7 Tips to Cut Your Internet Bill Without Sacrificing Speed
The internet has become a crucial part of our lives. We need it for work, virtual meetings, keeping in touch with friends and family, streaming our favorite shows, online gaming, and more. However, internet services are often expensive and hard to understand.
- This article explains how to save on internet bills without sacrificing speed. Our 7 tips will help you pay less for basically the same service.
Whether you live alone and need to cut living expenses or are a large family with high bandwidth needs, keep reading to find out how to save on internet service.
1. Closely Examining Your Bill Is the First Step to Save on Internet
First, you have to know what you are paying for. Are you paying any extras? For instance, if you have a data cap, are you staying within that data limit? If you don’t, it’s probably cheaper to switch plans for an unlimited plan or higher data cap.
Log in to your provider’s portal to find out:
- How much data is your household using each month?
- What is your internet speed?
With this information, you can calculate if you are getting a good cost per Mbps:
Divide the monthly cost of your internet plan by your download speed to get the cost per Mbps.
You will also be able to use this information to compare plans (tip #3).
While you’re at it, you should also check if you are getting the advertised speeds for your plan. Take an internet speed test to figure it out.
2. Do You Have Too Many Devices?
Our homes are filled with a variety of devices: smart TVs, gaming consoles, phones, smart thermostats, etc. All these connected devices use your bandwidth. They can eat up your data cap and bring down your speed.
Try to keep fewer devices in your home: Are your kids still using this gaming console? Can you keep only one TV? This might be a great opportunity to play outside more often.
3. How to Save on Your Internet Bill by Researching Competitors
Since the industry is very competitive, other providers will happily offer you an introductory rate lower than what you’re currently paying.
Before you sign up, however, make sure your bill won’t go up after a few months. Ask about your monthly costs for the next month, the next six months, and the next year, as well as fees and charges. Make sure you understand how much the plan costs after the promo plan ends.
Once you have all the information in hand, make the same calculations you made at tip #1.
Use our comparison tool to research providers in your area.
4. How to Save on Your Internet Bill: Negotiate With Your Provider
Before you sign up with a new provider, pick up the phone and talk to your current provider. They may be able to match that new offer you just got at tip #3.
Telling them you know about competing offers gives you an advantage: Your provider knows you are seriously considering switching providers because you put in the time to do your research.
Try this trick
Cancel your service, but set the cancellation date 3 weeks out. Don’t accept any offers from the rep who is cancelling your service — Wait for the retention department to call you back, they usually have more power to make a deal.
5. Are You Eligible for Low-Cost Internet Programs?
In Canada, there are discount programs to help lower-income families pay for internet service. The Connecting Families Initiative targets:
- Families who are eligible if they receive the maximum amount of the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
- Some seniors with low income may also be eligible.
If you are eligible, you’ll get internet for $10-$20 per month, plus fees such as equipment rental. You may also be able to get a discounted refurbished digital device such as a laptop or tablet.
6. Use Your Own Equipment
Most internet providers charge fees for renting equipment such as a modem and router. That extra $10 per month amounts to $120 per year, plus taxes.
Consider buying your own equipment instead of paying fees forever. The upfront cost may be higher, but it will likely pay for itself after a while and then, you will save money every month.
7. Bundle and Save
Usually, internet providers also offer TV and mobile services. You could pay less by bundling your internet with these other services. Check if your provider offers discounted bundle packages.
However, make sure you are going to use what you buy. Don’t bundle your internet and mobile services if you already have a better deal for your phone with another provider. Is it worth paying more for mobile service only to get a discount on the internet? Carefully consider the cost of both to determine the best option.
How to Save on Your Internet Bill FAQs
How much should your internet bill be?
The average internet bill varies greatly depending on your location and your needs. Prices typically range from $40 to $100 per month.
Is it possible to get your internet for free?
No, there is no way to get your home internet for $0 per month. However, it is possible to get into an initiative that offers discounts. With the Connecting Families Initiative, the internet can cost $10-$20 per month.
What's the cheapest type of internet connection?
The cheapest internet service depends on your area. Usually, it is a plan with low speed and little data.
Do internet prices always go up after one year?
No, internet prices do not always go up, unless you signed up for a promotional plan that ends after one year. Before signing up, ask about the cost of the service in 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, etc. in order to understand what you are getting into.
What causes internet bills to go up?
Internet providers aim to make a profit. As technology advances, they need to make investments in infrastructures to stay competitive. These costs are then passed on to consumers.
Are there any other ways to lower my internet bill?
Of course, besides the 7 tips explained above, you could still decide to sacrifice speed and go with a slower plan!
Cut Your Internet Bill Now – Compare Internet Providers
Cutting your internet bill doesn’t have to mean giving up speed or reliability. Start by understanding your usage, comparing providers, negotiating your plan, or exploring low-cost options.
- Fill out our form to compare internet providers in your area and significantly reduce your monthly bill!
Whether you’re tech-savvy or not, taking the time to follow our simple tips can lead to meaningful savings—without compromising speed.
