How to Negotiate the Best Rates With Comcast TV

by Tallulah Philange, Demand Media

Call Comcast's customer service line to negotiate a new cable rate.

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Comcast offers several types of services, including cable, phone, Internet and DVR. In some areas, Comcast is the only cable service available. But don't let that stop you from haggling with them over the price of service. Customers in areas with more than one cable provider are in an even better position. A 10-minute call could yield savings that, when added up over a year, represent a significant cut to your cable bill. The key is to remain polite, continue asking for the best deal possible and, if thwarted, try back later.

Step 1

Research what other cable service providers are in your area, including satellite coverage. Call or use online information to find out the cost of service. Make sure the service is approximately the same as your Comcast cable--for example, it offers a similar channel lineup, paid movie channels and digital video recording.

Step 2

Call Comcast at 1-800-266-2278 or use the service's online chat feature. Log onto Comcast's support center and click on live chat. Select "Accounts and Bills" and "General Billing." Click on the "Chat with a Live Agent" box and fill out the necessary information to begin the chat session.

Step 3

Explain to the customer service representative that you are looking for a better rate on your cable bill. Tell the representative that you can no longer afford the current rate. This signals that you're willing to leave Comcast if you don't get a better deal.

Step 4

Listen for how receptive your representative seems. If he says there is no better rate available, mention the better deals you found with another company. Ask him to check again for a better rate.

Step 5

Tell the representative you're going to cancel your cable service because Comcast can't offer you a better deal. You likely will be transferred to the customer retention department. Repeat the steps of asking for a better deal and mention that you plan to leave Comcast if you can't get a cut in cost.

Step 6

Remain polite at all times. Participate in niceties, such as asking the rep how his day is going. Maintain an upbeat voice. This attitude will get you further than taking an aggressive stance.

Step 7

End the call and call back another time if you don't get the deal you want. Sometimes talking with a different customer service representative will yield results.

Tips & Warnings

  • Request that Comcast lock in your new rate for at least one year. This ensures you won't have to go through negotiations every few months.

References

  • Get Rich Slowly; How I Cut My Comcast Cable Bill by 33% (Without Losing Any Service)
  • Bargaineering: How to Strong Arm Your Way to a Better Deal
  • Personal Finance Advice: 50% Off Cable TV Bill

Resources

  • Comcast: Support--Chat Entry
  • Comcast: Six Ways to Get Help

About the Author

Tallulah Philange has worked as a journalist since 2003. Her work has appeared in the "Princeton (N.J.) Packet," "Destinations" magazine and in higher education publications. She also has edited and produced online content for those publications. Philange holds a Bachelor of Arts in print journalism from American University and a Master of Arts in communication, culture and technology from Georgetown University.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images