Easy Ways to Lower Cell Phone Bills and Save $100s
It just takes a few taps to save big.
The average American pays $114 on their monthly cellphone bill — that’s $1,368 per year! Here, savvy ways to lower that number, fast.
The way you use your phone has likely changed since we’ve all been home more. For example, surveys show that 54 percent of cellphone users report using Wi-Fi more often — great if you don’t want to use up data, but not so great when you’re paying for data that’s going unused. Also, many cellphone carriers report that customers are making more voice calls than ever before, which can be pricey if you have a minute-based plan.
The good news? Reassessing your cellphone needs now can save you hundreds of dollars a year. The first step: a cellphone plan comparison site, says David Lynch, advisor at UpPhone. com. “Look at your last two months of phone bills. Identify what, if anything, you use your data for — from games to social media — and if you’re making a lot of phone calls or barely any.” Then use our chart below to find the plan that best fits your needs.
The best phone accessories — for less
For cases: Visit wholesale sites like CellularOutfitter. com, which offer wholesale prices to consumers. For example, an Ezpress Anti-Slip Hybrid Case for Apple iPhone 11, which usually retails for $25, costs $12; or a Samsung Galaxy Magnetic Kickstand Slim Mobile Phone Case, which retails for $26, costs $5.
For chargers: Browse Amazon.com for cellphone chargers from the site’s branded generic line, Amazon Basics. Whereas an Apple charger can cost $19, an MFi Certified Apple charger for an iPhone 12 at Amazon Basics costs just $12.
For portable batteries: Check the electronics or tech section on deal sites like DealNews.com. They list the best prices and sales on items like a 12000mAh 18W USB-C Power Delivery + Fast Charge Portable Battery that usually costs $80, but is on sale for $34, plus free shipping!
A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, First for Women.
