Quick Summary #
- Recommended contact method: 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
Alternatives Before Canceling #
Pause Service #
DISH allows pausing service for up to 6 months at $5/month, suitable for travel or seasonal use.
Reduce Your Bill #
Options include removing premium channels, downgrading packages, eliminating extra receivers, or negotiating retention discounts.
Transfer Service #
Moving customers can transfer service to new addresses often with free installation and equipment upgrades.
Cancellation Methods #
Phone (Recommended) #
- Number: 866-974-0769
- Hours: 8 AM to midnight ET, daily
- Preparation: Have account number ready; expect retention offers
Email #
Send cancellation request to the provided email address with account number, full name, contact information, and desired cancellation date.
Mail #
Send written notice to DISH’s Littleton, Colorado customer service center with account details and clear cancellation request.
Online Dashboard #
Cancel certain add-on subscriptions through the account dashboard under “My Subscriptions.”
Fees and Charges #
Early Termination Fee #
$20 for each month remaining on a 2-year contract. Examples: 6 months remaining = $120; 12 months = $240.
Equipment Return Fees (If Not Returned) #
Charges range from $25 for Wireless Joey to $349-$350 for Hopper 3 models if equipment isn’t returned within 30 days.
Equipment Return Process #
- DISH sends prepaid shipping labels and boxes ($15 per box)
- Pack all components carefully
- Ship within 30 days using provided labels
- Keep tracking information
- Verify DISH receipt to avoid disputes
Pro tip: Take photos of equipment and retain shipping receipts.
Common Issues and Solutions #
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Retention pressure | Politely but firmly state you need to cancel today |
| High fees | Calculate if paying monthly until contract end costs less |
| Equipment disputes | Use tracking with signature confirmation; document everything |
After Cancellation #
Final bills typically include prorated charges, early termination fees, equipment return shipping costs, and equipment return credits if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions #
Q: Can I cancel anytime? A: Yes, though early termination fees apply if under contract.
Q: Do I get refunds for prepaid services? A: Yes, DISH typically provides prorated refunds for unused services.
Q: Can I keep equipment? A: Only by paying unreturned equipment fees.
Additional Support #
If experiencing issues, escalate to a supervisor, contact your state’s Public Utilities Commission, file a Better Business Bureau complaint, or seek consumer protection agency assistance.
Guide last updated June 2025; verify current terms with DISH Network directly.