The internet has spread all over the world, connecting people, companies, and brands in a tightly connected network. In the past, the internet was somewhat obsolete in terms that it wasn’t in reach of everyone. However, the scenario has changed over the past decade after continuous and major improvements on the internet. Nowadays, the internet is within reach of every household. Internet is being used as a way to uplift brands, a source of unlimited entertainment, and as a digital social gathering platform.
Without denying the importance of the internet, the bills have also surged over the past few years. The majority of households living paycheck to paycheck find it extremely difficult to afford sky-scraping bills. The Internet has become the utility and cutting off the services is not the solution at all.
The reason for increased bills is normally due to a surge in prices by internet service providers. Moreover, the installation fees, contract termination fee, limited data plans, and renting of equipment are also a few of the factors resulting in a surge in internet bills.
In today’s post, we are going to discuss some of the ways in which you can lower your internet bills. With a few simple tricks and hacks, you will get yourself to the point where internet bills will be easier to pay without putting a dent on your budget. Stay tuned and let’s get started.
Speed Requirements
In the majority of the cases, people without giving a second thought opt for the highest speed available through internet service providers. It is a fact that the internet speed is extremely important to help you stream your favorite shows, play seamlessly without lags, and download large files in a jiffy. However, if you carefully analyze, you might not need that much speed depending on your usage and number of internet users at home.
For instance, households with four to five members with extreme internet usage daily would require a 100Mbps speed. No matter whether everyone is an extreme gamer or a movie buffs, you won’t’ find any lags and disruptions while playing games or streaming Netflix shows.
What if you have subscribed to a 940Mbps plan that isn’t needed at all? The whole point of discussing the above scenario is to give you an idea of what’s needed and what you have been paying for. By cutting down on your speed, you will find a huge difference in your bills.
Bundles Help You Stay Within Budget
Have you ever shopped online where you find bundled packages at an extremely low price as compared to buying individual products? You definitely would have saved a lot of money when purchasing deals and bundles on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Christmas.
The same goes for internet service providers that offer a huge rebate on bundles and packages. For instance, Spectrum packages include high-speed internet along with cable TV and telephone service. If you calculate the individual cost of each service compared to the bundles, you will find a huge difference in the cost. Bundles are going to save you as much as $50 to $100 per month.
Check for Promos and Offers
Similar to major brands and companies offering promos on products from time to time help you save money. Internet service providers are no exception as they launch different promos and offers for new and existing customers. Promos can help you save money without any doubt. But sometimes, the ISPs trick customers to take quick action that would cost them low in the short-run but not in the long run. Once the promo period is over, your bills will take a huge leap and blow the money away from your bank account. Be careful and read the terms and conditions before you fall into the marketing trap.
If you have any questions or ambiguities regarding promos and discounts, make sure to pick up the phone and call your service provider support. They would guide you to the right track. Keep in mind that most of the promos and discount offers are for a limited period as much as up to one year.
When the promo period is about to end, ask your ISP to consider giving discounts or let them know about any better deal offered by their competitors. The trick works well if you are good at presenting your case and can threaten your service provider.
Stop Renting the Equipment
Most of the internet service providers give modem and router once you subscribe to their service. However, it is extremely important to know if you are subscribing for the first time that the equipment is given to you with monthly rent. You have to pay $10-$20 each month for renting out the equipment.
The best approach is to buy your own router/modem to cut down your bill. Some of the popular Wi-Fi routers and modems manufacturers are TP-Link, Asus, and Netgear. The benefit of buying your equipment is not only limited to saving cost but also you can choose one equipped with the latest technology.
Federal Assistance can Help You Save
If you are dependent on federal assistance, you can surely benefit from discounts offered on your internet bills. Almost every service provider has special internet plans allocated for low-income households and those who are relying on the government’s financial aid. Make sure to check out if you qualify for it. Here are some of the programs to be eligible for discounts:
- Supplemental Security Income
- National School Lunch Program
- Public Housing
- Pell Grant
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
