How to Switch or Cancel Internet and Cable Service
Weigh your options and plan ahead when it comes to finding a new internet or cable provider.
There will be a time when you need to cancel your internet or cable service for one reason or another. Whether you’re looking to switch to a new provider, change your current plan, or move to a new area, it doesn’t hurt to start fresh. You may, however, encounter some complications during the cancellation process. This guide covers everything you need to know about canceling or switching your agreement as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Switching or Canceling Internet or Cable Service
- What to Consider Before Switching or Canceling Service
- How to Switch Your Internet or Cable Service Provider
- How to Cancel Internet or Cable
- How to Cancel Cable and Keep Internet
- Frequently Asked Questions About Switching or Canceling Internet or Cable
What to Consider Before Switching or Canceling Service
Before you cancel or switch your internet or cable service, you’ll want to do some research. Evaluating your current plan and any available options can help you find a package that works best for your needs. Skipping out on research could result in more money out of your pocket, which you don’t want if your primary concern is saving money in the long run.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
When you sign a contract with an internet service provider (ISP), chances are it includes some fine print explaining the inclusion of an early termination fee (ETF). The fees apply when you cancel your service before the end of your contract. They could potentially cost you a significant amount of money — sometimes so much that it makes sense to keep your service active.
ETFs allow the company to collect a portion of the money you would have paid if you had let your agreement run its course. In the future, if you’re unsure if you’ll be able to commit to a contract, it may be worthwhile to pay a little bit extra for a month-to-month plan.
In some cases, you may be able to get around ETFs. Many ISPs offer to pay your fees when you switch providers. One of the most notable internet providers that offers that deal is Spectrum Internet®, but several other companies offer deals for switching services. Information about the deals is available on your prospective ISP’s website. If you’re unsure whether it offers the perk, a quick call to customer service can give you the answer you need.
Negotiate Lower Rates
There are cancellation services that take the pain out of the negotiation process, but you can cut out the middleman and take 100 percent of the savings for yourself if you’re willing to put up with a few phone calls. Many cable and internet companies would prefer to keep you as a customer at a lower rate than lose you completely. There’s generally a lot of wiggle room if you feel you’re paying too much monthly. Reading up on proper negotiating tactics will also go a long way toward helping you reduce your cable or internet bill.
Equipment Returns
When you finally get through the process of canceling your internet or cable service, there are a few more steps before you can finally cut ties with your ISP. Some people buy their internet or cable equipment outright, but most plans add a monthly fee to rent their equipment. If you aren’t prompt with the return of your equipment, you could be charged a high fee for the price of the router or cable box — a piece of equipment that may not work with other providers.
Some companies offer an option to return equipment by mail, but it may be easier to head to a physical location to drop it off. One advantage of heading to a store is that you get physical documentation that they’ve received your equipment. Cable companies aren’t always perfect at keeping track of the process, and you’ll definitely want to avoid being charged for equipment you’ve already returned.
Plan Ahead
To avoid service interruptions, plan when you’ll switch or cancel your service so there’s no gap between the termination of your current service and the activation of a new one. That involves coordinating the installation dates, understanding the notice periods required by providers, and confirming the overlap of service periods to ensure seamless connectivity. If you rely heavily on consistent internet access, whether for work or pleasure, you’ll need to stay on top of your timelines.
How to Switch Your Internet or Cable Service Provider
Some people intend to forgo cable service altogether, but chances are you’re shopping for another provider, either for your internet or cable. There are a few tips and guidelines to keep in mind so you’ll have a better experience and find a plan that works for you.
Read the Fine Print
Much of the frustration people experience when dealing with ISPs is because of miscellaneous fees or add-ons that raise the price beyond what’s expected. Spend time researching contract length, early termination fees, promotional rates versus regular rates, data caps, equipment rental fees, and additional installation or service call costs. That way, you won’t see any surprises when you get your first bill. Don’t forget to understand the provider’s policies on speed guarantees and customer-support availability to prevent future frustrations.
Shop Around for ISPs in Your Area
Depending on where you live, you may have more than one choice for internet and cable. Shopping around ensures you get the best possible service at the most competitive price. By comparing a variety of providers, you can identify differences in pricing, service quality, speed, channel offerings, and customer support. You can take advantage of promotions, bundle deals, and special discounts that may not be immediately apparent. Find all available service providers in your area, read customer reviews, and seek out a plan or bundle that checks all the boxes.
Consider Your Equipment
Providers may offer different modems, routers, and cable boxes, each affecting your connection’s speed, reliability, and features. Some providers include equipment rental in their packages, while others may require separate fees or allow you to use your own devices. Understanding the options helps you assess the true cost of the service and avoid unexpected expenses.
Check to see if your existing equipment will work with your new provider. If you own your own router, for example, finding a provider that supports your device may save you monthly fees or the expense of purchasing the equipment outright. Ensuring compatibility with existing devices and future-proofing your setup for advancements in technology can also enhance your user experience and minimize disruptions.
Look Into New Subscriber Incentives
Providers often offer various promotions, such as discounted rates for the first year, free installation, or bundled packages that include additional services such as streaming subscriptions or premium channels. Many providers will cover a portion of your ETFs if you switch. Providers usually have deals specifically designed for customers who are switching internet providers. Taking advantage of the programs could make your monthly bill even more affordable.
Understanding the incentives allows you to maximize your savings and get more features for your money. Being aware of offers in your area can also provide leverage in negotiating better terms or requesting similar deals from other providers to ensure that you secure the best arrangement possible.
How to Cancel Your Internet or Cable
Whether you switch providers or give up either service, you’ll have to cancel your current plan. Each provider will feature a unique process, but it can generally be broken down into a few simple steps.
- Check your contract for ETFs to ensure you don’t get hit with unexpected charges.
- Log in to your online account to see if you can cancel digitally.
- Call customer service and ask for the cancellation department if online cancellation isn’t an option.
- Your provider will likely route you to a retention agent, who will try to convince you to stay with last-second deals. If you’re not interested, you may need to insist on cancellation.
- Once cancellation is confirmed, return any equipment that belongs to your provider. Sometimes they will ship you a box to mail back your equipment or you’ll be required to return it in person.
How to Cancel Cable and Keep Internet
Canceling cable and keeping your internet service is likely more common for households, especially when switching to solely streaming services. Follow the steps below if you want to cancel your cable but keep your internet with the same service provider.
- Call customer service.
- Request to cancel TV but keep internet service. You may be transferred to a retention specialist to convince you to keep your service.
Even though you’re sticking with the same provider, you may pay an ETF. If you’re locked into a contract with your cable service, you may be required to pay an ETF to cancel the plan.
One perk you may enjoy, depending on your provider, is that canceling cable often allows existing internet customers to get new-customer deals on internet-only plans. Before you call to change your service, research any current promotions your provider is running on internet-only plans and ask about taking advantage of them when speaking with customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switching or Canceling Internet or Cable
Why do people switch internet providers?
Most people are seeking better service quality, faster speeds, and more reliable connectivity with a new internet provider. High costs, poor customer service, and frequent outages can drive customers to look for more dependable and cost-effective alternatives. Advancements in technology and increased competition among providers often lead to better deals, such as promotional rates or bundled services, which can offer significant savings. Moving to a new location where the current provider is unavailable also necessitates a switch.
Does your IP address change when you get a new internet provider?
Yes, your IP address changes when you get a new internet provider. Each ISP assigns a range of IP addresses to its customers, so you’re assigned an IP address from their pool when you switch to a different provider. The change occurs because IP addresses are unique to each network, and different ISPs manage distinct sets of addresses. As a result, your new ISP will provide you with a new IP address, reflecting its network infrastructure.
Can I cancel my internet if I move?
Yes, you can cancel your internet service if you move, but it’s important to review your current provider’s terms and conditions regarding cancellation policies. Many providers require advance notice and may charge an early termination fee if you’re breaking a contract before its end date.
Can I just move my internet to another house?
Yes, you can often move your internet service to another house, but it depends on whether your current provider offers service in your new location. Most providers allow customers to transfer their service, which involves updating your address and scheduling an installation or activation appointment at your new home.
How can I get rid of cable and just stream?
Contact your service provider to cancel your cable service to transition from cable to streaming. When deciding which streamers to transition to, evaluate your current cable package to determine the channels and content you want to keep. Next, research and subscribe to streaming services that offer your desired content. Many streaming services provide live TV options, which can replace traditional cable. You’ll need to have a reliable high-speed internet connection to support streaming.