Call AT&T to start the cancellation process

To cancel AT&T internet, call their customer service line at 1-800-288-2020. Have your account number ready — you'll find it on your bill or in the AT&T mobile app. The representative will confirm your identity, explain any early termination fees if you're under contract, and walk you through the cancellation steps.

The call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. AT&T may offer you a discount or slower plan to keep you as a customer — this is negotiable, but only if you want to stay. If you're set on leaving, be direct about it. Cancellation takes effect on the date you choose, usually within a few days to a week.

If you can't reach someone by phone, you can also start the process online through your AT&T account or visit a local AT&T store, though phone is usually faster for cancellation.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-288-2020 with your account number to begin cancellation; the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Early termination fees apply if you cancel before your contract ends — ask the representative for the exact amount before confirming.
  • Return all AT&T equipment (modem, router, gateway) within 30 days or you may be charged a non-return fee, usually $100 to $150.
  • Your final bill arrives within one to two billing cycles and includes any prorated charges and equipment fees.
  • Request written confirmation of your cancellation date and any fees in case you need to dispute charges later.

Understand early termination fees before you cancel

If you signed a contract with AT&T, canceling before it ends triggers an early termination fee. This fee varies depending on how much time remains on your agreement — typically it's higher if you cancel early in the contract and lower as you approach the end date. AT&T will tell you the exact amount when you call.

If you're month-to-month with no contract, there is no early termination fee. Check your bill or account to confirm whether you're under contract. Some promotions (like discounted rates for the first year) come with an implicit contract period, so ask the representative directly.

The fee is added to your final bill. If it's substantial and you weren't aware of it, ask whether AT&T will waive or reduce it — they sometimes do if you've been a long-term customer or if there's a service issue on their end.

Return your equipment on time to avoid extra charges

AT&T provides a modem, router, or gateway device as part of your service. You must return this equipment within 30 days of cancellation. If you don't, AT&T charges a non-return fee — typically $100 to $150 depending on the equipment.

When you call to cancel, ask for a prepaid shipping label or the address where you should mail the equipment. Some AT&T locations accept returns in person if you prefer not to ship. Keep the tracking number if you mail it, and take a photo of the package before you drop it off. This protects you if AT&T claims they never received it.

If you own your own modem (you purchased it separately rather than renting from AT&T), you don't need to return anything — but confirm with the representative that your account shows you as the owner.

Know what happens to your final bill

Your final bill arrives one to two billing cycles after cancellation. It includes any remaining charges for the days you used service in the final month (prorated), early termination fees if applicable, and non-return fees if you didn't send back equipment.

AT&T may also credit you for any overpayment or autopay balance on your account. If you had a promotional rate that required a contract, the final bill sometimes includes a retroactive adjustment — meaning AT&T recalculates what you should have paid at the regular rate for the months you had the discount. Read the final bill carefully and contact AT&T if any charge looks wrong.

If you set up autopay, it continues until your account closes. You can cancel autopay separately, but it's easier to let AT&T handle it when they close your account. Confirm on your final bill that autopay has stopped.

Cancel online or in person if you prefer not to call

You can start cancellation through your AT&T account online at att.com. Log in, go to your account settings, and look for the option to manage or cancel service. The online process is slower than calling — it may take several days for AT&T to contact you to confirm — but it creates a written record of your request.

Visiting an AT&T store in person also works, though staff there often try to retain customers by offering deals. Bring your account number and ID. The store can't always process cancellation on the spot; they may schedule it for you or have you call customer service from the store.

Whichever method you choose, get written confirmation of your cancellation date. If you cancel by phone, ask the representative to email or mail you a confirmation. If you cancel online or in person, take a screenshot or ask for a receipt.

Plan your switch to a new internet provider

Before you cancel AT&T, arrange service with your new provider. Most internet companies can start service within a few days, but some take longer. If there's a gap, you'll be without internet, so coordinate the dates carefully.

Tell AT&T your desired cancellation date, then schedule your new service to start the same day or the day after. If your new provider needs to install equipment, schedule that for after AT&T's service ends so the technician can test the connection without interference.

If you're moving to a new address, check whether AT&T serves that location before you cancel — you may want to keep the account if you're moving within their service area and plan to return to internet later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm still under contract — can I cancel without paying the fee?

Early termination fees are standard if you cancel before your contract ends. AT&T may waive or reduce the fee if you've been a customer for many years or if there's a documented service problem, but you have to ask. Otherwise, you'll owe the full amount.

How long does it take for AT&T to actually turn off my service?

Cancellation usually takes effect within a few days to one week from the date you request it. You can choose the cancellation date when you call — for example, you can cancel today but have service end on a specific date next week. Confirm the exact date with the representative.

What if I don't return the modem — will AT&T really charge me?

Yes. AT&T charges a non-return fee (typically $100 to $150) if equipment isn't returned within 30 days. The charge appears on your final bill. Return the equipment promptly and keep tracking information to avoid this fee.

Can I cancel if I'm in the middle of a promotional rate?

Yes, but you may owe an early termination fee if the promotion came with a contract. Some promotions have no contract attached. Ask AT&T whether your current rate includes a contract period before you cancel.

Do I need to do anything after I cancel, or is it automatic?

After cancellation is confirmed, your main task is returning the equipment within 30 days. Watch for your final bill one to two cycles later and check it for errors. If you set up autopay, confirm it has stopped. Otherwise, AT&T handles the rest.