Posted on: 27 Aug 2024
In case you are disconnecting your Verizon Fios service, they would require you to return any rented equipment to avoid extra charges. This equipment may include Fios router, Fios set-top boxes, cables, and any other equipment that Verizon may have issued to you. Returning this equipment is straightforward if you follow these steps.
1. Contact Verizon
You start by contacting Verizon to report the problem through phone, live chat, email, or by physically visiting the Verizon store. Make it clear to them that you are canceling your subscription and you wish to send back the equipment. They will give you special instructions for your area and will send you the return kits as well as the shipping labels if required. You will also be given a deadline by which they should return the equipment to avoid charges.
2. Here are details of all your Fios equipment
This means picking up every piece of Verizon equipment that you own in your home. This includes:
- Fios router (sometimes it comes in the shape of a white or black box).
- Fios set-top boxes (the devices connected to your TVs)
- Fios cable boxes, if you have Fios TV service
- Cabling for various gadgets
- Cables Ethernet, coaxial
- Fios remote controls
- Any other Verizon devices such as wireless extenders
Look around – home theaters, closets, basem*nts, attics, and more. If you are not sure what must be returned, then you need to call Verizon once again to clarify. Failure to take a tiny power adapter could lead to nasty shocks.
3. Factory Reset Devices
You have to wipe off your personal information on Fios equipment like a router or set-top box before returning it, which is done by factory resetting the device. Please see Verizon’s detailed factory reset instructions for your model devices. This process clears your WiFi name, passwords, stored recordings, and settings. Devices should be in a like-new condition or state.
4. Package Equipment Securely
Electronics should remain packaged in the original boxes and cables, remote controls, chargers, etc. should be packed in their respective covers if available. In case you do not have the original packaging, it is recommended that you use a strong cardboard box and pack the equipment using bubble wrap or newspapers. It should be taped tightly and there should be no movement inside the box. It could also lead to you being billed for the costs of replacement where applicable.
5. Ship Via Provided Return Kits
To make things easier, Verizon will mail shipping kits or labels that you can stick on your boxes. Continue with the instructions provided to seal the box and fix the shipping forms. Verizon may also let you plan a free FedEx pickup from the comforts of your home.
If you are responsible for paying for the shipping, it is necessary to receive tracking numbers and deliver the package using UPS, FedEx, or USPS with signature confirmation. Keep all the receipts as evidence that some products were returned!
6. Keep Proof of Return
If your account is still open until Verizon acknowledges that you have returned the equipment and closed your account, it is recommended that you keep track of tracking numbers and other documents. This way you can argue with the company representatives about the fake claims made about unreturned equipment or the fees that come with it.
After a week or so from the time you return the equipment, dial Verizon once more to ensure that all items are noted on your account as received. Do not forget to write down the name of the representative, time, and confirmation number as well.
Additional Tips and Advice
With the above steps, returning your Verizon equipment should be easy. Keep these extra pointers in mind though for a smooth equipment return process.
- If possible, bring the equipment back to the nearest Verizon retail store for immediate logging of returned items.
- Continue to use Fios services till the date you want to return the equipment to avoid wrong billing.
- Return equipment as soon as you can in your billing cycle so that you can get a refund of the bills you have prepaid.
- Collect pictures of the factory reset screens or settings indicating that all personal data are deleted on any device that is being returned.
- Save any files on Verizon devices that you wish to transfer or backup before doing a factory reset such as DVR recordings, settings, etc. It will lead to loss of data!
- If moving, it is necessary to inform Verizon so they do not expect customers to return their equipment. It is better to simply switch Fios service to the new address instead.
- If renting a router, you can buy the exact one from Verizon to avoid returning it since it will be a different one.
It is not quite nice to cancel Verizon services when one has used them for several years as a client. With this guide outlining how to return Fios equipment correctly, you can efficiently end your account without stress or charges. Stick to the checklist above, coordinate with Verizon support reps on further actions, and you will be Fios liberated soon!
