Trying to avoid being SCs-advice needed

[shankyknitter]

So my aunt and uncle have decided to cancel our internet. Next Thursday after paying the bill for last month. (We didn't get the bill last month because of landlady. See Saga of the Landlady for details).

Here's the thing, when they call our ISP they want to know if there is a way to negotiate a less expensive alternative to our current policy so we can continue to have internet. WITHOUT coming across as entitlement whore SCs. I know that some people here work in such capacities so I pose this question:

what would your ideal 'please help me out financially' customer be?

[Aethian]

I usually state that "I was doing my budget and with the amounts I have, I'm afraid I will have to cancel. Is there another alternative that WE could do so that I can remain a customer?"

[Der Cute]

HI there, CSR.
I'm interested in still being a customer, but at the rate of X, it's becoming more and more difficult for me.

Are there any other packages/bundles/barebones thingys available BELOW X price?

Oh, really, yes? Thanks.

Oh, wow, no? OK, then I will have to cancel. Thank you for your service.

Like that.

Cutenoob

[Solumina]

In this economy a lot of people are having to cut back, I'm sure they would be more than willing to try and find an option that works for you. As others said just let them know that your budget is tight but you would like to see if they do have a plan that would work for you or any discounts that you may qualify for. You wont come off as an SC as long as you are polite and thank them for taking the time to help.

[persephone]

Figure out what WOULD work for your budget and go into the conversation knowing that. Talk to the CSR nice and calm, tell them the situation and see if they have suggestions. Sometimes they can bump down the speed (which doesn't really effect most people) or they might have a discount you are eligible for. Be prepared for there not to be an answer and to have to cancel.

Be nice, of course. They will at least try to work with you I'm sure.