Are People Paying Too Much For Cable and Internet?
How much do people spend on cable every month? As a utility, internet and cable account for a good chunk of one’s monthly expenses. Making sure to not overpay for the internet is important. In case one is being charged over $90 per month, there are certain things one needs to consider before the end of the next billing period.
When signing-up for internet service, potential customers had to choose from several options. Each plan promises certain upload speeds and other concessions. Speed is one of the factors when it comes to internet bills. Faster capabilities mean higher expenses and one will pay less for slower speeds, therefore there is no point in paying top dollar for the highest speeds if it’s not utilized.
One way to get a better internet price is calling the current provider to negotiate a better rate. Not all internet service providers are so willing to work with their customers, but some will. There’s a possibility they’ll want to lower the rates in order to keep a customer.
So, what’s the recommended option for lowering cable and internet bill?
Compare Company Rates
Internet providers often trick customers with hidden charges. Most people don’t pay attention to small details while paying bills and surprisingly they will pay their heightened bills without question.
If there’s simply nothing the current provider can do to lower the rates, it might be a good time to look into competitor pricing. Consider alternatives to the current service. For example, can I choose satellite instead of cable? Or cable instead of the satellite? Perhaps a hotspot from a reputable company? There are many options available, so one should not make the mistake of thinking they are stuck with the current provider. Moreover, some companies will actually purchase one’s previous contract in order to make new customers.
If we take a look, over the last decade, competition in the cable and internet market has increased significantly. Sometimes the small companies provide greater rebate, lower prices, more cable channels and other tempting options.
Here are a few tips to help cut down on the internet bill.
- Don’t purchase more than what can be used
- Routinely review subscriptions
- Return any extra equipment that’s not in use
- Purchase a cable modem instead of renting
- Pay attention to premium cable subscriptions
- Find out eligibility for rebate
- Cut back on the unneeded speeds
- Look into competitor pricing
Cable Companies Expect Trust
Most of us probably don’t question our cable and internet bills even when using their service for a significant amount of time. Cable and internet providers often impose fees that are buried in the fine print and aren’t clearly disclosed. As opposed to taxes or charges for optional services, these fees are items added to a consumer’s monthly bill for things that are nothing more than an outlay of doing business.
According to USA Today, the client gets overcharged as much as 2.5 times the original price of their package rate.
Most companies promote special rates for the first year of service. When the first year is over, one can expect to pay significantly more each month. However, thorough research can grant access to more economical options.
According to Finance Buzz, one can find a family cable and internet package for $69.99 monthly with DISH. Getting this package grants access to over 240 family-friendly channels and a gratuitous Hopper 3 DVR upgrade. Another option that stands out is Cox Communications Bronze Bundle that includes upload speeds up to 150Mbps, plus more than 140 TV channels and a phone landline, for $89.99/month for 12 months with a 2-year service agreement. After the first year, the price goes up to $109.99/month.
Where Can People Find These Solutions?
While the internet might be a necessity in today’s world, it doesn’t have to be a huge expense. There are several ways to lower the expense of the internet while still getting what one needs from it. A little research is always necessary, look around for different options. Compare various companies and check their reviews before making a decision. Don’t forget to pay attention to the terms of service.