Dropping cable TV? Keep the internet. Lose the extras.
Bundles hide the real price of internet. Find it before you call.
The numbers
70%
of bundle customers said they'd tried to negotiate a better deal, and about a quarter got their bill cut
Source: Consumer Reports survey of 176,000+ members, 2018 (opens in a new tab)
33%
of Americans cancelled a service in the past year
Source: Reviews.org Consumer Trust Survey (opens in a new tab)
Where the money goes
Internet price rises when the bundle discount ends
The discount leaves with the TV.
TV boxes and remotes still billed
Equipment charges that outlive the service.
Sports and broadcast fees hidden in the bundle
Line items that aren't really optional extras.
Faster internet tier added to 'make up' for the TV
An upsell dressed as a favor.
What you probably need
24 Mbps
At the busiest hour. About 237 GB a month.
For 4 people, 2 HD streams, 1 video call, homework, with 20% headroom.
Work out what you needWhat to say
1. Opening · You say
"Hi, I'm calling about my internet account."
2. The ask · You say
"I'd like to cancel my TV service and keep internet. What's the internet-only price with every fee, and will that price change when the bundle discount ends?"
Before you call
- Find the internet-only price on the provider's site
- List every box you rent
- Know the speed you need
- Ask for the internet-only total with every fee
- Return equipment and get a receipt
Questions, answered
It can, because the bundle discount ends. Ask for the internet-only total with every fee before you cancel.
Live out of town?
If cable and fiber don't reach you, satellite may. Check your ZIP to see what's possible.
Sources
- Consumer Reports survey of 176,000+ members, 2018 (opens in a new tab)
- Reviews.org Consumer Trust Survey (opens in a new tab)
Data checked October 2026.