(Updated 9/05/16) What would you say if I told you that you could call Verizon Wireless, Dish Network, and AT&T today and save $708 per year by negotiating a lower bill?

In recent months, I have done exactly that and it took me about 2 hours. $354 per hour ain’t too shabby, right? So I figured it was time to document how I did it, so you too can make it happen. I also included tips to negotiate a lower bill with DIRECTV and Comcast. Hope this article helps you save some serious cash.

Keys to Negotiating ANY Bill:

• Analyze the Competition: Before you consider making any call to try and negotiate a lower bill, spend a few minutes online looking at what the competition is currently offering in the form of promotions and limited time specials. By having this information at the ready when talking to the customer service rep you’ll look much more credible and your chances of success go up substantially.
• Be Polite: This one seems quite obvious but is worth mentioning as it is so important. By acting entitled and arrogant on the phone you’re probably not going to garner any sympathy and are unlikely to get your bill lowered. Simply human nature. Be respectful and polite and you’ll have much greater success.
• Don’t Be Afraid To Ask: You’ll never get what you don’t ask for. Be confident and tell the company rep exactly what you think you should pay and back it up with supporting details.
• Know the Facts: Before making the “cancel” call, know exactly how long you have been with the company. Obviously the longer the better, especially if you have never made a late payment. Make this fact part of your argument when negotiating a lower monthly bill.
• Don’t Get Emotionally Attached: You hear this all the time when negotiating the price on a home or car. Keep your emotions out of it, and don’t be afraid to walk away from the company if they can’t meet, or get close, to your number.
• If at First You Fail, Always Try Again Grasshopper: If your first attempt to lower your bill is clearly going nowhere fast, just excuse yourself from the conversation and try calling them again later. This has happened to me many times where the first person is not helpful but the 2nd person I reach is incredible helpful in getting my bill lowered. BE PERSISTENT!