Credit: Freedigitalphotos.net
In line with my recent posts about cutting your basic spending, today I am hosting a post that fits in nicely with this strategy to reduce costs! Enjoy folks..
Given that you’re reading this blog online, it’s fair to assume that you’re paying for broadband. Unfortunately, the likelihood is you’re paying too much. In the UK, we have some of the cheapest broadband deals of any country in Europe, but many of us are failing to take advantage.
Research by broadbandchoices.co.uk, the broadband comparison service, shows Brits are wasting more than £500million a year by failing to switch their broadband package. In fact, almost 40% of UK households admit they haven’t changed their broadband in at least four years.
Dominic Baliszewski, telecoms expert at broadbandchoices, said: “A lot of customers are stuck on outdated packages and could get so much more for their money if they just switched.
“Only four years ago, you would’ve had to pay an average of £132 annually just for your broadband. Fast forward to 2013 and you can now get your broadband and home phone service bundled together for just £62 a year – that’s a saving of 53%.”
While we’re all quite proactive when it comes to comparing insurance, energy and other household expenses, broadband is something many of us just keep paying for month after month without really thinking about it – as long as it’s working, we don’t ask question how much it’s costing us.
“One thing we consistently hear from consumers is that they think switching broadband will be complicated and difficult, but this couldn’t be further from the truth,” says Baliszewski.
“Customers who do their homework can benefit from a straightforward switching process – just follow our advice below if you’re unsure.”
Tips for saving money on your broadband:
- Compare the true cost of packages – Always compare broadband using an Ofcom-accredited comparison site like broadbandchoices.co.uk that details the hidden costs like installation fees and line rental charges. It’s important to have all the information upfront so that you know what you’ll be getting for your money, and this is the simplest way to have all the costs broken down for you.
- Pay for line rental upfront – In most cases, line rental costs more than the broadband package itself, so don’t overlook it. While most people choose to pay line rental monthly, some providers will offer you a discount when you pay for a year’s worth in one go. It’s only an option if you can afford it, but still a good way to save a bit more money.
- Sign up online – Most broadband providers offer additional discounts and incentives if you subscribe online rather than over the phone or in their high street shops if they have them. Price comparison websites also negotiate exclusive deals with providers on your behalf, so it’s usually possible to save even more money this way.
How much do you pay each month and for what deal?
This article was written by Author Anthony Hill from broadbandchoices
Very informative post. Thanks for the direct link to the data.
I pay about 18 pounds for an unlimited O2 package. Every year I call them and they keep the half price discount. Talk talk may be a bit cheaper but O2 has stellar customer service.
Did you hear that O2 internet was bought by sky?
no, I didn’t! are they merging or keeping business separate?
Merging! Sky is now the second biggest UK provider! 🙂
We pay about $35 USD per month but we have the fastest package. Overall, I’m pretty happy with it.
How fast is that? In the UK we have fiber cabled areas up to 100Mb/S but ADSL is typically around 10 in a good spot
We pay about $50/month for the fastest package. This actually reminds me that we need to call in order to try and negotiate a lower price for the year.
Let us know how you get on! 🙂