6 tips for saving on Netflix and other streaming platforms

Initially, Netflix was the only player, but now there are numerous essential streaming services to keep track of your favorite series. Unfortunately, the costs for many of these services are rising, and if you're like me, you’re juggling multiple subscriptions.

If you want to keep enjoying your shows without limits, here are six strategies to help you save on your streaming bills.

Select the best credit card

Here at TPG, let's highlight a few of the top credit cards for streaming that can help users save money on select U.S. streaming services through cash back and monthly credits.

For instance, The Platinum Card® from American Express provides up to $240 in annual credits for digital entertainment, which includes up to $20 monthly in statement credits for select providers like Disney+. Be aware that subscriptions bundled with other products or billed through third parties might not qualify for this benefit, and enrollment is necessary. This could be your top choice for securing Disney+ each month.

This same card offers a monthly credit that helps cover the cost of a Walmart+ membership. Stay with me, as this membership grants you free access to Paramount+.

For everything else, you might want to consider a card that provides a higher cash-back rate on streaming subscriptions, such as:

• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: 6% cash back on eligible U.S. streaming services (cash back is awarded as Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout)
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: 3% cash back on streaming services

Finally, there are several cards that earn bonus points on select streaming services:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Earn 3 points for every dollar spent on select streaming services
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Receive 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, including streaming services

For Amazon Prime Video, opt for a card that provides rewards on Amazon Prime purchases, specifically the Prime Visa. Keep in mind that the Amex Platinum streaming credit does not apply to Amazon Prime Video.

You might occasionally encounter limited-time promotions on your credit cards offering cash back on certain streaming services or even monthly credits.

Make the most of Hulu's free trial

While this isn't a permanent solution, new or eligible returning Hulu subscribers can enjoy a 30-day free trial of Hulu before making a commitment.

Combine your subscriptions

You can reduce costs by bundling your subscriptions for Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN. There are three plans available, priced between $9.99 and $24.99 per month.

Leverage your cell phone plans for complimentary streaming

Certain U.S. mobile carriers provide free access to streaming subscription services, including:

• T-Mobile offers a free Netflix subscription with select phone plans
• Verizon provides up to six months of Disney+ for eligible Verizon plans

Look for credit card promotions

Since you can purchase Netflix gift cards on Amazon, be sure to keep an eye out for deals that let you use 1 American Express Membership Rewards point for a 20% discount on your purchase. This is a simple and very cost-effective way to save on Netflix.

Rakuten is another straightforward method to save on subscription services, providing users with cash back for specific subscriptions. Your cash back builds up over time, and you can redeem it for credit to your PayPal account.

Currently, Rakuten offers the following cash-back deals for streaming services:

• $12.50 cash back for Disney+
• $2.50 for Peacock TV
• Up to $4.50 for Paramount+
• Up to $15 for Sling TV and ESPN+
• $1 for Hulu

Keep in mind that American Express cardholders using Rakuten can choose to earn Amex Membership Rewards instead of cash back, although the offers themselves remain unchanged.

Hulu is also featured on Coupon Cactus, where you can receive $3 back; regularly check CashBack Monitor for the latest deals.

Targeted American Express users can earn 5 Membership Rewards points for every dollar spent on Amazon purchases.

Amex cardholders should also be aware of Amex Offers that can help you save on Sling TV and possibly other services. For instance, there have been promotions offering $10 back when you spend $25 or more on the service, available up to two times.

Chase cardholders should search for Amazon promotions that allow them to get $15 off a $60 purchase by using 1 Chase point. You might also qualify for Chase Offers, which can provide $5 back on Prime Video purchases.

As of October 24, Bilt is offering targeted credit card users up to 5,000 bonus points for streaming merchants like Netflix and Hulu for the next 30 days.

Utilize shopping portals to earn bonus airline points and miles

You can also take advantage of online shopping portals to sign up for Hulu and earn additional miles. Currently, American Airlines is offering 100 bonus miles, United Airlines provides 50 bonus miles, Delta Air Lines gives 60 bonus miles, Alaska Airlines offers 70 bonus miles, and Southwest Airlines provides 70 bonus points.

In summary

Numerous streaming platforms provide bundles or special offers that allow you to test the service before committing to a full membership. By leveraging cash back, shopping portals, and credit card benefits, you can save money regardless of which streaming service you select.