What to do before you cancel BT Broadband
When cancelling BT broadband, you should always check the status of your current contract and find out whether you're still in your minimum agreement term. This will make a big difference when it comes to your options.
Check your contract
The standard length of a BT contract is now 24 months. But during the duration of your broadband package, you may even have extended your broadband contract length.
If you aren't sure, your BT contract end date should be listed on your online bill, under each product or service.
If you’re still within the contract but would like to leave BT, you’re likely to have to pay an early termination charge. These can wind up being pretty pricy, so we always recommend waiting until the end of your contract if you're able.
Find a new broadband deal
Unless you’re cancelling because you no longer need a broadband service, it pays to get organised and arrange your new broadband service. Offers change all the time. Although very popular with customers, BT rarely ranks as being the most affordable, and it also raises its prices every Spring. This means, at the end of your contract, you could be paying over the odds. You should find it easier to reset your spend with a more affordable deal.
The easiest way to do that is right here on Broadband Genie. To get started, enter your address and find out what’s available in your area:
Ready to buy? Here are some of the top deals available right now:
How to cancel BT Broadband
If you’re out of contract: cancelling BT for free
Switching between providers is easy. Thanks to a new process called 'One-Touch Switch' in most cases, your new provider will handle the process for you and it's simply a case of clicking the 'Get deal' button and following the checkout instructions.
If you’re cancelling and not switching, you’ll need to call BT on 0800 783 1401.
You can find more contact information on our BT contact numbers and complaints page.
Cancelling BT if you’re still in contract
The cancellation procedure for those still in a BT contract is the same, but be aware you may have to pay an early termination fee.
BT broadband early cancellation fees
BT charges a fee for each month remaining on your contract at the time of cancellation. This is minus VAT, any cost savings, and an additional 1% if it gets your final payment early. It also takes into account any discounts you have with the package.
Cancelling BT broadband when moving home
If you cancel your BT broadband before your contract term is over, you'll be charged an early cancellation fee.
If you're moving, it's likely you'll be able to take your BT Broadband package along with you. As it uses (and owns) the BT Openreach, coverage across the UK is good.
But, if you're signed up to one of its full fibre products, you may be forced to downgrade. You'll need to check the availability of BT broadband packages at your new address.
For a full rundown of your options, visit our guide to 'BT Broadband and moving home'.
Cancelling BT broadband in the event of death
BT has a dedicated bereavement support team who you can call on 0800 169 1663 seven days a week. To find more information on this topic and BT's 'Here For You' policy, head to our guide on cancelling broadband due to bereavement or terminal illness.
Frequently asked questions about cancelling BT
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What's BT Broadband’s notification period?
BT requires a minimum period of 30 days’ notice for cancellations. You’ll be charged for the remaining days if you have to cancel with short notice.
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Do I need to return my BT Hub Wi-Fi router?
You’ll need to return the BT Wi-Fi router within 60 days of leaving, or you'll be charged between £43 and £50. On top of that, if you’ve got TNT Sports or Entertainment with your broadband package, you’ll also have to return your TV box. Failure to return these devices could cost between £60 and £115, on top of any other charges.
BT should supply packaging to send back the equipment. If not, you can also drop it off at a BT or EE high street store.
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Can I keep my phone number?
You'll be able to keep your phone number when you cancel. Just be sure to tell your new provider you want to keep it when you sign up.
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Can I cancel for free if my BT broadband is too slow?
BT is signed up to the Ofcom broadband speed code of practice.
This means you may be able to end your contract early if your broadband connection is slower than the estimate provided when you signed up. You’ll need to ask BT to investigate the issue first, but if they’re unable to resolve the problem, you can be released from the deal without penalty.
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Can I keep my btinternet, btopenworld or talk21 email address when I leave BT Broadband?
Yes, you will be able to keep your email, although if you don't want to pay, this will be stripped back to a basic email service. Signing up to a BT Premium email to keep the same features you have now will cost you £7.50 per month. For more information, read our guide: "Can I keep my email address if I change broadband provider?"
Expert Summary
The procedure for cancelling BT broadband is simple.
Make sure you call up or log in to the online portal to check how long your contract is to start with. If you’re out of contract, then you’ll be able to leave for free with no problem.
All you'll need to do is use our deals checker to find out what deals are available in your area and select one.
It's now quicker and easier than ever to switch broadband providers thanks to a new process called 'One-Touch Switch'. All of the big names, including BT, Sky, TalkTalk and Vodafone, plus many smaller providers have this set up. Your old service won't end until your new service is up and running, and this could take as little as one day if you're out of contract.
However, if you’re cancelling as you no longer need broadband, you’ll have to contact BT and let customer services you're leaving. If you're still under contract, ask for a full calculation of any early termination fees you might have to pay.