Bills, man. They show up like clockwork, eat your paycheck, and never send a thank you note. But the good news? You’ve got more power than you think.

With a few smart moves (and maybe a polite-but-firm phone call or two), you can shave down your monthly expenses—no extreme couponing or off-grid living required.

Here are 6 practical, low-stress ways to lower your bills and keep your life running smoothly.

1. Call your providers and ask for a better rate

Sounds awkward? Maybe. But it works.
Cable, internet, phone, insurance—these companies often have secret deals or “loyalty discounts” they don’t advertise.

Just say, “I’m reviewing my monthly budget and wondering if there are any current promotions or ways to lower my bill.”

Stay friendly, ask to speak to retention if needed, and don’t be afraid to play the “I’m shopping around” card. You’d be surprised how fast they find a discount.

Brigit tip: Use phrases like negotiate internet bill, lower cable cost, and phone bill discounts to make this tip ultra-searchable.

2. Audit your subscriptions

The $5.99 here, $12.99 there—it adds up fast.

Do a quick sweep of your bank statement (or let a budgeting app like Brigit help), and cancel anything you haven’t used in a month.
Be ruthless. If you forgot it existed, you won’t miss it.

Bonus points for setting calendar reminders before free trials end. (Yes, even the ones you swore you’d cancel “right after signing up.”)

3. Raise your insurance deductible

If you’ve got a solid emergency fund, bumping up your deductible can lower your monthly premium on car, home, or renters insurance.

Translation: you’ll pay less every month and still be covered if something big goes sideways. Just make sure you can cover the deductible if needed—this isn’t a YOLO move.

4. Turn down the thermostat (just a little)

No need to freeze—you’re not filming a survival show.

But adjusting your thermostat by even 1–2 degrees (warmer in summer, cooler in winter) can shave serious dollars off your utility bill over time. Ceiling fans and cozy socks can pick up the slack.

5. Go autopay (and avoid late fees)

Autopay = fewer late fees, better credit, and less stress.

Many providers also offer a small monthly discount if you set up autopay or go paperless. It’s one of those little things that adds up—and makes you feel very put-together.

6. Comparison shop like it’s your side hustle

If it’s been a while since you checked rates on car insurance, cell plans, or even your electric provider (in deregulated states), now’s the time.

There are entire websites that do the comparison shopping for you. You could save $20–$100+ a month with just one switch.

TL;DR: Cut your bills, not your lifestyle

Saving money doesn’t mean giving up everything you love. With a few smart tweaks, you can lower your monthly bills and still enjoy your Spotify, snacks, and streaming marathons.

Here’s your quick checklist:

  • Call and negotiate
  • Cancel unused subscriptions
  • Raise insurance deductibles (smartly)
  • Adjust the thermostat
  • Set up autopay
  • Shop around for better deals