We all need to unwind sometimes. But our home entertainment expenses can get out of hand if we aren’t careful. Here are some ideas that can help with lowering home entertainment expenses.

Look for Package Deals

Cable or satellite TV is one of the larger utility bills for most people. Consider a bundled package. These can save some money quickly and easily. Most cable providers offer real savings if you bundle multiple services such as cable TV, Internet and phone.

Negotiate Your Cable or Satellite TV Rates

Call your provider and simply ask them to lower your bill. “Why are other providers offering services for cheaper?” you might ask. You may have to research competitor rates. For instance, you could say, “I have been a customer for a long time, but I see that I can save $20 a month if I switch to X Cable Company. I would really prefer not to do this. But my budget is pretty tight right now.” Often your cable company will decide it is more beneficial to lower your price than to lose your business. You will never know unless you try.

Define what you really need

Define what you really need. Do you need a landline if you have a cell phone? Do you need premium TV channels? Or access to every NFL game?  If you watch a lot of movies, services such as Netflix can be less expensive. Also, many grocery stores now carry movie kiosks that offer movies for as low as $1 a day.

Hang in there!

When times are tough you need to be resourceful. Ask yourself if you can afford to sustain your current lifestyle. You may need to make some changes in times of crisis.  Remember the goals you’re working to meet. Let your creativity flow — there may be some for inexpensive (and free!) things that you really enjoy . Hang in there!

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