How to Cancel Spectrum (Charter) in 2026

Updated February 2026 • 7 min read

Good news: Spectrum has no contracts and no early termination fees. You can cancel anytime. The catch is you must do it by phone or in a store — there is no online cancellation. At $80-150/month for bundled services, here is how to get out cleanly.

Cancel by Phone

1. Call 1-833-267-6094 (dedicated retention/cancellation line)
2. Verify your identity (account number, last 4 of SSN, or PIN)
3. Tell the rep you want to cancel all services (or specify which ones)
4. Decline retention offers — they will try discounts, free months, speed upgrades
5. Set your disconnection date
6. Get a confirmation number
7. Ask about equipment return instructions

Best time to call: Tuesday-Thursday, 9-11am. Monday mornings and weekends have the longest waits. Average call time: 20-40 minutes.

Cancel at a Spectrum Store

Bring your equipment to any Spectrum store. Cancel and return equipment in one visit. Bring your photo ID and account information. Get a printed receipt showing all returned equipment. This is the fastest method if you have a store nearby.

Equipment Return

• Return within 15 days of cancellation to avoid unreturned equipment fees
• Modem: $100-200 if not returned
• Router: $100-200 if not returned
• Cable boxes/DVR: $100-300 each
• Return options: Spectrum store (fastest), UPS with prepaid label
• Keep your receipt — photograph it immediately

Pro Move: Use Your Own Modem

If you bought your own modem/router (not renting from Spectrum), there is nothing to return. This is why buying your own equipment saves money both during service and at cancellation. A good modem costs $60-80 and pays for itself in 4-5 months of avoided rental fees.

Final Bill

Spectrum does not prorate your final month. If you cancel on the 10th, you are still charged for the full month. Time your cancellation to align with the end of your billing cycle to get the most value. Check your bill date at spectrum.net/account.

Alternatives

• T-Mobile Home Internet: $50/month, no contract
• Verizon 5G Home: $25-50/month (with phone plan)
• Local fiber providers: Often cheaper with faster speeds
• Starlink: $120/month for rural areas
• Mobile hotspot: $30-50/month for light users

The Bottom Line

Spectrum is easier to cancel than most ISPs thanks to no contracts or ETFs. The only friction is the phone call and equipment return. Call, decline offers, return equipment with a receipt, and time your cancellation to your billing cycle to avoid paying for unused days.