I used to think asking for a discount was rude. Something only aggressive bargainers did at flea markets. Then I watched my mother-in-law ask for—and receive—a discount on a new refrigerator at Home Depot. Fifteen percent off. She just asked, politely, and the salesperson said yes. I was standing right there, stunned.

Since then, I have asked for discounts on everything from hotel rooms to cell phone bills. I get a yes about sixty percent of the time. Here is exactly what to say.

The Script That Works

“Is there any discount or promotion available on this right now?” That is the line. Notice you are not asking for a favor. You are asking about existing options. This gives the employee an easy way to say yes—they are just telling you about something that already exists. If they say no, follow up with: “Are there any coming up soon, or is there a way to get notified when one becomes available?”

This second question worked on my internet bill. The rep said no discount was available right then, but transferred me to the retention department who cut my bill by twenty dollars a month for a year.

Where This Works Best

Hotels at check-in (ask about free upgrades or breakfast). Phone and internet bills (call the retention department specifically). Furniture and appliance stores (floor models, minor cosmetic damage). Any subscription service you have had for more than six months—they would rather give you a discount than lose you.

Where It Does Not Work

Grocery stores. Gas stations. Chain coffee shops. Anywhere with fixed pricing and high turnover. Save your energy for big purchases and recurring bills where a yes actually matters. Five percent off a four-dollar latte is not worth the conversation. Fifteen percent off a thousand-dollar appliance is.

The Home Depot refrigerator discount my mother-in-law got was worth over two hundred dollars. She said the exact words: “Is there any promotion available on this model?” Fifteen seconds. Two hundred bucks. I have been asking ever since.