The Xfinity broadcast TV fee can add an extra $20-80 to your monthly bill, but there are ways to avoid paying it. Downgrading your TV package, cutting cable entirely, canceling unnecessary services, using an antenna, or bundling internet only will eliminate this fee. You can also try negotiating with Xfinity customer service to remove the fee. This article we’ll discuss some different strategies to stop paying the broadcast TV fee and keep more money in your pocket.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the simplest ways to avoid paying the Broadcast TV fee is to downgrade your Xfinity TV package to a streaming-only option. For example, you could switch to Xfinity’s Internet-only service or its Internet + Basic TV package. Since these exclude local broadcast channels, the Broadcast TV fee disappears from your monthly bill. Just be aware that you lose access to live network and local programming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cutting the cord completely by cancelling your Xfinity TV service is another surefire way to avoid paying the broadcast TV fee every month. Once you cancel TV service, the broadcast TV fee will no longer appear on your bill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of course, cancelling cable means you won’t have access to any cable channels. But you can replace Xfinity TV with lower-cost streaming alternatives like Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. Most streaming services do not charge extra fees like the broadcast TV fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just be aware that some streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu Live include local channels, which could incur a broadcast station fee. Read the fine print before signing up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here’s a creative way to avoid paying the Xfinity broadcast TV fee but still get access to local channels – use an HD antenna!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An over-the-air (OTA) antenna can pick up signals from broadcast stations like ABC, NBC, and FOX for free. All you need is an antenna and a TV with a tuner built-in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll plug the antenna into your TV, scan for channels, and voila – free access to local broadcasts without paying a broadcast TV fee. Just be sure to cancel the local broadcast channels from your Xfinity package first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
HD antennas can be purchased for under $100 and provide excellent HD picture quality. It’s a handy solution for avoiding fees while still watching local TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alternatives to traditional cable like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV stream many popular channels and local broadcasts over the internet. Their base packages tend to be cheaper than Xfinity, and some don’t charge a broadcast TV fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just note that availability of local channels varies by location for internet TV providers. Make sure your desired local channels are available before switching to avoid losing access. An antenna may still be required for missing local stations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some top internet TV services include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If Xfinity refuses to negotiate on the broadcast TV fee, voting with your wallet may be the best option. Research competitors in your area and switch to a provider that does not charge the fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Major carriers like DIRECTV and DISH Network do not currently charge a broadcast TV fee. Just remember there are usually fees for equipment, DVR service, and more. Do your homework to calculate the total savings when switching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This last option requires some effort, but you may be able to avoid broadcast TV fees by negotiating with Xfinity customer service. Give customer service a call and politely ask if they can remove the fee from your bill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mention that you don’t watch local channels and don’t feel the fee is justified. Oftentimes companies will offer a “one time courtesy credit” or limited-time promotional discount if you ask. You may need to call back every few months to keep getting the fee waived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you plan to cancel service altogether, you can also negotiate by threatening to switch providers. Companies like Xfinity will sometimes offer discounts or remove fees to retain your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Being a cordial yet assertive negotiator can pay off when trying to eliminate annoying fees like the broadcast TV fee. Keep calling back until you find a representative willing to work with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Xfinity broadcast TV fee is avoidable with the right strategy and a little preparation. For light TV viewers, downgrading to a skinny bundle or cutting the cord completely can wipe out the fee. Heavy viewers can call Xfinity and negotiate removal of the fee, switch providers, or use an antenna to maintain access to broadcast TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Any route you choose requires double checking channel availability, bundle discounts, and costs of replacement services. With some diligence, you can maintain access to desired channels while keeping more money in your pocket. Trim the fat from your bill and avoid paying for services you don’t need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n