5 Ways to Cut Your Cable Bill Instead of Cutting the Cord
With the advent of stand-alone streaming TV services, many cable and satellite television subscribers have been abandoning traditional subscriptions for the seemingly greener pastures of Internet streaming. People tired of yo-yoing prices, confusing fees, and channels they don't want are jumping ship and opting for à la carte television from services like Hulu, Netflix, and even individual networks.
Yet those subscriptions can add up just as quickly as your cable bill — and they might not be able to deliver the shows you want when you want them. Not all shows and episodes are available on every streaming service, and sometimes you have to pay for specific episodes or shows on top of the monthly fee. If you don't pay attention, you can easily exceed what you're currently forking over for cable.
If you're tempted to join the cord-cutting revolution, evaluate your viewing habits and needs before saying farewell to your cable subscription. How many channels do you regularly watch, which shows are you addicted to, and when do you view them? Depending on your viewing habits, sticking with your current subscription may actually be the best way to stay tuned in to your favorite programming — but that doesn't mean you're out of luck when it comes to saving.
Here are five ways to cut your cable bill without having to cut the cord.
1. Shop Around
There's usually more than one option in town, and it can pay to check out the competition. Find out what other cable and satellite providers are offering in your area and see if your current provider will match their price. If not, you'll know where to get the best deal and can switch to a better package. Get started today by searching for nearby cable providers by ZIP code.
2. Bundle, Bundle, Bundle
Many providers will give you a deal if you subscribe to multiple services. Find out if your provider offers a break for customers who bundle phone, Internet, and cable service. Average savings range from $15 to $30 per month, which makes a big difference to your bottom line over a year. Be sure to find out if a contract is required with the bundle, though, and consider whether your needs could change over the time that you might be locked in.
3. Stay in Touch
Pay attention to the life of deals you're offered by your cable company and schedule a call for about a month before they're due to run out. Many companies bargain on the fact that customers often don't keep track and will forget that their rates are about to increase. If your free subscription is good for three months, make sure you give your provider a call to cancel or renegotiate before the increase hits your bill.
4. Know Your Priorities
When it comes to deals on cable TV, one size does not fit all. The best subscription for you will depend on what shows, channels, and access you need. Don't give into a deal that doesn't make sense for you: if you never watch premium channels, a free subscription to one shouldn't be the reason you sign up. Make a list of the options that mean the most to you, and don't get distracted by offers that don't meet your needs.
5. Downsize
Whether it's kids or roommates moving out of the house, having a baby, or changing work demands, your viewing habits are likely to change as other areas of your life change. If you've been catching all your favorites when they air, you might be able to get rid of that DVR. If you rarely have anyone in the guest bedroom, it might be time to shut down cable service to that television. Evaluate your needs and habits and change your plan accordingly. There's no reason to pay for services you're no longer using.
It's great to have so many options for catching up with your favorite shows, but too many choices can make it hard to discern what kind of subscription makes the most sense for your wallet. Make your decisions based on your viewing preferences and stay diligent about your subscription. When it comes to cutting the cord, it pays to look before you leap.
