Are you prepared for the upcoming changes to your cell phone service? If you’re still using a 2G device, T-Mobile’s latest move could leave you disconnected.
As T-Mobile begins phasing out its 2G network (which will be completely shut down next month), customers who haven’t upgraded to a 4G-capable phone risk losing service. While the news might seem inconvenient if you have an old phone, it’s also an opportunity to take advantage of special deals.
To ease the transition, T-Mobile is waiving fees and taxes and might even offer a free phone to some of those making the switch.
Despite the service changes, it’s a good reminder to regularly check with your provider to see what upgrades and offers are available. You may be surprised to find out that your provider doesn’t just cover your data, texts, or phone calls. It also has plenty of deals and freebies for being a subscriber.
Read on for 10 things you can get from your cell service provider absolutely for free and more smart shopping hacks .
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1. Streaming video services
Some cell phone providers want to show you what you can stream from your phone or home as part of your contract.
So find out if your provider offers trial memberships for streaming services such as Hulu, Disney+, or ESPN+.
Streaming services vary by provider, so check with your plan to see which ones are available.
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You can also carry plenty of songs in your pocket with a streaming service for your favorite music.
Services like Apple Music, Spotify, SiriusXM, and others can be accessed for free if you have particular plans with T-Mobile, for example. You could also get Apple Music access with your Verizon account.
Check with your provider to see which options are available depending on your plan.
3. Food
You may be able to get discounts, deals, and even free items from local restaurants through your cell phone provider.
T-Mobile has T-Mobile Tuesdays, which allows you to get free stuff if you download its app on your phone. The app includes items like free food from Little Caesar’s Pizza, tacos from Taco Bell, or other restaurants that you can take advantage of just for being a member.
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4. New phone
It’s a good idea to regularly check in with your cell phone provider if you’re looking to upgrade your device.
For example, AT&T may offer different free options if you trade in your device. You can get a new phone at a much lower cost or even free, depending on what you’re trading it for.
Deals can change, so watch for different options or check with your carrier on the latest models available and whether you need to trade in your old device for the upgrade.
5. Tote bags
T-Mobile Tuesdays can give you access to plenty of fun freebies just by being a customer.
One of the recent freebies you could grab from T-Mobile was a tote bag that is perfect for the summer. The bag — and other freebies — can be picked up using the provider’s app on your phone.
6. Presale ticket access
If you’re a Verizon customer, check out your access to Verizon Up to see what extra entertainment perks you can get.
The program allows you free access to presale tickets for concerts, sports, and entertainment, so you’ll always have the best events to go to with your phone.
T-Mobile has a similar program for its customers, so check to see if your carrier participates in one of these programs.
If you’re a Verizon customer, check out your access to Verizon Up to see what extra entertainment perks you can get.
The program allows you free access to presale tickets for concerts, sports, and entertainment, so you’ll always have the best events to go to with your phone.
T-Mobile has a similar program for its customers, so check to see if your carrier participates in one of these programs.
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You may want to check out your provider’s free perks if you travel a lot for work or business.
T-Mobile, for example, gives you free access to in-flight Wi-Fi, depending on the airline you use and your cell phone plan. So take advantage of streaming services or texting on your next flight.
8. Movie tickets
Are you excited to go to the movies and watch the latest blockbusters? Then check out AT&T to see if you qualify for its Ticket Twosday program.
The plan allows you to buy a movie ticket and get a second one for free, so head out and see a movie with a friend or family member and take advantage of this deal.
9. Amazon Prime
Want to take advantage of all the perks you can get from Amazon Prime? Check with your cell phone provider.
Metro gives customers free Amazon Prime, allowing them access to free shipping, Prime Video, Prime Music, and other exclusive perks for Amazon Prime customers. It’s a great Amazon hack that can save you money throughout the year.
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10. Gas discounts
Gas can get pricey when filling up your car, but your mobile carrier might have you covered.
Check out T-Mobile to get discounts on gas from Shell, giving you a $0.10 discount per gallon. That discount could add up quickly, depending on your tank size.
Bottom line
There are plenty of free perks to help you save extra cash depending on your cell phone carrier.
However, remember to compare the costs of different plans before you buy, as some of these free perks may only be available under specific plans.
And if you’re a senior or retired early, you may also be eligible for extra perks for customers over 55.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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