Cutting the Cord Smartly: Your Comprehensive Guide to Canceling Verizon TV While Keeping Internet
Ever felt like you're paying for dozens of channels you never watch, while your internet speed feels just right? You're not alone! Many Verizon Fios customers are looking to streamline their services, ditching the TV package to save money while holding onto that reliable Fios internet connection. This detailed guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition without any unexpected hitches.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Cut the Cord? - Assess Your Viewing Habits
Before you pick up the phone or click "cancel," let's truly dig into your entertainment needs. This is where you engage with yourself! Ask yourself:
What shows and movies do I actually watch?
Am I using streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or YouTube TV more than traditional cable?
Do I watch live sports, and if so, how can I access them without Fios TV? (Consider services like Sling TV, YouTube TV, or even individual sports app subscriptions.)
Are there any local channels I absolutely can't live without? (A good antenna might be your answer here!)
How much am I currently paying for Fios TV, and how much could I save by cutting it?
Being honest with yourself here will set you up for success and prevent "TV withdrawal" later on. This self-assessment is crucial to ensure you're making the right financial and entertainment decision for your household.
Step 2: Gather Your Account Information - Be Prepared!
Like any interaction with a service provider, having your details handy will make the process much smoother. Before you do anything else, grab the following:
Your Verizon Account Number: This is essential for identification.
Account Holder's Name and PIN/Password: You'll need to verify your identity.
A Recent Bill: This will show your current plan details, pricing, and contract end dates.
List of Equipment You Currently Rent: This includes set-top boxes, DVRs, and any other TV-specific devices.
Having this information readily available will significantly speed up your call or chat session.
Step 3: Understand Your Contract and Potential Fees - No Surprises!
This is a critical step to avoid unexpected charges.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Contract
Before contacting Verizon, check your current Fios contract.
Are you still under a contract for your TV service? Many Verizon bundles include a contract term, and canceling a portion of the bundle early can trigger an Early Termination Fee (ETF).
Typically, Verizon Fios ETFs can be up to $350 and are prorated, meaning they decrease over time by about $15 per month. The longer you've been in your contract, the less you'll owe.
Sub-heading: Identifying Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
Where to find this information: Your original service agreement, previous bills, or by logging into your My Verizon account online.
Even if you're not explicitly told about an ETF during sign-up, it's usually detailed in the terms and conditions you agreed to. If you're unsure, ask Verizon directly before initiating the cancellation.
Knowing your contract status empowers you to negotiate or at least anticipate any potential costs.
Step 4: Choose Your Contact Method - How to Reach Verizon
Verizon offers a few ways to manage your services. For something like changing a bundle, a direct conversation is often best.
Sub-heading: Calling Customer Service (Recommended)
The most common and often most effective method. You can speak directly with a representative who can guide you through the process and address any questions or concerns.
Phone Number: Call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966).
Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 AM - 7 PM ET, and Saturday, 8 AM - 5 PM ET. Be aware that hold times can vary.
Tip: When prompted by the automated system, try saying "Cancel Service" to be routed directly to a retention specialist. These agents are trained to assist with service changes and can often offer alternative plans or deals to keep you as an internet customer.
Sub-heading: Using My Verizon Online or App
Verizon's My Verizon website and app allow Fios customers to manage services.
On the website: Log in, navigate to "Support," then "Billing & Account," and look for "Cancel Service" or "Add or Change Service."
On the app: Sign in, and look for similar options under your account dashboard or settings.
While convenient, some users report that online tools can be less flexible for complex changes like splitting a bundle. If you encounter issues, resort to calling.
Sub-heading: Live Chat
On the Verizon support website, you can often find a "Chat" option. Type "Cancel" in the chat box to connect with an agent.
This can be a good alternative if you prefer not to call, but ensure you get clear written confirmations of any changes.
Step 5: State Your Intent Clearly - Be Firm, Yet Polite
When you connect with a Verizon representative, clearly state your intention to cancel your TV service but keep your internet service.
Be polite but firm in your decision.
Expect the representative to try and retain you as a TV customer. They may offer discounts, smaller TV packages, or other incentives. Listen to their offers, but stick to your goal if you're certain you want to remove TV.
Common retention tactics include offering cheaper bundles or promotional pricing for TV. If the offer sounds appealing, do the math to see if it genuinely saves you money compared to an internet-only plan.
Sub-heading: What to Discuss with the Representative
Confirm your desired internet speed and plan: Discuss available internet-only plans and their current pricing. Verizon Fios offers various internet speeds, like 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, 1 Gig, and even 2 Gig, with corresponding pricing. Make sure the new internet-only price is clearly stated.
Inquire about any new contracts: Confirm whether switching to an internet-only plan will put you into a new contract or if it will be month-to-month. Many Fios internet-only plans are now contract-free.
Ask about equipment return: Get clear instructions on how and where to return your TV equipment.
Confirm billing adjustments: Understand how your next bill will be affected by the change (prorated charges, new plan pricing).
Step 6: Confirm the Changes and Get Documentation - Your Paper Trail
Before ending the conversation, ensure everything is crystal clear.
Ask for a confirmation number or email: This is your proof that the change was requested and processed.
Request a summary of your new internet-only plan: This should include the speed, monthly cost, and effective date of the change.
Double-check the effective date of the TV service cancellation.
Step 7: Return Your Equipment Promptly - Avoid Extra Fees
Once your TV service is canceled, you'll need to return any rented Verizon TV equipment (set-top boxes, DVRs, remote controls).
Sub-heading: How to Return Fios Equipment
Verizon Store: Some Verizon corporate stores may accept equipment returns. It's always best to confirm with the representative during your call if a local store can handle returns.
UPS Store: Verizon often partners with UPS stores for equipment returns. You can typically take your equipment (no need to box it up yourself) to a participating UPS Store. They will scan the serial numbers, package it, and provide you with a receipt. Always keep this receipt as proof of return. You must return equipment within 30 days of service disconnection to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
Shipping Label: In some cases, Verizon may send you a pre-paid shipping label and box.
Failure to return equipment within the specified timeframe will result in unreturned equipment charges, which can be significant.
Step 8: Monitor Your Next Bill - The Final Check
After the changes take effect and you've returned your equipment, carefully review your next Verizon bill.
Verify the TV service has been removed.
Confirm your internet-only plan and pricing are correct.
Check for any unexpected charges, especially related to early termination or unreturned equipment.
If you see any discrepancies, contact Verizon customer service immediately with your confirmation number.
By following these steps, you can successfully cancel your Verizon TV service while maintaining your internet connection, potentially saving you money and simplifying your entertainment setup.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if I am still under contract with Verizon Fios?
You can check your contract status by logging into your My Verizon account online, reviewing your original service agreement documents, or by calling Verizon customer service at 1-800-VERIZON.
How to find my Verizon account number?
Your Verizon account number is typically located at the top of your monthly Verizon bill or can be found by logging into your My Verizon account online.
How to return Verizon Fios equipment after canceling TV?
You can return rented Verizon Fios TV equipment to a participating UPS Store, where they will scan the serial numbers and provide a receipt. In some cases, you might be able to return it to a Verizon corporate store, but always confirm this beforehand. Ensure you return it within 30 days to avoid charges.
How to avoid early termination fees when canceling Verizon TV?
The best way to avoid early termination fees (ETFs) is to wait until your contract term expires. If you must cancel early, understanding the prorated fee (which decreases over time) and being polite but firm when speaking with customer service may sometimes lead to them waiving or reducing the fee, though this is not guaranteed.
How to get a better deal on Verizon Fios internet-only plans?
When contacting Verizon, explicitly state you are considering canceling TV to save money. Retention specialists may offer promotional pricing or discounts on internet-only plans to keep you as a customer. Also, look at current online promotions for new internet-only subscribers.
How to set up streaming services after canceling Fios TV?
Once you've canceled Fios TV, you can subscribe to various streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV (for live TV), Sling TV, etc. You'll simply need an internet connection and a compatible streaming device (smart TV, Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, etc.).
How to ensure my internet speed remains the same after removing TV?
When speaking with Verizon, explicitly confirm that your existing internet plan and speed will remain unchanged after removing the TV service. They will typically transition you to an internet-only plan that matches your current speed, or you can choose to upgrade/downgrade.
How to find a Verizon corporate store for equipment return?
You can use the "Find a Store" tool on the official Verizon website or the My Verizon app to locate the nearest Verizon corporate store. It's advisable to call the specific store beforehand to confirm they accept equipment returns.
How to check my new internet-only bill after the change?
Log in to your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app to view your updated bill. You will typically receive an email notification when your new bill is ready.
How to contact Verizon Fios customer support efficiently?
For efficiency, call 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966) during their stated business hours (Monday – Friday, 8 AM - 7 PM ET, Saturday, 8 AM - 5 PM ET) and try saying "Cancel Service" to the automated prompt to be directed to a retention specialist. Have all your account information ready.
