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Internet service is a need more than a want today - with the internet becoming an integral part of our lives in everything we do. Think about it - we use the internet to keep up to date with the latest news, use streaming services to enjoy our favourite shows and movies, online gaming, and with more people working from home and running online businesses from home - a strong, reliable and fast internet connection is a must.
But does it need to cost an arm and a leg?
No, it doesn't!
HomeLinkd is here to help you save money on internet costs - giving you more money per month to enjoy things you love doing.
Read on to see 11 ways to save on your internet access.
Here's a list of HomeLinkd's top ways to save money on your monthly internet bill:
Bundling your home internet with other services can often save you money. TV and home phone providers especially will offer discounts for customers who bundle their services together. This is because it costs them less to acquire and retain customers when they offer multiple services.
By having separate accounts for your different services, you might end up spending around $10 - $30 more than if you would bundle your services - so bundling your internet can help you save a lot in the long run.
Pros:
- Can save you a lot of money
- Companies often offer discounts for bundling
Cons:
- You might not need all the services
- You could be locked into a contract
Do you really need that high-speed internet?
If you find yourself rarely using all of the bandwidth that you're paying for, it might be a good idea downgrading your service to lower your bill. Most people don't need the fastest internet speeds to still have a great, reliable connection.
If you only use the internet for basic web browsing, checking social media and very light streaming - you could get away with a line speed of around 25 Mbps - or 50 Mbps if you have multiple internet users connected to one signal.
However, if you do a lot of online gaming, streaming, have multiple devices connected or work from home - then having a fast internet connection of 50+ Mbps is important and worth the investment. But you can still save money with our other tips!
Pros:
- You can save money each month while still having access to a good internet speed
- A slower speed might not affect your day-to-day use
Cons:
- A slower speed might affect your gaming or streaming quality
Your internet service provider likely has some wiggle room when it comes to the price you pay each month - so don't be afraid to negotiate!
Call customer service and ask if they have any current promotions or discounts that you could take advantage of. If not, tell them that you're considering switching providers and see if they're willing to match or beat the rates of their competitors.
You might also want to inquire with your internet service provider about a loyalty discount - oftentimes, companies will offer existing customers a better rate than new customers in an effort to keep them from leaving.
Pros:
- You could end up paying less per month
- It's easy to do and only takes a few minutes to get on the phone with a customer service rep
Cons:
- The ISP might not be willing to budge on price
Data caps are when your internet service provider puts a limit on the amount of data you can use in a month - and if you go over that limit, you could end up paying extra. So if you're someone who uses the internet A LOT, this is something you definitely want to keep an eye on.
To avoid exceeding your data cap, try streaming at a lower quality, downloading files during off-peak hours or using a wired connection instead of WiFi (which uses more data). You should also make sure to check how much data your ISP includes in their monthly plans - as some providers will give you more data than others.
Pros:
- You can avoid overage charges
- You might be able to get a higher data cap from your ISP
Cons:
- A lower quality streaming experience
- having to keep track of your data usage throughout the month
Did you know you can get low-cost internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program(ACP)?
The ACP is designed to help low-income households get affordable internet access. If you qualify, you could get discounted or even free internet services from your internet service provider.
To see if you qualify for free or low-cost internet, you'll need to contact your ISP and ask about the requirements. You might need to provide proof of income, participate in a government assistance program or meet other criteria. But it's definitely worth looking into if you're struggling to afford your wi-fi bill each month!
If you participate in one of these initiatives, you could qualify for the benefit:
- The National School Lunch Program
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Supplemental Security Income
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
Pros:
-You could get free or discounted internet services
Cons:
-There might be eligibility requirements that you don't meet
Another way to lower your internet bill is by purchasing your own equipment.
If you're renting a modem and router from your internet service provider, you're likely paying around $ 10 per month - which can add up over time! So instead of continuing to rent, consider purchasing your own modem and router.
You can buy a good quality router and modem for around $100 - and once you do, you'll no longer have to pay that monthly rental fee. Plus, owning your own equipment means that you'll be able to upgrade it as needed in the future - rather than being stuck with outdated technology from your ISP.
Pros:
- You can reduce your internet costs
- Internet users will be able to upgrade your equipment as needed
Cons:
- The upfront cost of buying a modem and router
A mobile hotspot is a small, portable device that allows you to connect to the internet while on the go. And if you have a data plan with your cellphone provider, you can use that data to power your hotspot - which means you could get internet access without paying for an additional service!
Just keep in mind that mobile hotspots usually have lower speeds than traditional home internet - so they might not be ideal for things like streaming movies or downloading large files. But if you just need basic internet access, a mobile hotspot could be a great option for you.
Pros:
- You can take it with you wherever you go
- It's a cheaper way to get internet access
Cons:
- Slower speeds than traditional home internet
If you're looking to save some money, scaling back on your internet or other is one way to do it. For example, if you have a cable TV and internet package, you could downgrade to a cheaper internet-only plan.
If you have an internet and TV bundle, but don't make use of a lot of the TV channels on your package - you should consider downgrading your TV package and instead looking at streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu or YouTube TV. This could save you a significant amount of money each month!
Pros:
- You can save money each month on your bill
- Get access to more shows and movies through streaming services
Cons:
- You might have to give up some features or channels that you're currently using if it is not included in a lower-rated package.
If you're not happy with your current internet service provider, or if you feel like you're paying too much each month - it might be time to switch ISPs!
To find a new provider, you can use a site like HomeLinkd. Just enter your zip code and we'll show you all of the available providers in your area. Then, you can compare prices and plans to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Pros:
- You could get a lower monthly price
- You might get better customer service with a new provider
- You could get more features or faster speeds
Cons:
- It can be a hassle to switch providers
- You might have to pay an early termination fee
Most internet service providers offer promotional deals from time to time - so it's always a good idea to keep an eye out for those! Call your internet company to see what deals they currently have on offer.
For example, you might be able to get a discount on your monthly price if you sign up for a year-long contract. Or, you might be able to get a free modem or router when you sign up for service.
So if you're looking to save some money, make sure to keep an eye out for these deals and promotions. And if you see something that interests you, be sure to ask about it!
Pros:
- You can save money with promotional deals and discounts
- You might get free equipment when you sign up for service
Cons:
- You might have to sign a contract
- Deals and promotions might not be available all the time
One of the biggest ways that companies get people to overpay is by hiding fees in the fine print. So before you sign up for any service, be sure to read the terms of service carefully!
For example, some companies might charge a “Broadcast TV Fee” or a “Regional Sports Fee” - even if you don't watch those channels. Others might have a fee for renting equipment, or a fee for using their wireless network.
So if you see any fees listed in the fine print, be sure to ask about them! And if you're not sure what something means, ask a customer service representative to explain it to you.
Pros:
- You can avoid hidden fees by reading the fine print
- You can get a better understanding of what you're paying for
Cons:
- The fine print can be confusing
- You might have to spend some time reading it carefully
The short answer is that it depends on your location and what’s available in your area.
Fiber internet is typically the most expensive option, followed by cable internet and then satellite internet. However, there are many factors that can affect the price, such as promotional deals, discounts and bundling options.
Cable companies often offer discounts for bundling TV services and internet services together to decrease your cable bill. And many fiber providers offer promotional deals for new customers. So it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before you make a decision.
Here are some of the cheapest internet providers, based on average monthly prices:
- Verizon Fios: $39.99/month
- AT&T Internet: $40.00/month
- Spectrum: $45.00/month
- Xfinity from Comcast: $49.95/month
- Optimum Online: $50.00/month
Of course, these are just averages - your actual monthly price will depend on the specific plan that you choose, and what's available in your area. But this should give you a general idea of which providers offer the lowest prices.
Here are some recommendations for affordable internet plans, based on average monthly prices:
Cox Internet Essential 100
Price: Starting from $49.99 per month
Speed: 100 Mbps
Contract: No contract required
AT&T Internet 100
Price: $50 per month
Speed: 100 Mbps
Contract: 12 months required
Spectrum Internet
Price: $49.99 per month
Speed: 100 Mbps
Contract: No contract required
Xfinity Internet Blast! Pro
Price: $64.95 per month
Speed: 200 Mbps
Contract: 12 months required
These are just a few of the many internet options that are available, which could save you hundreds of dollars - so be sure to shop around and compare plans before you make a decision! And if you need any help, our team at HomeLinkd is always here to assist you.
The internet can be expensive - but it doesn't have to be when you have HomeLinkd by your side.
Save money on your internet today with HomeLinkd - not only do we give you helpful tips to save money on your internet bill, but we also house some of the best, most affordable providers and plans.
Let us help you cut your bill in half - compare providers and plans now.
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