Pick the bill and your situation, and get a word-for-word script you can read from on the call, including what to say when the answer is no.
Before you dial
Have your account number, your current monthly total and one or two competing offers written down. Knowing what a competitor charges gives you something specific to ask the provider to match.
Be friendly, be brief and be ready to ask for the retention or loyalty department. Front-line reps often cannot change your price, while the team that handles cancellations usually has more room. Write down the rep’s name, the new price and when it ends.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to call?
Mid-morning on a weekday tends to mean shorter waits. The weeks before a promotion ends or a contract renews are a good moment to ask for a better rate.
What should I have ready before I call?
Your account number, current monthly total, how long you have been a customer, and the price of at least one alternative you could switch to.
Will asking for a lower price affect my credit?
No. Asking your provider for a better rate does not touch your credit. Opening service with a new provider can sometimes involve a credit check, so ask about that before you switch.
Rather have someone look at it with you? Tell us what you pay and we will follow up with ways to lower it, from do-it-yourself steps to vetted partner offers. Free, with no obligation.