How to cancel Optus plan

If you are looking to cancel your Optus plan, there are a few actions you need to follow to guarantee a seamless transaction. Whether your reason for moving providers is cost-cutting, no longer requiring the service, or something else, this guide will help you through the process. In this article you will learn how to cancel Optus plan easily and enable you to avoid unexpected chats.

How to cancel Optus plan

1. Understand Your Contract Terms

Read your contract to be aware of any fees or obligations before you cancel. Postpaid Optus contracts in particular could include:

  • Minimum total cost (MTC): Some contracts, especially those containing pending device payments or other fees, specify a minimum total cost.
  • Early termination fees (ETFs): Should you prematurely call off a fixed-term plan, early termination costs could be due. Review these in the Critical Information Summary (CIS) to steer clear of surprises.

2. Contact Optus customer services

You can reach Optus in several ways:

Customer support call: Usually the easiest approach to reach them is Optus. Get ready with your account details; expect some waiting times.

Online Chat: Optus’s website includes a live chat option, which may appeal to those who prefer online communication

My Optus App: Use Optus App to communicate directly with customer service.

In person at an Optus store: In person visits to an Optus shop let you get face-to-face help and usually speeds up correspondence.

During your interaction with Optus, make sure that:

  • Provide your account information (number, account number and address).
  • Clearly mention that you want to cancel your plan.
  • Ask about any cancellation fee (if applicable).
  • Confirm if you’re eligible for any prorated refunds or charges after your billing cycle ends.

It’s always a good idea to have a reference number for your cancellation request in case you need to follow up later.

3. Understand the cancellation fees and charges

If you have a contract plan you may be charged an early termination fee (ETF). The ETF is designed to pay the cost of providing you with a subsidized device or service itself.

Here are the potential charges you may face:

  • Early termination fee (ETE): The fee is calculated depending on the number of months remaining on your contract or term of agreement. It could be a fixed amount or prorated, depending on your plan.
  • Device repayment: If you are paying off a device as part of your plan, you have to pay the remaining balance of your device cost, if you cancel before the end of the term.
  • Outstanding bills: Ensure all your bills are up to date to avoid additional charges.

If you are on a month-to-month prepaid plan, cancellation is normally free; however keep in mind that you may not receive a refund for the unsend section of the payment cycle.

4. Return your Optus plan (if applicable)

If you received the device as part of your optus plan, you may need to return it to avoid additional charges.

This applies if:

  • You are canceling a contract plan that includes a phone number or device.
  • You are returning a device that hasn’t been fully paid off.

Optus provides instructions for returning the item, including packing and shipping details. Make sure to return the device within the specified time range, as failure to do so can result in additional charges.

5. Get confirmation of cancellation

After you have requested cancellation, Optus will usually give you a confirmation SMS or email to confirm that your cancellation has been processed. Keep this confirmation for your record in case there are any issues in future.

It’s essential to check that;

  • The cancellation date matches your expectation.
  • There are no remaining balances or fees.
  • Your device return (if applicable) is acknowledged.

If you do not receive confirmation, contact Optus customer support to ensure your cancellation was processed.

6. Check for remaining refunds or credits

Once your cancellation is complete, you should check whether you are eligible for a refund for any unused services or credits. Optus may issue a prorated refund if you have already paid for the next  billing cycle but canceled mid cycle.

  • Mobile plan: You may receive a partial refund for unused data or service days.
  • Internet plan: If you have prepaid internet services, optus may issue a refund for unused portions.

It is also a good idea to check your final bills to make sure no additional charges were added after the cancellation.

7. Consider Alternative Providers

If you’re canceling your Optus plan due to dissatisfaction with the service or because you’re moving to a new location, make sure you research alternative providers to find the best deal for your needs.

There are many mobile and internet service providers in Australia, such as Telstra, Vodafone, TPG, and others, which offer competitive plans and prices. Before you switch, make sure to compare coverage, pricing, data allowances, and other features.

Conclusion

Canceling an Optus plan is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to be aware of potential charges and requirements, especially if you’re on a contract or have a device to return. By reviewing your contract, clearing any outstanding payments, and following the proper cancellation procedures, you can ensure that the process goes smoothly.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the cancellation or need assistance with a specific issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to Optus customer service. Keeping a record of your interactions, confirmation, and final billing will also protect you from any unexpected problems.