There are several common reasons you may need to cancel your T-Mobile service, whether you’re switching carriers, moving somewhere with poor T-Mobile coverage, looking to save money, or simply no longer needing cell phone service.
When cancelling, you have three main options:
- By phone
- Online through chat
- In person at a T-Mobile store
Each method has its own pros and cons, which we’ll outline below. It’s also important to consider potential fees when cancelling, like early termination fees if you’re under contract or device payoff fees if you still owe money on a phone. We’ll cover those details as well so you know exactly what to expect.
Cancellation Methods
Phone
To cancel T-Mobile by phone:
- Call 1-877-453-1304, T-Mobile’s dedicated cancellation line
- Alternatively, you can call 611 (only accessible from T-Mobile phones) or T-Mobile’s main customer service number
- Have your account number, phone number, and PIN ready for verification
- Explain to the representative that you wish to cancel service
- Be prepared for attempts to retain you as a customer with special offers
- Politely decline any offers and firmly state you wish to cancel
Pros:
- Quick and straightforward
- Avoid visiting a store
Cons:
- Potential long wait times
- May involve retention offers
| Information to Have Ready | |
|---|---|
| Account number | |
| Phone number | |
| Account PIN |
Online Chat
To cancel online:
- Go to T-Mobile’s website and navigate to Support > Contact Us
- Click “Message us” to start a live chat
- Chat agents can assist with cancellation once verified
Pros:
- Convenient without calling
- Written record of cancellation details
Cons:
- Wait times to connect with an agent
- Must repeat cancellation request clearly
In Store
To cancel in person:
- Find your nearest T-Mobile store
- Ask to speak to a store representative
- Explain you wish to cancel service
- Provide account details for verification
- Turn in any leased devices
Pros:
- Get help face-to-face
- Immediately return devices
Cons:
- Inconvenient if far from a store
- Potential wait times
Additional Cancellation Considerations
Early Termination Fees
If you are under a service contract with T-Mobile, cancelling early may incur fees known as Early Termination Fees (ETFs).
To check if you have an ETF:
- Review your contract paperwork
- Check your online account dashboard for details
- Ask a customer service representative
ETFs can be as high as $200 per line cancelled. There may be options to get the ETF waived, such as:
- Agreeing to continue service for a set period of time
- Paying off device balances
- Moving your service to a T-Mobile prepaid plan
| ETF Cost Considerations | |
|---|---|
| Up to $200 per line | |
| Depends on time remaining on contract |
Returning Leased Devices
If you have a leased device through T-Mobile, you must return it within a certain time frame after cancelling service.
To return a device:
- Ship it back using T-Mobile’s provided return kit and shipping label
- Return it in person at a T-Mobile store
- Return within 14 days to avoid non-return fees
Failure to return a leased device can result in fees including:
- The cost to repair any damages
- Non-return fees
- Full retail cost of the device
Final Billing and Charges
After you cancel service, you will receive one final bill with any outstanding charges.
On your final bill, expect:
- Full monthly service charge
- Any fees for the full billing cycle
- Remaining device financing balance
- Early termination fees, if applicable
Review your final bill carefully and contact T-Mobile customer service regarding any disputes.
Conclusion
The key takeaways when cancelling your T-Mobile service include:
- Cancelling requires calling customer service or visiting a store
- Be aware of potential early termination fees based on your contract
- Return any leased devices to avoid non-return fees
- Review final billing charges carefully to avoid surprises
Reaching out to T-Mobile with any other cancellation questions can help ensure you fully close your account. Though switching carriers can be a headache, knowing what to expect from T-Mobile’s cancellation process can help it go more smoothly.
Resources:
- T-Mobile Cancellation Support Page
- Customer Service: 1-877-453-1304