If you feel like your paycheck disappears before the month even gets rolling, you’re not alone. Rent, insurance, streaming subscriptions, groceries—everything adds up fast. But here’s the good news: you don’t always have to earn more to save more. Sometimes, all it takes is a phone call and a little confidence to start keeping more of your money.
Many monthly expenses are not set in stone, even though we often treat them as if they are. Over time, companies rely on your loyalty and forget to reward it. Meanwhile, you’re left paying top dollar while new customers snag better deals. It’s frustrating and unnecessary.
The trick is knowing which bills are flexible and how to approach the conversation. You don’t need to be a master negotiator. You just need to ask the right questions and be willing to walk away. Below are 12 monthly expenses you can and should try to re-negotiate today. Doing so could free up hundreds of dollars every single month.
1. Internet Bill
Internet providers are notorious for hiking rates after promotional periods end. What started as a $40 plan can quietly morph into $80 after a year or two. Yet, most companies offer lower rates for new customers or hidden promotions that existing users are often unaware of.
Pick up the phone and call your provider. Mention that you’re considering switching to a competitor, and ask if there are any promotions available for long-time customers. More often than not, they’ll have something in the system they “suddenly” remember when you ask.
You can also check your area’s pricing on the provider’s website; many times, you’ll find your current plan listed at a lower rate for new users. Use that as leverage. Worst case? You’re prepared to switch to a cheaper competitor anyway.
2. Cell Phone Plan
Monthly cell phone bills are another expense that most people accept as a fixed cost. But if you’re paying over $70 a month for a single line, chances are you’re overpaying, especially if you’re not using all your data or features.
Start by reviewing your actual usage. Many people pay for unlimited data but only use a few gigs each month. Carriers like Mint Mobile, Visible, or even major brands offer plans that reflect your real usage, often at a fraction of the cost.
Contact your provider and inquire about the promotions they offer or if you qualify for any discounts. Don’t be afraid to mention competitors’ pricing. You might be eligible for a lower plan or a loyalty discount just by asking.
3. Cable or Streaming Services
Cable packages are notorious for increasing in price with added fees, channels you never watch, and hidden rate hikes. Even streaming services have joined the party, raising prices while reducing the content available.
Look at what you watch. Are you using Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and Apple TV every single month? Probably not. Rotate services instead; cancel one for a few months and resubscribe when a new season drops.
If you still have a traditional cable subscription, call your provider and consider canceling. Cable companies will almost always offer you a better rate to keep you around. Just be prepared to follow through if they don’t budge.
4. Auto Insurance
Auto insurance is one of those set-it-and-forget-it expenses that can slowly climb without notice. However, rates vary significantly between providers, and you may be missing out on substantial savings.
Every year, shop around and compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal. Sites like The Zebra or Policygenius make it easy to compare policies in minutes. You can also contact your current provider to inquire about any new discounts for which you may qualify.
Please mention any changes in your driving habits, such as working from home or driving less, that could reduce your premium. Also, ask about bundling discounts if you have renters’ or homeowners insurance with another provider.
5. Rent
Yes, even rent can be negotiated, though it’s a bit trickier. If you’re a good tenant with a solid payment history, your landlord might be willing to work with you, especially if the rental market in your area has softened.
When your lease is up for renewal, come prepared with local rental comps that show cheaper or similar options nearby. Point out that you pay on time, take care of the property, and would prefer to stay.
You can also ask for perks if the rent won’t budge: maybe a free parking space, lower pet fees, or minor upgrades like new appliances or fresh paint. Landlords would often rather retain a good tenant than risk a new one.
6. Gym Membership
Gyms are notorious for locking members into long-term contracts and charging for extras like towel service, classes, or “annual maintenance fees.” However, the fitness industry is highly competitive, and many gyms are willing to work with you to retain your business.
Before renewing, ask if there’s a cheaper plan or if they’re running any current promotions. If you’ve been a member for a while, loyalty discounts may be available but are not typically advertised.
If you’re not using your membership often, consider freezing it for a few months or switching to a pay-as-you-go plan. You may also consider exploring community centers or local YMCA facilities that offer similar amenities at more affordable prices.
7. Credit Card Interest Rates
If you carry a balance on your credit card, those interest charges can crush your budget. But here’s a secret: credit card companies will lower your APR if you ask, especially if you’ve got a decent payment history and credit score.
Contact your card issuer and request a lower interest rate. Be polite but firm, and mention that you’re considering transferring your balance to a card with a better offer. Often, this is enough to trigger a reduction in the amount.
You can also shop around for balance transfer offers with 0% introductory rates. Just make sure you pay it off during the promo period so you don’t end up back where you started.
8. Subscription Boxes
Whether it’s makeup, snacks, clothes, or pet toys, subscription boxes can quietly eat into your monthly budget. They may feel like a treat, but when you add them all up, the cost can be shocking.
Most subscription services offer discounts if you attempt to cancel your subscription. They’ll hit you with a “Wait! Here’s 30% off your next box” offer; take advantage of it if you want to keep the service.
Better yet, pause or cancel entirely. These aren’t essentials, and you can always resubscribe later if you miss them. Look for flexibility in the subscription terms; you shouldn’t have to pay full price every single month.
9. Car Payment Terms
Refinancing your auto loan is an underrated move that can reduce your monthly payment, extend your term (if needed), or even help you pay off the loan faster with a lower interest rate.
Check your credit score first. If it’s improved since you bought your car, you might qualify for a much better rate. Use loan comparison tools or ask your bank or credit union about refinancing options.
Even shaving a couple of percentage points off your interest can save you hundreds or thousands over the life of the loan. And a lower monthly payment frees up cash in the short term.
10. Student Loan Payments
While federal loan repayment programs are changing, there are still opportunities to lower your monthly payment. If you’re struggling, income-driven repayment (IDR) plans base your payment on your income and family size, often reducing it significantly.
If you have private loans, refinancing with a lender offering a better rate can save you money each month. Just be careful, you’ll lose access to federal protections if you refinance a federal loan into a private one.
Either way, make the call. Lenders have options, they just don’t always advertise them unless you ask.
11. Home Security Services
Home security companies love to lock you into contracts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate. With numerous DIY options, such as SimpliSafe and Ring, on the market, traditional services are under pressure to compete.
If your contract is ending soon, please call to inquire about lower monthly fees or to learn about updated equipment available at no extra charge. Mention competitors and express your willingness to leave unless they offer a better deal.
Many companies will reduce your monthly fee or offer upgrades to retain your business. And if they won’t, switching could give you better service at a lower price.
12. Pet Insurance
Pet insurance has become more popular in recent years, but premiums can climb fast, especially as your pet gets older. If you’ve had the same policy for years, there may be better deals out there now.
Contact your provider and ask about different coverage tiers or higher deductibles that could reduce your monthly premium. You may be paying for more than you need.
Also, compare quotes from other insurers. Just like human health insurance, coverage and pricing vary widely. You might find the same level of protection for significantly less elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
The notion that bills are non-negotiable is one of the most pervasive myths in personal finance. In reality, most companies expect you to ask for a better deal; they just hope you won’t. That means the power to save is sitting in your hands.
Pick two or three of these expenses to tackle this week. Set aside 30 minutes, make a few calls, and ask the right questions. You’ll be amazed at how much you can save just by speaking up.
Remember, your budget doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to work better for you. Every dollar you save is a dollar you keep. And that’s a win worth chasing.