Guides / Negotiating
How to negotiate any bill
Prepare, ask clearly, stay friendly and be ready to walk away.
Many bills can be negotiated, especially internet, TV, phone, insurance, credit card interest and medical bills. Preparation does most of the work.
Prepare
- Know what you pay now and how long you've been a customer
- Find what new customers pay and what competitors offer
- Decide your goal and your walk-away point
- Have your account number ready and call at a quiet time
On the call
- Be polite and specific: "I'd like to lower my bill to around $X"
- Mention the competitor offer or new-customer price
- Ask, "What can you do for me?" and then wait
- If the answer is no, ask to speak to the retention or loyalty department
- Write down the name, date, new price and how long it lasts
After
Check the next bill. If the price isn't what you agreed, call back with your notes.
General consumer information. Prices and plans change; check current terms before switching. Stretching Money Today isn't paid by any provider mentioned here.