Abstract: A method and system for performing a multi-channel soft handoff of a communication service in a wireless communication system between two different frequency channels. In one aspect of the multi-channel soft handoff, the handoff could be an inter-cell (cell to cell) handoff between respective controlling base stations. In another aspect of the multi-channel soft handoff, the handoff could be an intra-cell (within the same cell) handoff between different frequency channels supported by the controlling base station. In yet another aspect of the multi-channel soft handoff, the handoff could be an inter-cell (cell to cell) handoff between respective controlling base stations over the same frequency channel followed by an intra-cell handoff at the new base station between different frequency channels.