Internet service is one of the most negotiable bills in most households, and one of the least negotiated. Providers regularly offer promotional rates to new customers that aren't available to existing ones — but many will match or come close if you ask. The average American household pays $70 to $100 per month for internet; many are paying for speeds they don't use or promotions that expired years ago.
Check what you're actually paying for
Pull up your current bill and find the speed tier you're subscribed to. Then run a free internet speed test (search "speed test" — Google has one built in) during peak hours. If you're getting significantly less than what you pay for, that's a legitimate complaint. If you're paying for gigabit speeds but your household only streams video and does video calls, you're almost certainly paying for more than you need.
Call retention and ask for a lower rate
Call your internet provider's customer service and say: "I've been a customer for [X] years and I'm seeing much better rates for new customers. What can you do for me?" Ask specifically to speak with the retention team if the first agent can't help. Come with a competitor's current offer in hand — even if you're not willing to switch, having a real price to reference gives you leverage. Many providers will reduce your bill by $15 to $30 per month, or offer a promotional period at a lower rate, rather than lose a long-term customer.
Check if you qualify for a low-income program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was the main federal subsidy for low-income households, but it ended in 2024. However, many major providers — including Comcast (Internet Essentials), AT&T (Access), and others — have their own low-income internet programs that offer speeds of 25–100 Mbps for $10 to $30 per month for qualifying households. Eligibility is typically based on participation in SNAP, Medicaid, or other income-based programs.
Check if a competitor has entered your area
Fiber internet has expanded significantly in the past few years. If a second provider now serves your address, that competition changes your negotiating position entirely — and the fiber service may be faster and cheaper than what you currently have. Search your address on BroadbandNow or your state's broadband map to see all available providers.
One phone call to your current provider — prepared with a competitor's price and a willingness to say you're thinking of switching — is often enough to get a meaningful reduction.