Use This Retention Script To Lower Your Cell Phone Bill by $30 to $60 a Month
Having a cell phone is a daily must-have, but the monthly service bill can add up. According to J.D. Power, the average bundled wireless service is $145 per month, while a single line is $105.
Cell phone bills are a necessary expense that should be budgeted for, but you might be able to lower the cost. According to Consumer Reports data, one-third of people surveyed saved $40 or more a month by switching from one of the main carriers (AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile) to a smaller one like Cricket or Mint Mobile.
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But before changing providers, it’s worth asking for a reduced monthly bill. Here’s how.
The Exact Script To Try
Before calling, look at your current bill so you know exactly what you're paying for. Then call your carrier's customer service department and ask whether there are ways to lower your bill.
Based on recommendations from ConsumerAffairs, you could say: “Hi, I’ve been a customer for a while and my bill is higher than I can afford. Right now I’m paying about $___ a month for ___ lines. I’m seeing other carriers offering similar or better plans for less. Can you walk me through any lower-cost plans, loyalty discounts or promotions that would help bring my bill down if I stay with you?”
Have a number that you want to pay in your head and if the representative makes you an offer that is not close to what you want, don’t accept it immediately.
Try: “Is that the best price you can offer me, or are there any other discounts or promotions available?”
If the representative can't help, ask: “Could you transfer me to the retention or loyalty department to see if there are any other options?” It’s also important you let the representative know that you’re willing to switch carriers to give yourself leverage.
Ask About These 3 Ways To Lower Your Bill
There are specific things you can ask your provider that might drop your bill.
1. Loyalty Discount
A loyalty discount is a different price for long-time members or regular customers. You can ask if your account is eligible for a loyalty discount and tell the provider what you're currently paying and what you'd like to pay instead.
2. Cheaper Plan
You may be paying for more data or features than you actually use. Downgrading your plan could save you money.
Ask: “Based on my usage, is there a less expensive plan that would still meet my needs?”
3. Unnecessary Add-Ons
Ask the representative to review your account and identify everything you're paying for beyond your basic service. While this is something you should already know, it’s not uncommon to pay for features you weren’t aware of, like device insurance, additional hotspot data, streaming services, or other perks.
Looking for extras that you don't use and eliminating them will reduce the bill.
How Much Could You Save?
There isn't a universal amount that consumers can expect to save from a retention call. Your potential savings depend on your carrier, plan, account history, and the promotions currently available.
According to ConsumerAffairs, even if customers save $30 to $60 per month, that’s still a great savings that leaves more money in your account.
No guarantee calling your provider will reduce your bill, but if you’re prepared to switch carriers if you can’t get the price you want, it’s worth making the call before making a change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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