Here are some easy ways to shrink your cable bill without cutting the cord

In this June 24, 2015 photo, Victoria Arzu, sitting left, and her sister Sophia watch Spanish language news in their living room in Lawrenceville, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Plenty of Americans have chosen to cancel their cable or satellite television service, or “cut the cord,” in recent years.

Videos by Rare

As the cost of cable rises, it’s no wonder many people want to dump it. But if you can’t imagine going without TV, here are a few ways to lower your cable bill while still getting access to the shows and sports programs you love.

RELATED: 5 ways to stay on budget when you lose your job

Trim the fat

Your cable package may offer networks you don’t even want; according to Nielsen, the average American only watches between 13 and 25 channels. Opt for a cheaper plan without all the bells and whistles.

You can also dump some of the pay channels, like HBO and Showtime, but only if you’re not hopelessly hooked on “Game of Thrones!”

And if you rarely find yourself using your DVR, get rid of it to save even more money every month.

Pick up the phone

Don’t be afraid to call your provider and question your monthly fee.

Personal finance writer Andrea Woroch told NerdWallet that “knocking down the price is as simple as taking the time to call and ask — politely.”

RELATED: 3 things to never do when you complain to customer service

And if at first you don’t succeed — well, you know the drill. Keep calling until you get someone who’s willing to listen and offer you a lower rate.

Save a “bundle”

Buying a package that includes cable, internet service, and home phone (if you still want one) can save you as much as $1,000 over two years.

(H/T: NerdWallet)

What do you think?

The fashion editor who said “nobody” wanted to sit next to Tiffany Trump just changed her story, “bigly”

A fourth grade teacher was caught on video doing something terrible with one of his students