To negotiate a lower cable bill, you’ll need to call up your cable provider and talk with a customer service agent. Before calling, it’s a best practice to get prepared for the negotiation. If you’re still under contract with your cable provider, your bill shouldn’t be changing and you’ll likely be charged if you try to get out of it. Negotiations are best done when you’re out of a contract. Once you’re out of contract, expect your cable bill to increase. This generally occurs when the contract expires and any promotional deals expired along with it. You can now cancel your service without having to pay any penalties, which is good for you. The cable company wants your business, so if you say you’d rather cancel than pay a higher price, it will take notice. Before calling, get information on competitor pricing for other cable companies. This can help you discuss options with your cable provider and let them know you’re serious about leaving if you can’t get a better rate. Remember to stay calm, be polite, and ask for a supervisor if the person you’re talking to can’t help. You can always try calling again to get someone else as well.