Is your broadband bill on the higher side? Would you like to cut it down? Broadband is very useful in today’s connected world because many services simply function better when you are on a high-speed internet connection. However, it doesn’t have to put a dent in your pocket. Here are ways you can pay less and still enjoy broadband internet.
Know your needs
Before you take any step, it is good to do an assessment of your household’s internet usage. Do you really need broadband? If streaming is important to or you download large files regularly, or someone in your household is engaged in such activities, the answer is yes. But if you occasionally shop online or check your social media feeds, you have to think carefully about the benefits of high speed internet to you. A 17MB connection may be adequate and you pay less.
You also have to evaluate your changing circumstances. If for example, the main broadband consumer leaves for college, is it still worth paying for?
Some broadband contracts come with a landline but do you really need it? If not, eliminate it to save some money. Most mobile phone packages come with unlimited talk time so you really may not need to pay for the landline. You might also be able to save by taking advantage of free weekend or evening calls.
There may be other extras that are free for a period of time, eg a three-month TV subscription. You should make sure you inform your broadband provider if you do not wish to be charged for it.
Your payment method
Some providers give a discount if you make your payments by direct debit. This could net you around £60 per year. Also, make upfront payments if your finances allow it. You might score another discount.
Combine your phone, broadband and TV services
Giving all your telecom business to a single company has its advantages. Some services providers offer bundles that cover everything at cheaper prices, like getting your broadband and mobile services from the same company. It is a good idea to explore if any of such bundles meet all your needs. You could get a free home phone, although you must watch out for possible hidden charges.
Shop around for deals before making any commitment
After ascertaining your needs, compare offers or packages from different companies to get the best deal. There are many comparison websites like broadbandchoices.co.uk that analyze what each offer actually gives you and how much you will pay. Available offers may be tied to postcodes so be sure to search for what is available in your location.
Be ready to switch
Even after entering a contract, the search is still on for a better deal. Be on the lookout for special offers. It may be well worth the termination fee you might attract because services providers often reserve their discounts for new customers. Broadbandchoices.co.uk estimates that you can save up to £336 a year simply by switching.
Ask your provider directly for a better deal, hinting you might be switching. Your goal should be to get your current plan cheaper or move to a better one at the same price. Haggle because you could end up on better tariffs that are not usually advertised.
If you decide to switch, you only need to inform your new provider who your current provider is and the two companies will work out the details. But if your current provider doesn’t use an Openreach line, you will have to take the step of informing them you are leaving. Whichever way, you have a 14-day window to change your mind before you new contract kicks in. And when you leave, check if you are entitled to some refunds from your old provider.
Take advantage of referral schemes offered by some companies. They pay you if they get a new customer through you. You could get up to £50 off your bill each time you get somebody to sign up.
Struggling financially?
You may be able to get some savings with some companies that have special packages. Depending on your situation, some broadband setup costs will be waived for you and you will be to get cheaper broadband. Many major services providers, for example, have committed to supplying free broadband to kids study from home because of the pandemic.
Ofcom, the telecoms industry regulator, has policies in place to ensure that broadband is not switched off for people with genuine lack of funds. You can request for payment holidays or deferrals.
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