Beyond simply searching for the lowest-priced internet connection, you can take action to reduce your monthly bill even further by following these steps.
1. Reduce Internet Speed
Check your bill for your data usage report over a few months. You’ll likely see a pattern and be able to determine the average amount that your family uses. If the average data you use is less than you’re paying for, give your ISP a call and get into a cheaper plan with a lower data cap, or find a new provider that can offer you savings for using less.
2. Limit Your Data Use
If you only use your internet connection for checking email and keeping in touch, you may be paying for a higher data cap than you need. Paying the cost of an unlimited data plan isn’t necessary if you only use a couple of gigabytes each month.
If you can get away with using public Wi-Fi when you can and don’t stream movies or shows, you can limit the amount of data your internet needs to provide. You may even be able to use your phone’s plan for some data if you have unlimited data through your phone carrier.
3. Purchase Your Equipment
Many internet providers offer their customers the ability to provide their own modem to connect to the company’s service. The modem you purchase must be compatible with the service provider, and you won’t receive free upgrades or equipment updates from the company. However, if you plan on staying with the company, the price of an occasional new modem is almost always less over time than renting the equipment from the provider.
4. Bundle Services
Bundling is a recent buzzword for a good reason. You’re likely to find steeply discounted prices by putting your internet, cell phones, TV and even landlines on the same monthly bill. Just be sure to watch for hidden prices in the process.
5. Negotiate With Provider
ISPs are notorious for raising their prices without much notice. Watch your monthly bill for increasing prices. If the price they ask becomes too high, the company will often work with you to lower your monthly bill to keep you as a customer, but you have to call them directly to make the request.
