Attention Nexflix Users

I wanted to call to everyone’s attention that Netflix offers instant movie and TV shows online. Netflix users get an unlimlited amount of online viewing (unless you are already in their cheapest limited plan). This feature means you can cut down the number of movies sent to you and save $$. The only downside is that not every movie or TV show is available through the internet. However, Netflix is constantly converting additional films to expand their offerings.

Lower your cell phone bill

Do me a favor and call your phone company and ask how many minutes you've used in the past few months. If you are paying for a plan with more minutes than what you use, switch to a lower plan!

I'd like to speak now about Verizon, though you may be able to find equivalent deals on your own company (though if you live in DC you should have Verizon- hey it's the only company that works on Metro!).

First, if you don't need text messaging, block it to save $$.
Second, you may think that $70 is the lowest plan Verizon offers for two people. However, they have the 65+ Plan that is only $60 a month for two people. While it is true this is for senior citizens, which we are not though perhaps in spirit, they allowed us to switch to this plan for the cheaper price.
Third, your company may offer a discount through Verizon. My husband's company told him they do not participate in the Verizon discount program but at Verizon they looked up his company and it was in their database so now we save 12% on our monthly bill.
Finally, please cancel your land line phone if you have one. There is no need for this!! You are just throwing out money! Use skype if you are tired of your cell phone.

Hate Going to the Doctor?

I know many people, okay men, in their 20s who avoid going to the doctor because they hate shots and are sure they are healthy (my husband included). I go but hate it for another reason.

Almost every time I see a doctor (eye doctor, dentist, specialist, etc) the billing departments overcharge me. Sometimes they send me a bill for a co-pay I already paid. Other times they miscode a visit. It is always something.

This is incredible since I actually call my insurance company before I see any doctor to make sure it is covered to and check the amount I will have to pay.

The purpose of this blog is to encourage people not to just pay a doctor's bill they get in the mail. I'm not saying to throw it away- they will just hound you and sell it to another company that will hunt you down (via phone) and ruin your credit score. I am saying to call the billing department and talk it through.

I'm almost convinced some billing errors are made on purpose to get more money from patients since offices know people will be annoyed but will just pay them to avoid confortation.

I've saved hundreds of dollars (rightfully and successfully) through negotiating with billing departments.

Good luck, be strong, and keep going to the doctor.

Cable and Internet Monopolies

How much are you paying for cable?
A decent price for cable from Comcast (the monopoly owner for much of DC/Arlington) is $25-$30/month. I’m guessing many of you are paying $65 or more a month for the same channels.

Here is what to do:

1. Call Comcast and tell them you are canceling.
2. Don’t worry- they won’t cut off your cable.
3. They will, however, transfer you to their retention department.
4. Tell the retention department you’ve had it with their prices and that there are alternative cable providers coming near you. They will most likely allow you to get the same channels but pay what new members pay - often $30 a month.
5. While they will transfer you to the lower priced plan, the plan will be temporary- 6 months to a year, at which time you need to call back and talk to the retention people again.
6. Do this with your internet bill as well. Switch to Comcast’s economy internet service which is under $30 a month.