5 On Your Side: Check your cable bill for hidden fees
When did you last check over your cable TV bill?
If it's been a while, you could be paying more than you did when you signed up for service.
The price hike is likely because of a slew of confusing, costly fees that quickly add up -- broadcast TV fees, regional sports fees, set-top box or rental fees.
Consumer Reports found the average cable subscriber pays nearly $450 in fees every year.
“These fees are hidden. Consumers are confused by them," said Jonathan Schwantes, senior policy counsel at Consumer Reports. "Most importantly, they’re getting worse, and they’re expensive.”
Cutting the cable cord is an obvious way to cut costs. A quality digital antenna costs around $35 and lets viewers watch local TV stations, including WRAL, for free.
Many streaming services for a smart TV or other devices charge only a monthly subscription fee.
More relief is on the way from Congress. The Television Viewer Protection Act, which was passed in December, takes effect in June.
It does three things, Schwantes said.
"No. 1, it requires cable companies to disclose at the point of sale, meaning right when you’re going to sign up for service, what your total overall price is going to be, including all fees, taxes,” he said.
“No. 2, if you don’t like it, you have 24 hours to change your mind and cancel. Without any penalty, you can get out of that deal.
“No. 3, you no longer will have to pay for equipment that the cable company gives you, like a Wi-Fi router, even if you don’t use that router. You no longer have to pay for it.”
