Administrator Updated on February 1, 2023 How to lower your internet bill? Probably the answer will surprise you. However, still today, many people do not take into account that saving money is possible on the internet. That by paying more, it will not be necessary to get faster speeds, more data or an unlimited number of downloads.
Saving some extra money is great. When you are spending money on necessities, like the internet, lowering your bill is good, especially when you have to pay for it regularly. If you are satisfied with your current provider but think the bill is too high, consider the ways below to lessen your internet bill.
1): Purchase Your own Router and Modem
If you decide to stay long-term with your current internet provider, keep in mind that you are also paying to rent their router and modem, which they typically charge for $15. If you stick with that service provider for three years, the sum of the rental cost will reach more than $300.
On the other hand, with $200, you can purchase high-quality equipment. Therefore, you can save a significant amount of money by buying your hardware instead of renting it. However, if you choose this route, bear in mind that some companies do not offer support if you have issues with your equipment.
2): Lower your Internet Speed
Companies providing internet services continue to advertise and promote high-speed connections, promising speeds reaching up to a hundred Mbps or even more. If that kind of service is what you need, then your money will be worth it. However, not everyone will need that extra speed.
Reducing to a more reasonable speed can lower your monthly expenses to about $20, depending on the provider. Check the table below to learn how much Mbps you need according to the number of gadgets you need to connect and your online activities. Once you have discovered what you need, contact your service provider to lower the plan, saving more in the long run.
Number of Gadgets Activities Online Suggested Internet Speed
Maximum of 3 Web browsing, email, SD video, and music streaming 11 Mbps
Maximum of 3 Web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 20 Mbps
Maximum of 3 Video conferencing, web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 30 Mbps
Maximum of 3 Online gaming, web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 30 Mbps
Maximum of 7 Web browsing, email, SD video and music streaming 25 Mbps
Maximum of 7 Web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 42 Mbps
Maximum of 7 Video conferencing, web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 70 Mbps
Maximum of 7 Online gaming, web browsing, email, HD video, and music streaming 70 Mbps
3): Tie Up your Services
If you need cable and internet, you can bundle both services to save more money. However, avoid up-sells. Carriers will try to advertise and convince you to buy channels or extra speed for an additional cost. However, small increases can sum up and cost more eventually and this can counter your efforts to save more money.
4): Negotiate with Your Current Provider
You do not have to be a salesperson to learn how to negotiate. As a customer, you can be straightforward and honest with your service provider. For instance, you can let them know that you are aware of other providers that offer better deals and you wouldn’t mind going after them.
Be nice yet firm. However, before you do that, do some research to know what their competitors are offering. You will have more leverage when you can support your statement.
5): Research on Government Benefits
The government provides subsidies for the internet if your income threshold falls below a minimum or if you are part of a particular government program. For more information, you can check out the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) website.
If your earnings are less than 135% of the poverty guidelines or if you attend programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Medicaid, etc., you can qualify for an internet broadband subsidy.
Summary: Lower Your Internet Bill
- Reduce Video Streaming Quality.
- Switch to a Cheaper Service Provider.
- Use a Slower (But Cheaper) Internet Speed Tier.
- Bundle Your Services.
- Negotiate with Customer Service.
Conclusion
Saving money requires patience, strategy, and effort. Take the measures above, and you will undoubtedly save a significant amount of money for your internet over time.
