Internet

How to find a cheaper internet plan

Internet prices depend on your address, the speed you pick and how long the promo lasts. Here’s how to compare plans fairly and cut what you already pay.

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5 steps to compare internet plans

Take a screenshot of the label for any plan you’re seriously considering.

See who serves your address

Enter your address on the FCC National Broadband Map to see which providers report service there and the technologies they offer.

Source: FCC

Read the broadband label

Providers must show an FCC broadband label for each plan where you shop. It lists the monthly price, how long an intro rate lasts, the price after, fees, data limits and typical speeds.

Source: FCC

Compare the price after the promo

Divide the total cost over 12 or 24 months by the number of months. A low first-year price can cost more than a steady one.

Count equipment and fees

Check whether a modem or router rental is extra, and whether autopay or paperless billing changes the price.

Source: FCC

Pick the speed you’ll use

Faster tiers cost more. Think about how many people stream, game or work from home at once, and check the label’s typical speeds.

Cut the bill you already have

  • Check when your promo ends. Look at your bill or account for the date, and set a reminder a month before.
  • Ask about current offers. Call or chat with your provider, name a competitor that serves your address, and ask what they can do.
  • Return rented equipment if buying your own compatible modem or router makes sense. Check your provider’s list of approved devices first.
  • Drop extras you don’t use, like TV boxes or add-ons. See our Internet & TV tips.
  • Look at bundles carefully. A phone and internet bundle can save money, but compare it with each service bought separately.

Help for lower-income households

The federal Lifeline program gives eligible households a discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone or internet service (more on Tribal lands). You may qualify with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, federal public housing assistance or the Veterans Pension. It’s one benefit per household. Check Lifeline eligibility. Many providers also offer their own low-income plans, so ask yours.

Where to see current plans

Prices change often, so we don’t list them here. Check each provider’s official page for your address:

Check plans at your address

Common questions

How do I know which providers serve my address?

Start with the FCC National Broadband Map, then confirm on each provider’s site, since availability can vary by building.

What is a broadband label?

An FCC-required summary, like a nutrition label, that shows a plan’s price, intro period, fees, data limits and typical speeds.

Can I get help paying for internet?

If you qualify, Lifeline can take up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service. Some providers also have their own low-income plans.

Is it worth calling my provider?

Often. Ask what offers are available to keep you as a customer, and compare their answer with plans from other providers at your address.

Does MegaSavings get paid?

MegaSavings may earn a commission if you buy through some links on this page, at no cost to you. It doesn’t change what we tell you to check.