Got the bogus bill blues? Hit with an unexpected bill? Follow these tips to lower your costs

NEW YORK -- You flinch when you get hit with an unexpected bill, don't you? Especially when it's pushed even higher by penalties, and -- even worse! -- what if it's for something you didn't even do?After switching cell phones recently, I was hit with a whopping $243 bill. I called the company and, after taking the rep through the history and double-checking everything along the way, I followed my own advice for reducing an unexpected bill or cost. I asked: "Is there anything you can do with the bill?" As I suspected, there was. Within minutes, that $243 was reduced by a whopping $153.
Here's what to do if you're hit with a bill that you think is unfair or wrong:

1. Don't assume it's your mistake. Any time you speak with a company about a paid service, keep notes of the conversation, confirmation numbers, etc., to use as back-up in case an unexpected charge arises.

2. Always ask if there's anything the company can do to reduce the bill. In the majority of cases, there is. Why are they likely to work with you? Because they'd rather keep a paying customer than lose one. If you're in real financial dire straits, they're likely to work with you because receiving part of the money you owe is better than receiving nothing at all.

The rep I got at the phone company said there's a connection fee charged when any new phone number is put into effect. After a little more checking, she said I may have been charged twice -- once for the number that came with my new phone and then again for transferring to my existing cell number.

3. Ask for a supervisor. If you're not getting any help from the rep on the phone, ask for a supervisor. A rep is generally allowed to offer bill reductions only up to a limited amount or perhaps none at all, depending on the creditor. The supervisor is more tied in with customer satisfaction, so she might be more likely to help you out.

4. Time for a new plan? If your issue is with a phone bill, double-check the plan you're using -- there might be an alternative plan that would save you more. If so, ask the rep if they'll back-date the effective date of the plan -- and credit your account. My agent suggested she might be able to reduce my bill by "grandfathering" in the plan I later implemented.

Simply by picking up the phone, staying calm and friendly, and knowing my facts, I was able to save $153. I hope this helps you and your family do the same in this economy.