Reducing expenses

Per unit pricing

Per unit pricing tells you how much you're paying per ounce, per pound, or per item.
Paying attention to per unit pricing can help you figure out which product is the best deal.

For example, if you're shopping for toilet paper, you might see two different brands. One costs $$5.99 $ for $12$ rolls, while the other costs $$7.99$ for $18$ rolls. At first glance, it appears that the first option is the best deal. But if you compare per unit pricing, you'll see that the second option is actually cheaper: the first option costs $$0.50$ per roll [[☃ explanation 1]] The second option costs only $$0.44$ per roll [[☃ explanation 2]]

In conclusion, even though we paid more for the bigger pack of toilet paper, we actually spent less for each roll.

##Per unit pricing

While it may seem that you are going to have to be walking around the store with a calculator in order to get the best deal, you may be surprised that most stores have already done the math for you.

Look at the price label below:

[[☃ image 7]]

Per unit pricing can be especially helpful when you're trying to compare different sizes of the same product. See if you can spot the best deal between these $2$ options:

[[☃ image 8]]

Per unit pricing isn’t always present on shelf tags, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for. Even if it is not available, you can easily calculate the per unit cost yourself. This is a valuable skill to help you get the best deal at the grocery store, and keep more money in your pocket.

##Negotiating bills

[[☃ image 3]]

Sometimes it can be tough paying bills, especially when they're for services you rely on, like your phone, internet, or cable. But there's good news: you may be able to negotiate a lower bill with your service providers.

Here are a few tips to help you!

###1. Know your options.

Before you call your service provider, research the competition. You'll be in a better bargaining position if you know the rates and plans that other companies offer. If you can mention a cheaper plan from a competitor, your service provider may be more willing to negotiate.

###2. Be polite but firm.

When you call customer service, be polite and respectful. Remember, you're asking for a favor, so you want to be as friendly as possible. But at the same time, make it clear that you're serious about wanting a lower bill. Tell them that you're considering switching to a different provider if they can't work with you.

###3. Ask for a supervisor.

If the customer service representative says they can't help you, don't be afraid to ask for a supervisor. Sometimes the people higher up have more authority to negotiate.

###4. Be persistent

If you don't get the answer you want the first time, call back again in a few days. Sometimes different representatives are more helpful than others. Don't give up!

###5. Look for a promotional offer.

If you're not successful negotiating a lower bill, ask if there are any promotional offers available. Sometimes service providers will give you a discount for a certain amount of time if you sign up for a new plan or bundle multiple services together. Remember, it never hurts to ask! You might be surprised at how much you can save just by negotiating with your service providers.