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Cable Company Pricing: Unraveling the Maze
Cable companies have long been notorious for their complex and ever-changing pricing structures, leaving consumers baffled by the numerous fees, and price increases. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of cable company pricing, exposing hidden fees, discussing box fees, addressing price increases, and share how easy it is to cut the cord on cable.
1. Hidden Fees: Unwelcome Surprises.
These fees are one of the biggest frustrations faced by cable customers. Hidden fees often lurk within the fine print of contracts and can significantly inflate your bill. They may include broadcast TV fees, regional sports fees, equipment fees, and administrative fees. It’s essential to review your bill carefully to identify these hidden charges.
2. Box Fees: It All Adds Up.
Another common annoyance is the additional charge for each of the cable boxes or set-top boxes. Cable companies often charge monthly fees for each cable box you use in your home. These fees can quickly add up, especially if you have multiple TVs. One way to mitigate this monthly repeating cost is by exploring alternatives like streaming devices or smart TVs that provide access to streaming services without the need for a cable box.
3. Price Increases: The Never-Ending Spiral.
Cable companies are notorious for periodically raising prices, much to the frustration of their customers. While these increases can be attributed to rising programming costs, it’s essential to stay vigilant and be aware of any sudden changes to your bill. Regularly reviewing your cable plan and comparing it to other available options can help you be aware and possibly break-free of the spiral.
What can you do? You can ask your cable provider for a better rate, but chances are your rate will go back up, possibly higher than the original price, after a certain period. If the cable company gives you a lower rate, that will most likely lock you into another year or two contract. You could bundle your services, but that bundle will include extra fees and you’ll be back at square one. Or you could cut the cord!
Cord Cutting
As streaming services continue to gain popularity, an increasing number of consumers are cutting the cord and opting for streaming alternatives. Services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTubeTV offer a vast array of content at a fraction of the cost of traditional cable packages. Cord cutting not only provides significant savings but also offers the flexibility of accessing content on-demand and across multiple devices.
Canceling cable internet can feel like a daunting task, but it can be easy. Start by researching and identifying alternative internet service providers in your area like FastBridge Fiber. Review plans, pricing, the company’s website, and customer reviews to ensure you make an informed decision. Once you’ve selected a new provider, contact your current cable internet provider to notify them of your intent to cancel.
Tips For Cutting the Cable Cord
1. Check contract terms.
Review your contract for any cancellation fees or termination clauses. Be aware of the notice period required for cancellation.
2. Contact your provider.
Reach out to your cable internet provider and inform them of your decision to cancel. Be prepared for a potential sales pitch to retain your business. Stand firm and polite during the conversation. This may take some time, but don’t give in!
3. Avoid the gap.
Don’t cancel your current service until you have your new internet service installed to ensure that you don’t experience a gap in service.
4. Return equipment.
If you are renting a modem, router, or set top boxes from your provider, follow their instructions for returning the equipment. It’s usually pretty easy.
Navigating the complex world of cable company pricing can be challenging, but armed with knowledge and awareness, you can take steps to reduce your bill or better yet, you may decide to cut the cord. Step into the future by using streaming services and switching to a fiber internet provider, like FastBridge Fiber where you’ll experience no contracts, no hidden fees, and virtually eliminate buffering and lag.