Alignment and tire balancing

I usually get my tires rotated and balanced fairly often with an alignment a couple of times a year considering the oversized tires and depending on what kind of driving I do whether off-road or traveling and what not.

So, the two services have some time spread out between them and, lately, I have been wondering...does it really matter how or when you should get these done? i.e should you have tires balanced shortly before or at the same time as an alignment or does it not really matter and should just keep doing what I have been doing?

Sorry, I am sure this has been discussed countless times, but neighbors cut fiber optic line to internet when redoing their drive way so internet is down and crappy cell service in the mountains for searching. Appreciate any help on the matter.

 

All I know is that Firestone offers a lifetime alignment for like $180 and a lifetime tire rotation/balance for i think $60. I have both and any time i take my truck in there I get both done for free. It's awesome. I usually get both done 2-3 times a year. Alignments and rotations will make your tires last way longer.