A TIP from Martin Lewis has helped a saver cut the cost of her mobile phone bill by £300.
In the latest newsletter, MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) warned that many of us are paying way more than we need to for our phones.
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Martin and his team suggested getting a sim only deal if you’re out of contract as you could end up paying four to five times less.
It said: “Then contrast what you pay with the cheapest new Sim deal.
“Here you keep your handset & number, but just change who you pay for calls, data etc.”
One lucky reader saw Martin’s tips before and wrote in to say that she is now paying £300 a year less for her phone.
She said: “I used your links to check if I was out of contract, then your Sim comparison to reduce my monthly bill from £34 a month to £5 a month on the same network – saving me nearly £300 a year.
“I don’t think people realise how easy and quick it is. Thanks again.”
Mobile phone costs were hiked earlier this year which was another blow to people struggling with the cost of living.
How can I cut my mobile costs?
Switching contracts is one of the single best ways to save money on your mobile bills.
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But if you can’t switch mid-contract without facing a penalty, you’d be best to hold off until it’s up for renewal.
In the weeks before your contract is up, use comparison sites to familiarise yourself with what deals are available.
It’s a known fact that new customers always get the best deals.
Sites like MoneySuperMarket and Uswitch all help you customise your search based on price, allowances and provider.
This should make it easier to decide whether to renew your contract or move to another provider.
However, if you don’t want to switch and are happy with the service you’re getting under your current provider – haggle for a better deal.
You can still make significant savings by renewing your contract rather than rolling on to the tariff you’re given after your deal.
If you need to speak to a company on the phone, be sure to catch them at the right time.
Make some time to negotiate with your provider in the morning.
This way, you have a better chance of being the first customer through on the phone, and the rep won’t have worked tirelessly through previous calls which may have affected their stress levels.
It pays to be polite when getting through to someone on the phone, as representatives are less inclined to help rude or aggressive customers.
Knowing what other offers are on the market can help you to make a case for yourself to your provider.
If your provider won’t haggle, you can always threaten to leave.
Companies don’t want to lose customers and may come up with a last-minute offer to keep you.
It’s also worth investigating social tariffs. These deals have been created for people who are receiving certain benefits.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
You can also join our new Sun Money Facebook group to share stories and tips and engage with the consumer team and other group members.
