Canadians can now switch phone plans without early exit fees
New CRTC rules eliminate activation, modification, and early cancellation charges for cell and internet customers starting Friday, June 12.
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Starting Friday, Canadians can change or cancel phone and internet plans without paying activation, modification, or early cancellation fees — a major shift in consumer power.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced the rules as part of its Consumer Protections Action Plan. The new regulations prohibit telecom providers from charging customers when they sign up for new plans or modify existing ones. Unless a device is under a service contract, customers can now cancel without early-termination penalties.
CRTC CEO Vicky Eatrides framed the change as consumer empowerment: "This means that consumers can switch to a better deal without having to pay extra just to get the service that works best for them."
The move comes as the CRTC flagged new fees from Bell and Telus that could potentially violate these emerging regulations. A 2026 survey by UK-based Broadband Genie ranked Canada as the most expensive internet market in North America, with an average broadband cost of US$55.26 (C$76.99), placing the country 130th globally.
The CRTC also created the Wireless and Internet Code to help Canadians understand their rights and obligations in service contracts.