What is Viasat's refund policy?

Viasat provides satellite Internet to both residential and business customers, and like many providers, they have a set of terms for cancellations, refunds, and equipment returns. Navigating these rules can be confusing, so this guide thoroughly explains how Viasat handles refunds, prorated billing, early termination fees, equipment charges, and when customers can expect repayment.

1. Cancellation and Refund Eligibility

Viasat customers may cancel service at any time. Refund eligibility depends on several factors:

• Contract type: Month-to-month versus long-term agreement.
• Equipment return: Returning leased hardware within the specified window.
• Billing cycle timing: Whether the cancellation occurs mid-cycle.

Current terms allow cancellation via phone or chat only—online cancellation isn't available. Upon cancellation, your account stops billing, and the next statement reflects any outstanding balance or credits.

2. Prorated Service Charges

If you cancel partway through a billing cycle, Viasat does not typically prorate the remaining days. You’ll be charged for the full month of service, regardless of termination date. Refunds might only be issued for pre-paid fees in rare circumstances or as required by state law.

3. Early Termination Fees (ETF)

For 12- or 24-month contracts, canceling before the end of the term triggers an ETF:

• ETF Amount: $15 per remaining month.
• No-contract Option: If you paid an upfront no-contract fee, you can cancel without paying ETF afterward.

For example, canceling a 24-month plan after 14 months incurs a 10-month ETF—$150.

4. Equipment Return Requirements

Viasat leases all customer hardware, which must be returned promptly:

• Leased modem, power cord, and TRIA (satellite dish component).
• A prepaid equipment return kit is shipped via UPS after cancellation.
• You must ship all components within 30 calendar days.

Failure to return equipment in time results in charges:

• $50–$150 for the modem
• $150–$250 for the TRIA
• Total charges can exceed $300 if all pieces are missing

Once the hardware is returned—even after 30 days—you may receive a refund of those charges.

5. Refund Processing

After cancellation and equipment return:

• Viasat reviews your final bill
• Any credit balance is processed as a refund
• Refunds are issued to your original payment method within 2–4 weeks
• Charges remain if early termination fees or prorated charges apply

6. Special Circumstances: Natural Disasters & Moves

If your primary residence is affected by disaster (flood, fire, tornado):

• You may be allowed to suspend or terminate service without ETF
• Check with Viasat Care for documentation requirements

When relocating:

• You can transfer service to a new address
• Relocation fees may apply ($95 or waived with protection plans)

7. No-Contract Option

Viasat offers a No-Long-Term-Contract option for residential users at signup:

• A one-time $300 (or $500) upfront fee
• Cancelling anytime after the first month avoids ETFs

8. Business vs Residential Refund Differences

Business customers:

• Subject to equivalent ETF terms and leased equipment rules
• May pay a $300 installation fee plus relocation or access fees
• Static IP line cancellations may include monthly ETFs per line

All-tier customers share the same 30-day equipment return rule.

9. Common Scenarios and Examples

a) Cancel Mid-Month, During Long-Term Contract

Customer cancels with 6 months remaining:

• Services cease immediately
• $90 ETF ($15 × 6)
• Equipment returned ? cancel charges reversed
• No prorated refund for unused cycle

b) Cancel with No-contract Option

User paid the no-contract fee; cancels after 14 months:

• No ETF applied
• Must still return equipment or face charges
• Possible credit if they’ve overpaid

c) Disaster Relief Scenario

Home is destroyed in a storm:

• Call Viasat to explain the situation
• Confirmed documentation allows ETF waiver
• Return equipment when feasible
• Credit or refund issued for unused charges

10. Tips to Avoid Unexpected Charges

• Return equipment on time: Keep UPS tracking as proof
• Schedule cancellations carefully: Early-cycle cancel avoids next-month fee
• Ask about no-contract option: For flexible cancellation
• Document disaster claims: Apply for ETF waivers
• Confirm final bill details: Review for undercover charges

Conclusion

Viasat’s refund policy is structured to balance customer flexibility with contract terms. To receive refunds:

• Return leased equipment within 30 days.
• Understand early termination fees based on your contract type.
• No prorated service refunds—expect full-month charges.
• Be aware of charges for missing or damaged gear.
• Disaster or no-contract options may waive fees.

Staying informed and proactive helps customers avoid surprises and receive any eligible refund after cancellation.