Canceling your cable can be stress-free, or it can be a struggle, depending upon which rep you speak with. Some reps will quickly and politely cancel your service; while others will be irritatingly persistent in offering anything possible to change your mind. Here are a few things to look out for when dealing with reps who won’t stop doing everything they can to keep your business:
1) Be careful of the rates they quote you on the phone
Often, when you call to cancel your current plan, they will quote you a rate that makes the internet–only plan seem like a bad deal. Make sure you ask a few key questions: “How long is the required contract for at this rate? What is the length of time that rate is valid in the new contract?” Often, you will find these special rates are only good for a few months out of a 2 year contract. No one wants that unwelcome surprise!
2) Ask about the fees and taxes for the promotional deal
When quoting you promotional plan rates, reps most likely will leave out those tricky little fees and taxes that pad your bill. Make sure you get them to break down all the charges; find out what your actual final bill will be. You may find the fees and taxes are a lot higher with a package, than compared to an internet–only plan. No one wants to be on the receiving end of an outrageous bill that is full of unknown fees and taxes. If you don’t ask these questions, you may be kicking yourself for locking into a contract that is significantly higher than you anticipated.
3) Don’t believe them when they say, “This deal is only good for today, and won’t be available tomorrow.”
This is a common tactic used in all kinds of sales, from cars to cable bills, to push you into a hurried decision. Is it possible that they really won’t be able to give you that great deal tomorrow? Yes, but there will be a new promotion, similar to the current promotion, that they can offer. Some reps are annoyingly persistent in offering you new deals, or services, in order keep you as a customer.
4) Get it in writing!
If it is not in writing, it won’t happen. When they offer you a great deal, have them send it to you in writing before you agree to it. If they won’t send you the deal in writing, don’t agree to it on the phone, as there may be a hidden clause or fee that will raise the cost of your new plan! Once you agree to that 2 year contract, they have no reason to let you out of it without charging you a fine.
These are the basics you need to know before you call to cancel your cable service. Just remember, when they are done closing your account ask them to remove your name from their mailing list. That, and make sure to return your equipment in a timely manner, or you will receive an unwelcome and expensive bill for the cable equipment.
If you need help getting your name off their mailing list, check out our quick guide on, “Removing your name from mailing lists.”
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