Bills have a sneaky way of growing when we aren’t looking. Intro rates jump after a year, or a credit card’s APR might shift with the market, quietly increasing your monthly costs without catching your notice.
So how do you stop the price you pay for everyday necessities from creeping up on you? Start by paying attention.
Your Loyalty Might Be Costing You
Long-time customers of internet service providers, cell phone plans or other essential services are especially at risk of falling victim to creeping prices. Companies often use their best deals to attract new people, while the rest of us “loyal” customers get stuck with plans whose costs creep ever upwards.
Autopay is a major driver of overpayment — when things run without your oversight, it’s easy to lose track of the details.
The Fix: Check how much you’re paying vs. current offers for similar services in your area. The convenience of autopay plans may be concealing high prices!
You Could Be Overpaying on Interest
Think your credit card’s interest rate is still reasonable? Think again. Much like your internet or phone bill, a credit card you’ve had for a few years probably has a higher interest rate than the bank offers new customers.
That means you’re missing out on better rates — and literally paying for it.
The Fix: Call your credit card provider and ask if you can adjust your card’s rates to become competitive with advertised offers. If they can’t adjust your rate, ask about balance transfer possibilities to plans with lower rates. You might be surprised by what you get when you’re persistent!
What to Say on the Phone
So you’ve looked at the paperwork and discovered that you’re overpaying — maybe by a lot. But before you get mad, remember: You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.
Make a money date with yourself on a free afternoon sometime soon. Have your current payments or rates in front of you, and look online for any advertised offers. Then, call your provider or bank — you’ll likely connect with the “retention” team. These are people whose whole job is to keep you from leaving by finding you a better deal.
Here are the keys to getting the most out of your conversation with them:
Tell them why you’re calling up-front. Say that you feel you’re not getting the best deal possible, and that other companies have good offers you’re considering.
Be polite. Patience and a good attitude can get you much, much further than threats or anger.
Reiterate your loyalty. If you’ve been a long-time customer, make sure you show that you’re asking for a rate reduction or discount in good faith.
Why Bother Asking for Discounts?
$40 off your phone bill might not sound like much, but that’s $480 back in your pocket over the course of a year. In an hour or two on the phone with your bank and service providers, you could save a potentially significant amount of money — well worth the effort, if you ask us.
For More Significant Savings, Call Us
While we’re not able to help you with those pesky cell phone or internet bills, we can help you with spiraling credit card, personal loan, medical and Buy Now, Pay Later debts.
Call Accredited Debt Relief to discover how you could save 40% or more on eligible payments — and get debt-free in as little as 24-48 months.