In this piece, I will discuss three bills that are some of the most difficult to let go of when trying to shave down bills: cable, phone, and Internet.
They are difficult to compromise because they are three of our major sources of entertainment in the new millennium. They would be difficult to live without. But if we are going to be serious about cutting bills, we have to either cut or eliminate them to save money.
The cable box is where we devour our most beloved television shows, news, and entertainment events. There is nothing worse than hearing about how great a certain television show was the day after it aired, and you can’t watch it because you have no cable. But many people nowadays are canceling their cable cold turkey and finding other things to do with their free time. Plus, most antennae receivers all you to get some basic channels.
If you are not someone who could bear having no cable at all, why not just scale your cable package down? Some cable companies, like Comcast, have specials going for $33 a month basic cable. Isn’t that all you need really? Do you really need the super duper cable and sports package that brings your monthly bill to close to $200? If there is a once in a lifetime sporting event that you just have to see, why not go to a bar to see it? Many public places allow you to sit in and watch their television (which is more often than not playing sports) in exchange for a small purchase. Take advantage of that. Otherwise, just get basic television at home.
The phone is another place where bills can be cut. It is this author’s recommendation that you seriously consider eliminating the home phone and getting an appropriate cellphone plan to meet your needs. Or vice versa if you don’t really use your cellphone all that much. If you can’t do without your unlimited home phone plan, another alternative is to get a small prepaid card for your cellphone and only use it for emergencies. Either way, you will be cutting your phone costs. If you are a motor mouth on the phone, you may also consider a lifestyle change to save some money!
Finally, I consider the Internet to be one of the most difficult bills to cut. Let’s face it, it is not realistic to eliminate this bill, but the cost can be cut. Cable Internet can go for as high as $50 a month including a cable modem rental, and DSL can be just as high when you consider the fact that you have to maintain expensive phone services. But there are some great deals being offered for six months to a year when you sign up for certain services. Be a picky shopper when it comes to your Internet. Also, if you are only a casual Internet user, why not cancel your home service completely and use the free wifi offered at Panera and other public locations to check your email and web surf.
Cable, phone and internet plans can cost you hundreds of dollars a month. Some companies are offering triple play packages for all three in one for one low price, which is great, but still, do you really need them all? Take a week to think about this question and then make the decision that is best for both your lifestyle and bottom line.
