Negotiate Your Spectrum Internet Bill - Discounts Just By Asking!
If your internet bill spikes and you want to keep your promotional rate, here's a step-by-step guide. Learn how to navigate customer service calls, renew discounts, and even get service upgrades, Just a call away.
Dealing with an unexpected increase in your internet bill can be frustrating, especially when you've been enjoying a promotional rate. If you're in the same boat and want to renew your discount or negotiate a better deal, I've got the strategy that worked for me. Here's a step-by-step guide, including all the tips I picked up along the way to save money on your monthly internet bill.
The Problem: Unexpected Rate Hike
Like many others, I was caught off guard when I received my latest Spectrum bill, which had increased by $10, bringing the total to $77.99. This was especially irritating because I had been enjoying a promotional rate, and now that rate had expired. The good news? There are ways to get that discounted price back. Keep reading to find out how I did it.
The Online Chat Fail (And What I Learned)
My first attempt was to reach out to Spectrum via their online chat. After several back-and-forth exchanges, I was met with the usual responses, and I wasn't able to get anywhere. They explicitly said "There isn't anything we could apply at this time."
However, during the chat, the representative gave me a crucial piece of advice: "Call 1-800-319-4293 and state 'DISCONNECT.' This is the only way to get to our Customer Solutions team." It turns out that calling and navigating their phone menu to "disconnect" triggers the retention team, who are often empowered to offer much better deals and discounts. Here's how to follow up successfully.
How to Call and Negotiate Your Discount
When you're ready to make the call, follow these steps:
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Call 1-800-319-4293.
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Are you calling about the account associated with this phone number?
Answer "Yes" or verify your account details.
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In a few words, tell me what you are calling about.
Answer "Disconnect".
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If you'd like to completely disconnect your internet service, say "Disconnect". (Your other options are "Reduce Service", "I'm Moving", "Seasonal Service Hold")
Say "Disconnect" again. Don't worry, this won't immediately cancel your service or anything ominous. This is the magic word that gets you to the retention team.
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Provide your security code:
You'll be asked for your security code, which you can find on your bill under your account number.
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Hold time:
You'll be placed on hold. You can choose the callback option (Press 1), which allows you to skip the wait. I was quoted 14-21 minutes, but I received a callback in about 14 minutes.
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Ask for a promotional discount:
When the retention agent picks up and asks what you're calling about, say "It looks like my current promotional price has expired and my bill has increased. Can you please check if there are any promotions or discounts available for my account?"
The Results: How I Got My Discount
After following the steps above, I was able to successfully renew my promotional rate, bringing my bill back down to $62.99 per month, effective next month. While my current month's bill of $77.99 still stands, this discount will apply moving forward.
Pro Tips for Successful Negotiation
- Don't accept the first "no": Retention agents have more flexibility than standard customer service reps, so don't be discouraged if you're initially told no. Politely ask if there are any other discounts or promotions available.
- Be calm and polite: A respectful approach can go a long way. Be firm but kind when explaining that you're seeking a better deal.
- Know your options: If you're with a company like Spectrum, know that they often have discounts available for existing customers. This can include re-upping your promotional rate, offering lower-cost plans, or upgrading your service with added perks.
The next time your internet bill goes up, don't just accept it. With a little persistence and the right approach, you can easily renew your promotional rate or negotiate a better deal. By following the steps above, I was able to save money and even get a free modem upgrade with no extra cost. Remember, the "disconnect" call strategy can work for most major internet providers, so it's worth trying with your own provider.
Happy savings!
