How to cancel Optimum internet
Optimum only cancels by phone, and its chat won't close your account. Here's what to say, what to return and when pausing makes more sense.
Call Optimum's existing-customer line at 844-514-2859 (24/7). You can't cancel online or by chat. Optimum has no contracts, so there is no cancellation fee, but you pay the current bill and service runs to the end of the billing period. Return the modem and router, or Optimum charges for them. If you're away for a while, you can pause service for up to six months instead.
What cancelling costs
How to cancel
- Set up your new service first. See what reaches your address.
- Have your account number and security PIN ready. Agents won't discuss the account without the PIN.
- Call 844-514-2859 (open 24/7) and say "cancel service". You can also go to an Optimum store.
- Set the end date before your next billing period starts, and get a confirmation number.
Return the equipment
Return the modem, router and any TV boxes at an Optimum store or by the shipping method you're given. Keep the receipt or tracking number for at least 90 days.
Want to stay but pay less?
Ask the retention agent for the current new-customer price before you agree to cancel. See how to negotiate your internet bill, and Optimum plans for existing customers.
Switching instead?
Compare T-Mobile 5G Home, Verizon 5G Home and the cheapest 5G home internet. They are no-contract and self-install, so you can test one before you cancel.
Questions
How do I cancel Optimum?
Call Optimum at 844-514-2859, its 24/7 line for existing customers, and say "cancel service". Chat can't close the account.
Does Optimum charge a cancellation fee?
No. Optimum has no contracts, but you pay the current bill.
What if I don't return Optimum equipment?
Optimum charges for each unreturned device, such as the modem and router.
Can I pause Optimum instead of cancelling?
Yes, for up to six months. Ask customer service.
- Optimum Contact Us page (existing customers: 844-514-2859, 24/7), checked Oct 15, 2026
- Optimum cancellation policies as reported by Allconnect, Oct 2026
Phone numbers and policies change; the number on your bill is always current. How we research
Jean founded ShopHighSpeed after trying to find one straight answer about business internet in his own town. He has been a Comcast and Verizon Fios customer, and ranks providers on what they actually deliver, not on what they advertise.