir the pot. It would also do you good to have this conversation when it’s near the expiration time of your contract. No one wants to lose a customer these days. However, you’ll have to be ready to drop the service just in case the negotiation doesn’t go as you planned.
7. Threaten to Drop the Service
While this isn’t the most ideal option, threatening to drop the service can do you good sometimes. Some internet providers value their customers more than anything else. They’ll be willing to make you promotional offers or lower your rates to avoid losing you as a customer. That’s especially true if you live in an area that has multiple internet providers. You can also ask for promotional offers they might provide in other areas to be available for you. However, remember that being nasty and rude while discussing this will get you nowhere. Be polite but firm about your requests and evaluate every option you’ll get well before setting your mind on any plan.
8. Apply for Government Subsidies
If nothing is working in your favor when it comes to lowering your internet bill, you can look for government subsidies to help you out. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) gives out discounted internet costs if you meet their application requirements. The ACP discount voucher will usually give up to $30 off the internet bill for eligible households. One way to qualify for an ACP voucher is to be enrolled in an assistance program. Some of these programs are the Lifeline program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, etc. Search each of these assistance programs and learn which one you can qualify for.
Final Thoughts
Internet access isn’t something you can ever give up, even if you’re unsatisfied with your internet bills. Luckily, there’s an alternative option to fix this issue. That is to look for ways to lower your internet bill. We’ve made it easy for you and suggested 8 tips and tricks you can do to avoid paying high internet bills. Keep in mind, the first thing you need to do before going through these ways is to know the perfect plan for you. Evaluate your needs in terms of speed and data consumption, and then start your mission of getting the best deal!
