Prices have grown substantially over the past couple of years, and many things haven't returned to their former levels. This can make it more difficult for many to get ahead financially in today's economy.
You likely need to stick to a budget or get clever (or both). There may be ways to save money on your monthly bills and services that you might not have considered by negotiating.
Pulling out your inner extrovert to advocate for yourself and lower prices is an extra effort that may be worth it to help you avoid wasting money. Here are a few unexpected things you can negotiate for a better deal.
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1. Credit card rates
Depending on a few factors, your credit card company may be willing to adjust your annual percentage rate (APR).
If you’re good at managing your money and have a history of paying your credit cards on time while maintaining a small balance, you might be more likely to get a lower percentage rate.
Also, check your credit score before you call, which could help you negotiate.
Own a car? Here's 7 warning signs you're paying too much for car insurance. 2. Medical bills
A study published by the American Journal of Public Health in 2019 found that the cost of medical bills contributed to 66.5% of bankruptcies in the United States.
This is a sad reality many face. To attempt to lessen those often exorbitant costs, you may be able to negotiate with a medical provider or insurance company for a reduction.
If you're planning to have surgery, one resource to check out ahead of time is Healthcare Bluebook. This could give you a better idea of the costs of various medical procedures in your area.
3. Rent
Rent prices have increased in the past year, but there may be ways to mitigate the cost of your current living situation. If your landlord has told you they’re planning to raise the rent, you can try to negotiate.
Research rental costs in the area to see how your increase would align with the market in your area. Remember to emphasize the positives of having you as a tenant, such as paying on time or keeping the home in good shape.
Pro tip: If your landlord is unwilling to work with you, you may need to find other ways to help pay your rent .
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4. Cable and internet
New deals at better rates are often available for new customers, but if you’re already a customer and call your cable and internet provider to inquire about a discount, they may accommodate your request.
If you mention ending the service, they will likely want to keep you as a customer. When you contact your provider, remember to have rates from their competitors on hand so you know what you can get if you leave.
Pro tip: If your services are still unwilling to negotiate a lower rate, consider free subscription alternatives to your favorite services
5. Home upgrades
Getting a professional to work on your home repairs may be difficult due to a labor shortage in the trade professions (along with demand), but you may have some room to negotiate.
Get multiple estimates for work on your home to compare costs, and share the details with those you are considering hiring.
You could also speak to the contractors about any incentives or discounts they may offer at different times of the year.
6. Cell phone bill
Cell phone carriers may be willing to negotiate a new rate based on factors like how long you’ve been a loyal customer or whether you regularly pay on time.
Negotiating close to the end date of your contract may also work to your advantage.
If you need other ideas for lowering your cell phone bill, you may want to check with your employer to see if they have a deal with a certain cell phone provider and use that information in your negotiations.
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The price of renting napkins or tables and chairs could change depending on what kind of event you’re hosting or when you’re celebrating.
Try to use this to your advantage when negotiating your contracts for services, and see if providers can offer wiggle room in their fees.
Pro tip: If you’re trying to save money when getting married, schedule your ceremony and reception during the off-season (typically winter) or during the week when the cost might be a little less. Then you can have money to splurge on other wedding costs.
8. College tuition
Colleges sometimes have discounts that they don’t advertise.
You might be able to get a reduced tuition if you have another family member who attends the school or have a relative who is an alumnus.
9. Auto repair
Car repair bills can get expensive, but there may be ways to lower them. Ask for an itemized bill of any repairs to see if there’s room to negotiate, and get a second estimate if possible.
You may also want to check if the repair shop can offer rebuilt parts instead of new ones or if there are parts you can buy directly from another retailer at a lower price and then have the repair shop use them.
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10. Furniture
Buying a new home is expensive, and furnishing it could be a big additional cost.
Check with furniture stores to see if they can give you a discount for buying multiple pieces or if you’re buying a whole set of furniture instead of one or two pieces.
Pro tip: Ask about financing — some stores may offer no-interest options for 12 months for some bills.
11. Prescription drugs
Prescriptions can get pricey, but you may have options if you’re trying to stay within a budget.
Talk to your doctor and see if there may be a more affordable option or a generic brand instead of a particular drug they’ve prescribed.
You might also try contacting the drug manufacturer in addition to your doctor to see if they have coupons for future purchases.
12. Electronics
When purchasing electronics, be open with the salesperson about your budgetary restraints. They may have incentives you would qualify for or help you acquire the floor model for a lesser price.
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13. Gym membership
Gyms may be willing to negotiate a membership deal. Compare costs for gyms in the area to get a good idea of how low a gym may be willing to go.
Also, see if you can have them waive a new member fee or are willing to give you a free trial. Memberships spike in January, so it may be better to avoid that month when negotiating.
14. Jewelry
In the market for a nice piece of jewelry or an engagement ring? Avoid chain jewelry stores as they may be less willing to discuss a discount and stick with local jewelers.
You should also be willing to compromise a little on things such as the carat weight or clarity of the stones in the jewelry.
The difference may not be perceptible to the naked eye, but it could help you save money on the final cost.
15. Bank fees
Before you open a checking or savings account, talk to a banker about ditching some of the fees that may be attached to them.
They may be willing to compromise on some of the fees to ensure you open an account. If you’ve been a valued customer, schedule an appointment with an agent to review your fees and see if they could be reduced.
Bottom line
The first step in negotiating is sometimes mustering up the courage to speak to the right people who could help reduce fees. While that may not be easy for everyone, it could be worth it.
There may be deals to be had that weren’t obvious or advertised, and your inquiry could help you reduce your costs.
You might not always be able to keep more cash in your wallet , but the more you advocate for a better rate in all areas, the higher your chances of getting a yes in return.
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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