So, you're thinking about breaking up with Verizon? It's a big decision, and navigating the cancellation process can sometimes feel like a maze. But don't worry, I'm here to walk you through every step, ensuring you're well-equipped to manage your Verizon service cancellation smoothly. Let's get started, shall we?
How to Cancel Service at Verizon: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide
Cancelling any service can be a bit intimidating, especially with a large provider like Verizon. However, with the right information and a clear plan, you can make the process as painless as possible. This guide will cover everything from understanding your options to ensuring a clean break.
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| How To Cancel Service At Verizon |
Step 1: Are You Really Sure You Want to Cancel? Explore Your Alternatives First!
Before you dive headfirst into cancellation, take a moment. Are you simply looking to reduce your bill, improve your coverage, or just need a temporary break? Verizon offers several alternatives that might suit your needs without fully severing ties.
Sub-heading 1.1: Consider Suspending Your Service
If you're going away for an extended period (like a long vacation or military deployment) and don't want to pay for service you won't use, suspending your line might be a better option than canceling. Verizon allows temporary suspensions, which can save you money and the hassle of reactivating a new line later.
Sub-heading 1.2: Explore Plan Changes or Downgrades
Sometimes, the issue isn't Verizon itself, but your current plan. Could you save money by switching to a cheaper plan or one with less data? Verizon often has various options that might fit your budget better. Don't be afraid to discuss this with customer service; they might even offer retention deals!
Sub-heading 1.3: Think About Transferring Service or Ownership
Are you moving to a new area where Verizon service isn't ideal, or do you want to transfer your line to another person? Verizon has processes for transferring service to a new location or transferring the ownership of a line to another individual. This can be particularly useful if someone else wants to take over your plan.
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Information – Be Prepared!
When you contact Verizon, you'll need to verify your identity and account details. Having everything ready beforehand will make the process much quicker.
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
Sub-heading 2.1: Account Holder Information
Only the primary account holder can cancel service. Make sure you have:
The account owner's full name.
The associated phone number or account number.
Your account PIN or the last four digits of the account owner's Social Security Number (SSN).
Sub-heading 2.2: Understand Your Contract and Potential Fees
This is a crucial step! Most Verizon services come with a contract, and cancelling early can result in Early Termination Fees (ETFs).
Device Payment Agreements: If you're on a device payment plan, any remaining balance on your phone will be due immediately upon cancellation. This can be a substantial amount.
Service Contracts: For some services (like Fios internet or older mobile plans), there might be a separate service contract. ETFs for these can range from around $175 to $350, often prorated, meaning the fee decreases over time as you complete more of your contract.
Promotional Credits: If you received promotional credits (e.g., "Buy One, Get One" deals), cancelling might forfeit those remaining credits, making you responsible for the full original price of the device.
Check My Verizon: You can usually find information about your contract and device payment balances by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app.
Step 3: Choose Your Cancellation Method – Calling is Key
Unlike some services, Verizon generally requires you to speak with a representative to fully cancel your service.
Sub-heading 3.1: The Primary Method: Calling Customer Service
This is the most common and often the only way to fully cancel your Verizon service.
For Mobile Service: Call (844) 837-2262. Their hours are typically Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET.
For Fios Home Internet/TV/Phone: Call 1-800-VERIZON (800-837-4966). Their hours are usually Monday – Friday, 8 AM-7 PM ET, or Saturday, 8 AM-5 PM ET.
Be Patient: You might experience hold times, and the representative will likely try to retain you as a customer by offering various deals or plan changes. Be polite but firm in your decision to cancel.
Sub-heading 3.2: Online and In-App Options (Limited)
While you can initiate a disconnection process or manage certain aspects of your account online or via the My Verizon app, a final conversation with customer service is usually required for a complete cancellation, especially for mobile lines.
For Fios, you might find a "Disconnect Service" option on your My Verizon Account Dashboard or settings page. However, it may still lead to a phone call for finalization.
You can also try chatting with a live agent through My Verizon online or the app by typing "Cancel" into the "Ask a question" box. They might be able to help you through some steps, but a phone call is almost always the final requirement.
Sub-heading 3.3: Visiting a Verizon Store (Less Common for Full Cancellation)
While you can discuss options and get information at a Verizon store, they typically direct you to call customer service for a full service cancellation. It's usually not the most efficient method for this specific task.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
Step 4: The Cancellation Conversation – Stay Strong!
When you connect with a representative, they will likely try to understand your reasons for leaving and offer incentives to stay.
Sub-heading 4.1: State Your Intent Clearly
Start by clearly stating that you wish to cancel your service. Be polite but firm.
Example: "Hi, I'm calling to cancel my Verizon mobile service (or Fios service)."
Sub-heading 4.2: Be Prepared for Retention Offers
Verizon's customer service representatives are trained to retain customers. They may offer:
Lower monthly rates.
Temporary service suspensions.
Switching to a different, cheaper plan.
Promotional discounts. Listen to their offers, but if your mind is made up, reiterate your decision to cancel. You don't need to provide a detailed reason if you don't want to, but a simple explanation like "I'm moving to an area not serviced by Verizon" or "I've found a better plan elsewhere" can suffice.
Sub-heading 4.3: Get a Confirmation Number
Once the cancellation is processed, always ask for a cancellation confirmation number or ticket number. This is your proof that the request was made and can be vital if there are any issues later.
Step 5: Finalizing Your Account and Equipment Return
The cancellation isn't truly complete until you've handled your final bill and any leased equipment.
Sub-heading 5.1: Understand Your Final Bill
Effective Cancellation Date: Your cancellation is usually effective on the last day of your current billing period. You will be responsible for charges up until this date. It's often recommended to cancel towards the end of your billing cycle to maximize the service you've already paid for.
Outstanding Balances: Your final bill will include any outstanding device payment balances, prorated service charges, applicable early termination fees, and any other charges incurred up to the termination date.
Auto Pay and Paperless Billing: These will remain active until your final payment is processed.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Sub-heading 5.2: Returning Leased Equipment (Fios)
If you have Fios internet, TV, or home phone and are leasing equipment (like a router, set-top box, or ONT), you must return it within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days) to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
Get Instructions: Ask the representative during your cancellation call for specific instructions on how to return the equipment, including how to obtain a prepaid shipping label.
Keep Proof: Always keep proof of shipment (e.g., tracking number, receipt) for your records.
Sub-heading 5.3: Porting Your Number (If Applicable)
If you're moving your mobile number to a new carrier, do NOT cancel your Verizon service before porting your number.
New Carrier Initiates: Your new carrier will initiate the porting process. Your Verizon account needs to remain active until the number transfer is complete.
Automatic Disconnection: Once the number is successfully ported to your new carrier, your Verizon line associated with that number will automatically disconnect. If you're porting all your numbers, your Verizon account will close automatically.
If Getting New Numbers: If you're simply cancelling and getting entirely new numbers with a different provider, then the standard cancellation process applies.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
Here are some common questions you might have about canceling Verizon service, along with quick answers:
How to avoid early termination fees (ETFs) with Verizon?
You can avoid ETFs by completing your contract term, transferring your service to another eligible person, or by canceling within the 30-day "grace period" (if applicable and equipment is returned). Sometimes, Verizon waives ETFs if you're moving to an area they don't service.
How to find my Verizon account PIN?
Your account PIN is usually set up when you create your account. If you don't remember it, you can often reset it through the My Verizon app or website, or by calling customer service and verifying your identity.
How to check my device payment balance with Verizon?
You can check your remaining device payment balance by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Look under your "Devices" or "Account" section.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
How to return Verizon Fios equipment after cancellation?
After canceling, Verizon will provide instructions on how to return leased Fios equipment, often including a prepaid shipping label. You typically have 30 days to return it to avoid charges.
How to keep my phone number when switching from Verizon to another carrier?
To keep your phone number, do not cancel your Verizon service first. Instead, initiate the "number porting" process with your new carrier. They will handle the transfer, and your Verizon line will automatically disconnect once the port is complete.
How to cancel Verizon service if I'm moving out of the country?
If you're moving internationally and Verizon service isn't an option, explain this to the customer service representative. While ETFs may still apply, they might offer alternative solutions or waivers in some cases.
How to get a confirmation of my Verizon service cancellation?
Always ask the customer service representative for a cancellation confirmation number or ticket ID when you cancel over the phone. This serves as your official record of the cancellation request.
How to know if I'm still under contract with Verizon?
You can check your contract status by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Your service agreement details will typically be listed there.
How to handle a final Verizon bill after cancellation?
Your final bill will arrive after your cancellation is effective and will include all outstanding charges, including device balances or ETFs. Ensure you pay this bill to avoid collection issues.
How to suspend my Verizon service temporarily instead of canceling?
You can temporarily suspend your Verizon service for reasons like a lost/stolen device, military deployment, or extended vacation by logging into your My Verizon account or contacting customer service. Suspension periods and terms vary based on the reason.
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