Internet Providers That Make It Easy to Switch

• Several major providers offer contract buyouts to incentivize you to switch by paying fees imposed by your previous ISP.
• Many ISPs offer promotions for new customers that you can take advantage of when switching but offers change periodically.
• Common fees when switching internet providers include early termination and equipment fees.

Switching providers can be simple if you know what steps to take. Sure, it can feel frustrating dealing with cancellation fees, equipment returns and early termination fees (ETFs), but most providers make the process easier. And some even offer incentives for customers switching to their services. If you’re looking for a hassle-free switch, check out some of the internet providers that take the stress out of switching.

Overview of Switching Internet Providers

1. Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Internet Providers
2. The Benefits of Switching Internet Providers
3. The Cost of Switching Internet Providers
4. ISPs That Make Switching Easy

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Internet Providers

Are you looking for a straightforward guide to changing your internet provider? Follow these steps to switch today and start your service with a new ISP:

1. Check your current contract. Note your end date, early-termination fees (ETFs), equipment return rules and any promo repayment requirements. Cross-reference these details with FCC cancellation requirements.
2. Confirm availability at your address. Use the new ISP’s address lookup and note the earliest install dates.
3. Define needs and budget. Target speeds, data caps, TV/phone bundles and monthly max prices for your preferred plan. Grab a recent bill to compare services.
4. Compare offers and incentives. Look for ETF buyouts, free installs, price-locks and autopay/paperless billing requirements.
5. Pick equipment. Decide if you will rent or buy a modem and router. Plan out your mesh Wi-Fi needs if you have a larger household.
6. Schedule installation/activation. Aim for 1-3 days of overlap to avoid downtime and choose a morning window, if possible.
7. Install and configure Wi-Fi. Self-install your internet or have a tech handle it for you. Then, get your Wi-Fi logins and security features set up.
8. Test performance. Run wired and Wi-Fi speed tests, check latency and verify coverage throughout the house.
9. Cancel old service. After the new line is stable, cancel your service and return the equipment promptly. Make sure to keep the return receipt in case they ever ask about the equipment or try to charge you a non-return equipment fee..
10. Audit the first two bills. Verify promo pricing and fees with your new provider and submit ETF reimbursement with your final old-ISP bill, if offered. If you’re on a promo, set up a reminder to avoid surprises on future bills.

The Benefits of Switching Internet Providers

Whether you’re moving or unhappy with your current provider, it can be frustrating to switch internet providers. You’ll be happy to know that some of these experiences can actually be a blessing in disguise. While there are some fees you may need to pay before switching, there are benefits that could offset those costs.

• You could snag a speed upgrade for a good deal. If a different provider can offer you the same (or faster) speeds for the same price as your current bill, it may be worth taking the jump. These kinds of deals may not always be available, so it’s worth scoping them out early.
• You could get better perks elsewhere. Switching internet providers opens up the opportunity to snag some savings through special promotions like bundle discounts and free service add-ons. You may even get additional benefits like better customer service.

The Cost of Switching Providers

Switching to a different provider comes at a price, in most cases. Specific fees depend on the internet service provider (ISP) and your contract terms, but common fees include:

• Early Termination Fees (ETFs): ETFs are what you pay when you break your service contract before the end date. As a result, the fees tend to sneak up on you. Some providers have started to combat the issue by offering service on a month-to-month basis, with no service contract needed and no ETFs.
• Non-Return Equipment Fees: Renting a modem and router from ISPs is common, and providers want their equipment back after you terminate your service. It’s up to you to return it to them. If you don’t return the equipment in a timely fashion, the ISP may charge you a late or non-return equipment fee.

Looking for a provider who will cover ETFs? Below is a list of nationwide providers that offer this benefit to get your business, whether you’re moving, switching due to poor service or switching to lower your monthly internet costs. How much each provider covers varies, with some providers imposing a maximum limit.

• AT&T
• Optimum
• Spectrum
• T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
• Verizon Fios

ISPs That Make Switching Easy

A popular strategy to attract new customers is contract buyouts, which is a win-win for you and your ISP. There are a few other ways that ISPs make switching a breeze. Let’s take a look at some of the major providers that are the easiest to switch to.

AT&T Fiber

Known for its lightning-fast fiber speeds, AT&T Fiber offers download speeds up to 5 Gbps, which is incentive enough to switch providers if it’s available. AT&T Fiber does offer reimbursement for cancellation fees from your previous provider, including ETFs. However, if you had bundled services with your previous provider, those fees aren’t covered and the provider doesn’t specify a limit to how much in fees they reimburse for. To sweeten the deal, certain fiber plans come with Visa reward cards. If internet-protocol broadband or fixed wireless connections better fit your needs, AT&T Internet has plans with no required contracts.

Spectrum Internet®

Spectrum Internet® is a cable internet provider that makes switching as painless as possible. As an incentive, Spectrum offers new customers up to $500 to pay ETFs from their previous internet contract. The best part? As a new Spectrum customer, you don’t even need to sign a contract when you sign up for internet service, meaning you can switch to other providers at any point without fear of getting hit with ETFs.

Verizon Fios

With ultra-fast fiber-optic internet plans delivering download speeds up to 2 Gbps, it makes sense that Verizon Fios would offer new customers up to $500 in bill credit to help cover ETFs from their previous provider. Be careful if you’re switching from Verizon Fios, though — the company may charge up to $350 in ETF if you cancel your contract. Also, expect an equipment fee tacked on to your bill if you don’t use your own modem and router.

T-Mobile 5G Home Internet

Similar to Spectrum and Verizon, T-Mobile 5G Home Internet will cover up to $750 for termination fees when you switch providers. T-Mobile 5G Home Internet also doesn’t require contracts with its plans, eliminating ETFs for its customers should they switch away from T-Mobile. The cherry on top is its affordability, since T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet plans start at $50 per month (with AutoPay).

Xfinity

Xfinity offers a plethora of cable internet services, from download speeds up to 2 Gbps to home phone and cable TV service. Unfortunately, those services don’t include reimbursement for ETFs. That said, Xfinity customers can at least relax knowing they won’t be saddled with fees when they switch since Xfinity internet plans don’t require a service contract.

Google Fiber

Customers looking to switch to Google Fiber can expect several perks. Besides offering contract-free plans (and therefore no ETFs), Google Fiber provides unlimited data and doesn’t charge for equipment or installation. With download speeds up to 8 Gbps, this is an incredible offer worth considering — provided it’s available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Switching Internet Providers

Which ISP has the best easy-to-switch policy?

The ISP with the best easy-to-switch policy varies on a case-by-case basis. Customers switching from a contracted plan might enjoy Spectrum, Verizon Fios, or T-Mobile 5G Internet since they all offer up to $500 to cover ETFs. AT&T Fiber also has a contract buyout policy but doesn’t state how much they’re willing to cover in canceled fees from your previous provider.

Are contract-free providers better than providers with contracts?

Both types have their benefits and drawbacks. Contracted plans have a fixed-price guarantee within a specific timeframe, but you’re locked into that contract and won’t be able to switch providers unless you’re willing to pay the ETF. Contract-free plans are paid monthly and you’ll be able to switch providers free of charge. However, in some cases, you might miss out on perks available only for contract plans.

What are other ways that ISPs can encourage new customers to switch to their services?

The most popular method of encouraging customers to switch is to cover the costs of ETFs. However, ISPs can create promotions or deals that specifically cater to customers looking to switch. Providers like AT&T Fiber and Optimum by Altice, for example, offer Visa gift cards for customers who switch to their services.

Can I change internet provider whenever I want?

You can change your internet provider whenever you want, but you may have to pay a fee. If your ISP doesn’t require contracts or you signed up for a no-contract plan, you can switch without being charged. However, if you are locked into a contract with your ISP and you want to switch before your contract is up, you’ll be subject to early termination fees (ETFs).

Do you lose internet when switching providers?

When switching internet providers, you may find yourself without service in the interim if you don’t plan properly. If you work from home or simply don’t want to go without internet, plan out a schedule carefully. Don’t terminate your current internet before your new provider has been set up. You can schedule a final date for your current internet to avoid a break in service.

How do I switch internet providers mid-contract?

You can switch ISPs mid-contract, but you’ll need to check your current provider’s terms. Most contracts include early termination fees (ETFs), though some new providers offer to cover part or all of that cost to earn your business. Confirm any fees or equipment return requirements with your current ISP before making the switch.

How long does it take to change internet providers?

The timeline for switching internet providers can range from a couple of days to a few weeks. If the new provider uses existing wiring, installation and activation can often happen within a few days. If new equipment or line installation is needed, the process may take longer.