MONEY-SAVING TIP #2

WHETHER YOU PAY separately for internet, TV and cellphones or have a bundle, it’s a smart move to ring up your service provider to ask for a better deal. Life gets busy, so it’s easy to coast with the same telecom provider and pay noncompetitive rates for years. Clever negotiation may be needed, but rate cuts are often offered to those who want to leave due to escalating costs. Researching a competitor’s introductory offer is your proof that there are better deals.

> Bottom Line: Avoid bill creep by negotiating your services and save anywhere from $25 a month to more than $1,000 a year, depending on your telecom needs.