When Kathy saw her monthly Xfinity cable bill spike to nearly $300, she was stunned — and stuck. Like many seniors living on a fixed Social Security income, she simply couldn’t afford that kind of surprise expense. But Kathy's story is far from unusual — and her question is one that more and more consumers are asking: Is it finally time to cut the cord?

 

Let’s break down exactly how Kathy (and anyone in her situation) can take back control of their monthly bills without sacrificing the TV, internet, and phone services they rely on.

Why Cable Bills Are Out of Control

Cable TV providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and others have long bundled TV, internet, and phone services into monthly packages. But over the last few years, those prices have climbed sharply — driven by rising programming costs, sports network fees, equipment rentals, and sometimes, just plain old rate hikes.

 

​According to a 2025 report by Cord Cutters News, the average cost of cable TV in the U.S. has risen to over $147 per month, totaling more than $1,700 annually. This figure does not include premium channels or additional services, making it a significant expense for consumers, especially seniors like Kathy, who may only require basic TV services. ​.

The Simple, Affordable Solution: Cut the Cord & Go Over-the-Air

The easiest way for many consumers to save big? Get rid of cable TV altogether.

Here’s how Kathy (and you) can do it:

1. Buy a Digital Antenna

Available at major retailers like Target, Walmart, or Amazon for as little as $10, a digital antenna lets your TV pick up free, over-the-air broadcasts. That means local news, sports, and major network programming like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX.

 

No subscription required. No monthly bill.

 

Want to see what channels are available near you? Check out resources like AntennaWeb.org for a free signal map based on your address.

2. Rethink Your Internet and Phone Needs

If you primarily need internet for checking email, paying bills, or basic browsing, you may not need an expensive high-speed plan. Some low-cost alternatives include:

  • Using your smartphone’s data plan as a hotspot (many unlimited plans now offer this feature).
  • Exploring budget internet programs like Xfinity’s Internet Essentials, which offers plans starting at $9.95/month for qualifying low-income households. Details here: Xfinity Internet Essentials.

As for home phone service? Many consumers now rely entirely on their cell phones, eliminating that monthly landline fee altogether.

One More Trick: Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

Before you cancel your Xfinity (or any provider) service, it’s worth making a call. Let them know you’re considering leaving because of cost — and see what they offer. Retention departments are often authorized to provide deep discounts or limited-time deals to keep long-time customers.

 

Be polite but firm, and come prepared with competitor pricing or details about lower-cost alternatives.

 

There are also services that provide bill negotiations on your behalf, usually taking a percentage of whatever savings or refunds they are able to get you. Some options include Experian’s BillFixer, Rocket Money, and Billshark.

The Bottom Line

Kathy’s story is a familiar one — but it’s also empowering. You don’t have to feel trapped by rising cable bills. With a little research, an affordable  digital antenna, and some smart conversations with your provider, you can shave hundreds of dollars off your yearly expenses.

 

And that’s money better spent on you — not your cable company.

Looking for More Consumer Solutions?

TrustDALE exists to help Atlanta-area consumers get real answers and avoid getting ripped off. Explore vetted, trustworthy local service providers at TrustDALE.com — where every company has passed a 7-point investigative review and Dale’s $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee applies.