Ask about ongoing promotions, loyalty discounts, or cheaper plans with similar speeds. Mentioning competitor prices can help too.

"Hi, I’m reviewing my monthly expenses and wanted to see if there are any current promotions or more affordable plans available for existing customers.”

Tips:

• Leverage your position as a long-term customer by requesting a "loyalty discount." If your provider isn’t responsive, mention competitive rates you've received, focusing on tangible offers from competitors. A well-researched call can shift you from being a passive consumer to a pricing participant.
  

• Ask about “downselling” options: cheaper plans that retain the same quality of service (eg: reduced speeds, lower tier packages). You might also negotiate a "service bundling" discount by combining your internet with other utility services like phone or TV, often leading to better deals.
  

• Call near the end of the month or quarter when retention teams are more motivated to hit targets. You may find they're more generous with discounts or offers during those times.
  

• If you’re struggling to pay bills, don’t hesitate to be honest about your situation and ask about their hardship programs.

Need free or low-cost internet? Check out these resources:

Government Program

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

• Lifeline Program: Offers $9.25/month discount for broadband or bundled phone/internet plans for eligible households.
  

Nonprofit Organizations

• EveryoneOn

• Human-I-T

• PCs for People

Cell phone bills can quickly add up, but there are ways to lower them. Ask about promotions, loyalty discounts, or more affordable plans with similar features. Consider switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), which uses the same network as major carriers but often offers more affordable plans.

“Hi, I’m reviewing my monthly expenses and wanted to see if there are any current promotions, cheaper plans, or discounts for long-term customers.”

Tips:

• Request to speak with the retention department immediately. These agents are empowered to offer better deals to keep customers. Presenting competing offers from other carriers can significantly impact the negotiation, especially when combined with your longevity as a customer.
  

• If you're in a contract, ask for a "plan review" that includes loyalty discounts, but be strategic. Suggest that you're considering switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) unless they offer a competitive incentive (eg: a data bonus or service fee waiver).
  

• If you’ve recently paid off your phone, ask for a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) discount. Many carriers offer special rates for customers not tied to a phone lease. Also, before upgrading, request a loyalty deal. You might get an upgraded plan or free add-ons by staying on your current line a bit longer.
  

• If you’re struggling to pay bills, be open about your situation and ask if they offer any hardship programs or discounted plans.

Need free or low-cost phone service? Check out these resources:

Government Program

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

• Lifeline Program: Offers $9.25/month discount for broadband or bundled phone/internet plans for eligible households.

Nonprofit Organizations

• EveryoneOn

• Human-I-T

• PCs for People

Government & Nonprofit-Affiliated MVNOs

1. Assurance Wireless

• Funded by the Lifeline Assistance Program (federal).

• Offers free or low-cost mobile service, phones, and data for eligible low-income users.

2. SafeLink Wireless

• Operated by TracFone, supported by Lifeline and ACP.

• Offers free cell phone plans with data and talk/text to qualifying households.

3. Q Link Wireless

• Lifeline and ACP participant.

• Offers free or discounted mobile service and phones for eligible users.

4. TruConnect

• Another Lifeline/ACP provider.

• Offers free mobile service, SIM cards, and sometimes devices.

Cable and streaming costs can quietly pile up each month, especially if you’re juggling multiple platforms. But there’s room to save. Many providers offer loyalty deals, lower-tier plans, or temporary discounts if you ask. You might also be able to pause a subscription instead of canceling outright, or bundle services at a lower rate.

"Hi, I’m reviewing my monthly expenses and wondering if there are any more affordable packages or promotional rates available for current customers."

Tips:

• Focus on content overlap between multiple platforms. If you have both cable and streaming, explore bundling options or pause one service while negotiating a lower rate on the other. Inquire about "temporary promotional pricing", but insist on knowing exactly when those promotions expire.
  

• Ask for a "flexible payment structure", a reduction in monthly bills in exchange for a longer commitment period. Evaluate how you use each service, and position your request with facts. Eg: “I only watch XYZ on your platform, but it’s available on other services for $X less”).
  

• Try rotating streaming platforms each month. Watch all your favorite shows on one service, cancel it, then pick up the next. This lets you enjoy everything you want without stacking up multiple charges. Track every time you use a streaming service for 30 days. If you haven’t opened one in two weeks, that’s a signal it’s time to pause or cancel.
  

• If you’re struggling financially, be honest and ask about hardship options, bill relief, or access to lower-tier or ad-supported plans.

Want free or low-cost entertainment? Try your public library!

Library-Affiliated Streaming Services (free with a library card):

• Kanopy: Stream movies, documentaries, and courses.

• Hoopla: Access TV shows, movies, audiobooks, comics, and more.

• Libby (by OverDrive): Stream or download eBooks and audiobooks.

Many local libraries also offer free access to language apps, online learning platforms, and even DVDs and board games. Check your library’s website or ask a librarian what’s available.

Government & Nonprofit-Related Entertainment and Learning Platforms

PBS (Public Broadcasting Service)

• Funded by public and government support.

• Offers free streaming of educational shows, documentaries, and children’s programming via PBS.org and the PBS app.

National Archives & Library of Congress

• Free access to historic films, public domain content, and educational media. Great for history buffs, educators, and curious minds.

Internet Archive / Open Library (Nonprofit)

• Massive collection of public domain and freely available media, including movies, TV, books, and music.

Ted-Ed (Nonprofit arm of TED)

• Free, high-quality educational videos on a wide range of topics.

• Ideal for students, teachers, and lifelong learners.

Utility bills can feel inflexible, but you may have more control than you think. In "deregulated energy markets", you can shop around for competitive rates from different providers. In "regulated areas", you can still ask your current provider about budget billing, payment assistance, or energy efficiency programs that can lower your bill over time.

"Hi, I’m reviewing my monthly expenses—could you tell me if there are any fixed-rate plans, off-peak pricing options, or energy efficiency incentives available for customers like me?"

Tips: 

• If you're in a deregulated market, start by asking for pricing options for alternative suppliers. You can often lock in lower rates for a set term, which is a tactic favored by savvy consumers.
  

• Request a "fixed-rate plan" or negotiate for off-peak pricing if your energy usage is flexible. If you're not in a deregulated area, inquire about energy efficiency programs or ask about tiered pricing structures, which can help lower costs over time by adjusting your energy habits.
  

• Ask your utility provider if they offer rebates or free upgrades for smart thermostats, LED bulbs, or energy-efficient appliances. These changes can reduce your long-term usage, and your bill.
  

• If you’re on a time-of-use plan, shift high-usage tasks (like laundry or dishwashing) to off-peak hours. It can save more than you'd expect.
  

• If you're having trouble paying your bills, don’t hesitate to ask about hardship programs, payment plans, or local assistance programs.

  
  

  Heating Fuel (Propane or Oil)

  If you rely on propane or heating oil, prices can vary significantly. It’s worth calling around to compare rates, ask about customer loyalty programs, or lock in seasonal rates during lower-demand months.

  
  

  "I’m checking with a few providers, do you offer fixed-rate plans, pre-buy options, or discounts for automatic delivery or budget billing?"

  
  

  Many fuel companies also partner with assistance programs to help low-income households cover winter heating costs.

  
  

  Need help with your energy bill? These programs may help:

  LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

  A federal program that helps eligible households with heating and cooling costs.

  Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  Provides free home energy upgrades to improve efficiency and reduce utility costs.

  Local Utility Hardship Programs

  Many utilities offer their own income-based discounts or emergency relief programs, ask your provider or check your state’s energy assistance website.

  211.org (United Way-affiliated)

  Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local nonprofits and government programs that can help with utility bills.

Water and sewer bills are often regulated by local governments or utilities, so your ability to negotiate may be limited, but not nonexistent. You can still ask about budget billing, leak forgiveness, or low-income assistance programs.

"Hi, I’m trying to manage my monthly expenses and wanted to know if you offer budget plans, leak adjustments, or discounts for income-qualified households."

Tips:

• Inquire about "leak forgiveness" programs or “budget billing” options where your payments are spread out evenly over the year. Even with regulated rates, there might be options to reduce costs in exchange for a longer-term agreement.
  

• Bring up the idea of an audit or home efficiency check, which some utility companies provide to help reduce consumption. Additionally, if you’re facing significant financial hardship, escalate your request. Contact a supervisor who can potentially offer customized assistance.
  

• Use food coloring or dye tablets in your toilet tank to test for silent leaks. If color seeps into the bowl without flushing, you’re losing water and money.
  

• Some local governments offer rebates for installing graywater systems, which reuse household water for irrigation. Ask your water provider what programs are available.
  

• If you're behind on payments, many local utilities offer deferred payment plans or work with nonprofits to support struggling households.

Need Help Covering Water and Sewer?

• Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

  Helps with past-due water and sewer bills. Administered at the state level—ask your water provider or visit your state’s human services website.
  

• 211.org

  Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for help locating local utility assistance programs, especially for water and heating costs.
  

• Water Assistance Resources: guide for information on how you can ask about water bill assistance in your local area.
  

• Water Assistance Resources: guide for information on where you can find help with your water well or septic system.

Garbage and recycling services are often provided through your local municipality or a contracted private company. If you're using a private provider, ask about competitor rate matching, annual payment discounts, or senior rates. Even municipal services may offer smaller bin options that reduce your bill.

"Hi, I’m reviewing my household expenses and wanted to know if you offer smaller bin sizes, senior discounts, or any savings for paying annually or sharing services with neighbors."

Tips: 

• Contact your local waste management provider and ask if they offer variable-rate plans based on bin size or frequency of pickup. Smaller bins or less frequent collection often come with lower fees, especially in municipalities with pay-as-you-throw systems.
  

• If you're in a multi-unit residence or HOA, audit your collective waste output and propose a shared cost-reduction strategy (e.g., consolidated pickups, bulk discounts).
  

• For private haulers, use quotes from competitors to negotiate service bundles (trash + yard waste + recycling) at a lower overall rate.
  

• If you're in a multi-unit building or have cooperative neighbors, consider sharing a large bin. Splitting the cost of trash collection can reduce bills without sacrificing service. Ask if your city allows billing adjustments for shared pickups.
  

• If you're having trouble keeping up with payments, check whether your local government offers hardship waivers or assistance programs for qualifying residents.

Need Help Covering Garbage or Waste Services?

While assistance programs for trash pickup are less common, some local governments and nonprofits offer support—especially for seniors or low-income households. Start with:

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for referrals to local assistance programs, including waste management help in some communities.
  

• Your City or County Department of Public WorksCheck their website or call directly to ask about reduced-rate waste services or exemptions for low-income or disabled residents.

Credit card bills can be stressful, especially with high interest rates or mounting fees. But many issuers are open to lowering your APR, waiving annual fees, or offering temporary hardship plans, especially if you’ve been a long-time customer in good standing. Even one call can make a big difference over time.

"Hi, I’ve received offers from other cards with lower APRs, and I’m reviewing my options, can you match or improve my rate?"

Tips:

• Approach your credit card issuer like a pricing expert by framing your request for a lower interest rate in terms of competitive offers. Present an offer from a competitor, but make sure to mention how long you've been a loyal customer.
  

• Propose a "rate match" based on offers you've received, and if they can’t meet that rate, ask for additional incentives like waived annual fees or "temporary 0% APR" on purchases or balance transfers for a set period.
  

• If your goal is to reduce interest, ask about 0% APR balance transfer offers. These can significantly lower your costs, but be sure to ask about transfer fees and how this will impact your credit score. Done strategically, a balance transfer can offer breathing room while you pay down debt.
  

• If you're struggling with payments, ask about hardship programs, interest rate reductions, or fee waivers. They may offer short-term relief like reduced payments or deferred interest.

Need Help Managing Credit Card Debt?

Check out these trusted nonprofit organizations for guidance:

• National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)

• Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA)

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local credit counseling and debt relief services.

Also Read: 20 Questions to Slash Your Credit Card Payments & Boost Your Score

Banks often charge fees for things like overdrafts, monthly service charges, or ATM withdrawals outside their network. Many of these fees are negotiable, especially if it’s your first time incurring one or if you’ve been a loyal customer. It never hurts to ask for a fee waiver.

"Hi, I noticed a fee on my account. I’ve been a loyal customer, and I was hoping you could waive this fee as a one-time courtesy."

Tips: 

• When dealing with bank fees, always leverage your account history. If you’ve been a customer for several years, don’t hesitate to invoke your loyalty as a bargaining chip. Ask to have a fee waived as a one-time courtesy.
  

• Investigate alternative fee-free accounts offered by the same institution or ask for overdraft protection or fee waivers tied to a minimum balance. If your bank doesn’t budge, take the time to shop around for better fee structures at other banks.
  

•  We often stick with banks out of habit, even when they cost us more. That’s the "status quo bias" in action. Break that cycle by setting a calendar reminder to review your banking fees once a year. Ask yourself: Is this account still serving me, or costing me?
  

• Negotiation Framing: Instead of just saying, “Can you waive this fee?”, try: “I’ve kept my account here for X years and want to avoid moving to a lower-fee competitor. What can you do to keep me here?” This frames your request around retention, not just a one-time courtesy – something banks are more likely to respond to.
  

• Even so-called “free” accounts can charge fees for things like inactivity, paper statements, or overdraft protection transfers. Ask for a fee schedule and review it annually. If you're regularly hit with fees, consider switching to a credit union or digital bank, many of which offer transparent, no-fee accounts.
  

• If you’re facing multiple fees or frequent overdrafts, consider asking about lower-fee accounts, fee-free ATM options, or automatic savings to avoid future charges.
  

• Set up text or app alerts for low balances, overdrafts, or large transactions. These early warnings can help prevent avoidable fees and keep you more engaged with your account activity.
  

• Use online tools to find lower-fee or fee-free banks that align better with your habits.

Need Help with Bank Fees or Managing Accounts?

Check out these organizations for financial guidance and support:

• National Consumer Law Center (NCLC)

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for local resources related to financial assistance and debt management.

Car insurance premiums can increase over time, even if your driving habits haven’t changed. Policy reviews, bundle discounts, or safe driver rewards are all worth asking about. If you're working from home or driving less, there may also be opportunities for lower premiums based on your reduced mileage.

"Hi, I’ve been working from home recently, and my driving habits have changed. Can you review my policy for any possible discounts or lower premiums?"

Tips: 

• Go beyond a simple rate reduction, ask for "underwriting reevaluation" based on your current driving habits, updated credit score, or recent life changes (marriage, homeownership, etc.), which can qualify you for lower-risk brackets. Request a "policy review" to ensure you're getting the best rate for your current driving habits. Mention your recent changes (working from home, fewer miles) and ask if these adjustments would qualify you for a lower premium.
  

• If you’ve taken a defensive driving course or installed vehicle safety upgrades (dash cams, anti-theft devices), provide documentation and request "manual re-rating". Some insurers now offer discounts for vehicles equipped with dash cams, especially when used in safe driving programs. Also, push for "accident forgiveness" or "disappearing deductible" programs as part of your negotiation. Dive into usage-based insurance programs (like pay-per-mile) or telematics devices offered by some insurers. These tools can help quantify your reduced risk and may result in lower premiums. Additionally, ask about bundling policies (eg: home and auto) for better rates.
  

• Where legally allowed, insurance companies may use your credit score to set premiums. Improving your credit, just like shopping around, can lower your rates over time.
  

• If you're in a tight financial situation, ask about payment plan options or hardship assistance to avoid lapsing on your coverage.

Need Help Finding Lower Car Insurance Rates?

Check out these nonprofit resources for guidance:

• National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)

• Consumer Federation of America (CFA)

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local resources and assistance programs related to car insurance or financial support.

Home and renters insurance rates can often be reduced with a few adjustments. Bundling your home and auto policies together can result in a better rate. You can also raise your deductible, remove outdated coverage, or ask your insurer to match competitor quotes for a more affordable option.

"Hi, I’m currently shopping around for better rates and would like a review of my policy. Can you provide any discounts or reassess my coverage?"

Tips: 

• To reduce insurance premiums, request a "coverage audit". Ask if certain features can be removed (eg: optional coverages) or if bundling your home and car insurance offers a better rate.
  

•  Request a "market analysis", or ask your insurer for quotes from competing companies, emphasizing that you’re looking for comprehensive coverage at a more competitive price. Also, review your deductible options, adjusting it can significantly impact your premium.
  

• If you’ve installed smoke alarms, leak sensors, or a home security system, let your insurer know. These upgrades can reduce risk and qualify you for discounts.
  

• Each year, review your home inventory and property value. You might be overpaying for outdated items, or underinsured for new ones.
  

• If you have a good claims history or no claims at all, mention it. It could help you qualify for discounts.

Need Help with Home or Renters Insurance?

Here are some resources for assistance:

• Insurance Information Institute (III)

• Consumer Federation of America (CFA)

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to locate local programs or assistance for home and renters insurance, and ask for a discount review or a policy reassessment.

Health insurance can be a significant part of your monthly expenses, but you may be able to lower costs by reviewing your plan. Telehealth discounts, wellness incentives, or HSA-compatible options can save you money. It's also worth calling to see if you're enrolled in the best plan for your healthcare needs and whether there are any changes you can make to optimize your coverage.

"Hi, I’m reviewing my health insurance options and wanted to know if I’m enrolled in the best plan for my needs. Can you also share any discounts for telehealth services or wellness programs?"

Tips: 

• Don't hesitate to request a "plan optimization". Ask your provider for a review based on your medical needs, focusing on telehealth services or wellness incentives. Present your case based on how your healthcare usage has evolved.
  

• Challenge the network restrictions of your plan. Ask for exceptions if you need treatment outside their network, or ask for out-of-pocket cost estimates for various services to better understand your overall healthcare spending.
  

• If you're facing high medical bills, ask for a detailed Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Look up billing codes and question any that seem unusual or unrelated. Sometimes errors or upcoding can inflate costs, and identifying these may lead to reductions.
  

• If you’ve had life changes (like marriage, having a baby, or changing jobs), ask about special enrollment periods and benefits advisors to help you navigate the options available.

Need Help Understanding Health Insurance Options?

Explore these resources for assistance:

• Healthcare.gov

• National Public Radio (NPR) Health Insurance Resource Guide

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to locate health insurance navigators or assistance programs in your area.

Also Read: Affordable Care for All: Access Free and Low-Cost Healthcare Near You

Medical bills can be overwhelming, but hospitals and healthcare providers often have options to help reduce the financial strain. Payment plans, sliding scale fees, and discounts for prompt payment or uninsured patients are often available.

"Hi, I’d like to request an itemized bill so I can review the charges. Are there any discounts for paying in full or hardship options available?"

Tips: 

• Call the billing department and ask for an itemized bill—then go through it line by line to challenge errors, duplicate charges, or inflated fees. Most providers have "prompt pay discounts" (up to 30%) or charity care programs, even for insured patients.
  

• If you're cash-strapped, anchor your negotiation with a real number: “I can pay $300 right now if we settle this today.” For large bills, ask about "zero-interest payment plans" and request it in writing. Many hospitals won’t advertise it but will accept it to avoid collections.
  

• Ask for CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes and check their standard pricing using tools like FAIR Health or Healthcare Bluebook. This helps you spot overcharges.
  

• Even insured patients can sometimes get a discount for paying the balance in full. Ask if the provider offers a prompt-pay discount before setting up a payment plan.

If you’re unable to pay in full, ask about financial assistance programs, negotiating a lower rate, or cash-pay discounts.

Need Help with Medical Bills?

Here are some resources for assistance:

• Hospital Financial Assistance Programs: Check with the hospital or provider for their specific financial assistance policies.

• HealthWell Foundation 

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local resources for medical bill assistance or programs for low-income patients.

Also Read: Affordable Care for All: Access Free and Low-Cost Healthcare Near You

Student loan payments can be a heavy burden, but there are often options for reducing your monthly payments. Contact your loan provider to discuss income-driven repayment plans, deferments, or even interest rate reductions if you're struggling financially.

"Hi, my income has changed recently, and I’m hoping to adjust my monthly payment. Can you help me explore options for a lower payment? I understand this won’t affect my credit score."

Tips: 

• Call your servicer and request to be moved to a lower-payment plan like Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) or Income-Based Repayment (IBR), if not already enrolled. These plans are not always automatically offered, especially with private servicers.
  

• If you have private loans, ask about interest rate reductions in exchange for automatic payments or longer-term commitments. For federal loans, negotiate for administrative forbearance or deferment, but be strategic, use this time to restructure finances or refinance, not just pause.
  

• Income-driven plans are recalculated annually, but if your income drops mid-year, you don’t have to wait. You can request an immediate recalculation to lower your monthly payments.
  

• For Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), use the official tracker and recertify employment annually. Missing documentation is one of the most common disqualifiers.
  

• If you’re experiencing financial hardship, ask about forbearance or other hardship programs that might be available to temporarily reduce or pause payments.

Need Help Managing Student Loans?

Check out these resources for guidance:

• Federal Student Aid (FSA) 

• National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) 

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for local resources or financial assistance programs related to student loans.

Subscriptions and memberships, whether for gyms, magazines, or food delivery services, often offer opportunities to lower costs. Many companies value retaining customers and may be willing to provide temporary discounts, free months, or reduced pricing if you express concern about your budget.

"Hi, I’m thinking about pausing or canceling my subscription due to financial reasons. Are there any discounts or better rates available to keep me as a customer?"

Tips: 

• When canceling or threatening to cancel, always go through the “retention” or “cancellation” flow. This is where exclusive offers, “pause” options, or discounted rates are unlocked. These are often time-limited, so ask for them to be extended.
  

•  For software or professional memberships, ask for a “founder” or “legacy” rate. This works well if you’ve been subscribed since the early days. If you're a long-time subscriber, loyalty discounts may be an option, or you might be able to switch to a more affordable plan.
  

• For gyms, offer to switch to off-peak access or refer new members in exchange for a lower monthly fee.
  

• When canceling, say, “I might come back later, but I need to pause for now due to budgeting.” This triggers customer retention reps to offer better deals to keep you.
  

• Use apps that can track and cancel unused or unwanted subscriptions, and that can manage your email subscriptions and declutter your inbox.

Property taxes can be a significant annual expense, but if the value of your property has dropped, you may be eligible for a reassessment that could lower your taxes. It’s worth reaching out to your county assessor’s office to inquire about the process for re-assessing your property value. "Hi, my property value has decreased recently, and I’m wondering if I may qualify for a reassessment that could reduce my taxes."

Tips:

• If your property value has declined or seems over-assessed, you can formally appeal your property tax assessment. Request the assessment report and identify comparable homes in your area that have a lower valuation.

• Hire or consult a local tax appeal consultant who works on contingency or for a flat fee. They often know how local boards operate and what evidence moves the needle. You can also request payment installments or hardship deferrals from the city or county, especially after financial hardship.

  
  

If you’ve made significant improvements to your property or if there’s been a decline in your area’s real estate market, these may be factors that could lower your assessed value.

Need Help with Property Taxes?

Here are some resources to assist you:

• Local County Assessor’s Office: Visit your county’s website to get more information on how to request property assessments.

• State or Local Property Tax Relief Programs: Many states offer property tax relief for low-income individuals or seniors, check with your local government or assessor’s office.

• 211.org Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local resources and programs that can assist with property tax relief.