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How to return a CenturyLink modem

If you need to return a modem to CenturyLink, it is important to follow the packing and shipping instructions below, to ensure your package is processed correctly and avoid any unreturned modem fees. You can also read answers to frequently asked questions about returns.

Start your return

Select the button to start the return label process. On the UPS site, click "Continue as Guest" and then follow the instructions to get your return label.

Start Your UPS Return

See some special notes at the bottom of the page about canceling service, returning a faulty modem, or using a self-provided modem. 
 

Important note: If you are canceling service and you lease your modem, or if you are ordering a replacement CenturyLink modem, you must return your current modem within 30 days to avoid equipment charges of up to $200.

Return label options

After entering your name and address on the UPS CenturyLink returns site, you will have two options. Don't have a printer? Not a problem — use option #2.
 

  1. Have a return label emailed to you: The label will be emailed to you as a PDF, so you can print it at your convenience. If you don't have a printer at home, consider your local library or FedEx store for printing. Or you can bring the email to a UPS Store and they can print it for you.

  2. Request a QR code: You will get a digital code that you can bring to a UPS Store along with your boxed modem. The store clerk will scan the code and print your return label, then ship the package.
Get Your Return Label

Note: If you are returning more than four WiFi pods, please divide them into two shipments. You can request another label or QR code by submitting the UPS form a second time.

Packing and shipping instructions

Next, follow these steps carefully to ensure your package arrives safely and is processed correctly, to avoid unreturned equipment charges. 
 

  1. Gather your modem/router and all cords that were supplied by CenturyLink. Also include any wireless accessories that you received from CenturyLink.

  2. Pack these items in a rigid box with flaps intact. Use cushioning material to make sure the equipment stays in place and is well padded. 

  3. Close the box with strong tape designed for shipping.

  4. Cover or remove previous shipping labels on the outside of the box.

  5. Fold the printed label at the solid line. Attach it to a single side of the box in a clear shipping pouch or covering the entire label with clear shipping tape.

  6. Drop the box off at any authorized UPS Shipping Center location near you.
Find a UPS Location

Modem returns FAQs

Though it may seem like an extra step, in order for your returned modem to be credited correctly to your account, you do need to follow the instructions above and go through UPS.

We're sorry, but we can't take modem returns at any physical CenturyLink location. Please follow the steps above for shipping with UPS.

If you are in a location without a UPS Store nearby, you have a few options:

Special instructions

If you lease your modem

If you lease your modem from CenturyLink, you must return the modem within 30 days from the date you cancel your service. If you do not, you will be responsible for the full retail cost of the equipment.

If you purchased your modem

If you cancel service within 30 days of starting new service, you can be refunded for a purchased modem. The modem must be in new, working condition, and we must receive the returned modem within 30 days after the date you cancel service.

If you have had CenturyLink service for more than 30 days and you purchased your modem, we invite you to return the modem, at no cost to you, and we'll be happy to recycle it.

Canceling service: What to expect on your final bill

If you recently subscribed to internet service and opted to use a non-CenturyLink modem to connect, you can return the CenturyLink-provided modem. We strongly recommend that you complete set-up and installation to verify that your own modem works with our network before sending the CenturyLink modem back to us.

Be sure the modem is in new, working condition, and follow the packing and shipping instructions.

If you leased the CenturyLink modem

 

You may return a CenturyLink modem leased to you. Once CenturyLink receives the returned modem, your lease will be canceled. If you do not see the lease cancellation take effect after 30 days, please chat with us.

If you purchased the CenturyLink modem

 

You may return a CenturyLink modem that you purchased if you are requesting the return within 30 days of purchase. A credit will be issued once we receive the returned modem. After sending the modem back, if you do not see the appropriate credit on your bill after 30 days, please chat with us. 

If you believe your modem is faulty and needs to be replaced, contact technical support first to confirm that your equipment needs to be replaced. Our team will help you determine if your modem can be repaired. 

If your modem is under warranty or leased

 

If you are confirmed for a replacement, the cost of a replacement will be covered in any these cases:

  • you lease your modem; OR
  • you purchased your modem and are still under the standard 12-month warranty; OR
  • you purchased your modem with @Ease protection.
     

We can send your new modem immediately, or you can send us the old modem before we ship the new one. Your customer service agent can help you decide.

Important: You must return the old modem within 30 days of receiving a replacement to avoid being charged the full retail cost of the modem. 

If your modem is no longer under warranty

If your warranty has expired, our technicians can still help you troubleshoot the problem and confirm whether you need a new modem. Your agent can tell you how to get the best price on a new modem with any available promotions, and help you decide whether to lease or purchase. Chat with our customer service team to get started.

Not sure what to do with your old modem? Send it back and we would be happy to recycle it for you.

How to upgrade or replace a CenturyLink modem

Modem recycling program

Did you know that less than 20% of discarded electronics were recycled worldwide in 2019? We are doing our part to keep e-waste out of landfills, but we can't do it without you! Please follow the return instructions above and the link below to ship your old CenturyLink modem* back to us, and we will refurbish or recycle it — at no cost to you. Thank you for your partnership in this important initiative. 

Recycle Your Modem

* Please check for a CenturyLink sticker or logo on the modem before returning, to ensure it is a CenturyLink modem. Note that if your modem is still under warranty or leased and you need a replacement, you need to contact our support team to order a new one before returning your current modem.

Download the CenturyLink Return Policy

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