Nothing ticks people off more about pay-TV-, Internet- and phone-service providers than awesome “teaser rates” that vanish after six months or a year. But just because you’re not a new customer doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to get a better rate, says Edgar Dworsky, founder of ConsumerWorld.org.
“Generally, keep track of what competitors are currently charging new customers, and indicate to your current provider who is just about to raise its price that you are considering switching. Tell them the deal you saw, and ask them to match or beat. If they say no, call back and speak to someone else,” he says. If you can’t get any movement on the rate, try asking for another concession such as a DVR or another add-on.
Sometimes, just pointing out that a competitor is offering a better deal can be enough to get your provider to come through with a lower price. This works especially well if a new provider enters your market; they’re going to be dangling deals to woo new customers, which forces the existing players in the area to be more competitive.