Verizon has been a household name for decades, providing wireless and home internet services to millions. However, circumstances change, and you might find yourself needing to terminate your Verizon service. Whether you're moving, switching providers, or simply looking to cut down on expenses, navigating the cancellation process can feel daunting. But don't worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free termination.
Ready to Break Up with Verizon? Let's Get Started!
Feeling a little overwhelmed by the thought of canceling a major service like Verizon? Don't be! Many people find this process intimidating, but with the right information and a clear plan, you'll be able to navigate it successfully. The key is to be prepared and understand what to expect. So, let's dive in and get you on your way to a stress-free termination!
Step 1: Gather Your Account Information and Understand Your Contract
Before you even think about calling Verizon, preparation is paramount. Having all your details handy will make the conversation much quicker and smoother.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need
Account Number: This is typically found on your bill or by logging into your My Verizon account.
Account PIN or Last Four Digits of Account Owner's SSN: For security reasons, Verizon will need to verify you are the authorized account holder.
Account Owner's Name and Phone Number: Only the account owner can cancel the service.
Billing Cycle End Date: This is crucial! Verizon generally does not prorate services. This means if you cancel in the middle of a billing cycle, you'll still be charged for the entire month. Aim to terminate service a day or two before your billing cycle ends to maximize your money's worth.
Contract End Date (if applicable): If you're still under a contract for a specific service (like a device payment plan or a Fios agreement), an Early Termination Fee (ETF) might apply. Knowing this beforehand will prevent surprises.
Sub-heading: Understanding Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
Wireless Contracts: If you're on a device payment agreement, you'll likely need to pay off the remaining balance of your device when you cancel. Older contracts might have a traditional ETF (e.g., $350 for advanced devices, declining over time, or $175 for other contracts). Always review your specific contract terms.
Fios Contracts: Fios service often comes with a contract, and disconnecting early can incur a prorated ETF. This fee typically decreases over time, with a maximum around $350.
Checking for ETFs: The best way to understand your potential ETFs is to review your service agreement documents or log into your My Verizon account. You can also call customer service, but be prepared for them to try and retain you.
Step 2: Decide How You Will Terminate Service
Verizon offers a few avenues for cancellation, depending on the type of service.
Sub-heading: The Primary Method: Calling Customer Service
For Wireless and Fios: The most common and often required method for terminating all your Verizon services is to call their customer service.
Verizon Wireless Customer Service: You can try calling 1-800-922-0204.
Verizon Fios Customer Service: For Fios, the number is often 1-844-837-2262.
Business Hours: Keep in mind that customer service lines usually have specific operating hours (e.g., Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET or 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM EDT for Fios). You generally cannot cancel online or via email for full account termination.
Sub-heading: Online Disconnection (Limited Availability)
Some Verizon services, particularly individual mobile lines not tied to device payments or promotions, might be eligible for online disconnection through the My Verizon website or app.
To Check: Log into My Verizon, navigate to your account dashboard or settings, and look for "Disconnect Service" or similar options. If a line is "eligible" for online disconnect, you'll see it there. If not, you'll need to call.
Sub-heading: Porting Your Number (Wireless Only)
If you plan to switch to another carrier and keep your current phone number, you can initiate a "port-out" request with your new carrier.
Important: Do NOT cancel your Verizon service before porting your number! If you cancel first, you risk losing your number. The porting process itself will automatically trigger the cancellation of that specific line with Verizon once complete.
How to Port: Your new carrier will guide you through this. You'll typically need your Verizon account number and a Number Transfer PIN (which you can generate in My Verizon by dialing #PORT from the phone you wish to transfer, or through the My Verizon website/app). This PIN is valid for 7 days.
Step 3: Initiate the Cancellation Process
This is where the actual termination begins.
Sub-heading: The Phone Call: Be Prepared for Retention Efforts
When you call customer service to cancel, be prepared for a "retention specialist" to try and convince you to stay. They might offer discounts, plan changes, or temporary suspensions.
Be Polite but Firm: Clearly state your intention to cancel and why. Common reasons to provide include:
Moving to an area without Verizon coverage.
Financial reasons/needing to cut costs.
Dissatisfaction with service or pricing.
Decline Retention Tactics: If you're set on canceling, politely decline any offers. Stick to your decision. This part of the call can sometimes take a while, as they are trained to retain customers.
Confirm Cancellation Date: Ensure the representative confirms the exact date your service will be terminated. As mentioned, aim for the end of your billing cycle.
Request a Confirmation Number: Always ask for a cancellation confirmation number or ticket number. This is your proof that you initiated the termination and can be crucial if any issues arise later.
Sub-heading: Returning Equipment (Fios and Leased Wireless Devices)
Fios Equipment: If you have Fios TV or internet, you will likely have rented equipment (router, set-top boxes, ONT if applicable). Verizon requires you to return this equipment within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days) to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
Ask the representative how to return the equipment. They may provide a prepaid shipping label or instruct you to take it to a Verizon store.
Take photos of the equipment and get a receipt/tracking number for your return. This protects you in case of disputes.
Leased Wireless Devices: If you were leasing a phone from Verizon, you'll need to return it as per your lease agreement. If you purchased the phone on an installment plan, you'll own it outright once the remaining balance is paid.
Step 4: Monitor Your Final Bill and Confirm Termination
Your journey isn't over until you've received your final bill and confirmed the service has indeed been terminated.
Sub-heading: What to Expect on Your Final Bill
Prorated Charges (if applicable): While Verizon generally doesn't prorate, there might be specific scenarios or legacy plans where some prorated charges or credits appear.
Remaining Device Balances: If you had a phone on an installment plan, the remaining balance will be charged on your final bill.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): Any applicable ETFs will be listed.
Unreturned Equipment Charges: If you didn't return rented Fios equipment, these charges will appear.
Security Deposit Refund: If you paid a security deposit, allow 30-60 days for it to be processed and returned to you. Any outstanding charges might be applied against it.
Sub-heading: Verify Service Termination
After the confirmed termination date, check to ensure your service is no longer active. For wireless, try making a call or using data. For Fios, check your internet and TV services.
Keep an eye on your bank statements or credit card bills to ensure no further charges from Verizon appear after your final bill is paid.
If you encounter any discrepancies, immediately contact Verizon customer service, referencing your cancellation confirmation number.
Step 5: Post-Cancellation Housekeeping
A few final steps to tie up loose ends.
Sub-heading: Update Contacts and Online Accounts
If you've changed your phone number, notify important contacts.
Update any online accounts (banking, social media, shopping sites, two-factor authentication services) that were linked to your old Verizon number or email (if applicable). This is extremely important for security.
Sub-heading: What About Your Verizon Email?
Verizon has largely retired its own email service (
@verizon.net). If you had a Verizon.net email, it was likely migrated to AOL Mail or Yahoo Mail.If your email was on AOL or Yahoo, you may be able to keep it, even after canceling your Verizon service, as long as you continue to use it periodically.
However, it's highly recommended to transition to a non-ISP-dependent email service like Gmail, Outlook.com, or iCloud Mail to avoid similar issues in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to terminating Verizon service:
How to avoid early termination fees when canceling Verizon? You can avoid ETFs by waiting until your contract term is complete. If you're on a device payment plan, paying off the remaining device balance will typically eliminate the ETF. In some rare cases, moving to an area not serviced by Verizon or experiencing extreme service issues might allow for a waiver, but this is not guaranteed.
How to transfer my Verizon phone number to a new carrier? To transfer, or "port," your number, do not cancel your Verizon service first. Instead, sign up with your new carrier and initiate the porting process with them. You'll need your Verizon account number and a Number Transfer PIN (dial #PORT from your Verizon phone or generate it in My Verizon). The porting process will automatically cancel that line with Verizon once complete.
How to cancel Verizon Fios service specifically? For Verizon Fios, you generally need to call their customer service line at 1-844-837-2262 during business hours. Be prepared to discuss equipment return and potential early termination fees if you're still under contract.
How to confirm my Verizon service has been successfully terminated? After your confirmed termination date, check if your services (phone calls, data, internet, TV) are no longer active. Crucially, review your final bill for any unexpected charges and ensure no new charges appear on subsequent statements. Always keep your cancellation confirmation number.
How to return Verizon equipment after canceling service? After you cancel, Verizon will provide instructions for returning rented equipment (routers, set-top boxes, etc.). This usually involves sending you a prepaid shipping box or label, or directing you to a Verizon store. Make sure to get a receipt and tracking number for your return.
How to get a refund for a security deposit after canceling Verizon? If you paid a security deposit, Verizon will process its return after your final bill is settled. This can take between 30 to 60 days. Any outstanding charges on your final bill may be deducted from the deposit.
How to get a Number Transfer PIN from Verizon? You can get a Number Transfer PIN by dialing #PORT from the Verizon smartphone whose number you wish to transfer. Verizon will send you a link to generate the PIN in My Verizon. Alternatively, you can generate it directly through the My Verizon website or app under security settings.
How to deal with Verizon's retention efforts during cancellation? Be polite but firm. Clearly state your decision to cancel and your reason. Politely decline any offers to stay, such as discounts or plan changes. Remember, you're in control of the conversation.
How to know my Verizon billing cycle end date? Your billing cycle end date is typically listed on your monthly Verizon bill. You can also find it by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. This date is important for timing your cancellation to avoid paying for a full month of unused service.
How to temporarily suspend Verizon service instead of canceling? Verizon offers temporary suspension options for various reasons (lost/stolen device, military deployment, vacation). You can typically suspend your service through the My Verizon app or website. This is often a good alternative if you only need a break from service for a few months, as it avoids full termination and potential ETFs.