Landline, cell, broadband, cable--costs can really add up. Here are ideas for cutting costs for digital services.

If you're really broke, you can drop them all. But it's interesting to me that over the years cellphones have become necessities. Even many of the homeless people with whom I work have them. And many people are doing away with landlines all together.

I haven't had cable for decades. It costs too much for what I get, but that has to do with my tastes. Netflix works fine for me. $13.99/month to have two DVDs out at a time, with unlimited "instant watching" (available on computers or via a one time payment of $99 for a set top box).

Having broadband internet is very convenient. DSL often is cheaper than cable. As an example, AT&T offers basic dsl for about $20/month. They also have a limited offer for $10/month. Note that there are extra charges (like taxes) and that these costs are in addition to your landline. You can get DSL without a landline, but it costs more.

Here is an article in the NY Times with more suggestions on cutting the costs of digital services.