When you disconnect service with Verizon, upgrade your equipment, or make any changes that require returning hardware, you might be wondering: "How much does Verizon charge for unreturned equipment?" It's a crucial question, because those charges can add up quickly if you're not careful. This lengthy guide will break down everything you need to know about Verizon's unreturned equipment fees, how to avoid them, and what to do if you're hit with an unexpected charge.
Navigating Verizon's Unreturned Equipment Charges: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there! Thinking about canceling your Verizon service or upgrading your gear? Hold on a moment! Before you celebrate your new freedom or shiny new tech, let's talk about something that can quickly turn that excitement into a headache: unreturned equipment fees. These charges can be hefty and are often a surprise for many customers. But don't worry, by the end of this guide, you'll be armed with all the information you need to avoid those dreaded fees and ensure a smooth transition.
Step 1: Understand the "Why" Behind the Charges
Verizon, like most service providers, leases equipment to its customers. This equipment – whether it's a router, cable box, or network extender – remains Verizon's property. When you no longer need it (due to cancellation, upgrade, or change in service), they expect it back. Why? Because they can refurbish and reuse it, saving them money and reducing electronic waste. If you don't return it, they've lost an asset, and they'll charge you for its value. It's essentially a penalty for not returning their property.
Sub-heading: What Kind of Equipment Are We Talking About?
Generally, any equipment provided by Verizon for your service is considered their property and needs to be returned. This commonly includes:
Fios Routers and Modems: Essential for your internet connection.
Fios TV Set-Top Boxes (STBs): Including standard definition, high definition, DVRs, and Fios TV One/Mini boxes.
Fios Network Extenders/Wi-Fi Extenders: Devices that boost your Wi-Fi signal.
CableCARDs and Digital Adapters: Used for certain TV setups.
5G Home Internet Gateways/Routers: For their wireless home internet services.
LTE Home Internet Gateways/Routers: Similar to 5G Home Internet devices.
Always assume that any equipment you didn't purchase outright belongs to Verizon and needs to be returned.
Step 2: Know the Fees – They Vary!
This is where it gets critical. The exact amount Verizon charges for unreturned equipment isn't a flat fee. It varies significantly based on the type and value of the specific piece of equipment. These charges are typically comparable to the retail cost of the device.
Sub-heading: Typical Verizon Unreturned Equipment Charges (Estimates):
Please note that these are estimated figures based on commonly reported charges and can change. Always consult your Verizon service agreement or contact customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date charges specific to your equipment.
Fios Router (e.g., Fios Quantum Gateway Router, Fios Router CR1000A): Often around $100 - $175.
Fios Extender/Wi-Fi Extender (e.g., CE1000A): Can range from $99 - $175.
Standard Definition Set-Top Box: Approximately $160.
High Definition Set-Top Box: Approximately $190.
Digital Video Recorder (DVR) - SD: Around $330.
Digital Video Recorder (DVR) - HD: Around $260.
Video Media Client/Fios TV One Mini: Approximately $115.
Video Media Server/Fios TV One: Approximately $375.
CableCARD: Roughly $70.
Digital Adapter: Around $90.
Verizon Internet Gateway (for 5G Home/LTE Home Internet, e.g., WNC-CR200A, ASK-NCM1100, LVSKIHP): Can be as high as $240 - $300.
Verizon Receiver (LV65 for 5G Home Internet): Around $300.
Remember, if you have multiple pieces of equipment that you fail to return, these individual charges will add up, potentially leading to a bill of several hundred dollars or even over a thousand.
Sub-heading: Damaged Equipment Fees
It's not just about unreturned equipment. If you return equipment that Verizon deems damaged beyond normal wear and tear, they may also assess a "damage fee" which can be equivalent to the unreturned equipment charge for that item. So, handle their equipment with care!
Step 3: Know Your Return Window and Process
Verizon typically provides a grace period for returning equipment after your service is disconnected or upgraded.
Sub-heading: The 30-Day Window
For Fios and home internet equipment, Verizon generally gives you 30 days from the day your service is disconnected to return all equipment. This means Verizon needs to receive the equipment within that 30-day timeframe, not just that you shipped it.
Sub-heading: How to Initiate a Return
When you're canceling your service or upgrading, Verizon should provide you with instructions on how to return your equipment. This usually involves one of two methods:
Shipping via UPS: Verizon will typically provide you with a prepaid shipping label. You then package the equipment (often you don't need to box it yourself if you take it to a UPS Store) and drop it off at a UPS location.
In-Person Drop-off: Some Verizon Fios corporate stores or authorized retailers may accept equipment returns. It's crucial to confirm this beforehand, as not all locations are equipped to handle all types of returns (especially for home internet equipment).
Sub-heading: Essential Documentation is Your Best Friend!
This step cannot be stressed enough. Document, document, document! This is your primary defense against erroneous unreturned equipment charges.
Get a Receipt: Whether you ship it or drop it off, always get a receipt that clearly lists the serial numbers of the equipment you are returning. This receipt is your proof that you returned the items.
Take Photos/Videos: Before you pack up or drop off your equipment, take clear photos or a video of each piece, showing its condition and the serial numbers. This is your evidence if Verizon claims the equipment was damaged or never received.
Track Your Shipment: If you're shipping, keep the tracking number and monitor its progress until it shows as delivered to Verizon.
Confirmation Emails: Verizon should send you an email confirmation once they receive and process your returned equipment. Save this email!
Step 4: What to Do If You're Charged for Unreturned Equipment
Despite your best efforts, sometimes things go wrong. You might receive a bill with an unreturned equipment charge even after you've sent everything back. Don't panic, but act quickly!
Sub-heading: Contesting the Charge
Gather Your Documentation: This is where all those receipts, photos, and tracking numbers come into play. Have them ready before you contact Verizon.
Contact Verizon Customer Service: Call Verizon's customer service line (usually 1-800-VERIZON or 1-800-837-4966 for Fios).
Clearly Explain the Situation: State that you have been incorrectly charged for unreturned equipment and that you have proof of return.
Provide Proof: Offer to provide your tracking number, receipt details, or email confirmations. They should be able to look up the return based on the serial numbers.
Request a Credit: Ask for the unreturned equipment charge to be removed from your bill and for a credit to be applied.
Follow Up: If the issue isn't resolved immediately, get a ticket number or reference number for your call and follow up within a few business days if the charge isn't removed.
Escalate if Necessary: If customer service isn't resolving the issue, politely ask to speak with a supervisor. You may also consider filing a complaint with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) or your state's Public Utility Commission, or contacting consumer advocacy groups like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) as a last resort. Many online forums also contain stories of customers successfully resolving these issues by reaching out to Verizon's executive relations team.
Sub-heading: Beware of Auto-Pay Issues
If you have auto-pay set up, Verizon might automatically deduct the unreturned equipment fee from your account. While this can be convenient for regular bills, it can be frustrating if an erroneous charge is applied. Consider pausing auto-pay or closely monitoring your bill around the time of your service disconnection/equipment return. If they do charge you incorrectly, you may need to initiate a chargeback with your bank or credit card company, which can be a more involved process.
Step 5: Proactive Measures to Avoid Issues
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to avoiding unexpected fees.
Confirm What Needs Returning: When you disconnect or upgrade, ask Verizon specifically what equipment needs to be returned. Get a list, preferably in writing (email or a confirmation letter).
Organize Your Equipment: Keep all Verizon-owned equipment in a designated spot, along with all power cords, remotes, and accessories.
Don't Delay: Return your equipment as soon as possible within the 30-day window. The longer you wait, the higher the chance of misplacing something or forgetting.
Clear Your Device Data: Before returning any devices that stored personal data (like DVRs), ensure you've wiped them clean to protect your privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Verizon Unreturned Equipment Charges
Here are 10 common questions with quick answers to help you navigate Verizon's equipment return policies.
How to avoid unreturned equipment charges from Verizon?
Always return all leased Verizon equipment within the specified timeframe (usually 30 days) and keep thorough documentation (receipts, tracking numbers, photos) of your return.
How to find out what equipment I need to return to Verizon?
When you disconnect or change service, Verizon should provide you with a list of equipment to return via email, mail, or by contacting their customer service directly.
How to get a receipt for returned Verizon equipment?
If returning via UPS, ensure they scan each item and provide a detailed receipt with serial numbers. If dropping off at a store, ask for a printed receipt that itemizes the returned equipment.
How to track my Verizon equipment return shipment?
Use the tracking number provided on your UPS return label. You can enter this number on the UPS website to monitor the delivery status.
How to dispute an unreturned equipment charge from Verizon?
Contact Verizon customer service with your proof of return (receipts, tracking, photos) and explain that the charge is incorrect. Request a credit to your account.
How to return Verizon Fios equipment?
Verizon typically provides a prepaid UPS shipping label. You can package the equipment and drop it off at a UPS Store, or in some cases, return it to a Verizon corporate store. Confirm the process with Verizon when you initiate the return.
How to know the specific unreturned equipment fee for my device?
The exact fees vary by equipment type. You can find estimated charges on Verizon's support website (often on their Fios TV rate card or Home Internet FAQs), or by contacting Verizon customer service directly.
How to prevent Verizon from auto-charging for unreturned equipment?
While you can't entirely stop them from assessing the charge if they don't receive equipment, you can monitor your bill closely and potentially pause auto-pay around the time of your service cancellation/equipment return to avoid automatic deductions of erroneous charges.
How to return damaged Verizon equipment?
Return damaged equipment as you would any other leased equipment. Be aware that Verizon may assess a damage fee, which can be equivalent to the unreturned equipment fee, if the damage is beyond normal wear and tear.
How to reach Verizon customer service for equipment return issues?
You can generally reach Verizon customer service by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). Be prepared with your account information and documentation.