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.
At some point, you may need to cancel your internet or cable service for one reason or another. Whether you’re switching to a new provider, changing your current plan, or moving to a new area, it doesn’t hurt to start fresh. However, you may encounter 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.
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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 available options can help you find a package that best fits 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), it likely includes fine print explaining 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. On average, ETFs in the United States cost $163 when switching ISPs.
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 whether you’ll be able to commit to a contract, it may be worth paying a little 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
Cancellation services can take the pain out of negotiation, but you can cut out the middleman and keep 100 percent of the savings 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
After you cancel your internet or cable service, a few more steps remain before you can 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 don’t return your equipment on time, you could be charged a high fee equal to the cost of the router or cable box, which may not work with other providers.
Some companies offer equipment returns by mail, but dropping it off at a physical location may be easier. One advantage of heading to a store is that you get physical documentation that they’ve received your equipment. Cable companies aren’t always good at tracking 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 ending your current service and activating a new one. That means coordinating installation dates, understanding providers’ required notice periods, and confirming overlapping 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.
Watch: How to Move Your Internet Service
If you’re moving to a new home and want to explore your options (maybe without leaving your current provider), check out our video where we walk you through the steps for moving your internet service.
How to Switch Your Internet or Cable Service Provider
Some people plan to forgo cable service altogether, but chances are you’re shopping for another internet or cable provider. A few tips and guidelines can help you have a better experience and find a plan that works for you.
Read the Fine Print
Much of the frustration people experience with ISPs comes from 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 providers, you can spot 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 obvious at first. 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 charge extra or let you use your own devices. Understanding your options helps you assess the true cost 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 technological advancements can also improve your user experience and minimize disruptions.
Look Into New Subscriber Incentives
Providers often offer promotions such as discounted rates for the first year, free installation, or bundled packages that include additional services like streaming subscriptions or premium channels. Many providers will cover a portion of your ETFs if you switch. Providers often offer deals designed specifically for customers 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. Knowing what’s available in your area can also give you leverage to negotiate better terms or ask other providers for similar deals, so you can 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 has a unique process, but it generally breaks down into a few simple steps.
- Check your contract for ETFs to avoid 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.
Cancellation fees vary by provider, if they charge a fee at all. Here’s a quick guide to what popular ISPs charge when you cancel or switch your ISP.
| Provider | Cancellation fee |
|---|---|
| AT&T | Up to $180 |
| CenturyLink | N/A |
| Cox | $10 for each month left in your contract |
| Frontier | Up to $400 |
| HughesNet | Up to $400 |
| Optimum | None |
| Spectrum | None |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | None |
| Verizon | Prorated starting at $165 |
| Xfinity | Prorated starting at $10 per month left in your contract |
Watch: How to Cancel Cox Internet
If you’re a current Cox subscriber, we’ve put together a quick video to help you navigate the internet cancellation process.
Watch: How to Cancel AT&T Internet
For our AT&T Internet subscribers, here’s a step-by-step process on how to cancel your service.
How to Cancel Cable and Keep Internet
Canceling cable while keeping your internet service is likely more common for households, especially when switching to streaming-only 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 provider, you may have 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.
Watch: What to Do Before Canceling Your Internet Service
Before you contact your current ISP to cancel your internet service, watch this video. There are a few things you need to do before your service is terminated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switching or Canceling Internet or Cable
Why do people switch internet providers?
Most people switch for better service quality, faster speeds, and more reliable connectivity. 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 your current provider isn’t available also requires a switch.
Does your IP address change when you get a new internet provider?
Yes, your IP address changes when you switch internet providers. Each ISP assigns a range of IP addresses to its customers, so you’re assigned an IP address from its pool when you switch providers. This happens because IP addresses are unique to each network, and different ISPs manage distinct address ranges. As a result, your new ISP will assign you a new IP address that reflects its network infrastructure.
Can I cancel my internet if I move?
Yes, you can cancel your internet service if you move, but review your current provider’s terms and conditions for their cancellation policy. 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 and switch to streaming. When deciding which streamers to switch to, review your current cable package to identify the channels and content you want to keep. Next, research and subscribe to streaming services that offer the content you want. Many streaming services offer live TV options that can replace traditional cable. You’ll need to have a reliable high-speed internet connection to support streaming.
Can I cancel internet anytime online?
You can cancel your internet service at any time, but some providers may have contracts or early termination fees if you cancel before the end of your agreed term. You may be able to cancel online, but that depends on your provider’s options. Some providers may require you to call them. Always check your service agreement to understand any potential penalties or notice requirements.
What happens if I cancel mid-billing cycle?
If you cancel your service in the middle of a billing cycle, you may be charged for the full month or prorated based on your provider’s policy. Some companies provide a refund for unused days, while others do not. Review your provider’s cancellation terms so you know exactly what to expect.