What your Spectrum contract says

In short

This is a residential internet services agreement with Charter Communications, doing business as Spectrum. Unlike Xfinity, Spectrum does not impose data caps on residential internet plans (you get unlimited data at every tier). Spectrum offers month-to-month service with no annual contracts, which means no early termination fees. However, promotional pricing typically lasts 12 months, after which the standard rate kicks in and your bill can jump $25 or more per month. Speeds are advertised as "up to" and are not guaranteed. Spectrum requires you to use their modem for the first billing period but you can switch to your own compatible modem afterward.

What you agree to do

• You must pay your monthly service fee by the due date on your bill.
• You must return all Spectrum-provided equipment within 15 days of canceling service or you will be charged up to $200 per device.
• You must not resell or redistribute your internet service to others.

What you can ask for

• You can cancel your service at any time with no early termination fee (all plans are month-to-month).
• You get unlimited data with no overage fees on all residential internet plans.
• You can opt out of the mandatory arbitration clause within 30 days of accepting the agreement by mailing written notice.
• You can use your own compatible modem and router instead of renting Spectrum's equipment.

Points worth knowing

• Promotional price expires after 12 monthsSpectrum's introductory pricing typically lasts 12 months. After that, the standard rate applies (usually $25-30/month higher). You cannot get the promotional rate again as a current customer.
• Forced arbitration with class action waiverThe terms include a mandatory arbitration clause and a class action waiver. You can opt out within 30 days by sending a letter, but if you miss this window, you waive your right to sue in court or join a class action.
• Advertised speeds are not guaranteedSpectrum advertises speeds as "up to" a certain number. Actual speeds depend on network congestion, your equipment, and other factors. During peak hours, you may get significantly less than advertised.
• Service changes and channel lineup modificationsIf you bundle TV with internet, Spectrum can change channel lineups, rearrange channel numbers, and modify programming packages with limited notice.
• Equipment charges if not returnedIf you cancel and don't return the modem and router within 15 days, Spectrum charges you the full retail cost of each device (typically $150-200 per item).

Dates and deadlines

Promotional period end

12 months from sign-up (check your first bill for the exact promotional end date)

Arbitration opt-out deadline

30 days from the date you first accept the terms of service

Equipment return deadline

15 days after service cancellation to return all Spectrum equipment