Windstream is one of the largest telecommunications providers in the United States, offering broadband internet, phone service, digital TV packages, and more to over 8 million residential and business customers across 21 states. However, there may come a time when you need to cancel your Windstream services due to moving, switching providers, or other reasons. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of canceling Windstream in detail.
We’ll cover key topics like:
- Understanding your Windstream contract and potential early termination fees
- Methods for canceling your services (phone, online, in person)
- Steps to take after cancellation such as returning equipment
- Helpful resources for any other questions
Knowing what to expect and following the proper cancellation procedures will ensure a smooth transition and avoid any surprise charges or complications after discontinuing service. Let’s get started!
Before You Cancel
Before canceling your Windstream service, there are a few important things you should do to prepare:
Review Your Contract
If you signed an agreement when signing up for Windstream, carefully review the contract terms to see if there is an early termination fee for canceling before the end of the contract. These fees often apply if you have not completed an agreed upon service term (usually 12-24 months). Knowing ahead of time will allow you to budget appropriately.
Table 1: Sample Windstream Early Termination Fees
| Service | Early Termination Fee |
|---|---|
| Internet | Up to $200 |
| Digital TV | Up to $120 |
| Home Phone | Up to $50 |
Fees may vary based on your plan, contract term length, and time remaining on contract.
Check for Outstanding Balances
Before contacting Windstream to cancel, login to your online account or check recent bills to see if there are any outstanding balances. It is important to pay off account balances prior to closing your services to avoid issues later on.
You’ll also want to take note of any leased equipment like cable boxes, routers, or modems that will need to be returned after discontinuing service. There may be fees if this equipment is not returned once your account is closed.
Explore Other Providers First
Take some time beforehand to research alternative internet, TV, and phone providers in your area. Comparing deals and pricing can ensure you find the right service plan after leaving Windstream.
If you are moving, look into availability from other providers at your new address. Confirming coverage ahead of time allows for a smooth transition of services.
Cancellation Methods
Windstream offers several ways to cancel your services formally including by phone, online, and in person. Here are the steps for each approach:
1. Calling Windstream Customer Service
The quickest and easiest way to cancel is to call the Windstream customer service and billing department directly at 1-800-347-1991.
Table 2: Windstream Customer Service Hours
| Department | Hours |
|---|---|
| Billing & Technical Support | Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm EST Saturday: 8:30am-5pm EST |
| Account Support | Monday-Friday: 7am-8pm EST Saturday: 8:30am-5pm EST |
When you call, be prepared with the following information:
- Windstream account number – This is on your monthly bill or can be retrieved from your online account.
- Account holder name – The primary name the account is under.
- Service address – The physical location where services are active.
- Last 4 digits of Social Security # – For account verification purposes.
- Reason for cancellation – If asked, provide a reason like moving, switching providers, etc.
Inform the representative you wish to cancel service and provide a requested cancellation date. Be firm in your decision if they offer promotions to retain your business.
Before ending the call, request a cancellation confirmation number and make note of it.
2. Canceling Online
Windstream also allows customers to cancel services through their online live chat platform:
- Go to windstream.com and click the “Let’s Chat” button in the bottom right corner
- When connected with a live agent, inform them you want to cancel service
- Provide necessary account details (see above)
- Confirm cancellation date and request confirmation number
Live chat is available Monday-Friday 8am-6pm EST and Saturday 8:30am-5pm EST.
3. Emailing Windstream Support
You can also email Windstream’s customer support team directly to cancel services:
Email: support@windstream.net
In your email, clearly state you want to cancel service and provide:
- Account holder name
- Account number
- Service address
- Date you wish to cancel services
A representative will follow up with you within 24 hours to confirm and finalize cancellation details.
Be sure to retain the email chain as cancellation confirmation.
4. In-Person Cancellation
For local customers, visiting a Windstream authorized retail store is another cancellation option.
You can find your nearest location by visiting windstream.com/store-finder and entering your zip code.
When you visit the store, inform the sales representative you want to cancel service and provide the necessary account details mentioned earlier.
After Canceling Your Windstream Service
Get Confirmation Email & Numbers
After canceling through any method, Windstream will provide you with an email confirmation and cancellation request number. If one was not automatically sent, proactively reach back out to customer service to get it.
Retain this documentation along with any correspondence for your records in case of billing issues later on.
Return Equipment
For leased cable boxes, routers, or modems provided by Windstream, you will need to return this equipment once your services are disconnected. Windstream will send you a prepaid return shipping label to send items back at no cost.
Review your final bill to see if there are any unreturned equipment charges. Failure to return leased items by your cancellation date often incurs fees around $100-$300 depending on the device.
Transfer Accounts
If you are only canceling some Windstream services like TV or phone but keeping your internet, you’ll want to make sure any associated usernames, emails, etc. get transferred properly to the remaining service.
Additionally, if you ported your landline phone number to Windstream originally, you will want to transfer it to a new provider opening a new account elsewhere to avoid losing it.
Dispute Resolution
Hopefully there won’t be any, but if billing problems or charges arise after closing your Windstream account, immediately reach out to customer service by phone or email. Provide all cancellation confirmation details and clearly explain the discrepancy.
If the issue is not resolved directly, you can also file a complaint with the FCC or your state’s Public Utilities Commission for further investigation.
Conclusion
Canceling your Windstream services does not need to be a stressful or challenging process if you follow the right steps. Now that you know what to expect beforehand, have details on the cancellation methods, and understand the post-disconnection process, discontinuing your Windstream account should go smoothly.
Be sure to explore all your options, prepare your account information, follow cancellation protocols carefully, get proper confirmation, return equipment promptly, and address any lingering issues. If questions come up, Windstream’s customer service team is available to help by phone, online, or in local stores.
Canceling services is never fun but taking a methodical approach allows for an organized transition whether you are switching providers, moving, or closing accounts permanently. With the detailed guidance, tips, and resources provided throughout this guide, you can now cancel your Windstream services confidently.