How to Cancel US Cellular 2026 — ETFs, Device Payments, and Rural Alternatives

Updated March 2026 • 7 min read

US Cellular is the fifth-largest carrier in the US, primarily serving rural areas in the Midwest and Northeast. While they provide genuinely good rural coverage in their native areas, their plans at $50-65/month are pricier than comparable alternatives, and their coverage map is limited outside their home markets. If you're moving, switching, or just want a better deal, here's how to cancel.

How to Cancel US Cellular

Method 1: Port Your Number Out (Recommended)

1. Get your US Cellular account number (My UScellular app or call 888-944-9400)
2. Get your transfer PIN (set one in your account security settings if you haven't)
3. Sign up with your new carrier and request a port
4. The port takes 1-3 business days
5. US Cellular auto-cancels once the port completes

Method 2: Call Customer Service

1. Call 888-944-9400
2. Say "Cancel my service"
3. They will transfer you to retention — be firm
4. Ask about any remaining device payments or early termination fees
5. Request confirmation in writing

Method 3: Visit a Store

Cancel in person at any US Cellular store. Bring your ID and be prepared for a retention pitch. Store cancellations can be faster because the associate handles paperwork on the spot.

Watch Out: Device Payments and ETFs

• Device payment plans: Remaining balance due upon cancellation
• Promotional credits: If you're receiving monthly credits (e.g., "$500 off iPhone over 36 months"), canceling forfeits remaining credits
• Early termination fees: Mostly phased out, but some legacy plans may still have them
• Final bill: Prorated charges for partial months, plus any remaining balance

Rural Coverage Alternatives

If you live in a rural area, coverage matters more than price. Here are options that work in rural markets:

• T-Mobile: Massive rural expansion via 600MHz spectrum — check coverage map for your area
• Verizon: Best overall rural coverage in most regions
• Visible (Verizon MVNO): $25-30/month — Verizon's rural coverage at prepaid prices
• Cricket Wireless (AT&T): $30-55/month — AT&T's rural network, good secondary option
• Mint Mobile (T-Mobile): $15-30/month — only if T-Mobile covers your area well
• Starlink Mobile: If you're truly remote, satellite connectivity is becoming viable

T-Mobile Acquisition Rumors

T-Mobile has been acquiring US Cellular's spectrum and subscribers in certain markets. If you're a US Cellular customer in an area being transitioned to T-Mobile, you may be automatically migrated. Check with US Cellular about your market status — if a migration is happening, you may get better T-Mobile plans and coverage without needing to actively switch.