How to Negotiate a Cheaper Cell Phone Plan
This month we offered you a chance to save on your mobile phone bills by switching to a cheaper data plan . However, this does not necessarily mean that you need to change your carrier. You may be able to negotiate a better price from your current one.
With carriers, it’s pretty easy to jump ship and move your number, but let’s be honest: it’s still some kind of pain. A much easier option is to call your current provider, tell them that you think about the transition, and then see if they are willing to work with you.
Obviously, do your research before calling. Write down how many minutes and texts you use each month, as well as how much data you use regularly. This way, your carrier can find a plan that really suits your needs – it doesn’t make sense to pay another $ 20 for unlimited if you never need it.
Plus, this information allows you to compare apples to apples when you’re researching other options. Therefore, if you have a plan to use the Sprint, you can tell them exactly how much you will save by switching to a discount operator, such as Ting or Republic Wireless, depending on your actual usage.
After you’ve researched, it’s time to call and state your position. On LearnVest , personal finance author Beth Kobliner offers some tips on how to bargain on your account:
Avoid yes / no questions: if you ask what the company can do for you, the ball will end up on their court.
Remember, timing is important: “You are more likely to negotiate with your current carrier near the end of your contract, when they are most desperate to keep you,” Kobliner told us.
Advertise your loyalty : It costs a company far more to acquire new customers than it does to retain the ones it already has. Use this to your advantage. If you are a longtime customer, remind the representative by phone and explain that you would not want to change company if your current company can make a difference in your favor.
Your mileage will be different. Not every carrier is about to budge, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. And if they don’t bite, then you’ve already done your research, so you can plan your transition. Again, this is a little more than a phone call, but at least you will be saving a little money every month.