If you're considering canceling your AT&T home internet service, understanding the process and potential fees involved can save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide provides a clear pathway to cancel your AT&T internet service without unnecessary headaches, including avoiding possible fees and returning equipment correctly.

1. Understand Your Contract Terms

Before you begin the cancellation process, it's essential to review your contract. AT&T offers several types of internet services, such as DSL, Fiber, and IPBB (Internet Protocol Broadband). The specific service you have affects your options for canceling.

• Cancellation Fees: If you're under contract, you may incur an Early Termination Fee (ETF). The fee is typically $15 for each remaining month of your contract. If you're on a no-contract plan, you can cancel without facing an ETF.

• Prorated Bills: AT&T no longer prorates the final bill for home internet service. This means if you cancel in the middle of a billing cycle, you will still be responsible for paying the entire month's bill. Plan your cancellation date accordingly to avoid paying for an extra month of unused service.

2. Prepare Necessary Information

To streamline the cancellation process, gather the following details before contacting AT&T:

• Account Number: You can find this on your bill or by logging into your AT&T account online.

• PIN: Some accounts may require a personal identification number (PIN) to verify your identity.

3. Choose Your Preferred Cancellation Method

AT&T provides several ways to cancel your service. Select the one that suits you best:

a) By Phone

• Call AT&T Customer Service: Dial 1-800-288-2020 and follow the prompts to cancel your internet service. Once connected to a representative, say “Cancel Service” and specify that you're canceling internet service. Be prepared for possible retention tactics, where they may offer you discounts or alternative services.

• Quick Tip: If you're pressed for time or don’t want to deal with retention attempts, tell the representative that you're moving outside of the country. This can expedite the process by minimizing the attempts to retain you as a customer.

b) In-Person

• Visit an AT&T Store: If you'd prefer to speak face-to-face with a representative, you can cancel at an AT&T retail location. Bring your equipment with you, as this is an opportunity to return it on the spot.

c) Online (DSL Only)

• If you're a legacy DSL customer, you can cancel online through your AT&T account. However, most modern AT&T services like IPBB and Fiber require cancellation via phone or in-store.

4. Returning Equipment

After initiating the cancellation, you’ll need to return any leased equipment, such as modems, routers, or gateways. Here’s how to ensure a smooth return:

• UPS Return: AT&T partners with UPS for equipment returns. Once your cancellation is processed, AT&T will send you a prepaid shipping label along with a return authorization number. Take your equipment to a UPS store, and they will handle the return at no cost.

• Keep Documentation: Always keep your return receipt and tracking information. If there are any disputes about returned equipment, having this documentation will help resolve the issue.

• Equipment Fees: If you fail to return the equipment within 21 days, AT&T will charge you a hefty non-return fee, which can range from $75 to over $200 depending on the device.

5. Monitor Your Final Bill

Even after canceling, it’s important to check your final bill for unexpected fees or continued charges. You should do this the day after your cancellation date and again at the end of your last billing cycle to ensure there are no additional fees.

• Disputing Fees: If you find any erroneous charges, immediately contact AT&T’s billing department to dispute them. In cases where billing errors persist, it’s better to resolve the issue promptly than risk it going to collections.

6. Avoiding Cancellation Fees

Here are some strategies that might help you avoid the dreaded ETF or cancellation fees:

• Transfer Billing Responsibility: If you're canceling due to relocation or no longer needing the service, consider transferring your service to someone else rather than outright canceling.

• Move Service: If you’re relocating within AT&T’s coverage area, you can transfer your service to the new address, avoiding cancellation altogether.

• Suspend Service: If you're going on an extended vacation, being deployed in the military, or dealing with a temporary situation, you may qualify to suspend your service rather than cancel it.

Conclusion

Canceling your AT&T home internet service doesn’t have to be stressful if you understand the process and prepare accordingly. By following these steps, you can avoid unexpected fees, return your equipment without issues, and ensure your final bill is accurate. Whether you’re canceling due to relocation, dissatisfaction, or simply cutting back on technology, being well-informed will help you navigate the process smoothly.

How To Cancel AT&T Home Internet?