How to Lower Your Family's Cable Bill

Find a way to lower shockingly high cable bills.

If your cable bills are getting more burdensome, find ways to cut the cost. Cutting costs is a challenge, but it is worthwhile -- and by lowering the amount you pay each month, you'll save a significant amount of money over time. Thoroughly investigate your monthly bill to determine whether extra charges or services, such as extra cable channels, have been added without your permission. If you find unwanted services, or decide you don't need as many extras, contact a representative of the cable company to assist you.

Instructions

1. Review your current bill. Look for charges you aren't sure about. Extra fees, a higher-than-normal rate or charges for channels you didn't ask for could end up on your bill. Mark specific charges that you question.

2. Talk to friends and family members about their cable service. Find out if they're getting a better deal than you are. Knowing what friends pay for the same service you have can help you when you contact the cable company.

3. Research other cable providers. Find out if better deals are available. Use this information as ammunition when you try to get your bill lowered.

4. Contact the cable company and talk to customer service. Be calm and confident, and explain that you want to keep the service but your budget doesn't allow for their current rates.

5. Ask if the company has special promotions. Even if it's small, such as one of your movie channels being free for a few months, you'd save money in the short term.

6. Speak to a manager or another agent if the representative assisting you isn't cooperative. You need to talk with a customer service agent that's knowledgeable and willing to guide you in the right direction to lower your bill.

References

• The Consumerist: Ten Ways to Take $100 Off Your Cable Bill
• Daily Finance: 10 Steps to Cutting Your Cable TV Bill