How to Lower Your Internet Bill: 6 Proven Money-Saving Strategies
Cut your internet costs with these 6 practical strategies and keep more money in your pocket.
Your internet bill is one of those recurring expenses that can quietly drain your monthly budget. Many households pay premium prices for internet service without realizing there are multiple ways to reduce these costs significantly. Whether you’re looking to save a few dollars or cut your bill in half, there are practical strategies available to help you keep more money in your pocket each month.
The good news is that lowering your internet bill doesn’t require you to sacrifice quality service or internet speed. By exploring different providers, taking advantage of government programs, and negotiating with your current company, you can achieve substantial savings. Let’s explore six effective methods to reduce your internet expenses starting today.
1. Shop Around and Switch Providers
One of the most straightforward ways to lower your internet bill is to explore what other internet service providers in your area have to offer. If you’re fortunate enough to live in an area with multiple provider options, you have significant leverage to negotiate better rates or switch to a more affordable plan.
Before making the switch, research what promotional offers new customers receive from competing providers. Many internet service providers offer discounted rates for the first 6 to 12 months to attract new subscribers. These promotional rates can be substantially lower than standard pricing, sometimes reducing your monthly bill by $20 or more.
Making the transition to a new provider becomes especially easy if you own your own modem and router rather than renting equipment from your current provider. You can simply disconnect your equipment, sign up with the new provider, and reconnect. This eliminates the hassle and cost of returning rented equipment and negotiating equipment fees with your old provider.
To get started, contact providers in your area and request quotes for their new customer promotional rates. Compare the speeds, contract terms, and monthly costs. Don’t overlook smaller regional providers or newer companies that may offer competitive pricing to gain market share in your area.
2. Use Federal Government Subsidies
The federal government offers several programs designed to help low-income households access affordable internet service. These subsidies can dramatically reduce your monthly internet costs, sometimes to $0 per month when combined with low-income plans from major providers.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal initiative that provides eligible households with a $30 monthly discount on broadband service. This voucher can be applied to any tier of broadband service offered by participating internet service providers.
To qualify for the ACP, your household must have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line, or you must be enrolled in one of the following federal assistance programs:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income
- School Breakfast or Lunch Program
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefit
- Tribal assistance programs
When you pair the $30 ACP voucher with a participating low-income plan from providers like AT&T, Cox, or other major carriers, you can significantly reduce or eliminate your monthly internet costs. For example, AT&T’s Access program costs $30 per month for up to 100 Mbps download speeds, which when combined with the ACP voucher, results in free high-speed internet service.
To check your eligibility and apply for the ACP, visit GetInternet.gov and complete the application form. The process typically takes just a few minutes, and approval decisions are usually made quickly.
The Lifeline Program
Another federal subsidy worth exploring is the Lifeline program, which provides a $9.25 monthly discount for eligible households. You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level or if you’re enrolled in specific federal assistance programs.
While the Lifeline discount is smaller than the ACP, it’s another option that can help reduce your internet expenses if you meet the eligibility criteria.
3. Reduce Your Internet Speed
Internet service providers charge premium prices for high-speed plans. If you examine your actual internet usage patterns, you may discover that you don’t need the fastest speeds available. Downgrading to a lower speed tier can result in monthly savings of $20 or more, depending on your provider.
Before downgrading, consider your household’s internet needs. If you primarily browse the web, stream standard-definition video, and check email, you likely don’t need speeds above 25-50 Mbps. However, if you regularly stream 4K video, play online games, or have multiple household members using the internet simultaneously, you may need faster speeds.
Many providers offer plans with speeds of 25-50 Mbps at significantly lower prices than their 100+ Mbps plans. By stepping down to a speed tier that adequately meets your needs, you can achieve meaningful monthly savings without noticing a difference in your browsing experience.
Contact your provider and ask about lower-speed plan options. Most can switch you to a different speed tier without any fees or hassle. If you find that the slower speed doesn’t work for your household, you can always upgrade later.
4. Buy Your Own Modem and Router
Renting a modem and router from your internet service provider is convenient, but it’s one of the most expensive ways to obtain this equipment. Most providers charge between $5 and $20 per month for equipment rental fees, which translates to $60 to $240 annually just to use equipment you don’t own.
By purchasing your own modem and router instead of renting, you can eliminate these monthly fees entirely. A quality modem and router combination typically costs around $200 total, though used or refurbished equipment is available at lower prices, sometimes as little as $80 to $150.
When you buy equipment outright, you own it permanently. After paying the initial purchase price, you have zero monthly equipment costs for as long as the equipment functions. Most modern modems and routers last 5-7 years, making the investment worthwhile even with the upfront cost.
To make the decision easier, do the math for your specific situation. If your provider charges $10 per month for equipment rental, the equipment you purchase for $200 pays for itself in 20 months. After that point, you’re saving $10 monthly indefinitely. This is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.
When purchasing equipment, ensure compatibility with your internet service provider. Check your provider’s website for a list of compatible modems and routers, then shop for models that meet those specifications.
5. Negotiate Your Monthly Bill
If you’ve been with your internet provider for a while and have paid your bills on time, you have leverage to negotiate a lower rate. Companies would rather reduce your rate temporarily than lose you to a competitor.
Preparation is Key
Before calling your provider, do your homework. Research the rates and promotional offers that competing providers are offering in your area. Get specific quotes from at least two competitors, noting their speeds, contract terms, and monthly costs. This information gives you leverage during negotiations.
Additionally, review your current plan and payment history. Check how your monthly rate has changed over time, note your plan’s download speed, and verify that you have a clean payment record. Providers are more likely to negotiate with customers who have been reliable payers.
The Negotiation Process
When you call, speak to a customer service representative and tell them you’ve found a better deal elsewhere and are considering switching providers. Mention specific competitors and their offers. Express that you’d like to stay with the current provider but only if they can match or beat the competing offer.
You’ll have the most negotiating power if:
- Your contract is expiring soon or has already expired
- You have a history of on-time payments over several years
- You have multiple provider options in your area
- You express a genuine willingness to switch
Be polite but firm during the conversation. Customer service representatives want to help customers who treat them with respect. Many representatives have authority to offer discounts, promotional rates, or service upgrades to retain valuable customers.
Negotiation Apps
If negotiating directly with your provider makes you uncomfortable, consider using bill negotiation services or apps. These services contact your provider on your behalf to negotiate lower rates. However, be aware that they typically take a percentage of your savings as their fee. For example, if a service saves you $40 per month, they might keep half ($20) and give you the other half ($20). Some services also charge monthly or annual membership fees.
6. Change Your Cell Phone’s Data Plan
Your cell phone data plan is another monthly bill worth examining. If you have a high data allowance, you’re likely paying more than necessary. By switching to a plan with 5GB of data or less per month, you can reduce your mobile bill by $20 or more.
The key to making this work is relying on WiFi for your data needs when you’re not at home. When you’re away from your house, automatically connect to available WiFi networks at coffee shops, libraries, restaurants, and retail stores. You can enable automatic WiFi connection in your phone’s settings, which allows your device to connect to known networks without manually selecting them each time.
By reducing your cellular data plan from, say, 15GB to 5GB or less, and using home WiFi for the majority of your data consumption, you can lower your monthly phone bill significantly while maintaining the same level of connectivity and convenience.
Summary Table: Money-Saving Strategies Comparison
| Strategy | Potential Monthly Savings | Effort Level | One-Time Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch providers | $20-$50 | Medium | $0 |
| Apply for government subsidies | $9.25-$30 | Low | $0 |
| Reduce internet speed | $20+ | Low | $0 |
| Buy own equipment | $5-$20 | Low | $80-$200 |
| Negotiate with provider | $10-$30 | Medium | $0 |
| Reduce cell phone data | $20+ | Low | $0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much can I save by lowering my internet bill?
A: Potential savings vary based on your current plan and location, but combining multiple strategies can save $50-$100 per month. For example, switching providers ($30 savings) plus buying your own equipment ($10/month savings) plus reducing cell phone data ($20/month savings) equals $60 monthly savings or $720 annually.
Q: How long does it take to see savings from buying my own modem and router?
A: If you purchase equipment for $200 and save $10 monthly on rental fees, your equipment pays for itself in 20 months. After that, you enjoy pure savings every month for as long as the equipment functions.
Q: Can I really negotiate my internet bill?
A: Yes, many providers will negotiate lower rates, especially if you have competitive options in your area and have been a loyal, on-time paying customer. The worst they can say is no, but many customer service representatives have authority to offer discounts.
Q: How do I know if I’m eligible for federal internet subsidies?
A: Visit GetInternet.gov to check your eligibility for the Affordable Connectivity Program. You may qualify based on income level or enrollment in assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid. The application process is straightforward and takes just minutes.
Q: What internet speed do I actually need?
A: For basic web browsing, email, and standard-definition video streaming, 25-50 Mbps is sufficient. For 4K streaming and multiple simultaneous users, you may need 100+ Mbps. Evaluate your household’s actual usage patterns before downgrading.
Q: Is it difficult to switch internet providers?
A: The process is relatively simple, especially if you own your own modem and router. You disconnect your current equipment, contact the new provider, and connect their service. If you rent equipment, return it to your old provider as part of the disconnect process.
Getting Started Today
Lowering your internet bill requires just a little time and effort, but the savings accumulate quickly. Start with the easiest strategy for your situation—whether that’s checking eligibility for federal subsidies, buying your own equipment, or calling to negotiate with your current provider. Even saving $20 per month adds up to $240 annually, money you can redirect toward savings, debt reduction, or other priorities.
Remember that these strategies aren’t mutually exclusive. You can combine multiple approaches for even greater savings. Shop for better rates while applying for government assistance, buy your own equipment, and reduce unnecessary data on your cell phone. Each strategy compounds to create substantial annual savings on your household bills.
References
- 6 Ways to Lower Your Internet Bill — The Penny Hoarder. 2024. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/how-to-lower-your-internet-bill/
- Affordable Connectivity Program — Federal Communications Commission (FCC). 2025. https://www.fcc.gov/acp
- Lifeline Program Overview — Federal Communications Commission (FCC). 2025. https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline
- How to Save Money: 25 Proven Tips That Actually Work — The Penny Hoarder. 2024. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/how-to-save-money/
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