We get it, paying bills is no fun. It’s even worse when your bills seem to be getting higher each month. Dig yourself out from under that pile of monthly bills and follow these quick tips to negotiating certain bills you didn’t know could be adjusted.
1. Streaming services
These days, streaming has become a part of our everyday lives. We stream the music we listen to and the TV shows we watch. But did you know that there may be ways to lower your monthly streaming bills? For example, if you have multiple TV streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, or Showtime, it may be wise of you to start combining subscription services. Hulu offers Showtime and other TV networks in a variety of add-on packages. Some phone plans even give you Netflix or HBO Max for free, so it’s worth checking out those options. Many streaming services will work with you on lowering your monthly bill, especially if you’re a loyal customer.
2. Medical bills
Perhaps the most expensive and frustrating of the monthly bills that you have to pay. If you call the billing department of your hospital or doctor’s office, you may be able to get your bill lowered that way. In fact, it was found that up to 80 percent of all medical bills have some type of error. If you have an elective procedure coming up, like veneers or knee replacement surgery, see if you can get a discount for paying your bill upfront.
3. Cable or Satellite TV / Radio bills
Most of us get lured into signing up for a cable TV or satellite radio subscription by a promotional, introductory price. Chances are, if you call SiriusXM or Spectrum regarding your cable bill, you can probably get it lowered back down to the introductory price.
4. Online shopping
Many online stores offer a live chat where the customer can discuss the product with a real life customer support employee. If you ask the company’s live chat, you may be able to ask about special promotions or discounts in for the online store.
5. Home repairs or maintenance bills
At some point, most of our homes regarding services like HVAC, pest control, or lawn care. If you hire a small business to do the service for you, you might be able to talk them down on price. This is especially true if you buy a part or product ahead of time and have them install it for a lower rate.
6. Insurance
If you are able to negotiate your home or auto insurance plan, you could save yourself around 15 percent on your monthly bill. Renegotiating the terms on your insurance plan may also be possible if you recently made safety upgrades to your home or purchased a newer car.
