Looking to cancel your DISH Network subscription? Whether you’re switching providers, cutting costs, or moving to streaming services, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about canceling DISH Network, including current fees, equipment return requirements, and alternative options.
Quick Summary
Best for most people: Call 866-974-0769 (8 AM – midnight, 7 days/week)
Early termination fee: $20 per month remaining on contract
Equipment return deadline: 30 days from cancellation
Shipping cost: $15 per return box
Before You Cancel: Consider These Alternatives
DISH Network offers several alternatives that might solve your problem without full cancellation:
Pause Your Service
Need a temporary break? DISH allows you to pause your service for up to 6 months for just $5 per month. This is perfect for extended travel, temporary financial difficulties, or seasonal homes. Call 866-974-0769 to set this up.
Reduce Your Bill
Contact customer service to discuss:
- Removing premium channels you don’t use (HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ)
- Downgrading your package
- Removing extra receivers
- Negotiating retention discounts
Transfer Your Service
Moving? DISH offers free service transfers to your new address, often with special deals including free installation and equipment upgrades.
How to Cancel Your DISH Network Account
If none of the alternatives work for you, here are all the ways to cancel your DISH Network service:
Method 1: Cancel by Phone (Recommended)
Phone: 866-974-0769
Hours: 8 AM to midnight ET, 7 days a week
Before you call:
- Log into your account and have your account number ready (found on your bill or in “My Account Summary”)
- Prepare for retention offers—representatives will try to keep you with discounts or alternative plans
- Be polite but firm if you’ve decided to cancel
What to expect:
- Account verification using your account number or phone number
- Retention offers (you can decline these)
- Explanation of any fees and equipment return process
- Final bill information
Method 2: Cancel by Email
Send an email to: [email protected]
Include in your email:
- Your full name
- DISH Network account number
- Contact information (phone number and email)
- Reason for cancellation
- Requested cancellation date
Method 3: Cancel by Mail
Send a written cancellation notice to:
DISH Network L.L.C.
Customer Service Center
P.O. Box 9033
Littleton, CO 80160-9033Include in your letter:
- Account number
- Full name and contact information
- Clear cancellation request
- Signature and date
Method 4: Cancel via Online Dashboard
For certain subscription add-ons:
- Log into your DISH dashboard
- Go to “My Establishments”
- Select “My Subscriptions”
- Click “Cancel subscriptions”
- Follow the confirmation prompts
Understanding DISH Network Cancellation Fees
Early Termination Fee
If you’re still under contract, you’ll pay $20 for each month remaining on your 2-year agreement.
Examples:
- 6 months remaining = $120 fee
- 12 months remaining = $240 fee
- No fee if you cancel after your contract expires
Equipment Return Requirements
You must return all leased equipment within 30 days of cancellation, including:
- Receivers (Hopper, Joey models)
- Smart cards
- Remotes
- LNBF (satellite dish components)
Shipping costs: DISH charges $15 per shipping box required to return equipment.
Equipment Return Fees (If Not Returned)
If you don’t return equipment within 30 days, you’ll be charged these fees:
| Equipment Type | Unreturned Equipment Fee |
|---|---|
| LNBF (Low Noise Block Feedhorn) | $49 |
| Smart Card | $50 |
| Wally | $50 |
| Wireless Joey | $25 |
| Wired Joey | $50 |
| 4K Joey | $50 |
| Super Joey | $100 |
| Joey (other models) | $99-$100 |
| HD Solo Non-DVR, HD Duo Non-DVR | $99 |
| HD Solo DVR, HD Duo DVR | $199 |
| Hopper Duo | $150 |
| Hopper with Sling | $249-$300 |
| Hopper 3 | $349-$350 |
| Satellite modem | $99-$150 |
Important: Keep all tracking information when returning equipment. If you return equipment after being charged, DISH will refund the unreturned equipment fees.
Equipment Return Process
- DISH provides return materials: After cancellation, DISH will send you prepaid shipping labels and boxes (charged at $15 per box)
- Pack equipment carefully: Include all components that came with each device
- Ship within 30 days: Use the provided labels and boxes
- Keep tracking information: Save all tracking numbers and delivery confirmations
- Verify receipt: Check that DISH received your equipment to avoid disputes
Pro tip: Take photos of equipment before packing and keep receipts from shipping to protect yourself from false claims.
Common Cancellation Problems and Solutions
Getting Past Customer Retention
Problem: Representatives keep offering deals instead of canceling
Solution: Be polite but firm. Say “I appreciate the offers, but I need to cancel my service today” and repeat as needed.
High Cancellation Fees
Problem: Unexpected or high fees
Solution:
- Do the math: sometimes paying monthly until contract ends costs less than early termination
- Ask about hardship programs if you’re experiencing financial difficulties
- Consider negotiating with customer service
Equipment Return Disputes
Problem: Being charged for equipment you returned
Solution:
- Always use tracking and require signature confirmation
- Take photos of equipment before shipping
- Keep all documentation until charges are resolved
Tips for a Smooth Cancellation
- Read your contract to understand your specific terms and remaining commitment
- Calculate costs to determine if early termination or paying out the contract is cheaper
- Document everything including call dates, representative names, and reference numbers
- Return equipment promptly with tracking to avoid additional fees
- Monitor your final bill to ensure all charges are correct
After Cancellation
Final Bill
Your final bill will include:
- Prorated charges for partial month of service
- Any early termination fees
- Equipment return shipping charges
- Credits for returned equipment (if applicable)
Account Closure
Keep your final bill and confirmation of account closure for your records. If you plan to return to DISH in the future, having this documentation can be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cancel anytime?
A: Yes, but you may face early termination fees if you’re under contract.
Q: Will I get a refund for prepaid services?
A: Yes, DISH typically provides prorated refunds for any prepaid services beyond your cancellation date.
Q: Can I keep my equipment?
A: Only if you pay the unreturned equipment fees, which effectively means you’re purchasing the equipment.
Q: What if I’m moving?
A: Consider DISH’s free moving service instead of canceling, which often includes free installation and upgrades.
Need Help?
If you’re having trouble with the cancellation process or have been charged incorrectly, consider:
- Escalating to a supervisor or manager
- Filing a complaint with your state’s Public Utilities Commission
- Contacting the Better Business Bureau
- Seeking help from consumer protection agencies
This guide was last updated in June 2025. Policies and fees may change. Always verify current terms with DISH Network directly.