When choosing an internet service provider, understanding the terms of your contract is essential, especially if you anticipate needing to cancel your service before the end of your agreement. For Viasat customers, the answer to the question, “Does Viasat have a termination fee?” depends on the specific plan you select. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Viasat’s termination fees, contract lengths, and how to cancel your service without unnecessary charges.
Understanding Viasat Contract Terms
Viasat offers a variety of internet plans, each with different contract lengths and terms. The presence and amount of a termination fee depend on your plan’s minimum service term:
- Month-to-Month Plans: No minimum service term; you may cancel at any time without a termination fee.
- 12-Month Minimum Service Term: If you cancel before the end of 12 months, you may be charged an early termination fee.
- 24-Month Minimum Service Term: If you cancel before the end of 24 months, you may be charged an early termination fee.
Does Viasat Have a Termination Fee?
The short answer: Sometimes. It depends on your plan.
Viasat’s most popular plans—such as Viasat Unlimited and Viasat Connection 25—require a minimum service term. If you cancel before the end of your contract, you may be charged an early termination fee. However, Viasat Unleashed and some other plans are month-to-month, meaning you can cancel at any time without penalty.
No Termination Fee: Month-to-Month Plans
Viasat Unleashed is a month-to-month plan. There is no minimum service term, and you can cancel at any time without a termination fee. This flexibility is ideal for customers who want the freedom to change providers or move without worrying about extra charges.
Key Fact: Viasat Unleashed and some other month-to-month plans have no termination fee. You can cancel anytime.
Termination Fee: Minimum Service Term Plans
If you sign up for a Viasat Unlimited plan (24-month minimum service term) or a Viasat Connection 25 plan (12-month minimum service term), you are agreeing to a contract. If you cancel before the end of your contract, you may be charged an early termination fee.
- 24-Month Plans: $15 for each remaining month of your contract. For example, if you cancel after 10 months of a 24-month contract, you would pay $15 for each of the remaining 14 months (14 × $15 = $210).
- 12-Month Plans: Early termination fees apply, but the exact amount may vary. Check your contract for details.
How to Avoid or Minimize Termination Fees
If you want to avoid termination fees, consider these tips:
- Choose a Month-to-Month Plan: Select Viasat Unleashed or another no-contract option if you want flexibility.
- Read the Fine Print: Always review your contract before signing up to understand the minimum service term and any potential fees.
- Wait Until the End of Your Contract: If you are on a 12- or 24-month plan, wait until the contract expires to cancel without penalty.
- Ask About Promotions: Sometimes, Viasat offers promotions that waive or reduce early termination fees for new customers.
Other Fees to Consider
In addition to termination fees, there are other potential charges to keep in mind when canceling Viasat service:
- Equipment Lease Fee: $15 per month for leased equipment.
- Unreturned Equipment Fee: If you do not return your Viasat equipment upon cancellation, you may be charged a fee.
- Installation Fee: A one-time standard installation fee may be charged at the time of sale.
- Non-Standard Installation: Additional charges may apply for non-standard installations.
How to Cancel Viasat Service
If you decide to cancel your Viasat service, follow these steps:
- Review Your Contract: Check your contract for the minimum service term and any potential termination fees.
- Contact Customer Service: Call Viasat customer support to request cancellation. You may need to provide your account information.
- Return Equipment: Return your Viasat equipment as instructed to avoid unreturned equipment fees[2][3].
- Confirm Cancellation: Ask for a confirmation number or email to verify that your service has been canceled.
Viasat Termination Fees: At a Glance
| Plan Type | Minimum Service Term | Termination Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Viasat Unleashed | None (month-to-month) | None |
| Viasat Unlimited | 24 months | $15 per remaining month |
| Viasat Connection 25 | 12 months | Varies (check contract) |
| Business Plans | 24 months | $15 per remaining month |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Viasat charge a termination fee?
Viasat charges a termination fee if you cancel before the end of your minimum service term on certain plans. Month-to-month plans like Viasat Unleashed have no termination fee.
How much is the Viasat termination fee?
For 24-month plans, the termination fee is $15 for each remaining month of your contract. For example, if you have 14 months left, you would pay $210.
Can I avoid Viasat termination fees?
Yes, you by choose a month-to-month plan or wait until your contract expires to cancel your service.
Are there other fees when canceling Viasat?
Yes, you may be charged for unreturned equipment, and there may be installation or non-standard installation fees.
How do I return Viasat equipment?
Viasat will provide instructions for returning equipment when you cancel your service. You must return the equipment to avoid additional fees.
Tips for Managing Your Viasat Service
- Keep Track of Your Contract End Date: Mark your calendar so you know when you can cancel without penalty.
- Read Your Monthly Statements: Check for any changes in fees or contract terms.
- Contact Customer Support: If you have questions about your contract or fees, reach out to Viasat customer service for clarification.
- Consider Your Internet Needs: If you anticipate moving or changing providers, a month-to-month plan may be the best choice.
Conclusion
Whether or not Viasat charges a termination fee depends on the specific plan you choose. Month-to-month plans like Viasat Unleashed allow you to cancel at any time without penalty, while 12- and 24-month contracts may require you to pay an early termination fee if you cancel before your contract ends. Always review your contract, return your equipment, and contact customer support if you have any questions about cancellation or fees.
