Can I cancel a phone or internet subscription?
It depends where you are in the contract. The law distinguishes between the minimum contract term and the indefinite period. If you've passed the minimum term (e.g. you signed for 24 months and they've all passed), you're on an indefinite period and can cancel anytime, free, without justifying the decision and with no penalties. Within the minimum term, early cancellation usually brings penalties. The operator can impose notice of up to 30 days from your request (the processing period). There's an important exception, though: if the operator unilaterally changes your contract, it must notify you at least 30 days ahead, and in that window you can cancel with no penalties. After termination, you must return the equipment (router etc.) within 5–8 days, or risk a penalty invoice. In short: after the minimum term — free; within it — with penalties, except for unilateral changes.
📋 The rules
- After the minimum term: cancel anytime, free
- Within the minimum term: early cancellation with penalties
- Notice of up to 30 days from the request
- Operator's unilateral change: cancellation with no penalties
- Return the equipment within 5–8 days of termination
🔓 Exceptions
- Unfavourable unilateral change: cancellation without compensation
- Indefinite period: no cancellation fees
- Not returning the equipment: a penalty invoice
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Within the minimum contract term, early cancellation brings penalties, usually proportional to the remaining period or the benefits received (a subsidised phone etc.). By contrast, after the minimum term or on a unilateral change of the contract, you can cancel with no penalties. Watch the equipment too: after termination, you must return it in working order (with power supplies) within 5–8 days; otherwise the operator can issue a penalty invoice that can exceed 500–600 lei. To cancel correctly: file the request in writing (by post with delivery confirmation or at a shop, with a registration number), bear in mind the notice of up to 30 days, return the equipment on time and keep the proof. In a dispute, you can contact ANCOM or ANPC.
📎 Official sources
- ANCOM · how to cancel a telecom contract →
- GEO 34/2014 on consumer rights →
- ANPC · National Authority for Consumer Protection →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I cancel the subscription for free?
Yes, after the minimum contract term. If you've passed the minimum term (e.g. the 24 months signed) and you're on an indefinite period, you can cancel anytime, free, without justifying the decision and with no penalties. Within the minimum term, early cancellation usually brings penalties.
What penalties do I pay cancelling within the minimum term?
Within the minimum contract term, early cancellation brings penalties, usually proportional to the remaining period or the benefits received, such as a subsidised phone. The exact amount depends on the contract. After the minimum term, you no longer pay any cancellation fee.
Can I cancel without penalties if the operator changes the contract?
Yes. The provider must notify you of contract changes at least 30 days ahead. If you don't agree with the announced unilateral changes, you can cancel the contract without paying compensation for early cancellation, even if you're still within the minimum term.
How long is the cancellation notice?
The law lets operators impose notice of up to 30 calendar days from the date the cancellation request is filed. This period concerns the processing of the request. It's advisable to file the request in writing, with delivery confirmation or a registration number, as proof of the date.
Do I have to return the equipment?
Yes. After termination, you must return the equipment (router, decoder etc.) in working order, with the original power supplies, within 5–8 days of the actual cancellation. If you don't return it or lost the accessories, the operator can issue a penalty invoice.
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