How to Cancel AT&T Internet / Fiber in 2026

Updated March 3, 2026 • 7 min read

Before You Cancel

1. Set up replacement internet first: Schedule your new ISP installation for the same day or before cancellation. Working from home without internet is not fun
2. Check your plan type: AT&T Fiber = no contract, no ETF. Legacy AT&T Internet (DSL) = possible 12-month commitment with up to $180 ETF
3. Note your account number and PIN: You'll need these for the cancellation call
4. Check your bill cycle: AT&T bills in advance — you may get a prorated credit for unused days

How to Cancel (Phone Only)

1. Call 1-800-288-2020
2. Say "cancel service" or "disconnect service"
3. You'll be transferred to the retention department
4. Be prepared for aggressive retention offers (discounts, upgrades, free months)
5. Be firm: "I appreciate the offer, but I'd like to proceed with cancellation"
6. Set a specific disconnection date
7. Get a confirmation number and write it down
8. Ask for email confirmation

Equipment Return Process

1. Photograph everything: Take photos of all equipment (gateway, modem, power supply) showing serial numbers and condition
2. Pack it up: Use the original box if you have it, or any sturdy box
3. Get the prepaid label: AT&T should email or mail you a UPS return label after cancellation. If not, call and request one
4. Drop off at UPS store: Bring the box to any UPS location. Get a receipt with tracking number
5. Save the receipt: Keep it for at least 12 months. You may need it to dispute equipment charges

Deadline: 21 calendar days from cancellation date. After that, AT&T charges $150+ per unreturned device.

What AT&T Retention Will Offer

Expect a 15-30 minute call. The retention team will try:

• Discounted rate: $10-30/month off for 12 months
• Speed upgrade: Faster tier at your current price
• Free months: 1-3 months of credit
• Gift cards: $50-200 reward cards
• Bundle offers: Discount if you add wireless or TV

If you're canceling due to price, the retention offer might genuinely be worth taking. If you're canceling due to service quality or moving, stay firm.

AT&T Internet Pricing (What You're Paying)

• Internet 300: $55/month (300 Mbps)
• Internet 500: $65/month (500 Mbps)
• Internet 1000 (Fiber): $80/month (1 Gbps)
• Internet 2000 (Fiber): $110/month (2 Gbps)
• Internet 5000 (Fiber): $180/month (5 Gbps)

Plus equipment fees ($10/month for the gateway rental) and taxes. Your actual bill is likely $15-25 more than the advertised price.

Alternatives by Region

• T-Mobile Home Internet: $50/month, no contract, wireless 5G (availability varies)
• Google Fiber: $70/month for 1 Gbps (limited cities)
• Verizon Fios: $50-90/month (fiber, Northeast US)
• Starlink: $120/month (rural areas with no alternatives)
• Local fiber providers: Check for regional ISPs — often better pricing and service than big carriers

After Cancellation

• Monitor your final bill for 2 billing cycles — watch for surprise charges
• Verify equipment return was processed (call back if you get charged)
• Check your credit report after 60 days — ensure no collections from equipment disputes
• If you had AT&T email (@att.net), set up forwarding or notify contacts of your new email