Yes, you absolutely can cancel your Xfinity cable TV service while retaining your Xfinity Internet service. This is a common practice, often referred to as "cord-cutting," allowing customers to save money and customize their entertainment options.
Understanding Xfinity Service Separation
Xfinity's service infrastructure is designed to allow for the separation of its various offerings. This means you can discontinue one service, like cable TV, without affecting another, such as your internet connection. For instance, if you opt to cancel an Xfinity TV service like Xfinity Instant TV through their online process, your internet service will explicitly remain active, ensuring you maintain connectivity while discontinuing your TV access. This flexibility empowers customers to tailor their services to their specific needs and budget.
Steps to Cancel Xfinity Cable (and Keep Internet)
The process for canceling only your Xfinity cable TV service is straightforward, but requires direct communication with Xfinity.
1. Contact Xfinity Customer Service
The most effective way to modify your services is to speak directly with an Xfinity representative.
- Phone: Call Xfinity customer support. This is often the most direct method for service changes.
- Online Chat: Use the chat feature on the Xfinity website or through the My Xfinity app.
- In-Person: Visit an Xfinity Store if one is conveniently located near you.
When you connect with a representative, clearly state that you wish to cancel your Xfinity cable TV service but specifically want to keep your Xfinity Internet service active.
2. Prepare for the Conversation
Before contacting them, gather some essential information and be prepared for potential scenarios:
- Account Information: Have your account number and personal identification ready.
- Current Bill: Review your current bill to understand your existing bundled services and their costs.
- Be Prepared for Offers: Xfinity retention specialists might offer discounted bundles or incentives to keep your TV service. Politely decline if you're firm on cutting the cord, or consider if their offer genuinely meets your needs.
3. Verify Changes and Return Equipment
Once you've spoken with a representative:
- Confirm New Plan: Ensure the representative confirms your new internet-only plan, its new monthly rate, and the effective date of the TV service cancellation.
- Equipment Return: Discuss the process for returning your Xfinity cable TV boxes, remotes, and any other associated equipment. You may be required to drop them off at an Xfinity Store or a designated shipping carrier location. Failing to return equipment can result in charges.
Key Considerations When Unbundling
While canceling cable TV can lead to savings, there are a few important points to consider:
Impact on Pricing
Bundling services (like TV and Internet) often comes with a discounted rate. When you unbundle:
- Internet-Only Cost: Your internet-only plan might appear more expensive than the internet portion of your previous bundle. However, your total monthly bill will likely be significantly lower than what you paid for the full bundle.
| Service Type | Typical Pricing Strategy | Overall Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Xfinity Bundle (TV + Internet) | Discounted rate for combining services | Higher |
| Xfinity Internet-Only | Standard internet-only rate (might be higher than the internet component of a bundle) | Lower (compared to bundle) |
Contractual Obligations
Check your current Xfinity contract. If you're still under a promotional agreement for your TV service, you might incur an Early Termination Fee (ETF) by canceling before the contract expires. Be sure to ask the Xfinity representative about any potential fees.
Equipment Returns
Make sure to follow Xfinity's instructions precisely for returning cable TV equipment. Keep proof of return (e.g., tracking numbers, receipts) for your records to avoid any unreturned equipment fees.
Benefits of an Internet-Only Plan
Opting for an Xfinity Internet-only plan offers several advantages:
- Significant Cost Savings: Eliminate the monthly cost of cable TV channels you don't watch.
- Customized Entertainment: Use your internet connection to stream content from services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, YouTube TV, and more, allowing you to pay only for the content you truly want.
- Flexibility: No long-term contracts are often required for internet-only plans, giving you more freedom to adjust your service as needed.
- Reduced Clutter: Fewer cables and TV boxes in your home.
By strategically canceling your Xfinity cable TV service and retaining your internet, you can create a more personalized and cost-effective home entertainment setup.
