Canceling a Verizon account, whether for Wireless or Fios services, requires careful attention to detail to avoid unexpected fees and logistical complications. This process demands preparation, a clear understanding of financial obligations, and timely action regarding equipment and phone numbers. Following a precise sequence of steps helps ensure a smooth transition away from Verizon service.
Essential Steps Before Cancellation
Before initiating the closure process, gather specific account information Verizon uses to verify your identity. Locate your Account Number, which is printed on your monthly bill. You also need your four-digit Account PIN, which serves as a security measure to confirm you are the authorized Account Owner when speaking with customer service.
Confirm the status of your current billing cycle before making the cancellation request. Verizon typically bills for mobile service a full month in advance and generally does not prorate charges when a line is canceled partway through a billing cycle. For Wireless customers, the cancellation becomes effective on the last day of the current billing period, meaning you are responsible for the entire month’s charge.
Understanding Early Termination Fees and Device Payoffs
The two primary financial obligations upon cancellation are Early Termination Fees (ETFs) and Device Installment Plan (DIP) payoffs. ETFs are largely a legacy charge, typically applying only to older two-year service contracts or specific Fios agreements. If you are under a current service agreement, the ETF can start high, though this amount decreases incrementally for each month of service completed.
For most Wireless customers, the greater financial consideration is the Device Installment Plan balance. If a phone was financed, the remaining balance becomes immediately due in full upon the line’s disconnection. This payoff requirement can amount to hundreds of dollars per line and will be included on your final bill. Customers who received promotional bill credits must understand that these credits cease upon cancellation, making them responsible for the full, unpaid retail price of the equipment.
The Official Account Closure Process
The process for requesting account closure depends on the type of service you wish to disconnect. For Wireless and traditional landline services, contacting customer service by phone is mandatory, as online cancellation is generally not available. Fios customers often have the option to initiate the disconnection request online through the My Verizon account dashboard or by using the chat feature.
Regardless of the initial method, you will likely need to speak directly with a representative to finalize the closure. Be prepared to provide your account number and PIN for verification. It is recommended practice to document the exact date and time of the cancellation call, along with the name or employee ID of the representative who processed the request.
Managing Equipment Returns and Phone Number Portability
The logistics of returning equipment and transferring your phone number must be handled precisely to prevent losing your number or incurring non-return fees. If you are switching mobile carriers and intend to keep your current phone number, the transfer process must be initiated with the new carrier before you call Verizon to cancel the line. The process of “porting” the number automatically triggers the disconnection of that specific line, and attempting to cancel the line prematurely risks the number being permanently lost.
For Fios or Wireless Home Internet customers, any leased equipment, such as set-top boxes, routers, or network extenders, must be returned within 30 days of the disconnection date. Failure to meet this deadline results in an unreturned equipment charge being added to your final bill. Verizon typically provides return instructions, which often involves taking the equipment to a UPS Store where it is scanned, packaged, and shipped back for free. The UPS receipt serves as your proof of return.
Verifying Final Account Status and Billing
After the service has been disconnected, the final step involves confirming the account closure and settling remaining financial obligations. Your final bill will be generated on your normal billing date, which may be one or two cycles after the actual disconnection date. This bill includes all remaining charges, such as device payoffs, unreturned equipment fees, and any applicable ETFs, and will also reflect any prorated credits or deposits due back to you.
You can typically access the final bill through the My Verizon website for up to 90 to 180 days after the account is closed. This access is necessary for making the final payment or reviewing the charges. After paying the final statement, monitor your credit reports for the following few months. This practice ensures that no unexpected or disputed charges are sent to a collections agency, which could negatively impact your credit history.