How to cancel AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or any wireless carrier — including dealing with early termination fees and device payment plans. This guide applies specifically to YouTube Premium ($13.99/mo) subscribers in Chicago, Illinois. Illinois's Automatic Contract Renewal Act protects you.
Illinois's Automatic Contract Renewal Act (815 ILCS 601) gives Chicago residents specific protections when dealing with YouTube Premium:
Penalties: Renewal is void if notice requirements not met
Applied to YouTube Premium (YouTube website or app) for Chicago residents
Check your contract for ETF and device balance
Log into your carrier account and look for: remaining device installment balance, early termination fee (ETF) if applicable, and contract end date. These are the main costs of switching.
Time your cancellation to minimize fees
Wait until after your billing cycle starts — you pay for the full month regardless. If you have a device installment plan, your final bill will include the remaining device balance.
Port your number before canceling
If keeping your number, port it to your new carrier FIRST. Porting automatically cancels your old account. Do NOT cancel before porting — you'll lose your number.
Call carrier retention to request cancellation
Call the carrier's cancellation line (not general support). Say: 'I want to cancel my service.' They will transfer you to retention. Decline any offers if you're decided. Ask for cancellation confirmation number.
Return any leased devices
If you leased a device (common with newer iPhone plans), you must return it within 30 days or be charged full retail price. Get a return receipt from any carrier store.
Method: YouTube website or app · Difficulty: easy
YouTube Premium-specific tips
No refund. Access until period ends.
Under 815 ILCS 601, Chicago residents may be entitled to a full refund if YouTube Premium didn't properly disclose auto-renewal terms.
SubScrub auto-cites 815 ILCS 601 for Chicago residents