Cut the Cord, Not the Content: Your Guide to Saving on Streaming Services

Cord cutting initially began as a way to save money, but the margin between cable and subscription costs is becoming increasingly thin. Nearly half of Americans say they pay too much for streaming, with rising subscription fees, premium add-ons, and endless “must-watch” shows eating away at savings.

U.S. streaming subscribers now pay for an average of four services totaling about $69 per month, a 13% increase from last year. A single subscription like Netflix or Disney+ may not seem expensive—but stack several platforms plus add-ons for ad-free or live TV, and affordability quickly disappears. This guide will show you how to enjoy your favorite entertainment without overspending.

WorkMoney put together a guide on how you can save on your subscription services.

• Step 1: Audit Your Current Subscriptions

  The first step to lowering your bill is simply knowing where your money is going. Create a quick list of every streaming service you currently subscribe to, including any add-ons. Tools like Rocket Money can automatically track and flag recurring charges you may have forgotten about. For a manual check, scan your credit card or PayPal statements from the last few months. 

  Don’t forget to include services you share with friends or family—these count toward your overall streaming costs and should factor into which subscriptions you keep or cut. 

• Step 2: See What Discounts You Have Access To

  Once you know which streaming services you currently subscribe to, the next step is to see where you can make changes to save money. Start by checking where you may have available discounts through your phone provider. Below is a breakdown of which providers include free or discounted subscriptions for their customers, depending on the plan you select. 

  If you’re a student, teacher, or military member, you may also qualify for special discounts on popular streaming platforms. 

• Phone Provider	Streaming Discounts Available
  Verizon	Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. Some plans also offer Apple One, which includes Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage, as well as Netflix and HBO Max
  T-Mobile	Receive Hulu (With Ads), Netflix Standard with ads, and Apple TV+ while you maintain a qualifying premium line in good standing
  AT&T	HBO Max

• Step 3: Check for Free or Low‑Cost Alternatives

  You don’t have to give up all your good shows to save money. Many free, ad-supported streaming services now offer thousands of movies and TV episodes without a monthly bill. Platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, Freevee, and Peacock’s free tier let you stream for free. The only catch? You see a few ads, similar to regular TV. 

  Your public library can also be a hidden gem for free streaming. Many library systems offer access to apps like Kanopy and Hoopla, where you can watch movies, documentaries, and even kids’ shows with your library card.

• Step 4: Don’t Forget Your Hardware

  How you stream matters just as much as what you stream. Smart TVs and devices like Roku, Fire Stick, and Apple TV not only give you more flexibility, but they can also influence your streaming costs. These devices can range from budget-friendly to over $100. It’s important to weigh your different hardware options and choose what is best for your situation. 

  Your Wi‑Fi connection matters too. If your internet is slow or your Wi‑Fi signal is weak, you might end up paying for faster plans you don’t actually need. Compare provider options to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your streaming needs. If you keep your current plan, small adjustments—like moving your router, connecting directly via Ethernet, or optimizing Wi‑Fi settings—can improve streaming quality without increasing costs.

  If you need help with your internet bill, EveryoneOn can help you get connected for less.

• Step 5: Determine What Is Worth Keeping 

  Now that you have your list of current subscriptions, potential discounts, and free options, it’s time to decide what you want to keep vs what you can cut to save money. Things to consider:

  1. The Ads May Be Worth It: Ad-supported tiers can be a smart way to save. Many services, like Hulu and Paramount+, offer lower‑cost plans that include ads. If you don’t mind short commercial breaks, these plans can significantly reduce your monthly bill without sacrificing access to most content.

  2. Rotate Your Subscriptions: A seasonal strategy might be key. Instead of juggling five subscriptions at once, try rotating one or two services each month based on what you’re watching. To make this easier, keep a “watchlist calendar” with upcoming releases so you know when to sign up and cancel. Match your billing choice to your viewing habits so you’re not paying for entertainment you’re not using.

  3. Sharing Is Caring: If you have friends or family who use the same services, consider splitting the cost with them. Many people find that pooling resources makes premium streaming far more affordable. Be sure to follow the sharing rules outlined by each streaming service.