For one who is a DIRECTV user, you might be wondering if it is possible for you to downgrade from your TV package in a bid to cut down on your expenses. Since, DIRECTV has a range of packages with different prices, switching down your current package is usually achievable. Here are some things you should know about reducing your DIRECTV package.
Reviewing Your Choices for Your DIRECTV Packages
The first step involves consideration of various packages offered by the TV channel- DIRECTV and comparing the offered prices. DIRECTV has four main packages:DIRECTV has four main packages:
ENTERTAINMENT – $69. 99/month and more, with access to over 65+ channels, including TNT, ESPN, HGTV, and many others.
CHOICE – Starting at $84. 99 per month, has over 90+ channels and can add features such as regional sports networks and the like.
ULTIMATE – $94. 99/month and has more than 130+ channels with adding channels like STARZ, SHOWTIME, Cinemax and more.
PREMIER – Costs $139. 99/month and more, with over 140+ channels, with the option to add channels like HBO, Cinemax, STARZ, SHOWTIME, and other premium channels.
As shown in the previous section, the cost of packages increases as the number of channels increases. Therefore, if you are subscribed to CHOICE or ULTIMATE at the moment, switching to ENTERTAINMENT will result in bill reduction.
Checking Your Details of the DIRECTV Account
To ensure that you do not make any changes on the wrong account, it is advisable to check your DIRECTV account information either online or by contacting the company’s customer service department. Key details to review:
What DIRECTTV package are you subscribed to at the moment?
Are there any package discounts or promotions applicable to you at the moment?
Currently, are you under any contract term length?
Are there any leased equipment such as receivers or digital video recorders (DVRs) for DIRECTV?
If you have your account specifics then you get to know what besoin your package change can affect any discounts, contract or equipment.
How to Modify Your CURRENT DIRECTV TELEVISION PACKAGE via the Internet
The simplest way to reduce your DIRECTV services is through the account you have with the company. The process is very simple; all you have to do is log-in, navigate to ‘My Services,’ and then click on ‘Change TV Package’. You can then opt for a lower priced package that would be ideal for your viewing preferences.
It guides you through your new package changes, monthly price updates, and confirms changes before finalizing package downgrades efficiently. Pay as you go changes also make your bill reflect new rates immediately pro-rated for the remaining part of the current billing cycle.
Switching of DIRECTV Packages through TPhone
You can also contact 1800 DIRECTV and request for a reduction in the packages over the phone. When talking to one of the DIRECTV agents, first of all, declare that you would like to reduce the current TV package. Be specific on the new package you want like ENTERTAINMENT or CHOICE. The agent then walks through package change details including:The agent then walks through package change details including:
Accepting the new TV package that you have requested
As a result of failure in getting updates on the monthly bills according to the new package rates.
Effects on existing coupons or offers
Modifications to contracts such as renewal of contracts
Additional information concerning leased equipment such as the DIRECTV receivers
The agent confirms the package downgrade only if you agree and sign any progressive contracts, equipment return, and other change requirements. During the call, remember to inquire about any pertinent questions so that you can fully understand package change consequences before settling for the downgrade.
Returning DIRECTV Equipment for Package Downgrades
If you’re dropping packages, especially to the lower tier of the ENTERTAINMENT package, you may find you lose channels that you record with a Genie HD DVR. If you signed up initially for any promotional offers such as free or a deeply discounted Genie HD DVR, switching to a lower DIRECTTV package means you may lose your DVR equipment.
Here are a few scenarios that may require returning DIRECTV equipment:Here are a few scenarios that may require returning DIRECTV equipment:
Reducing from ULTIMATE/PREMIER to ENTERTAINMENT – DIRECTV may ask you to return advanced receiver equipment and HD DVR equipment given at a discount during package subscription. You move back to standard DIRECTV boxes.
Exchanging Premier Package Before The Contract Term Date – If subscribed to the PREMIER package at a discounted rate for premium channels, you may be required to return those more advanced channel receivers in case you have to downgrade your packages before the contract term date.
Payments Made on Monthly Installment Basis – If you opted for monthly installment for receiver equipment through DIRECTV, you may require to pay the balance on the equipment before you opt out of an eligible package discounting the equipment.
When downgrading a package, DIRECTV informs you of any leased equipment that needs to be returned. Receiver and DVR equipment should be returned to the service within 30 days usually in good working condition. DIRECTV offers the options for prepaid shipping labels and pickup arrangements. Failing to return equipment as per the downgrade agreement entitles DIRECTV to sell the equipment at full price.
Three Sides of the Coin: Advantages and Disadvantages of Reducing Packages
Definitely, reducing your DIRECTV programming package saves money in the long-term but it also means reduced plans. However some cons to consider before dropping down include:However some cons to consider before dropping down include:
Pros:
Reduced monthly payment each month
Optional add-on channel packages to choose only channels você watches
Flexible packages can be altered overtime as your viewing habits evolves
Cons:
Losing preferred channels and content vous frequente watch
Sports programming limited surtout in ENTERTAINMENT package
Potential contract extension pledge
Returning discarded DIRECTV equipment like HD DVR
Weigh the benefits of cutting costs every month against the potential loss of programming você value. Sports season tickets and movie channels are examples of add-ons custom content that enable vous to regain some of the channels at a higher package price.
Options for the Package Downgrade at DIRECTV
Subscribers find it relatively easy to alter their channel packages by downgrading with the help of the company. It may be as easy as a phone call or a simple online package change to save money. Think of the packaging differences in packages as well as consider which channels are most important to votre household. Remember to look for any contract or equipment changes that reduce packages, too. By taking a few preventive measures, the DIRECTV package downgrade option can effectively reduce votre monthly TV bill, without depriving vous of your favorite shows and movies.