I have to admit it. I’m guilty. My family had a conversation about cell phones recently, and my husband asked if I take mine everywhere. I replied that, yes, I do take my smart phone with me nearly everywhere.
His question stemmed from something he’d heard on the radio. The show was about how the majority of people carry their phones from room to room. In fact, many people are unwilling to part with them even for a few moments.
Of course, having such technology at our fingertips at all times is not without a cost. Some cell phones currently cost as much as $1,000 or more. On top of that, the monthly bills can be well over $100 or more.
Fortunately, there are things that can lower your monthly cell phone bill. Here are few to check out.
How to Lower Your Monthly Cell Phone Bill
1. Turn Off Some Features
Did you know that you could be paying for cell phone services you don’t even use? When my son was low on funds, he turned off group texting and some other options on his plan. This saved a lot of money every month.
Make sure you know what your plan covers and what it doesn’t. If you’re paying for things you don’t use, contact your service provider. Ask if you can change your plan to stop paying for those unused options.
2. Monitor Your Data Usage
There’s a possibility you are either under or over using the data on your plan. If you overuse available data, you could be paying a much higher bill for the extra utilization. On the other hand, if you under use your data, you automatically pay more every month than you actually need.
This is another reason to contact your service provider to see if changes can be made. It could help you lower your monthly cell phone bill and save a ton of money.
3. Ditch the Contract
I know it’s already March. But, if you’re still adjusting your budget for the year, don’t assume you can’t save on your cell phone plan. You don’t have to pay high rates month after month all year long. This is a budget mistake you don’t need to make.
Instead, see if you can get a cell phone without a contract. Some providers have plans that allow you to pay as you go. This is a good way to lower your monthly cell phone bill.
4. Shop Around
You don’t have to buy a cell phone from a local business if it seems too expensive. Furthermore, you can buy a phone from a completely different city if you want to. Shop around to see if you can find a phone and a plan that fits your budget.
5. Don’t Buy the Latest Model
Just because your cell provider shows you the fanciest, newest phone it doesn’t obligate you to buy it. Even if your neighbor or friend has it, resist the temptation to compete with the Joneses. That will only cost you money.
Alternatively, ask if they have a cheaper model or if you can continue to use the phone you already have. These are great ways to lower your monthly cell phone bill.
6. Bundle Your Services
Some cell providers offer internet and cell phone plans together. Others may also include cable TV in your bundle. It’s possible you’ll save money by bundling these services.
Conversely, you must also watch out for companies that will charge you more through bundling. Find out what each individual item costs in the package before signing any contracts. In the long run, you might be glad you took the extra time to check.
7. Watch for Specials
At different times of the year, some cell providers offer special deals on cell phones. This could save you money on your monthly bill, even if you’re currently under contract elsewhere.
Obviously you’ll have to do a little figuring to find out how much it will cost to get out of your contract. Next, you’ll need to compare this figure to the cost of your new plan before making the deal. However, in the long run, it could save you money.
Will You Still Take Your Phone Everywhere?
If you’re like me, you’ll probably still take your phone with you practically everywhere you go. After all, many of us are dependent on our phones for many things. But using these ideas, you’ll at least lower your monthly cell phone bill to a more reasonable level.
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Personal Capital lets you see all of your accounts in one convenient place. Sign up now for free.What do you do to keep your cell phone bill down each month?
We just came to the US and are shocked to see how much people pay here for their cell phone plans. We don’t have any phones purchased this way. We brought our smartphones from home. So, nothing extra. We are still paying 80 bucks for the 2 of us, which is HUGE in my opinion, compared to what others pay in my country. Back there we paid 25 bucks for landline, cell phones, wi-fi and cable. Our internet in Romania is routinely ranked top 3 worldwide and we had UNLIMITED calls and data plans.:D
Wow! I bet you are missing receiving those services for such a great price. Yes, the charges for cell phones have certainly skyrocketed in the US in the last several years. It used to be much more affordable.
Wow! This is a very good article. Thanks for sharing. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for mentioning that as another choice.
Thanks, Jeanne, for the tips! Like you suggested above, I use an older version (not old at all, though) and have a prepaid plan. So, I am limited to specific usage per month without the option of going over accidentally.
I think I’m the same as you – I don’t go anywhere without my phone. I use my phone for so much more than just contacting people via calls, videos, chats, and texts though – like using apps and communicating via FB messenger and WhatsApp.
Yes, your phone plan really needs to be tailored to fit your needs. That way you get what you need without paying a bunch for stuff you don’t need. At the same time, you don’t want to be out of minutes, for instance, in an emergency. 🙂
Wow! This is a very good article. Thanks for sharing. Keep up the good work.