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Tech companies don’t seem to share when you can save money with their products or services. For example, if you’re traveling or have a second home, don’t use your Internet service at home. Tap or click for a money-saving trick your ISP doesn’t want you to know.

Here’s another smart way to save: share expensive music, file storage and shopping subscriptions with a friend or family member. Tap or click accounts you can share even if you don’t live together.

Two years ago, we were all glued to our televisions. This is no longer the case. Here are five things to know before canceling streaming services.

PRIVACY TIP: 5 WAYS YOU’RE BEING STALLED YOU NEED TO STOP NOW

1. You probably spend more than you think

When a streaming service only costs a few dollars a month, don’t think twice about signing up. But add them up, and before you know it, you’re shelling out a lot more than you ever intended.

You probably don’t even use all streaming services regularly. My rule of thumb: If there’s a show I’m watching, I keep the service. Otherwise I will cancel. When there’s something new I want to see, I’ll check back in.

Keep a close eye on your streaming budget and how much you spend each month. I bet you will be surprised.

While you’re at it, take note of when each load runs. Here’s why.

2. Good weather

It’s annoying when you plan to cancel a service and then get another charge before you can. Let’s work on the list of renewal dates you made.

Add these dates to your calendar and check before cancelling. Plan accordingly, so you pay less a month.

Some platforms, like Netflix, tell you how much longer you have access to your account when you ask to close it, but others don’t. You don’t need their help as you have figured it out yourself.

Professional advice: Companies don’t want you to cancel, so they can make it complicated. This is especially true on your smartphone. Take care of it from a computer to make it easier.

Limited time offer: Claim your free Windows or Mac guide now on my site.

4. See if there is a discount for accommodation

If you’re on the fence about canceling a streaming service, follow the process. You might be surprised to be offered a discounted rate or even a free month to stay.

Note the date and set a reminder. If you haven’t seen anything at the end of the month, it’s time to say goodbye. A discount doesn’t mean much if you don’t even use the offer.

Professional advice: There are other ways to get streaming gifts. Check with your phone provider or credit card company to see what you can get for free. T-Mobile’s Netflix on Us and Verizon’s Disney+ package are just two examples.

Free? We like that! Here are 15 reliable places to watch movies without paying a penny.

5. You need a backup plan

A great way to save money on entertainment is by getting back to the magic of TV. Connect a simple antenna to your TV to stream free, live HD content from popular networks.

How do you choose an antenna?

Amplified antennas: large and powerful, they are usually designed to be used inside homes with a medium strength signal. Here’s an affordable one that I like.

Large outdoor antennas – ideal for areas with a weak signal. They can be amplified or not amplified. This antenna works great and won’t break the bank.

Don’t sweat it if you’re not sure which networks your antenna can access. Zap2It is a robust online directory for finding local TV listings by provider or time zone.

Recording your shows to watch whenever you want is even better. To do this, you need an on-air DVR. Tap or click here to see some of the best options out there.

Stay tech savvy the easy way

My popular podcast is called “Kim Komando today.” It’s 30 solid minutes of tech news, tips, and calls with tech questions like you from around the country. Look for it wherever you find your podcasts. For your convenience, click the link below to watch a recent episode

PODCAST SELECTION: Job Search Scam, $30 Smart TV, Best Cable Gifts

After joining TikTok Pulse, making money online is as easy as dancing the two steps. Of course, there is a catch. Looking for a new job? Beware of this scary new scam. Also, I’m going to share a trick you can use to get a smart TV for $30. Plus, your cable subscription comes with some sweet freebies. Here are some benefits you might be missing out on.

HACKERS WANT GOOGLE ACCOUNTS; GIVE YOURS THIS SECURITY CHECK NOW

Find my podcast “Kim Komando Today” on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast player.

Just search for my last name, “Komando”.

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Know all the latest technology The Kim Komando show, the nation’s largest weekend radio show. Kim takes calls and offers advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacking.

For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com