Buzz
People often love to boast about how much they save on their cell phone plan. But when asked how they scored such a low rate, they usually reveal one of two things: either they’re part of a family plan, or they’ve kept the same plan for years and were grandfathered into an incredible unlimited service deal.
But you, the reader, are likely here because you didn’t get that sweet grandfathered deal, and you don’t have a family plan to join—or maybe you simply don’t want to deal with the social pressures of maintaining the relationships that come with it.
Thankfully, there are other ways to save on your cell phone bill. You can switch to a more affordable plan without having to sacrifice your sleek smartphone or give up your number.
Conduct a plan audit
Before making any decisions, start with a contract audit, advises Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst at DealNews.com. 'Audit your contract to determine if it’s still meeting your needs. Are you still using all the features included? Do you require less data? Auditing before your contract ends gives you the chance to reach out to your carrier and negotiate for a new plan, whether that means downsizing or upgrading,' she said.
If you’re considering switching carriers, ensure that the providers you’re looking at are compatible with your devices and offer network coverage that suits your needs. You can usually confirm both details on the provider's website.
Opt for a budget-friendly carrier
Budget-friendly cellular providers used to offer great deals but came with a distinctly no-frills image. However, that’s no longer the case, says Michael Timmermann, cell phone expert at Clark.com.
While budget carriers may have previously been better suited for city residents in the past, Timmermann now states that their coverage has become nearly identical to that of standard providers. Over the last two years, Timmermann has tested 12 low-cost mobile service providers.
The biggest difference between traditional services and low-cost options today lies in whether your data is deprioritized during peak times, something your plan’s terms may mention. 'When the network is congested, you might experience slower data speeds compared to users with major carriers,' Timmermann explained. But after conducting speed tests throughout his service trials, he added, 'It hasn’t affected how I use my phone.'
While you won’t find the flashy free phone promotions that are common with the 'big four' carriers (AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon), the savings generally make purchasing your own phone worthwhile.
Most of these budget-friendly carriers are mobile virtual network operators (MVNO), meaning they don’t own their own infrastructure but lease it from larger networks. 'If you’re happy with your current network, find a low-cost carrier that uses the same network,' Timmermann suggested. 'Chances are, you won’t experience issues because it relies on the same towers. Additionally, if you're already on that network, there’s a good chance you can keep your phone.'
Timmermann ranks Visible (using Verizon’s network), Mint Mobile (operating on T-Mobile’s network), and Total Wireless (another on Verizon) among his top choices. Each provides service for $40 a month or less. Visible even offers a 'party pay' feature, providing discounts for linking up with other Visible users—no need to know them personally. It’s a modern take on the classic family plan.
He also mentioned Tello, a service offering unlimited talk and text on Sprint’s network, along with 1 GB of data for just $10 a month. It’s a great option if you rely on WiFi for web browsing and using apps.
Ramhold also recommended Google Fi, which stands out for its strong international service and flexible pay-as-you-go data options. The only drawback is that if you want a phone with the plan, it has to be an Android. iPhone users will need to bring their own device.
Consider switching to a prepaid plan
Another alternative is to replace your typical post-paid plan, where you pay after using services, with a prepaid plan.
Prepaid plans often offer similar talk, text, and data services to traditional plans, but at about half the cost. Timmermann notes that one downside of prepaid plans is that you might experience lower service quality, especially if you're with a carrier that lacks physical stores.
Negotiate with your carrier
If you’re committed to staying with one of the major carriers, Timmermann suggests bringing a competitive offer to your current provider and asking if they’ll match it.
You might also find special plans for seniors, military members, or even through your employer. It’s worth checking for any discounts or offers that may apply to you before making a switch.
To successfully negotiate with your current provider, 'Do your homework first,' advises Ramhold. Track your monthly usage of minutes and data, and compare it with what other companies are offering. 'If you can highlight your usage and share offers from other providers, you may be able to secure a better deal without leaving your current provider.'
Choose the right time to switch
When you're ready to switch your plan, Timmermann advises that timing is key. Don't wait until just two days before your next billing cycle to make the change. 'Give yourself at least a week, as that will give you ample time to receive your new SIM card, resolve any issues with your phone, and ensure you can port your number,' he said.
If you delay, you may end up being charged for an additional month with your current carrier. 'And typically, they won’t offer a refund if you cancel for that last month,' he added.
This post has been updated to reflect that Google Fi users can now bring their own iPhone.
