Returning AT&T Internet Equipment – (Ultimate Guide)

Are you returning AT&T internet equipment? We have the answers.

Whether canceling, upgrading your equipment, or moving to a new address, it helps to return your equipment.

You’ll help the environment as your old devices will be recycled, and you can be entitled to a refund.

To return your AT&T equipment, you want to know which devices can be returned. Get your return label, pack them in a box, and return them to AT&T via FedEx or UPS.

It’s time to go step-by-step!

Returning AT&T Internet Equipment – Everything Explained

Even though it sounds complicated since you’re dealing with electronics, returning your AT&T equipment is a quick and simple process.

It requires a few steps and attention on your part, but it should take you a few minutes to get it done.

So, let’s get to it:

Why Return Your AT&T Equipment

The first thing that will pop into your head is whether ATT equipment return is really necessary.

There are several reasons why you need to do it, and here are some of them:

• You’re canceling your AT&T internet service and switching to a new provider
• You’re moving to a new address and transferring your AT&T service
• You’re upgrading your AT&T equipment to a newer model or another type
• You’re replacing your current internet equipment due to issues

Whatever your reason for returning them is, it’s important for these reasons.

• Avoid unnecessary fees and charges on your account
• Get refunds and credits for your returned equipment
• Free up space and reduce clutter in your home
• Protect the environment by recycling or reusing the equipment

Types of Equipment to Return

When it comes to the AT&T equipment you have at home, there are two different types.

Some devices need to be returned, while some can stay. Knowing which ones you need to return is helpful so you don’t forget any of them and incur unnecessary fees against your account.

Here’s a general list of equipment that you need to send back and those you can keep:

AT&T Service	Devices to Return	Devices Not to Return
AT&T Internet and Fiber	WiFi Gateway, WiFi Extenders (if they’re included in your plan), Internet TV receivers,  Cables included in the original box	Wall-mounted equipment like Ethernet jacks, Optical Network Terminals (ONT), Equipment you own, Third-party extenders and cables
AT&T Internet Air	All-Fi Hub, All-Fi Booster, Power Supply	Equipment you own
Fixed Wireless Internet	WiFi Gateway, Power Supply	Antenna and accessories like the mount and pole

Note: If you have wall-mounted equipment, we recommend not unplugging or removing them.

How to Return AT&T Internet Equipment – Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have successfully identified the devices you’re sending back, it’s time to know the actual steps on how to return ATT internet equipment.

It’s not a difficult or laborious process, and to be fair, AT&T has taken steps so you don’t have to spend a dime.

Preparing to Return Your AT&T Internet Equipment

One of the first things you must do while returning the devices is prepare them.

You don’t want to forget a piece and find out in your bill that they charged you their non-return fee.

Here are some things you need to do:

1. Back up any data or settings you want to keep from your equipment.
2. Disconnect and unplug your gear from the power source and other devices.
3. For TV receivers, make sure to disconnect the HDMI and power cord.
4. For routers and WiFi gateways, disconnect the networking cables and power cord.
5. If your equipment comes with a power supply, include them.
6. Gather all the components you need to return to AT&T.

Pro Tip: We highly recommend resetting your equipment to factory settings before preparing it to protect your privacy.

Getting Your Return Labels for a Hassle-Free Return Process

Since AT&T makes the entire return process as hassle-free as possible, they offer equipment return labels, so you don’t have to worry about how to send the devices back.

The return label is a sticker with a barcode and already has AT&T’s shipping address.

Another upside here is that it’s already prepaid, so you don’t have to spend to return the equipment.

Here’s how to get your prepaid return label from AT&T:

1. Go to the AT&T website and log in to your account.
2. Click on the My Account tab.
3. Under the Equipment section, select Return or Exchange Equipment.
4. Choose the equipment you want to return.
5. Click on the Get Return Label button.
6. Enter your contact information and shipping address.
7. Click the Submit button.

AT&T will then send you the prepaid return label via your email address.

Note: One thing you need to do, though, is you’ll have to print this and attach it to your package.

Packing the Device for Return

Once you have your return label, you need to pack your devices properly so they are returned to AT&T without damage.

AT&T does give you a couple of options here, which depend on your preferences. 

If you’re wondering where to return ATT equipment, FedEx or UPS should take care of it.

They’re also going to help you pack them.

Do-it-yourself Method

1. Gather all the equipment and accessories you need to return.
2. If you have the original box, pack your equipment in it.
3. If you don’t have them, pack them in a sturdy box.
4. Wrap each piece of equipment in bubble wrap to protect it from damage.
5. Place all the equipment in the box.
6. Fill any space with packing peanuts or other packing materials.
7. Seal the box with tape.
8. Attach the prepaid shipping label to the box.

If you don’t have the time and availability to do these yourself, you can bring the equipment to your nearest FedEx or UPS store.

Via FedEx or UPS

1. Gather all of the equipment and accessories you need to return.
2. Bring them to a FedEx Pack and Ship or The UPS Store.
3. Tell the associate you are returning equipment from AT&T.
4. They will scan your equipment and print you a receipt.

Tip: This is a more convenient option since you don’t have to worry about materials, as they will take care of it for you.

AT&T Return Policy: Important Points to Remember

Now that you have a clear idea of how to return your AT&T internet equipment, there are some important considerations you need to know regarding their policies.

These affect how much time you have to return your equipment, especially if you cancel your service.

Here are the most important ones you need to know:

1. If you have a new device, you have 14 days to return or exchange it.
2. If you’re canceling or transferring, you have 21 days to return your equipment.
3. Failing to return equipment within the allocated period will incur fees.
4. Equipment must be undamaged when you return them.
5. Damaged equipment will be charged a damage fee.
6. Equipment must include cables and power supply that came with the box.
7. Returns with missing components will be charged a partial return fee.
8. Refunds or credits will take up to two billing cycles to appear on your bill.

Fees and Refunds to Expect

Since we’ve already covered this, let’s summarize this so it will be easier for you to understand what to expect regarding fees and refunds.

It all depends on the condition of the equipment, the timing of your return, and the terms of your service.

Condition	Timing	Fee	Refund
Undamaged	Within 21 days	None	Yes, if applicable
Undamaged	After 21 days	$150 per unit	No
Damaged	Within 21 days	$55 per unit	No
Damaged	After 21 days	$150 + $55 per unit	No
Partial	Within 21 days	$55 per unit	No
Partial	After 21 days	$150 + $55 per unit	No

Now that you have an idea of the fees and possible refunds, it’s important that you don’t forget to return your equipment after canceling or changing your service with AT&T.

Conclusion

Returning AT&T internet equipment is not that difficult as long as you’re already familiar with the process.

All you need to do is print your prepaid shipping label and gather your equipment. You can pack them yourself or bring them to a FedEx or UPS store for easy returns.

For more in-depth guides regarding your AT&T account and equipment, visit our blog!