Bills Too High? 4 Ways to Negotiate Down Bills, from Utilities to Medical Debt
Bills can pile up quickly – doctors appointments, internet, electricity, car payments, the list sometimes seems to never end. And we’ve all been there when one bill, or a few, seems way too high.
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There are proven options you can work on it yourself if you’ve got the time and want full control to negotiate down bills!
Here are 4 tips for bill negotiating help:
Research your bill – and the competitors!
Gather all the info you have – monthly cost, usage, how long you’ve been a customer for – and research prices for similar companies, whether it’s a rival internet provider or another health care company. And be on the lookout for offers for new customers.
Call away, find a real human, and start negotiating!
Once you’ve got all the information you need, and have some time blocked off, give their customer service line a ring and get to a real human customer service instead of an automated system (saying “representative” may help). Explain your situation and see what they can do. It may be smart to begin by saying you’re considering cancelling the service – and don’t be afraid to remind them you’ve been a loyal customer for some period of time.
Ask and you shall (or may) receive!
Mention the price of a competitor or a new customer offer you might have seen – they can often match that lower price if you just ask! Some medical providers also offer an adjustment or charity care for those with low income.
Be polite and persistent!
Experts say you’re more likely to lower your bill if you speak kindly and respectfully instead of loudly and demanding. But don’t forget to be firm! Don’t accept the first “no” for an answer, explain where you stand, and ask again. As an example: “I understand that’s the price, but I’ve been a loyal customer for 3 years, and that price increase is simply too much. I’m ready to move to another service unless you can provide some help.
