Internet service is a necessary component of modern life. Whether you’re running a business or a household, having a reliable connection helps you stay in touch with friends, loved ones, and customers, gives you access to thousands of eCommerce sites, and much more.
Internet providers offer all kinds of deals and packages when it comes to internet connections. You can bundle internet, phone, and TV in some cases, you can choose a mobile provider for hot-spot connection; the choices are pretty much endless.
The burning question that every internet user asks is “how can I save more money on my internet service?” Today, we’re going to answer that question with some simple steps you can take to save as much as possible on your internet bill. Enjoy.
Don’t Settle For The First Deal That Comes Along
What do we tend to do when a good deal comes along? Jump right on it, of course! After all, you don’t want to be left without internet for days or weeks on end. The problem with this approach is that like any other business entity, ISPs are out to make money, and they’re essentially giving you a sales pitch that’s designed to sound great.
While it’s perfectly fine to accept the first deal you find, a better practice is to hold out and do some more research. The ISP might say something like “But this deal won’t last! You need to lock in your rate now!”, but the truth is, most ISPs have some kind of “new customer” promotional package. You should be able to get the discount even if you come back a few days later after doing some research.
Once you’ve done your homework, you’ll feel better about accepting an offer because you’ll know what else is out there. Don’t make the mistake of thinking there are only two options for an internet connection (satellite and cable). There are plenty of alternatives, and when you’re comparing internet providers, you’re setting yourself up for the best possible deal for your money.
Know What You’re Paying For
Let’s say you didn’t do your homework, or rushed into a service package because you needed a connection as quickly as possible. Now, a month later, your first bill comes, and it’s about twice as high as you thought it’d be. What happened?
First of all, you didn’t clarify what was in your service package. You might very well be bundling or paying for extra services you don’t need without even knowing it (until you look at the bill). This is why it’s so important to clarify with your new provider what services are included in the package you choose.
Every ISP will have an internet-only package, and likely different tiers of internet service speed or bandwidth. Most of the time, however, they’ll try to get you to bundle services. This is an upsell technique to get you to buy more of their products, but you don’t have to. When they say “bundling is cheaper”, it is if you want internet, TV, and phone. Internet by itself is going to usually be cheaper than a bundle.
Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to about your services, contract, and billing. If there’s anything you’re uncertain of, speak up before you close out the deal. It’s much harder to back out of a service package (especially if you signed a contract) once you’re already in it. Clarify, clarify, clarify.
Bundle When You Can, Un-Bundle When You Don’t Need The Extra Services
Now, if you do want phone and TV alongside your internet, a bundle will be your best bet. Most ISPs have different bundle tiers, each with faster speeds or more channels. This is certainly the best option if you want multiple services, as paying for each individually would add up quickly.
On the flip side, you can always call your ISP if you don’t need your bundle services anymore and downgrade to an internet-only package. This can save you anywhere from $20-$100 per month depending on your service package and the ISP. Your service rep may try to talk you out of downgrading, but at the end of the day, it’s your decision either way.
Check Competitor Prices
Whether you’re happy with your current service or not, it doesn’t hurt to check out the competition. There’s a good chance another company can offer you the same package (or one that’s very similar) for a cheaper price. ISPs are in fierce competition with one another, since an internet connection is pretty much a necessity in the modern world.
Some companies will even buy out your current contract so that you can sign up with them! Don’t be afraid to shop around, get some quotes, and make a more informed decision about whether or not to stay with your current ISP. There are other options out there!
The Bottom Line
Saving money on your internet service isn’t rocket science. You just need to do your research, ask the right questions, and be certain of what’s in your service package. Don’t be afraid to ask your ISP about billing, service options, or downgrading your bundle. The more you know about your service, the better decisions you can make moving forward.
