12 Bills Most People Don’t Realize You Can Negotiate

What if we told you that with a little savvy negotiation, you could keep more cash in your pocket without sacrificing your lifestyle? It’s time to put on your bargaining hat and start haggling.

According to a 2022 study by LendingTree, 76% of cardholders who asked their credit card issuer for a lower APR in the past year were successful, up from 70% the previous year. The average APR reduction was an impressive 6.3 percentage points1

So what are you waiting for?

1. Slash Your Cell Phone Bill

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With fierce competition among carriers, you have the upper hand when negotiating your cell phone plan. Call up your provider, mention competitor deals, and watch the discounts roll in. Setting up automatic payments can also score you a monthly discount with many carriers.

2. Trim Your Cable & Internet Costs

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Cable and internet companies are notorious for hiking up prices after introductory periods. Armed with research on competitor pricing, you can often negotiate your way back to that sweet promotional rate. Bundling services can lead to even more savings.

3. Refinance Your Mortgage

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With interest rates near historic lows, now is the time to consider refinancing your mortgage. Even a small reduction in your interest rate can lead to thousands in savings over the life of your loan.

4. Knock down Your Rent

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While it may seem like a long shot, negotiating your rent is possible, especially if you’re a long-term tenant with a history of on-time payments. Offering to sign a longer lease or take on some maintenance tasks yourself could sweeten the deal for your landlord.

5. Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums

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Car insurance is a necessary evil, but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay. Shop around for quotes from different providers and use that information to negotiate with your current insurer. Bundling your car insurance with your homeowners or renters insurance can also lead to discounts.

6. Negotiate Your Credit Card Interest Rates

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High credit card interest rates can make it feel like you’re running on a financial treadmill. A simple phone call to your credit card issuer can often result in a reduced APR, especially if you have a strong payment history.

7. Cut the Cord on Subscription Services

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From streaming platforms to meal delivery kits, subscription services can quickly eat away at your budget. Take inventory of your subscriptions and cancel any that you’re not using regularly. For those you want to keep, ask about any promotions or discounts for long-term members.

8. Haggle Your Gym Membership

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Gyms are often willing to negotiate membership fees, especially if you’re a long-time member or are considering canceling. Asking for discounts for paying upfront or negotiating based on other gyms’ promotions can help you flex your savings muscles.

9. Reduce Your Utility Bills

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While utility companies may not be as flexible as other service providers, there are still ways to negotiate your bills. Many utility providers offer discounts for enrolling in autopay or paperless billing. You can also ask about any energy efficiency programs that could lower your costs.

10. Bargain for Better Home & Auto Insurance Rates

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Just like with car insurance, you can often save on home insurance by shopping around and negotiating with your current provider. Consider bundling your home and auto insurance for even greater savings.

11. Negotiate Medical Bills

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Medical bills can be a major source of financial stress, but they’re not always set in stone. Offering to pay in cash, hiring a medical billing advocate, or conducting an audit of your itemized bill can all lead to significant reductions in your medical expenses.

12. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate Big-Ticket Items

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Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate on big-ticket purchases like appliances, furniture, or electronics. Many retailers are willing to offer discounts, especially if you’re paying in cash or buying multiple items.

Source:
1. lendingtree.com study

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.