Cancelling a mobile subscription can feel intimidating, especially when you're worried about hidden charges or complex procedures. With SFR—one of France’s largest telecom providers—many customers assume they’ll face penalties or bureaucratic hurdles. The truth is, under French consumer law, you have the right to terminate your contract fairly, provided you follow the correct process. This guide walks you through each necessary step to cancel your SFR mobile plan legally, efficiently, and without unexpected costs.
Understand Your Contract Type and Cancellation Rights
SFR offers two primary types of mobile subscriptions: contracts with a minimum term (usually 12 or 24 months) and no-commitment plans (like SFR Mini or prepaid options). Your cancellation process depends on which type you hold.
- With commitment: You’re bound for a fixed period. Early termination may incur fees unless done under specific circumstances.
- No commitment: These plans allow cancellation at any time, usually with a short notice period (e.g., 10 days).
French law protects consumers under Article L. 224-47 of the Consumer Code, which allows unilateral cancellation after 12 months with a maximum fee equal to 5% of the remaining contract value. If you’ve been with SFR for over a year, you’re entitled to leave with minimal cost.
“Telecom subscribers in France have strong legal protections. After one year, early termination fees are capped and must be clearly communicated.” — Marie Lambert, Consumer Rights Advocate at UFC-Que Choisir
Step-by-Step Cancellation Process
Follow this structured timeline to ensure your SFR cancellation is processed correctly and free from additional charges.
- Review your contract terms: Locate your original agreement. Check the end date, monthly cost, and any clauses about termination.
- Confirm your eligibility for low-cost cancellation: If you’ve passed the 12-month mark, fees should not exceed 5% of remaining payments.
- Prepare required documents: Have your customer number, ID, proof of address, and contract reference ready.
- Contact SFR via registered letter (recommandé): This is the only legally recognized method for contract termination.
- Wait for confirmation: SFR has 14 days to acknowledge your request and provide final billing details.
Drafting Your Cancellation Letter
Your termination letter must include key information to be valid. Use the following template as a guide:
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, Postal Code] SFR Customer Service TSA 10203 92785 ISSY-LES-MOULINEAUX Cedex 9 [Date] Subject: Termination of Mobile Subscription – [Your Phone Number] Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to formally terminate my mobile subscription under contract number [Contract Number], linked to the line [Phone Number]. According to Article L. 224-47 of the Consumer Code, I exercise my right to terminate this contract after 12 months. My last payment was made on [Date], and I have fulfilled all obligations under the agreement. Please confirm the effective cancellation date and issue a final invoice with no additional fees beyond those legally permitted. Kindly process this request within the legal timeframe and send written confirmation to the above address. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Printed Name]
Send the letter via Laposte’s online RAR service or at a post office. Keep the receipt and tracking number for your records.
Avoid Common Pitfalls: Do’s and Don’ts
Mistakes during cancellation can lead to delays or unjustified charges. Refer to this table to stay on track.
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt | Do not cancel over the phone or chat—these are not legally binding |
| Keep copies of all correspondence | Don’t stop paying until you receive official confirmation of termination |
| Verify your contract duration and remaining balance | Don’t accept verbal promises about fee waivers |
| Request a final bill in writing | Don’t reuse your old SIM immediately—portability rules apply |
Real Example: How Sophie Cancelled Her SFR Plan Without Fees
Sophie had been with SFR for 14 months on a 24-month contract. She wanted to switch to a cheaper provider but feared a high exit fee. After reviewing her contract, she confirmed she was past the 12-month threshold. She drafted a termination letter using the official template, sent it via Laposte’s RAR service, and received confirmation from SFR within nine days.
The company issued a final invoice showing a €38 termination fee—calculated as 5% of her remaining 10 months at €76/month. She paid the amount and received a closure confirmation email. Within two weeks, her line was deactivated, and she activated her new SIM without issues.
Sophie’s experience shows that even with a committed plan, cancellation is manageable when you know your rights and follow procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel my SFR subscription before 12 months?
Yes, but early termination fees apply. Typically, you’ll pay up to 75–100% of the remaining contract value. Exceptions include relocation abroad, job loss, or medical reasons, which may qualify for waiver under SFR’s hardship policy.
What if SFR doesn’t respond to my cancellation letter?
If you don’t receive confirmation within 14 days, contact them via phone or online messaging quoting your RAR tracking number. If unresolved, escalate to ARCOM (France’s telecom regulator) or file a complaint with the Médiateur des Communications Électroniques.
Can I keep my phone number when cancelling?
Absolutely. During cancellation, request a RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur) code from SFR. Provide it to your new provider to initiate number portability. This process takes 24–48 hours and does not interrupt service.
Final Checklist Before You Cancel
- ✅ Confirm your contract type and duration
- ✅ Verify you’ve passed the 12-month mark (if applicable)
- ✅ Retrieve your contract number and account details
- ✅ Draft and print your cancellation letter
- ✅ Send it via Lettre Recommandée with AR
- ✅ Note the delivery date and tracking number
- ✅ Wait for SFR’s confirmation and final bill
- ✅ Set up your new provider with the RIO code
Conclusion
Cancelling your SFR mobile subscription doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By understanding your legal rights, preparing the correct documentation, and using formal communication methods, you can exit your contract cleanly and avoid unnecessary fees. Thousands of French consumers successfully switch providers every year—this process is routine and well-established.
Take control of your telecom expenses today. Follow the steps outlined here, protect your consumer rights, and make the switch with confidence.








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