I’m a Budgeting Expert: How I Save Big on Phone Plans, Even With an iPhone
Written by
Martin Dasko
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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According to the 2025 Mobile Overspending Report from WhistleOut, American families are overspending an average of $2,283 annually on their phone plan services.
The survey noted that by going with the “Big 3” providers (AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon) instead of alternative options, such as MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators), which operate on the same networks for lower costs, Americans are spending too much on phone plans.
The survey also found that 42% of Big 3 customers reported their bills have gone up, and 32% feel they’re overpaying. The good news is that you can save money on phone plans, even with an expensive device like an iPhone.
With stubborn inflation figures and overall prices higher, a phone plan can become a financial burden if you don’t find the right deal. GOBankingRates consulted with budgeting experts and topic experts to help you figure out how you can save money on phone plans.
Switch Providers
Jay Zigmont, a PhD, certified financial planner (CFP) and the founder of Childfree Trust, shared that many years ago, he and his wife moved from Verizon to Mint Mobile.
“We save over a thousand dollars a year on an unlimited plan by switching,” Zigmont added.
He recommends Mint Mobile to all his clients because you get the same service, but you just prepay and don’t have to worry about contracts. The MVNOs rent access to the networks of the major carriers, which means they don’t have to pay for tower infrastructure, so they can pass the savings on to customers.
Just because you’ve been with one provider, it doesn’t mean that you’re stuck with them forever. If you find that you’re spending too much money on your phone plan, then it’s time to start shopping around to see which carriers are in your area. Since you signed up for your last plan, a new provider could’ve entered your area.
Purchase Your Own Phone
Zigmont pointed out that you can bring your own phone, and most phones support a digital eSIM, making switching easy. Sometimes providers will try to lock you in by offering the phone for free, but you can avoid this by buying your own device so that you’re not on the hook for the contract. If phone prices are too expensive, then you can proceed to the next option.
Purchase a Refurbished Phone
“Many choose to bundle a high-priced handset with a long-term contract, resulting in higher monthly bills,” warned Steven Athwal, a consumer tech specialist and the founder of The Big Phone Store. “Buying refurbished outright to begin with (which is significantly cheaper than brand new models, while hosting the exact same high-end specs) allows consumers to opt for rolling-contract SIM-only plans.”
Having your own phone gives you more flexibility with plans and lets you take advantage of cheaper rolling contracts when you spot them. You can even get your hands on an iPhone if you’re willing to accept an older model or a used version.
Limit Your Data
The survey above found that 10% of customers with a Big 3 provider aren’t aware of much data they actually need. If you’re always connected to Wi-Fi between your home and your job, you can save money on your phone plan by limiting your data usage.
“Many overbuy data or other features they don’t need, so consumers should look to buy what suits them at the most affordable cost, and could even negotiate with providers,” Athwal added.
Shop Around For Deals
The good news is that if you have your heart set on the new iPhone, you can shop around for deals. There are comparison websites out there, like Tom’s Guide, that search the web to find the best bargains for iPhones.
For example, some providers are offering the iPhone 17 for free with a device trade-in or if you’re willing to sign a particular contract. While signing up for a contract isn’t always the best option, it can make sense if you’re craving the newest iPhone. You can get the latest model without spending a fortune if you find a contract that makes sense for your situation.
There are numerous ways that you can save money on phone plans if you’re willing to get a little creative. You can explore options ranging from prepaying for an annual plan to bundling your services by combining your cell phone plan with your home internet services. You’ll want to take some time to review the different offers before you sign a long-term contract because you don’t want to feel stuck for the next year. However, you should always do your best to save on this expense because it can quickly add up to hurt your overall budget.
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