7 Ways to Lower Your Cable TV Bill

Who doesn't like to watch television shows and movies? It's relaxing to unwind in front the TV and lose myself in the universe of my favorite series. As the age of the HD has progressed and old-fashioned rabbit ears no longer pick up signals, it has become necessary to turn to expensive cable contracts. The cost of cable is often higher than many can afford or wish to spend. Here, I'd like to share with you all a few ways to lower that cost so you can follow your favorite series without shelling out half your paycheck to do so.

1. Sign Up for Skinny TV

   

   I promise, I don't mean your television needs to lose weight, just your cable bill. Many companies now offer a “bare-bones package” that may save you up to $600 a year. These companies have finally realized what we have been saying for years: “What on earth do I need 150+ channels for? I only watch ten of them.” Take advantage of basic packages from providers such as Verizon (@verizonfios) and Comcast (@comcast) which may cost you as little as $50 a month.

2. Check Out Sling TV

   

   I admit, I hadn't heard of this option until I saw the ad in my social media feed. Curious, I looked into it. While I haven't tried it out yet, it does appear to be a great way to continue watching your favorite shows while cutting back on how much you pay to do so. According to Sling TV's website (@Sling), you can even try this option out free for seven days. After that, if Sling TV is a good fit for your family's viewing needs, a mere $20 a month will get you on-the-go and home access to 25+ channels.

3. Use Streaming Services

   

   Streaming has been my long-term solution to mounting cable bills. It also seems to be the most affordable of the cable options so far. Just to highlight the different providers, here's a list of the most popular streaming providers:

   • Hulu: Streaming services start at just $7.99 per month. (@hulu)
   • Amazon Instant Video: The online retail giant has hopped on board the TV and movie streaming train with options starting at $8.99 a month. (@AmazonVideo)
   • Netflix: This is the original streaming service. Plans start at just $7.99 for a single device plan. (@netflix)

4. Skip Cable Freebies

   Image source: awoofxtra.com

   Remember the old adage: there's no such thing as a free lunch? There's no such thing as free channels from your cable company, either. While the channels may indeed not cost you initially, many people forget the expiration date on that promotion or deal. Take a look at this link from @TIME to learn why freebies may be a hidden trap.

5. Buy Your Own Modem

   

   While it may seem like a rather expensive upfront cost, within just a few months, your $60 modem will pay for itself as you save on $8-$10 monthly rental fees, says this article from @cheatsheet. So long as your modem is supported by your cable company, you don't even need to buy one direct from them; any modem will do.

6. Ask About Cancellation

   

   One pretty sure-fire way to get your cable company to listen to you is to threaten to cancel your subscription. The cable company needs your money as a customer and will do a lot to convince you to keep their services. That includes slashing your bill with promotional offers or special deals. Follow these tips from @Caring on how to speak to the cancellation department to effectively lower your cable bill with your current company.

7. Buy a Digital Antenna

   Image source: bestbuy.ca

   Remember when I said streaming services helped me avoid sky-high cable bills? That wasn't entirely the case; I also went to my local retailer and bought a digital antenna for roughly $15. Make sure your antenna will work with your TV. We have more than one television in our house and the antenna we bought only works with an older model flat screen, not with our smart TV. Make sure to check out this guide from Antennas Direct (@Antennasdirect) to get the most out of your digital antenna.

After a long day of school for the kids and work for me, I love nothing more than to sit down with a bowl of popcorn and watch our favorite series together. With all the options for cutting the cable bill, I don't even feel guilty about the money we spend to do that. I hope this list helps you find the right options to lower your cable bill, as well. Did we forget to mention any options? Do you use an affordable service not on our list? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to share this with your friends and family.