$20 off Total Premier Choice still in effect

[Zixar]

I made the call tonight. The standard rep only offered me $10/mo off for 6 months, so I asked to speak to Customer Retention. Long story short, I got the $20/6mo deal and a reimbursement for some extra installation work I needed done.

Thanks for the tip, guys!

[Vic-20]

Thank you TiVo community forum. I just called DirecTV tonight and asked them if they still had the total choice premier with $20.00 off for six months offer available, The representative replied that that offer was only available for certain circumstances, So I mention that my cable company was offering specials to replace satellite systems, so she asked me to hold on for a few more minutes and then she replied that she can add that to my account. Thank you again :D

[willardcpa]

For rextrout's benefit:cool:

[Deviousalways]

Well after talking to the CSR and trying to get to $20 off for six months. I was informed that I can't have it because I have had it twice already. I asked if there was anything else they could do for me and said "2 deals and you are done". I am sad to see this come to an end for me. Has anyone else had this problem and if so were they able to squeeze anything out of DTV?

[hokiepolk]

Just hang up and try another CSR. Nothing wrong with trying to hear the correct answer from someone else, right?

[MikeSh]

I've been a DTV customer for 5 days now, whenI signed up they gave me 22 bucks off of my TCP plan as a rebate for HBO & Cinemax for 3 months. The CSR said I couldn't get the 20 for 6 months since I just signed up was getting the 22 off. Told him I heard about this offer from a "friend"

Gonna call back in a few and try again;)

MikeS.

[ISWIZ]

fyi,

Thank you for writing. We have processed your email request for changes
to your DIRECTV service. Just to reiterate, you will be receiving the
TOTAL CHOICE PREMIER with Local Channels package for 6 months at a
$20.00 discount. Each month your DIRECTV statement will show a charge
for the regular price of the package ($85.99), and then you will see the
discount in the form of a credit (-$20.00). After the 6 month discount,
you are required to stay on the TOTAL CHOICE PREMIER with Local Channels
package for an additional 6 months at the regular monthly price. Also,
customers who subscribe to the PREMIER package, receive the DVR service
($4.99) free each month. You can view these changes on your next DIRECTV
statement.

[lew]

Do you have any remaining comittment left? I suspect if you have no penalty and cancel (may have to actually drop service for a period of time) you'll get some type of offer to stay or come back.




Originally posted by Deviousalways
Well after talking to the CSR and trying to get to $20 off for six months. I was informed that I can't have it because I have had it twice already. I asked if there was anything else they could do for me and said "2 deals and you are done". I am sad to see this come to an end for me. Has anyone else had this problem and if so were they able to squeeze anything out of DTV?

[johnjhr1700]

Hey..
Just got off the phone with DirecTV, They are still giving the $20 for 6mo. credit with Total Choice programming..... I just ask him about the credit and he put me on hold for two Min's and came back and say OK!!!!!!!! That was it

------------
jhr
HDTV
HDVR2

[TVCommander]

I got the $20 off for 6 month deal last week. Just asked for "Customer Retention Group" (that's DirecTV speak for "Open Sesame!") No questions asked. She did confirm that I had been a loyal Premier customer for a long time so she would be happy to do it to thank me for loyalty.

I decided to push it and added that I had an old round dish and was upgrading my receiver to DirecTivo and would like a new oval with LNBs for all three satellites. "Sure thing. It's free ($14.95 S&H) but if you like I'll have our installers bring it to your home and hook everything up, For No Charge."

Well, with my crack mental ability I calculated the deal...duh...and said OK.

(a one yr extension on agreement, no big deal)

But, alas, this has brought on more issues. Now, my wife won't let go of the remote so all I can do is hang around this forum dreaming of what it will be like when I get to use Tivo myself. I guess this explains why I see so many of you with multiple units. Grasshopper understands now.

[madpad]

Called tonite and I said I was wondering if you had a deal to get TCP minus $20, The regular rep said sure no problem you just have to chose a TC package after 6 months. DVR fee is waived but will be reinstated if I drop to anything below TCP. So I get everything for 65. TCP w/locals and DVR.

[CouverMan]

Yup, I got the same exact deal as madpad, however with one catch. For some reason i gave her the excuse of my cable company was offering me a great deal, which they were, and i got my TCP for 12 months at the reduced rate instead of 6.

I guess showing a little frustration with the rep last night paid off for me!!

[cbug30]

12 months! I am so jealous! You rock.

[tivosky]

I just got this deal too. The rep said he could not help me but would transfer me to someone who can. I think he transferred me to retention. The next rep asked why I wanted to switch. I took that as a cue to tell them about the great cable promotion in my area. Got the deal and it will kick-in in a month, as soon as my current showtime promotion runs out.

[betogat]

Thanks to all in this message board,
I contacted yesterday Directv since my 20 off for 6 months for Premier programming expired last month. I asked to be transfer to the "Retention Department" (must say the magic words!), I made the excuse that I got disconnected, too. So I talked to a representative and I told her that cable and dish were making me offers to change with them. To make it short, they gave it to me. Not happy with the offer that they made to me (same one, 20 off premier for 6 months more), I called again today. Now this time I told the representative that how come when I talk to them I was not offer 1/2 off credit for any Directivo which I knew some Directv users got. This credit is for the purchase of a new unit up to (150 dollars). So she told me no problem, after a few minutes I have the credit. YES THAT IS WHY I LOVE DAVE! :D :D

[unixadm]

I have no issue with people calling and asking for $20.....I've done it....but I never lied to do it.... I told them I was looking to lower my monthly bills and asked if they still had the $20/month offer.

As far as your second call......I don't know where you heard 1/2 off credit for buying a DirectTiVo......that just isn't a true deal....I think a few people that tried to buy the DirectTiVo from DirectTV and couldn't since they sold out were given a credit so they could buy in the store......but that wasn't your situation......I think that making multiple calls just to whittle away your bill is ethically questionable......

In my case, I truely was considering dropping down from the Premiere package since we are trying to cut down on bills. I would never tell them I was considering dish or cable when it is totally untrue. I have thousands of dollars investing in my DirectTiVos and wouldn't consider changing.

If you lie to get a discount, I consider that unethical.

[betogat]

Ethical is the question,
To answer you, I only wanted a better deal, if you don't like to bargain that is too bad. I also pay for my subscriptions!!!! I've been with Directv for almost 3 years and half of them I paid for TC and 2 premium channels with no discount. I think I deserve it, and about the credit YOU JUST GOT TO ASK!!!!!!!!!!!!

[chadbear]

Originally posted by betogat
I think I deserve it, and about the credit YOU JUST GOT TO ASK!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't care about the ethics involved, but your statement here is just as untrue as what you told Dtv. Apparently you don't just have to ask, you have to lie too, and that's the distinction that unixadm was trying to make.

[unixadm]

I've been with them for almost 4 years.....and have had Platinum/Premeire the entire time.....

I agree that loyal customers should get a discount...they are giving things away to new customers......so we as loyal customers do deserve a little "thank you".

And I agree, you should just have to ask about the $20/month for 6 months.....and I never had to ask for retention....I called, got a CSR, told her I wanted to cut my bill down and asked if they still had the $20 off for 6 months if I committed to another year. They put me on hold, came back and said, "No Problem". Lying to get the deal has been hashed out here back and forth....and I am of the opinion that lying to get a deal is fraud.

The $150 credit is very questionable...sure, you may "just have to ask" but it is lying to get a credit....the retention department's job is to keep customers....if you have no intention of leaving DirectTV, then you should have no dealings with retention.

[mwhip]

To quote my Mother:

You know where lier's go!

[unixadm]

Note: I merged in "betogat's" thread titled "It's Still Alive" into this one since it dealt with the $20 off

[willardcpa]

"Note: I merged in "betogat's" thread titled "It's Still Alive" into this one since it dealt with the $20 off"But I thought that betogats thread topic was lying?? :confused: ;)

[lenny_tropiano]

Got the $20 off deal today, after adding my brand new HDVR2. Whoo hoo..

[betogat]

Sorry SAINTS!
I thought maybe sharing my experience would help people if you look back in other PAST POSTINGS there are people getting the 100 or 150 dollars off!!! So they also are unethical (LIERS). Well next time I know to keep it to myself. I just wanted to thank everyone here in this Posting for their information and discussions.

For all other people here THANK YOU!!!! :p :p :p :D

[unixadm]

betogat,

This is just my personal opinion....and there are those who are of the same viewpoint, and those who are not of the same viewpoint.

Just because a few people received a credit due to a very specific incident they had doesn't mean that everyone should receive that same credit...especially if that credit was given due to a lie.

OK....I got a $30 credit because their billing people messed up and called me threatening to cancel my account even though it wasn't behind. Why don't you call Retention, tell them you received a call from someone at DirectTV saying your bill was overdue when it wasn't and demand a credit??? They will probably give it to you....but, technically you would get that discount by way of fraud.

The $100 or $150 is no different... it was a specific credit to make up for a specific mistake and not for the general public.

You are new.....don't know if you have been lurking...if you have, then you may have seen the VERY long thread about the $139 Pre-Orders of the HDVR2 at Circuit City......there was the same argument in that thread. The price was NEVER $139......it was $189.....with a $.01 dish....one particular store could not get the $50 dish to ring up at $.01, so they rang the dish up at $50 and dropped the HDVR2 down to $139....still equaled $189.01...just in a strange way in their computer. They did this for a very specific purpose to satisfy ONE customer.

This receipt was then posted here....others took that receipt and got their local CC to get them to match it WITHOUT the dish....there were then tons of $139 receipts going around......was this ethical? Depends how it was done......I paid the $189 and was happy about it.....but that is my personal choice.

[smackdaddy_D]

I agree that being dishonest to Directv to get a discount is pretty sleazy.

However, the more I see people getting the discount, the more I wanted to call them. I was paying $62/mo for HBO, Starz, locals, and the better base package. I wanted showtime and cinemax and the local sports channels (essentially the only difference between my package and TCP), but I don't feel that that is worth $23/mo....but I do feel it is worth $13/mo. I figure, I'll commit to a year of TCP, and they give me $20 for the first six months, then that works out to a $10/mo discount, which allows me to pay what I feel the additional services are worth.

So, I called, and I explained my situation. I told the rep about this board, that people are pretending to want to switch to cable, and scamming them right and left. I don't want to do that. I want to upgrade to TCP, but I don't want to pay full price. I've been a customer for 2 years (my family a customer since the beginning of DSS), my bill is paid automatically every month, I have two extra receivers, I always purchase NFL Sunday Ticket (as does my father), and I always praise Directv to anyone who asks my opinion. So after I asked for the $20/mo discount for 6 months in exchange for comitting to a year of TCP, she tells me that that promotion is only offered in special circumstances. I told her she was encouraging me to be dishonest.

Well, after some going back and forth, and me being put on hold, the lady comes on and tells me that since I called up asking for a discount, she can give me $10 off my current bill, but if I want to upgrade to TCP, it will cost me the full $85. I explained that I didn't want a discount, I can afford my bill. I want to pay Directv more money, not less. She wouldn't budge!!! I was so dumbfounded. So I broke it down for her: You're telling me that you'll extend a discount to me if I stay at my current level, but you will not extend a discount if I wish to upgrade my service?

Laying it out like that confused her for a second; she asked me to repeat what I said, and when I did, she quickly just reiterated her position of what she can do. The discount I referred to, the $20/off TCP for 6 months, is only offered in special circumstances, she tells me. She then tells me that I called asking for a discount, so she is offering me a discount. I refuted that I called asking for a discount; I didn't want a discount on my current bill! I explained that I did want the discount she was offering, but I want that discount applied to TCP, not my current bill. She WOULD NOT FRIGGING BUDGE?!?!

Finally, I got angry. This woman was not listening to reason or logic. I asked for her name, and demanded to speak to her supervisor. She then kept trying to tell me why I was wrong, and I kept having to raise my voice. I didn't like it, but she left me no choice. She finally agreed to transfer me to her supervisor, but asked me one last time if I would accept the $10 discount. BIZZARRE! I told her I'd rather talk to her supervisor.

So after a short hold, I got the supervisor. I rambled on with my story for a solid 2 minutes, while he listened. He agreed with some of my points, gave me the $20/mo TCP credit without hesitation, and I upgraded my service.

It boils down to the fact that the cost of the providing me with the additional services comes nowhere near the $13 more per month I wanted to pay Directv; they get more money, I get more service. Everybody is happy. And I didn't have to lie. But I did have to get angry, which is disappointing, but acceptable.

Andy

[willardcpa]

MD in hospital, "Mrs. Smackdaddy, sorry about your loss. There was nothing we could do to save Andy, the brain aneurism was fatal from the get-go. Was he under a lot of stress lately?" Mrs. Smackdaddy, "No, as a matter of fact he was quite happy about saving $20/mo on our satellite TV bill.":( :D

[turbo92awd]

Originally posted by smackdaddy_D
I agree that being dishonest to Directv to get a discount is pretty sleazy.

However, the more I see people getting the discount, the more I wanted to call them. I was paying $62/mo for HBO, Starz, locals, and the better base package. I wanted showtime and cinemax and the local sports channels (essentially the only difference between my package and TCP), but I don't feel that that is worth $23/mo....but I do feel it is worth $13/mo. I figure, I'll commit to a year of TCP, and they give me $20 for the first six months, then that works out to a $10/mo discount, which allows me to pay what I feel the additional services are worth.

So, I called, and I explained my situation. I told the rep about this board, that people are pretending to want to switch to cable, and scamming them right and left. I don't want to do that. I want to upgrade to TCP, but I don't want to pay full price.

Andy

/flame on so what you are saying is that is is not ok to call and get the $20 off the way we did it, but since YOU think that premier is not worth full price, YOU should get it at a discount???

were you the kid that told on people in grade school?

i bet you were a teacher's pet. huh?...

/flame off

[unixadm]

I think you misinterpreted his post....

He wasn't saying that it isn't ok to call.....and neither am I .....he was saying it was wrong to lie to get the discount.

As I said in some previous posts, I called and got the $20 off...for a second time.....but I was completely honest....told them I was looking to cut my bills down, and heard about the $20/month off if I committed to a 1 year agreement....and that I was willing to commit to the year to get a discount since I was very happy with their service and with my TiVo combo boxes. There never was a question of whether I was staying with DirectTV....just whether I was going to keep the TCP package or bump down to TC/HBO.

That is much different than asking for customer retention, telling them that you are being lured over by the Cable Company or Dish and want them to give you a discount to stay with them.....unless that really is the case, then you are being dishonest.....plain and simple.

[DanTanna]

Yup I took the honest approach and just asked for the $20 off premiere for 6mo with 1yr agreement and the CSR at first said we don't offer a package like that but to her credit she said let me see if we have anything like it.
Couple minutes on hold and she came back and set me all up. Even talked me through making sure I was receiving the new channels (I only had total choice + locals before).

Thanks for suggesting this. :)

DanTanna.

[TVCommander]

I felt pretty good a couple of weeks ago, when I got the $20 deal and a new dish for being a long term (since 1996) Premier customer. After reading unixadm's (and others) comments, I had to think, jeez did I lie to get a deal. No, I didn't. Just asked for it straight up.

The point of this reply is to say I appreciate the honest discussions about the DirecTV service, the hardware (what works and what doesn't), and the tips on how to use the Tivo functions.

Now, if I could just figure out how to get the (MX500) remote out of my wife's hands... :-)

Am I gonna have to buy another box for my ownself?

[unixadm]

TVCommander....

Let me tell you.....

You will have to Buy another DirectTiVo AND another MX-500......it's the only way to keep the marriage happy..... ;)

[pbo]

Just called and asked...1st line CSR said no problem and took care of me in about 2 minutes.......

[golubian]

My six months on the offer just expired, so I called and downgraded back to my old package.

Has anyone managed to convince them to re-extend this offer for another 6 mos?

[spartanstew]

I was able to do this offer twice. I did it originally in January of 2002. After 6 months I downgraded for about two weeks then called them back up and asked about it and they gave it to me again. The second six month period expired a few weeks ago. I tried calling a few times to get it extended for another six months, but was not succesful. I downgraded back to plus with locals and HBO last week. In a few weeks I will call back and see if I can get it a third time (maybe you need to be upgrading, or something) and keep you posted.

Stew

[jangelj]

I just got a directivo and am a new Directv subscriber. I activated my sub on Saturday. I tried like hell to get this deal, but they said it was only for existing subscribers who are getting offers from Dish and/or cable. I was put on hold like 4 times trying to work it. No luck. Ended up getting the $81 package for like $60-something because of free hbo and cinemax for 3 months. I figure after 3 months I'll try again, or drop down to the plus package.

BTW, anyone know what the "windows" button does on the peanut remote. I pressed it, but my computer didn't do anything.

[valmg]

Originally posted by golubian
My six months on the offer just expired, so I called and downgraded back to my old package.

Has anyone managed to convince them to re-extend this offer for another 6 mos?

My 1st 6 months of $20 off expired in January. I called them this morning and told them that Comcast is blanketing my neighborhood with 6month special offers for digital cable and asked if Directv was offering anything to stay. She put me on hold for like 2 minutes and came back and offered me either free Showtime (I have premium so didn't need that) or $20 off my monthly for 6 months, which I gratefully accepted. I didn't need to make anything up, just told the truth and asked.

[Marco]

Existing (2 yr) customer ... Got the discount right away, no hassle whatsoever. Sweet.

[LinOz]

This thread prompted me to call DTV CS, and now I've got the 6mos $20 off deal on Premiere svc, too.

I think I'm glad. But I am paying about $25 more than I was for the Total Choice Plus w/ Locals pkg, even with this discount. Yet, I am a big movie lover. So, yes, I becoming more glad with each movie I watch!

Thanks everyone for sharing the news...

[TeeSee]

Originally posted by jangelj
I just got a directivo and am a new Directv subscriber. I activated my sub on Saturday. I tried like hell to get this deal, but they said it was only for existing subscribers who are getting offers from Dish and/or cable. I was put on hold like 4 times trying to work it. No luck. Ended up getting the $81 package for like $60-something because of free hbo and cinemax for 3 months. I figure after 3 months I'll try again, or drop down to the plus package.

BTW, anyone know what the "windows" button does on the peanut remote. I pressed it, but my computer didn't do anything.

I've been a DirecTV customer for about a month. I got the $20 off TCP for 6 mo. deal about two weeks ago. So, I know for a fact that you can get it. And I didn't say anything about any tempting offers from anywhere else. I just told them that I read on the internet that I could get this deal. The CSR put me on hold "for two to three minutes" then came back and said OK. One phone call, that was it.

And the window button does nothing at this time. It's for an additional, yet to be announced, feature.

[laz]

Just got the $20 off deal today...

[DesertFox]

Just called in and after the CSR did not know what I was talking about, she put me through to her supervisor, hd to tell him that it is called the retention package. He came back to me and set it up.

Thanks fellas...

[spartanstew]

Originally posted by spartanstew
I was able to do this offer twice. I did it originally in January of 2002. After 6 months I downgraded for about two weeks then called them back up and asked about it and they gave it to me again. The second six month period expired a few weeks ago. I tried calling a few times to get it extended for another six months, but was not succesful. I downgraded back to plus with locals and HBO last week. In a few weeks I will call back and see if I can get it a third time (maybe you need to be upgrading, or something) and keep you posted.

Stew


I called back today and was succesful again. I asked the CSR if they still had the $20 off premier package discount going on and she said yes. She told me that I had already taken advantage of this promotion and I changed my service back down to total choice a couple of weeks ago. I told her, correct, I didn't know you couldn't take advantage of it again if it was still available and that it would mean more money to Directv anyway. She said, OK, I'll set you up.

So, this is my third time doing this offer. I had $20 off from January - July 2002, $20 off from August - February 2003, and now I will have $20 off again until September. Not to mention, that now I qualify again for the various HBO, Max, and Showtime rebates that are floating around.

I'll post again in September and let everyone know if it's possible to get this deal 4 times.


Stew

[Skrill]

thanks for tip guys -- just signed up and got it.

BTW, Stew ...

What rebates are you talking about? Can you post some links?

[Edmund]

I thought this was $20 per month, Directv deducted $20 on the 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, on my last bill.

[spartanstew]

Originally posted by Skrill
BTW, Stew ...

What rebates are you talking about? Can you post some links?


HBO $20 rebate:

http://www.hbo.com/camp/200301GL/coupon.html

Showtime $50 rebate:

http://www.sho.com/boxing/promotions/great_months_of_fights.cfm

Showtime $50 Home Depot gift card:

http://sho.com/now/rebate_form.cfm?action=print&offertype=local&offer_id=500000000093279&system

HBO/Cinemax $20 rebate:

http://www.hbo.com/apps/hboxpress/jsp/get_hbo200302SA_3.jsp


Stew

[Aquatic]

The deal is still alive... $20 off for 6 months. 1 year commitment to at least Total Choice package subscription. Direct call to the Customer Service number, David checked my account and immediately set it up. Shoulda done this earlier.. LOTS earlier.. :(

[robbroy]

Customer service would not offer it. I asked to be transferred to customer retention and I got the deal immediately. Not bad for 5 minutes work.

[vince911]

Just got it tonight too! Thanks to everyone on this great forum.

[Amy_A_24]

I read about 4 pages of this thread before realizing they were posts from 2002! LOL. Still good ideas. I previously had Total Choice + locals for $37.99. I called tonight and was able to switch to $31.99 base TC + locals *permanently*, and so with that discount I added HBO. Cool :-)

[jillker]

Originally posted by Amy_A_24
I read about 4 pages of this thread before realizing they were posts from 2002! LOL. Still good ideas. I previously had Total Choice + locals for $37.99. I called tonight and was able to switch to $31.99 base TC + locals *permanently*, and so with that discount I added HBO. Cool :-)

better check again...it's not permanent, it's for 6 months

[pvtivo]

Just got off the phone with Directv. The csr said I couldn't get the discount. He said "that was just for people who were going to quit not for just anyone who calls up." I said "You mean that I have to threaten to quit to get it. Okay, I'm thinking of quiting." The ******* then hung up on me.

[vince911]

Like I said last page, I called yesterday, referenced the "customer retention deal" and got Total Choice Premier for 6 months at $61.00. With the networks my total monthly damage is $67.00. Thanks again to this forum.

[Amy_A_24]

2 different customer service people told me I could drop the HBO after six months if I wanted, "but I must make a 1 year commitment to total choice, at $31.99"... darn though if they were wrong (cust srvc, wrong? never!).

pv call back for sure!!

[grein002]

Add me to the list of those obtaining this deal! The representative hadn't heard of it and had to do a little digging, but found it and signed me up without difficulty. Now I just have to hope it is still available in October and that I can get it again...

[Michael.R]

i just did this on friday. asked for it, the csr knew exactly what i was talking about, and hooked me up .. call was about 5 minutes.

[pvtivo]

Called Directv tonight and got the package. No problem this time.

I still can't get over how rude the last Customer Service Guy was, but I'm
happy now.

[youngdr]

Just got this deal no problem, no lying either. Just asked about the $20 off Premier for 6 months that a friend had received. The CSR even made the point to tell me that I would be saving even more money because I wouldn't be paying the extra $4.99 for DVR with this package!

[slim69]

Thanks to everyone here, just called and asked for the $20.00 off package. The CSR said they don't normally just give this discount. She told me she wanted to check my account, looked at my history with DirecTv, said I was a good customer and it would be no problem. I've been a DTV subscriber for over 3 years, and just got my 2 HDVR2's two weeks ago. Now I'll have to do the HD upgrades so I have room for all these movies!This site rocks!!!!!!

[jamieh1]

Once you get the deal you can downgrade and still keep the $20 credit.
The deal locks you in a TOTAL CHOICE not Premiere.
Trust me Ive done it for the lastyear 2 times.
Go the directv.com account mgmt and down grade. It will tell you that you can downgrade below TC when you select the confirmation to downgrade.

[dadale]

got the package at $20 for 6months and got 3 extra to boot!

The rep looked at my account and said i was supposed to get a discount for the frist 3 months i was on DTV and they went ahead and gave me 9 months insted of 6 to make up for the mistake at the beginning. (didnt even have to ask for it the rep found it and offered it!)

thanks guys!!!!!!

[Emmett]

And here's my story...

In January I requested and received a downgrade to Locals/Showtime/Tivo and I was well pleased.

Last Sunday I temporarily upgraded, or so I thought, to TC to watch the Children of Dune. After it was over I called up and was told my previous downgrade was "Impossible" and "one time only, never to be repeated". After several CSR's and supervisors I got the hint. :( I'll be quite annoyed with them for some time to come.

Anyway, today I saw this thread again, called a CSR, requested and received it!!!

Well, first Trish said "This isn't usually a package we give out just because you want it, but because you called today I'll go ahead and give it to you." While she was making the changes I asked if I could get the $20 discount offer with the Para Todos package...after checking she OK'd it too.


I've checked and rechecked the Service Agreement and numerous other documents on the directtv.com site and have NOT found anything that states I am not allowed to receive a very extra basic package ie: locals/x-premium package/DVR....

Why did they give me such a hard time, but turn arround and give me the super delux package w/discount?????

[expectatious2]

Sounds like the rep who downgraded you in the first place made A mistake. Anyway, upgrading for A single night of programming is kinda shifty bud. You got caught by your own greed.

[Burt Spielman]

Having had the $20 discount off Total Choice Premier w/Locals for $65.99 for the last six months, I was surprised when my DirecTV bill arrived yesterday with a $108.99 balance ($20.00 past due, $1.00 late fee, $87.99 monthly service fee--raised $2 a few days ago) and a PAST DUE notice.

I called the toll-free number on the bill and was connected with Billing Customer Service. After some checking, the rep determined that I had not been credited with the last month's $20 discount during the most recent billing cycle. She credited the $20 plus the $1 fee. However, she would not extend the $20 discount any longer, stating that it was not possible to extend it for subscribers who had already taken advantage of it. :confused:

I told her that I, therefore, wanted to remove the Sports Pack, leaving me with Total Choice Plus w/Locals ($39.99) and four Premier Services--HBO, Starz, Showtime and Cinemax ($41.00), totalling $80.99. Then she said she couldn't change my service because the admittedly bogus past due $20 still showed up on my account. Her credit, she said, wouldn't appear until this month's billing cycle. So, I paid the $20 by credit card and she adjusted my service level. End of call.

I immediately called back, this time to the 800-DIRECTV number. I asked the rep about renewing the $20 promotion off the $87.99 Total Choice Premier w/Locals. She did a little checking and renewed it without question. Thus, my current balance is $47.99 ($87.99 less the $20 I paid less the $20 promotion). The $20 monthly discount is good for another six months from today. :)

[trs23]

Just called up 800-DIRECTV and got this promotion myself! Thanks Directv!

[esojmc]

I have Total Choice Plus with HBO. I called and got $10 off per month for the next 6 mos. Got the idea from this forum.

Thanks!

[TracySMiller]

YESSS!!! I finally got this deal, on about my fifth attempt. It just shows you that persistence is the key.

It still was difficult, though. First CSR did not want to offer me the deal, refusing to believe there was such a deal. He puts me on hold for a couple of minutes, comes back and asks how I heard of this deal. I say I have some friends who received the deal. He pesters me to give him a phone number of one of my friends. I, of course, decline. He says that it's for people who are first signing up. I tell him I got an alternative deal when I signed up (Showtime + NFL Seasons pass deal for three months), and they said then I couldn't get this deal until that one ran out. CSR seems confused, so I mention Customer Retention department. He says this department is for people who are having problems with their service. I say my problem with my service is that the CSR's aren't very cooperative. He hands me over to the Customer Retention department. This new CSR asks what can he do for me, I say "You can give me $20 of Total Choice Premier for six months", he gets my information, I go on hold for a few more minutes, then he comes back and says he has arranged for me to get it. WHEW!

[wxwx]

after my 2nd time with the $20 off deal I was told I couldn't get it again, because I had it before. I tried several different CSRs, even customer retention, no luck. So I waited a couple of months and tried again last weekend. I got it again, no problem.

This makes 18 months with $20 off and I've paid full price for only two months.

[mattnboise]

Simply the best way to communicate with DirecTV is through the feedback option on the DirecTV. They communicate back to you via email and you can then store it in a folder in your email client. This came in real handy when I used the feedback option in January to deactivate a receiver and the bill arrived in March with it still on it. I just copied the reply back to DirecTV and was credited for the last 3 months. Also it was easier to request the promotion through email rather than the whole telelphony call after call. Also, the people that work the feedback option are real DirecTV employee's.

[secabeen]

FYI, this offer is still available. I got it today just for asking. It still restarts your 1-year commitment to Total Choice or better and lasts for 6 months. Thanks to everybody for posting this great discount!

[maxview]

I had it and it expired last month. I just noticed my latest bill was $20 higher. I could downgrade to a lower package since I don't watch most of the extra channels, but did the discount program end for good in June?

[wyatt9696]

just got this deal(20.00 off TCP). i've only been a dtv subscriber for one month.

does anyone know if you can combine the 50.00 rebate from showtime(through showtime) with this deal, and get 50.00 off after submitting the 1st 3 months of billing that shows showtime on it? I'm sounding like a cheap SOB, but a rebate is a rebate. thanks all.

[jmahone]

Originally posted by maxview
I had it and it expired last month. I just noticed my latest bill was $20 higher. I could downgrade to a lower package since I don't watch most of the extra channels, but did the discount program end for good in June?

Two thoughts:
1) Did you go back through your billing to determine if you had already received all 6 $20 discounts?

2) DirecTV has had (or created, I suppose) issues with the billing of this discount. In my case, after receiving the discount in month 1, the next month's bill did not show the discount. I called, and the CSR seemed to understand that this happened sometimes, and warned that when I saw my next bill, there might be a bunch of discounts all at once. Sure enough, the month 3 bill arrived with 4 discounts for $80.

So, call and find out. I don't really care if the discount is all at once ($120) or monthly, but it has been my experience (and others) that it typically comes aperiodically ($20 here, $80 there, etc.). Strange but true.

My .02 worth.

Thanks,
Jerry

[tim76844]

This offer is still valid. 6-months $20 off TC Premier. I just added it to my subscription. Requires a 1-yr commitment to Total Choice which I already have on my new DirecTV Tivo PVR. I pay the same amount and added Cinemax, Showtime, and SportsPac (already had HBO & Starz). Good deal!

[JillupM]

This still works. I called and said I'd heard I could get a $20 a month discount if I ordered TC Premier. I was put on hold for about five minutes and when he came back, he said it was a retenion offer that he could give me. I'm now getting all the channels. Should be less than we're paying now for HBO, Showtime, Sports and DTivo. I'm crossing my fingers.

[scottjf8]

Originally posted by tim76844
This offer is still valid. 6-months $20 off TC Premier. I just added it to my subscription. Requires a 1-yr commitment to Total Choice which I already have on my new DirecTV Tivo PVR. I pay the same amount and added Cinemax, Showtime, and SportsPac (already had HBO & Starz). Good deal!

TC or TC Premiere?

Wonder if I can upgrade for the 6 months, pay $5/month more than I pay now, then after the 6 months downgrade back to TC + locals like I have now?

[rogo]

Of course you can downgrade after 6 months. You need to keep Total Choice for at least six more months.

[blawler]

Originally posted by scottjf8
TC or TC Premiere?

Wonder if I can upgrade for the 6 months, pay $5/month more than I pay now, then after the 6 months downgrade back to TC + locals like I have now?

You can even downgrade sooner (as long as you keep the TC of course). In Jan '02, I took the discount for just three months, got the $50 SHO rebate, and dropped back to HBO/Starz. I came out $35 ahead and got Showtime & Skinemax for free..... IMO it was not worth the extra $5/month to continue for the full 6 months. I'm going to do the same thing again... Thanks Showtime!

[fosdick]

Took me three calls, but I got the 20.00 discount. The first two entertainment specialists had no idea and could not find anything on the discount even after talking to their supervisors. This morning bang no problem went right through.
Thanks for the info.

[mmihalik]

Earlier in this thread, someone mentioned using feedback link on www.directv.com to request $20.

Could not have been easier...

In my email I asked (be sure to have your subscriber number for their email form):

A few of my friends recently received a $20 credit for 6 months that was applied to their Total Choice Premier account.

Is this something I am eligible for?

I have been a DirecTV subscriber at the highest level for several years.

Thanks in advance for your reply.
Within hours, DirecTV responded in an email:
Thank you for writing. With your current programming package, you are eligible for a $20.00 per month customer appreciation discount (for 6 months) if you agree to maintain Total Choice or above programming for an additional 6 months (a total of one year). If this is acceptable to you, please write back with acknowledgement and we will add the discount.

We appreciate you as a DIRECTV customer and hope you continue to enjoy
DIRECTV service.

Granted, I am already a Total Choice Premier subscriber, so that may have made things easier.

Last year, automatically received a discount that included NFL Season Pass; overall was still cheaper than my normal monthly fee. I just had to remember to cancel the automatic subscription to NFL this year.

Mike

[scottjf8]

Sweet!! Got it hooked up..

Proves again, what would I do without this place?

[rogo]

Remember that if you have CSRs who are unable to find the discount, the words "Is there any way you can transfer me to customer retention?" can be helpful.

[Thespis]

Just got it on the first try.
:)

[wallace]

Yes, this is such a weird situation with them.
I just finished my first time getting the deal and was immediately surprised how expensive my bill was without having that $20 off every month. So I called to do it again (I asked simply to get the deal like it was my first time) and after 15 minutes was told that I couldn't do it again and it was a one time only thing. Even after going to the CRG and saying i was thinking of cancelling because without it the bill was too high, they still wouldn't budge. I even directly asked the CRG guy if I downgraded my account then could he upgrade it to premiere and give me the discount and he flat out said no.

So, of course I did exactly what the guy said I couldn't and it worked. Right after hanging up from my first try I went online and downgraded my account from premiere to choice plus. Then I immediately called and asked for the deal and magically they could do it now :) Funny how annoying and stupid their own procedures and systems are. Anyways, the moral of the story is that if you are trying to get it again after your first 6 months runs out downgrade your account online before calling to upgrade it and get the deal again.

[rogo]

ROFL!

[kevostl]

Second round to start for me in a couple of days!

I went on-line and e-mailed DirecTv and told them how happy I was with the service and having all the channels to choose from etc (I also mentioned that I had the DirecTiVo service as well as the protection plan) and is there any way to receive the discount of $20.00 off again.

They wrote back within 5 hours and said yes. You need to wait until you are finished with the current promotion (gave me the exact date) and then told me to call up and they will add the discount back.

Plain and simple. Didn't have to tell them I was canceling service or anything... just told the truth... guess that does work at times!! LOL

Kev-O

[easylistener]

I just called and they gave me the deal. I didn't even have the prem. package before. She told me it was for people who had been having problems latly with there service. I spoke up real fast and said that the first tivo I recieved was bad and now I am waiting for a new one. She said no problem then sr. your all set. Thanks Guys!!!

[dean]

I thought to get this deal you had to sign up for one year and agreed get $20 off for 6 months and then pay full price for the next 6 month. When I called the CSR also stated that you could not downgrade or you would be charged the full amount. Is this true?

[wyatt9696]

not true. all you need to do is agree to keep total choice for a year. you can downgrade from premier after 6 months. then as most do, reapply for the upgrade again. good luck.

[easylistener]

I was told the same thing as wyatt9696. Except they made a mastake and gave me the 63.00 tcpl and then an addtional 20 off. Do you think that they will catch this?

[bbshop]

Woo-hoo!!! Thanks guys...here is my response from DirecTV-


Thank you for writing. We have processed your email request for changes
to your DIRECTV service. We have added the six month discount to your
account for the TOTAL CHOICE PREMIER with LOCAL CHANNELS. You will see a
$20.00 credit on your account for the next six months, at the end of
this six months the credit will discontinue and your services will
remain the same. You can view this change on your next DIRECTV
statement.

As you are aware, there is an annual commitment to the TOTAL CHOICE
programming or above. We wanted to let you know that if you drop below
the required programming you may be subject to a prorated cancellation
fee of up to $150.00.

Thanks again for allowing us the opportunity to assist you.

[TivoPete1]

Just wanted to say thanks for the TC Premiere incentive tip. I received an unsolicited call from DTV asking if I wanted to upgrade from TC to TC Premiere for an additional $8 per month to which I said yes. The following day, after looking at my DTV bill, I called DTV, told them that a competitor was offering more attractive pricing and was there anything that they could do for me. They transferred me to Customer Retention where they offered me a $20/month credit for the next six months! I also cancelled the DTV monthly Guide that was costing $4.99 per month (I don't ever remember ordering this) and with TC Premiere with Locals the $4.99 monthly Tivo fee goes away.

Thanks again for the tip - Happy Tivo Camper

[mrpeter]

Greetings all. I'll be lurking around for the next few months..having just discovered tivo and this forum a few weeks ago. This is a great place to be.
I'll let you know what DTV said to my request....I gave em all the facts..long time subscriber yadayada..so what can you do for me..I used the friends code to get my tivo for the discounted price..so I own you all a big thanks.

I'm hoping my upgrade will go well..but I've got to absorb a couple of hundred pages before I crack the case open

[romeodawg]

Originally posted by dfriedland
I just called Directtv out of the blue and asked if I could switch to total premier choice with locals with a $20 discount for the first 6 months.... There was no problem, just a minute of holding while she checked the computer, and she said no problem. Total premier + locals + DVR (tivo) for $65.99 a month, and I didn't have to beg or threaten to switch companies or anything. I just asked politely and they were more than happy to oblige.

I just called today (Sat. 7/19) and after checking, was told that the $20 off offer was no longer in effect. So I cancelled Showtime. Hah! That'll teach'm. Sort of.

I'll try calling back and talking to someone else.

Paul

[romeodawg]

After getting a "the $20 off special for Total Choice Premiere is no longer available" from a DirecTV rep, I sent an email complaint to their feedback address. I also threw in a "no HMO on DirecTivo" complaint, just for fun. :-)

Here's my response (after only an hour!):

--
Thank you for writing DIRECTV. We are sorry you did not receive
courteous, professional treatment from our Entertainment Consultant when
you called us. We value you as a DIRECTV customer, and would like to let
you know that if you would like to upgrade to Total Choice Premier, we
could give you $20 off for the first 6 months. If this is something you
are interested in, please reply to this message and we will apply this
to your account.

In addition, we appreciate your interest in the TiVo Home Media Option.
However, we do not have any information as to whether or not this
feature will be supported by the DIRECTV with TiVo combination
receivers. Please know that just as personal computers are rapidly
evolving, we expect DIRECTV System receivers to incorporate many new
features in the coming years. We will enhance our programming service as
the receiving equipment evolves.

--

No real surprises there, but I'd say the $20 off is probably always available with persistance, and they're more than aware of the HMO requests.

[scottjf8]

Glad they took care of you. Directv proves again that they are a top-notch organazation.. it's just too bad Cable Companies can't be half of what Directv is...

[wassct]

I called last Thursday night and asked for the deal. The first rep I had said no problem and the I was off the phone in under 10 minutes!

Great deal!

[kevostl]

Just received word via e-mail that they will indeed add the promotion again no problem. Last 6 month promotion ended Saturday 7/19. No problem, great customer service!

Kev-O

[CaptainX77]

Is this promotion available to new subscribers?


I am moving in September and I am planning on getting DirecTV. My girlfriend and I were going to get Total Choice Plus with Locals, plus the Sports Pack and maybe HBO. We are also planning on getting the NHL Center Ice package. I already have an upgraded standalone TiVo unit with a lifetime subscription to use as well.

This would be an outstanding deal, especially when you get all the channels-any insight or advice that anyone can offer to a satellite newbie would be greatly appreciated:)

[larryltl]

As a new customer, I got service yesterday (TC+ locals - 2 months free). Today I call and ask about the $20 off on Premier. CSR was not familiar with it, put me on hold while he checked, and said "Yes, though we don't advertise it, I can give that to you."

"Great - can you walk me through my bill, as I don't want any surprises."
Long story short, if I go with the Premier at the discounted rate, I lose my 2 months free service promo. Thanked the CSR and told him I'd check back in two months.

Any others encountered this scenario?

[jillker]

Originally posted by CaptainX77
Is this promotion available to new subscribers?


I am moving in September and I am planning on getting DirecTV. My girlfriend and I were going to get Total Choice Plus with Locals, plus the Sports Pack and maybe HBO. We are also planning on getting the NHL Center Ice package. I already have an upgraded standalone TiVo unit with a lifetime subscription to use as well.

This would be an outstanding deal, especially when you get all the channels-any insight or advice that anyone can offer to a satellite newbie would be greatly appreciated:)

why mess with $20 off when you can get the nfl offer?

[wallace]

Originally posted by jillker
why mess with $20 off when you can get the nfl offer?

Maybe because you don't care about NFL?

[KrustyVT]

Originally posted by larryltl

Long story short, if I go with the Premier at the discounted rate, I lose my 2 months free service promo. Thanked the CSR and told him I'd check back in two months.


I just activated my DirecTV subscription 2 days ago. While on the phone with the (very nice) lady, she offered me the option for the TC Plus/Locals for the 2 months free, or the option to get TC Premiere/Locals at the regular price, with the TC Plus/Locals credit of $39.99 still being applied.

So, for the first two months I have TC Premiere/Locals, DVR service included, two extra receivers for a total of $57.98 + tax ($87.99 - $39.99 + $4.99 receiver + $4.99 receiver).

After two months, provided the deal is still running, I will call up and ask for the 6 months/$20 credit for TC Premiere, and hopefully I can get that.

-=K=-

[jillker]

Originally posted by wallace
Maybe because you don't care about NFL?


and....? for four months free of tc premier you only have to pay $55 a month (nfl in four installments). Even if you never watch an nfl game, you're still paying less than this $20 off deal AND you can still get the 6 month offer after the 4 months are over.

[mmihalik]

DirecTV automatically gave me the NFL last year with the discount. Discovered it on my bil...

When I called to inquire, I was told that it was being done to reward me as a long time customer (Premier or equiv thru the years).

I asked what was the catch?

DirecTV replied that I had a 1 year commitment to DirecTV, and that NFL would automatically be renewed the following year (this year),

In late winter a few months ago, I simply called DirecTV and asked that the automatic renewal to NFL be removed. It didn't take so a few weeks later, I called them again and it wa removed.

So for the NFL deal this year, investigate the fine print...go for it if it looks OK to you. Instead, I got the $20/month credit again.

By the way, did not watch a single NFL game last year, except for the Super Bowl...

Mike

[BigDawg]

As a new member, I wanted to say Thanks! I have been 'lurking' for a bit and soaking in all the quality information you folks have been posting. After reading this thread, I contacted DTV and asked if I could get the $20 off deal for 6 months. I was put on hold for a few minutes and when the EC returned, he told me he could offer me the $20 off on Total Premier! I never would have know about this if it was not for you folks. Thanks Again!!

[CaptainX77]

We're not very big on the NFL-she's a fan, but I practically never watch. I do admit I watch the Super Bowl but I think everyone watches that.

We'd rather get the NHL package. It's discounted by $20, so no sweat there. The $20 off the Total Premier package will most definitely be sweet :D

[Polekat]

Originally posted by jillker
and....? for four months free of tc premier you only have to pay $55 a month (nfl in four installments). Even if you never watch an nfl game, you're still paying less than this $20 off deal AND you can still get the 6 month offer after the 4 months are over.

That deal is only for new DTV customers, correct?

[Mataki]

I just called up DirecTV and tried to upgrade my service to the Total Choice Premier deal ($20 off/6 months). the CSR said there was no deal available.

Is the deal dead...or should I just try to call back?

[aciurczak]

I had the deal for 6 months, it ran out last month. I called again 2 days ago, and after hemming and hawing, they agreed to give it to me again for 6 months. They did say I had to "promise" to have the other 6 months of the contract (every time you change it is a 12 month commitment) at regular price. I have a note in my calendar 6 months from now to call back and get the deal again.

[TeeSee]

Originally posted by Mataki
I just called up DirecTV and tried to upgrade my service to the Total Choice Premier deal ($20 off/6 months). the CSR said there was no deal available.

Is the deal dead...or should I just try to call back?
Try again. You'll get it. Some people have reported that they'd called numerous times before they got a CSR who would give them the deal.

[jillker]

Originally posted by Polekat
That deal is only for new DTV customers, correct?


yes, it's my understanding that captain is not a directv subscriber yet

and captain, if this is the case, it's silly to pay $67.99 for something when you can pay $55 and get the same thing

[Crispian]

Just to let ya'll know this deal is still available. I used the feedback link on the DirecTV website to send an email based on mmihalik's (7/8 above):

I have been a very happy DirecTV subscriber ever since you were
the only way I could see my Yankee games- and I wouldn't switch now for
anything!

In fact I have just taken advantage of your excellent DirecTV DVR/Tivo
offer and am just awaiting it's arrival and installation.

However I heard that a few of my friends recently received a $20 credit
for 6 months that was applied to their Total Choice Premier account.

Is this something I am eligible for?

I understand from them that if I upgrade to Total Choice Premier the
monthly Tivo fee is included.


And this is the reply I got back (within 24 hrs):

Thank you for writing. We're sorry for any confusion this issue may be
causing. The discount you are referring to is available, however, it's
generally used to encourage customers to stay with DIRECTV if they are
considering a change in the way they receive TV programming. Using this
discounting is also a great way to show customers the difference between
each premium channel package we offer. We would be happy to extend the
$20 per month discount off of Total Choice Premier for 6 months. In
order to receive this discount, we do require a 1 year commitment to
Total Choice / Opción Extra Especial or above. Please write back and let
us know if you would like to take part in this promotion and agree to
the programming commitment.

We appreciate you as a DIRECTV customer and hope you continue to enjoy
DIRECTV service.


I love DirecTV :D

So it looks like you don't have to threaten to dump DirecTV, they will give this deal to let you check out all the channels- maybe another angle to use when speaking to your "entertainment consultant?"

So, big-time thanks to this forum for cluing me in to this deal, I would never have known about it otherwise :up:

[maw29649]

I just called directv and got the $20 discount....This is great...I just found this forum and so far it seems wonderful...the gentleman on the phone never even mentioned the 12 month contract....
Shelly in SC

[psvendsen]

My $20 off for six months just expired and I sent them an e-mail asking for it again. Here's their reply. Also, I tried calling twice but was rejected both times. I'm switching to vanilla Total Choice.


Thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately, we have not been able to
perform the transaction you requested because in reviewing your account
we found that you had previously taken advantage of this offer. At this
time, since your six month discount to the TOTAL CHOICE PREMIER with
LOCAL CHANNELS has recently expired we would be unable to to give you
this offer.

Thanks again for allowing us the opportunity to assist you.

[wallace]

Originally posted by psvendsen
My $20 off for six months just expired and I sent them an e-mail asking for it again. Here's their reply. Also, I tried calling twice but was rejected both times. I'm switching to vanilla Total Choice.

Did you even bother to read previous posts in this thread?

http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?postid=1243941#post1243941

[psvendsen]

Originally posted by wallace
Did you even bother to read previous posts in this thread?

http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?postid=1243941#post1243941


Oops, I read 10 pages of the 19 page thread and missed your reply in the middle of page 17. My mistake for not reading the over 300 posts in this thread carefully enough.

[expectatious2]

Right on, psvendsen!

[duckyspawn]

What is the NFL ticket package everyone is talking about? I have only had directv a few weeks. I took the TC Premier package for the first two months as they gave me a $40 credit. I was planning on calling them to request $20 off TC Premier at the end of the two months but if I can get Sunday ticket in addition, that would be great.

[BrianW]

Just did it myself. No trouble. Asked for it and they gave it to me. I had TC + locals + HBO + Starz with 2 outlets and it comes out to be pretty much the same price.

[Scopeman]

Originally posted by BrianW
Just did it myself. No trouble. Asked for it and they gave it to me. I had TC + locals + HBO + Starz with 2 outlets and it comes out to be pretty much the same price.

I just had both phone and email exchanges with them - they were willing to give me the TC Premier with $20 discount, but they said that the DVR fee would still be on the bill as a separate item.

That's makes this a $15 discount, and that is not enough for me to go from Normal TC to TC Premier.

Has anyone else heard this? Cable has a good PVR deal going on in my area, it may be time to switch for a while....

:(

[MCodanti]

They probably just didn't know what they were talking about. I get the $20/month credit, and a line item that shows the DVR but with a price of $0.00 with a note saying it is included in TC Premier.

So the discount works out to $25/month for me.

[mmihalik]

DVR fee is waived for DTiVo, but not SA.

Mike

[OldDude321]

Thanks to this thread and this forum, I called DirectTV and got this same $20 discount today.

It took a bit of convincing (I literally read them the email one of the previous posters had received), but after several back and forth conversations with her "supervisor", she gave me the $20 credit for six months.

Thanks !!!

[Scopeman]

Originally posted by MCodanti
They probably just didn't know what they were talking about. I get the $20/month credit, and a line item that shows the DVR but with a price of $0.00 with a note saying it is included in TC Premier.

So the discount works out to $25/month for me.

A manager called me back to talk about this - told me that the first EC was wrong, that the DVR fee would be waived. He then offered me a HDVR2 for $99 as a sweetener - and I said YES, so now I'm in for the TC Premier discount also. Sweet!

[MSN]

They told me that I could get the $20 discount for 6 months for TCP. But after that, I would need to continue to keep TCP for the next 6 months!!??

[dmk1974]

Too bad we are not all new subscribers. I see their latest promo is if you sign up and buy the NFL Sunday Ticket package for $240 (or $60/mo for 4 months), you get the Total Choice Premier w/locals package (worth $88 a month with DVR free) for FREE for 4 months.

Effectively, that is like saving $28 a month over 4 months PLUS getting the football package for free!

[MCodanti]

Originally posted by MSN
They told me that I could get the $20 discount for 6 months for TCP. But after that, I would need to continue to keep TCP for the next 6 months!!??

I was told 6 more months of TC or higher. Not TCP... I wish all the CSRs knew their stuff.

[hacker70]

I called last night and they still honored the $20 discount for TC Platinum for 6 months plus the $5 savings for the DVR service. Requires a committment for only Total Choice Plus for the remaining 6 months.
The CSR seemed to be very knowledgable but ran into a glitch enabling the service which needed a supervisor's intervention to get it going. All works now.

I already had HBO/Show and Plus so it only cost me an additional $1.01 for the rest.

[mulscully]

E-mail last night about $20 discount, was rejected... Called today... No Problem....
Sweet!!!! Thanks Guys.....


Lou

[mortonmanor]

Called yesterday and got the deal. I had to be sent to the retention department. When I asked what else they could do for me, the rep asked if I'd like another receiver. Sure. Asked if could be a directivo......

Eventually, got the following:
6 mo Premier for 65.99
Series2 Directivo for $99
$30 credit to cover shipping of Directivo
free installation (scheduled for 3 days after order)
very helpful service.

David

[Erik]

Is there any promotion code or offer I might need to mention to get the DVR2 for only $99 or should I just call and ask?

[SteveHoltam]

My 6 mths expired a few weeks ago and I called last night and asked if I could have it again. The rep said no. I might try the switch to a lower package, wait a few days and call and ask for it again. Can't hurt.

Steve

[imac]

Can anyone confirm the post by Mortonmanor...8/6/03 - Eventually, got the following:
6 mo Premier for 65.99
Series2 Directivo for $99
$30 credit to cover shipping of Directivo
free installation (scheduled for 3 days after order)
very helpful service.



I called Directv and they will sell one for $199 plus a $24 shipping charge...

If anyone can confirm, is there a special code need to use for this special price?

Thanks!

Brian

[DennisK]

The keys are to be nice and make sure you get transferred to customer retention if you aren't getting what you think you should be getting, within reason, of course.

Be patient with the CSR. I called this morning and got the $20 discount no problem. Just be honest and explain that it's a "customer appreciation" discount. It takes a while for the CSR to find and implement the discount.

After I got the discount (the fourth time I've gotten it, BTW) I had her (a very nice CSR, BTW) transfer me to the retention department to chat about HDTV.

Once transferred I explained how I had been looking at HDTV but the prices were just too high so now I'm planning on looking again at Christmas time. I said I'd love to get an HD-Tivo but was pretty sure they aren't available yet. The retention rep (again, a very nice lady) checked her database and agreed that HD-Tivo isn't available. I explained how I'd been looking at receivers at Circuit City and Best Buy but they are just too expensive for the little bit of programming I would be getting. She looked to see how long I'd been a subscriber (long time -- since '94 I think) and said they could help me out. She offered me a $150 credit and noted the offer on my account.

If I ever purchase an HD receiver and activate it, I'll get a $150 credit. It will be on my account indefinitely. She also said to make sure to call back before buying to compare prices to make sure DirecTV couldn't sell me a receiver cheaper.

I know others have reported getting a $200 credit but I'm not that serious about purchasing now. Around Christmas I'll start looking again and then I'll call back and see where we stand.

[Keysersozeh]

How long have many of you been customers? I have been a customer for 2 months now.. Has anyone gotten it so soon in their time DT? Cus I would like to ask for it because next month I am going up to $80 something.. and I just ordered NHL Center Ice too this week.

[TeeSee]

I got it after being a sub for only a week or two. You should be able to get it.

[Keysersozeh]

I just emailed them, let's see what happens..

[ft800]

I just joined this group and wanted to say thanks for all your help. I called about the $20 discount and the rep gave it to me with no problem. Ive only been with dtv for only 2 months and to get this discount was really great. Thanks alot.

[Scopeman]

Originally posted by imac
Can anyone confirm the post by Mortonmanor...8/6/03 - Eventually, got the following:
6 mo Premier for 65.99
Series2 Directivo for $99
$30 credit to cover shipping of Directivo
free installation (scheduled for 3 days after order)
very helpful service.



In an effort to match my local cable company they gave me the $67 TC Premier and a $99 DTivo that includes install with dual cable drops up to 125 feet from the dish. I was not going to quibble over shipping but I am sure they would have comped it if I asked. No special code - tell them that your local cable co. if offering you a PVR for free.

[Azddave]

Originally posted by imac
Can anyone confirm the post by Mortonmanor...8/6/03 - Eventually, got the following:
6 mo Premier for 65.99
Series2 Directivo for $99
$30 credit to cover shipping of Directivo
free installation (scheduled for 3 days after order)
very helpful service.



I called Directv and they will sell one for $199 plus a $24 shipping charge...

If anyone can confirm, is there a special code need to use for this special price?

Thanks!

Brian




I called this morning and talked to a regular CSR. All he could offer me was $20.00 off of TC Premier for one month. I then asked to speak to the Customer Retention Group. Got connected to Rhonda, who was very helpful. She gave me the $20.00 off TC Premier for 6 months. Next item of business was to get a discount on a DVR. She originally offered to give me $50.00 off but I told her I had hoped to get $100.00 off and had seen posts on this forum to the effect that others had received it. After noting that I had been a customer for over 5 years, she agreed to my request. We didn't discuss shipping, but I won't mind paying the $25.00 if billed.

Bottom line is talk to the Customer Retention Group if your reasonable requests are not being met from the regular customer service rep.


Thanks for all the great posts on this subject!
Dave

[stryder696]

I just called today and from the regular staff CSR, I got $20/month off from 6 months and a free oval dish with installation to replace my round dish....

[drew2k]

I have a couple of questions for everyone who has called to request the $20 off TC Premier package for 6 months and has gotten it...

(1) Was anyone currently subsribed to TC-Premiere whan you called for the discount? Or did you have a lesser package, so you upgraded and then received a discount? I can't imagine they'd give it to someone already receiving that programming.
(2) If you had TC Premiere and were told you're not eligible for the discount, did anyone drop the TC Premiere and then call back for the discount? How long did you wait between dropping and calling up?
(3) Were any of you still within your 1 year commitment to the TC package? Reason for asking this: if you asked for customer retention if the initial consultant denied your request for the discount, why would retention give in? It seems to me they have anyone on a "commitment" over a barrel: you want $20 off or you'll drop Directv service? Ok, see ya, and by the way that will be $200 for breaking your commitment!

Just curious what the circumstances were when calling. I have TC-Premiere and am still in my 1 year commitment.

Thanks !

[stryder696]

Drew,

I was currently subscribed to TC-Premiere, didn't have to drop down to some lower level, was not under any sort of commitment before calling. Also, I did not have to talk to the retention dept, the regular CSR did it.

[Azddave]

drew2k

I previously had TC Plus and still had about 6 months left on a service agreement from purchasing a new receiver.

My guess is the $20.00/month discount and $100.00 discount on DTivo have become pretty common place. With cable companies coming up with new promotions all the time, DTV probably figures it's worth the discounts to retain their customers. I pay over $100.00 a month for service and I'm sure that gives them some wiggle room!

If someone else has some threories I'd be glad to hear them.


Dave

[drew2k]

Thanks for the answers Dave and Stryder. I called up and was politely told it's a promotion for new subscribers only, and since I already had the three month promotion when I started in March, I couldn't get it again. When I pointed out that left a three month difference between what I got and what the more recent new subscribers got, she said "sorry", that's the way it is. I'll try again, and see if I can get a more "charitable" consultant....

[DannyS]

I just got an offer from the cable company to give me $300 (and six months of cheap service) if I give them my DirecTV equipment. Does telling retention what Comcast is offering tend to get more? What else can I ask for? I already have a HDVR2, and really don't need a second (unless we finally get to network them.) I don't have HDTV, and my line of sight doesn't let me get Sat B for half the year anyways.

Do I dare ask for the Sunday Ticket promotion they're giving new customers?

[imac]

Just to update from my previous post last week...this deal is still available:

I ordered a HDVR2 last week for $199...they then credited my account for $100...net/$99 for a brand new HDVR2 that was delivered and installed today!

I was not able to get them to include free shipping but I don't mind paying a small fee to get a "new" (not refurbished) DVR.

By the way as others have noted, I did not need to threaten, I just mentioned that I had heard this discount was available and voila...they gave it to me...

Now recording with TWO Tivo's...life is good!

Brian

[expectatious2]

You can add me to the $20.00 off Premier for 6 months club.All I had to do was ask if it was available for me. With a $50.00 rebate from Showtime, and A $20.00 rebate from Skinomax, I'll be saving $190.00!! You just gotta love that Directv!.

[Keysersozeh]

I just called and sorta got the run around.. First I was speaking to customer service, and explained that I would like to get the $20 Off, explained what service I had, and I JUST ordered NHLCI and etc.. I was old they only gave those in special circumstances.. I guess I wasn't one of them..

So I asked for Customer Retention, then I was told I was already talking to them.. Doh!

I'll just call back again in a week or two.

[daveo4tivo]

I was able to get the discount around 9 pm on 8/16/2003 no problem.

so it all seems to matter which CSR you talk to.

[serenstarlight]

Originally posted by Dirac
Well it worked!

The CSR I spoke with was curious where I heard of the offer (I know a couple friends... etc, and I saw it on the TiVo internet forum). I asked about the $31.99 Total Choice Plus with Locals, and he said they had it, it was a 6 month offer, but since I had a premium package (sports pack) he said I couldn't get it. I asked if I could drop the sports pack and get it, he said sure, then I asked if I could add the sports pack back on and still keep the offer. :)

I then asked if they had any other promotions going on, and he said that was the only one. I then said I also heard about the $20 TCP package, and after about a 20 s pause he said, yeah we have that. I said I'd like to switch to that one instead (I never did switch to the $31.99 offer). So I'm back to having all the channels for the first time since the NFL ST promotion last year. We're enjoying Back to the Future right now. :)

While I was on a roll, I asked if there was any way I could run the DTV receiver without connecting it to the phone line and still keep my sports subs, and he said he could put an exception on my account which would let me do that. I am psyched--bye bye Ameritech!!! (My wife and I have cell phones with no roaming or LD, don't need the land line.) There are indeed a few gems in the rough at DTV CSR.

The only thing I need to worry about with no phone line is guide updates from TiVo, correct? (will take this part Underground if necessary)

Thanks everyone here for sharing your experiences!
Dirac

If you don't have the phoneline you won't get the updates for the on screen guide either. And in about 30 days an annoying pop up msg will appear for you to connect your phoneline. It's causes too much havoc, than it's convienent.

[serenstarlight]

It makes me wonder if corporate DTV ever checks these forums. To tell you the truth as a CSR, we are in no condition ever to add the $20 off promo more than once on an acct. It makes me feel bad for the poor customer who calls up thinking they can get it more than once and get rejected because the rep is following the policy.

[maxview]

I called a couple months after my $20 off TCP expired to see if I could get it again and they said no. So I dropped down to plain TC plus locals for $39.99. + the $5 DVR fee, plus $5 mirroring fee.
TCP was worth it with the $20 off, but it isn't worth it to me at full price.
I might look at adding one premium package such as HBO or Showtime sometime down the road after I decide which one has the most programming and boxing I would want to watch.

[rlhammon]

I called last night... the first CSR said there was no such deal at all even after mentioning this board and the "customer appreciation" thing someone else posted about.

I called back about 30 minutes later and got someone who immediately knew what I was looking for, but said I needed to put a new 1 yr. committment on the contract as that was the only way to get this $20 for 6 months. So I did that...

[Sir_winealot]

I had TCPlus w/locals for $31.99 a month. It expired about 3 weeks ago.

I called to try and get it again...but the price increase several months ago (which I hadn't been affected by) made the same deal unavailable.

Still, DTV was more than happy to give me the same deal w/the $2 price increase...so it's $33.99/mo....

Not a bad deal...especially since all I did was simply ask for it...

~ Why are a wise man and a wise guy opposites?~

[gt7610c]

Was offered the $20 off TCPrem package, but even at $67, I don't watch enough of those channels to make it worthwhile. I inquired about TC+w/locals and was offered the $33.99 rate and also inquired about HBO and was offered it for $2/mo ($10 off) for 6 months. Sweet! It is a bit of CSR roulette, but anyone from the old USSB days remembers the similar CSR roulette you played to get similar deals.

I hate all those mirroring fees tho.

[mrpurple]

My programming commitment just ran out so I tried this. A very confused CSR had no clue what I was asking for. I'll try again later.

[dmurphy]

Originally posted by serenstarlight
It makes me wonder if corporate DTV ever checks these forums. To tell you the truth as a CSR, we are in no condition ever to add the $20 off promo more than once on an acct. It makes me feel bad for the poor customer who calls up thinking they can get it more than once and get rejected because the rep is following the policy.

The CSR I talked to renewed it for me, for another 6 months.

They looked at my account, and I suspect this is why:

4+ Years of DirecTV service (i.e. extremely loyal)
Bill ALWAYS paid on time (EFT)
3 DirecTiVo units, 1 "regular" receiver

I would say that makes me look like a dedicated customer. :)

[MisterEd]

I just had my install done today. I called DTV and told them I had no interest in football (the Sunday Ticket deal) and asked what other deal they had for TCP. They told me $20 off for 6 months so I told them I'd take it. I check my account (new today) and see I was signed up for the Season't Ticket deal so I called to complain. The guy said when the 4 mos are up on this deal he would then give me the 6 months -$20. "Yea right" I said, but he claims to have noted it on my account. I still say "yea right" but I guess I'll see in 4 months.

[sjmaye]

Sounds like everyone here has a good handle on howe to get the best deal from Direct. I will be switching from Dish to DirectTv soon. I will need a receiver w/Tivo. preferably dual tuner. It would nice to have HDTV support, but not necessary.

Any recommendations on how to get the best deal?


Thanks!

[dmk1974]

For those of you who got the Total Choice PLUS w/Locals package for $33.99 a month, what did you have to ask when you called? Just basically beg or reference that you knew of others getting such a deal? Was this for 6 months or 12 months?

The reason I ask is, I currently pay $39.99 for the package and want to add on the HD service, but for the extra box and the 4 lousy channels it's an extra $16 ($10.99 + $4.99). Getting even six bucks off the service would help that out a bit.

And I wouldn't mind HBO for $2 a month! :)

[sjmaye]

Is this one of those cases of it's all about "who you know" or "how you ask"?

I got a real let down yesterday. I called Direct to see if I was eligible for the $99 deal for a Direct Tivo + std. receiver for $99. I thought I had to be a new customer and technically I am not, but I hoped they would make an exception.

I had Direct about 5-6 years ago and then switched to Dish Network. I was in hopes they would consider me as a "new" customer so I could get the $99 deal. No cigar. Do I need to say "Pretty Please"?

I was going to try expert satellite, but I figured if Direct could not consider me eligible there is no way I could be.

What other options do I have other than paying full retail?

[Sir_winealot]

Originally posted by dmk1974
For those of you who got the Total Choice PLUS w/Locals package for $33.99 a month, what did you have to ask when you called? Just basically beg or reference that you knew of others getting such a deal? Was this for 6 months or 12 months?

The reason I ask is, I currently pay $39.99 for the package and want to add on the HD service, but for the extra box and the 4 lousy channels it's an extra $16 ($10.99 + $4.99). Getting even six bucks off the service would help that out a bit.

And I wouldn't mind HBO for $2 a month! :)

I didn't call...I e-mailed them from their site. I simply asked if I could get the same discounted deal I had previously...and they responded "yes, but it'll be +$2" within 2 hours.

Excellent service...

~Why isn't the number 11 pronounced onety one?~

[faerie]

i'm sorry if this question in answered previously in this thread but the thread is 21 pages long! and I can't read through them all.

This special premier package, can current customers receive it? or is it just for new customers... and what does the monthly cost of the package end up being? I have Total Choice plus with Locals and Showtime plus tivo, the protection plan, plus mirroring and it comes to $71 a month... I'm looking for any way to save myself some money!! =)

[eddieras99]

i got the premiere, direct tv $5 fee waived with premiere for 67.99 month, but i have to call nearly every month to get the $20- off!

[Smiles]

Originally posted by faerie
This special premier package, can current customers receive it? or is it just for new customers... and what does the monthly cost of the package end up being? I have Total Choice plus with Locals and Showtime plus tivo, the protection plan, plus mirroring and it comes to $71 a month... I'm looking for any way to save myself some money!! =) If you visit the DirecTV web site (http://www.directv.com/), and click on Packages, you'll see that Total Choice Premier with Locals is a current package and it costs $87.99, which includes the DVR fee. It doesn't include the protection plan or mirroring.

BTW, I got the $20 off promotion myself just recently. Nice.

[JorgeGVB]

I e-mailed DirecTV about the $20 discount and it was granted with a 1-year commitment. I had the discount about a year ago and they said was eligible for the discount again.

[faerie]

what email address do you use when you guys email them?

[mmihalik]

Feedback link on www.directv.com. Be sure to set up your account and log in.

Mike

[HeatherA]

I just sent an email to the Feedback link asking about the $6 off TC+ and the $10 off HBO for 6 months. We'll see what they respond.

[faerie]

How long does it normally take for them to respond to emails?

[kenr]

Originally posted by faerie
How long does it normally take for them to respond to emails? I find it's usually within 2-12 hours

[faerie]

hmn... I'm nearing 48 now....

[HeatherA]

Originally posted by faerie
How long does it normally take for them to respond to emails?

I'm still waiting too...but they called my house today while I was at work and left me a message that they were referring to my email...hmmm...

[faerie]

I got sick of waiting for a reply to my email and called them.... I had another reason for calling but decided that while I was on the phone, I would ask about this too. Don't call unless you have to tho, those wait times are INSANE! with all the people calling about NFLST

[MisterEd]

After you post your message it states 2-3 days for a response (at least it did today).Originally posted by faerie
How long does it normally take for them to respond to emails?

[JorgeGVB]

I heard back from them in less than 12 hours via e-mail.

[DeputyTIVO]

I sent an email to the "feedback" link on directv.com on Saturday night basically stating that I was interested in upgrading to TC Premiere, had heard about a 6-month $20 discount, and would commit to a year extension. Received a response this afternoon stating that I had been upgraded. I went to each of my receivers and sure enough the Premiere channels were up and running. Pretty easy (did not have to make a phone call), and a good deal. Now to try and get a second $99 FFDVR series2 ...

[JorgeGVB]

Originally posted by DeputyTIVO
INow to try and get a second $99 FFDVR series2 ...

Good luck on using the FFDVR code. I can't get by the system error message, so I have been unable to get that deal. I've had TiVo for a couple of years, so maybe that is why. A lot of others seemed to have been able to get it though hopefully it will work for you.

[rlii]

I meant to post this here last night.

Originally posted by rlii
I just got off the phone with the "Customer Retention Department" of D*TV and received the following deal.

1 Series2 DirecTivo for $99 + $14.95 S/H (billed to my D*TV account @ $199 w/ a $100 credit)
$20 off of the TC Priemier package for the next 6 months
Free installation (just replacing a DSR6000 so I won't need it)


I just explained to them everything I had read on here and let them know that I was contemplating switching to cable due to all the "Inticing" offers I had received to ditch my Sat service. My install date is for 09/22/03 but I'm gong to see if they can drop the unit off sooner seeing as they won't be installing anything.

[DeputyTIVO]

Originally posted by JorgeGVB
Good luck on using the FFDVR code. I can't get by the system error message, so I have been unable to get that deal. I've had TiVo for a couple of years, so maybe that is why. A lot of others seemed to have been able to get it though hopefully it will work for you.

I already got one with the FFDVR code, I want a SECOND one! FYI, I got the error message when I tried to order, but I just refreshed the screen a couple times and it went through ...

[Scully3512]

Based on this thread I tried emailing asking about the $6 discount on TC Plus w/ Locals and $10 off HBO.

They responded to me saying I am available to receive this discount but only one of the 2 and once I choose they will note the discount on my account. Plus it was re-iterated my contract commitment is another year if I take discount.

Anyone else try for this discount and told you could only have one and choose?

Just curious! I guess I will take the $10 off HBO since it's the bigger money saver.

Thanks to this thread or I wouldn't have known to try on my programming I only thought Total Choice Premier has discount.

So thank you to all in the know.

[ack]

Hey all. Just wanted to say that directv is *still* offering $20 off total choice premium.. I was only a 5 minute call, including the wait. They wanted to know where I heard about it -- I just told the truth.

Thanks to everyone who kept this thread alive long enough for me to notice it :)

[jasonp5]

I just e-mailed Feedback and heard back within 2 hours. I already have the 33.99 Total Choice Plus with Locals from when I ordered my TIVO through them. They lowered me to that to help off set some costs.

This time I e-mailed to try to get the HBO $10.00 off a month for 6 months and they wrote back and said that it was added to my account. So, I guess this means that you can have both promotions going at the same time...

[llupin]

I had the discount package for six months beginning last December. I just called to see if I could get it again. I was told that it is only available once per year. So I will call back in December.

[the_Skywise]

Does anyone know if this deal applies to Pegasus customers as well, or am I just screwed as usual?

[SStockton]

YOU GUYS ROCK!!!

I just called and the CSR asked about it, the CSR took a couple minutes and it's done!

I love this forum!

[Regina]

Hee hee! I got it too! Thanks so much!
I e-mailed last night (late late late) and heard back this morning!
SWEET!

[djjefft]

Jut hooked up my $49 CC DTivo today and when I was activating it, I thought I would upgrade to the Premium package and ask for the $20 off deal.

I was really getting everying DTV had, and my monthy bill (with 3 mirroring charges and DVR fee) was around $108. To get the Premium package it was going to be about $4 more.

I spoke with the CSR and told her I was wanted to upgrade my service, but only if I could take advantage of the $20 off for 6 months. She told me that offer was only for 'certain cumstomers'. I asked how could I qualify to be one of those 'certain cusomers'. Her reply was it was really for people who wanted to cancel their service, it was used as an incentive to keep them.

I told her I had no intentions of canceling a service that I have had since October of 1995 and shouldn't a long time customer be rewarded? She said yes, and if I was willing to sign up for it right then, she could allow me to take advantage of the offer. Of course I said yes.

HERE'S THE ISSUE:

I was looking at my profile on directv.com and while my service was upgraded to the Premium package, there is no notation of my $20 off. Should there be????

TIA for any help.

Jeff

[biker]

Wait until next month's bill is on there website. Then you should see it.

[Sir_winealot]

Instead of them giving me the $10 off HBO for 6 months again (along w/the $33 TC Plus w/locals), which they told me was a 'one shot deal' in a 12 month period...they added 6 free months of Showtime/TMC to my account...

[jara]

This is unreal.
I just ordered a DTV TIVO from CC website for $99. I was there on Saturday. I was going to get it then but they were out of stock. They didn't mention the $50 rebate or I definitely wouldn't have waited. Anyway when it gets here in 3-7 days and I call to activate I'll be asking for the $20 discount.
I wish I would have known about this a long time ago. My first 1 year contract was up 1.5 years ago.

Thanks for the awesome info.

[cexpert]

I just got off the phone with DirecTV and the CSR told me that this website is a third party website, and that some "people that know ways around things" are posting bad information. There is no offer for $20 off for 6 months. Should I call back with another CSR?

[mmihalik]

I know there are a lot of postings to read, but...

Mostly the $20 off has been for exisiting subscribers who have upgraded to higher level of service (Premier), or for subscribers who are thinking of quitting for Cable or Dish.

I don't think there have been many new subscribers getting this promotion.

However, new subscribers can sometimes get other offers.

Then again, you could try the simple recommendations:
- try calling again
- send an email from your account at the www.directv.com website

Mike

[jjwolfe]

Originally posted by cexpert
I just got off the phone with DirecTV and the CSR told me that this website is a third party website, and that some "people that know ways around things" are posting bad information. There is no offer for $20 off for 6 months. Should I call back with another CSR?

As recommended earlier in this thread, I sent an e-mail via the Feedback link on the website requesting the upgrade. After 2 hours I had the initial response that they would be happy to upgrade me with the $20 discount. All I had to do was respond to the message stating I would accept the 1 year subscription. I responded that I would. Four hours later, the upgrade is compete. TODAY!

[natgas]

I also sent an email on Friday (3rd) requesting this; got an email back stating that someone would call me within 48 hrs; it's Tuesday and still no call! great CS

[natgas]

Finally had to call them; was on with the CSR for about 10 minutes; she indicated that since I had had the discount last year, I was not eligible for it again! told her to transfer me to retention; she put me on hold and then came back and said her supervisor said "no", but she agreed to give me the discount again; but she also indicated it would not be available for me ever again!! we'll see!

[Len McRiddles]

Here is the response I got from an email I placed today via the leave feedback link on the website.

Thank you for your email. To better assist you, please call
1-800-531-5000 and one of our Entertainment Consultants will assist you
with your questions on our 6 month discount program.

Sincerely,

Danielle
DIRECTV Customer Service

[ADG]

I just called and got it for 67.99 (total chice premier w/locals & tivo = 87.99 less $20 discount for 6 months). I did, however, have to get a supervisor on the phone and she had to search around to find something. One year commitment.

[jjaw]

I called today and got the deal with no hassle.

[GTakacs]

YUp, I got the deal today, and the lady knew all about it, it was all cool and smooth.

[newsposter]

My personal recommendation, contact them via email and say this:

"I'd like to take advantage of the $20 off premier package and agree to extend my contract 1 more year. If you need any other information please contact me. Thank you."

I received a prompt email saying I'm locked in for the deal. Maybe the email dept is better than the phone reps or maybe it's just a crapshoot. I don't know. But to those that haven't gotten this, try email. and keep trying!

[dslunceford]

So glad this thread is here! TCP is a bit more than I need, but HBO's a must for me. Switched to DTV from E* on Sunday and rep wouldn't allow me to sign up at that time as it was for "existing customers."

Call back today and request. Rep asks where I heard about offer and I told him I discussed with my original rep. Bing, bam, boom, done. Saving me another $60!

[yourzero]

Originally posted by dslunceford
So glad this thread is here! TCP is a bit more than I need, but HBO's a must for me. Switched to DTV from E* on Sunday and rep wouldn't allow me to sign up at that time as it was for "existing customers."

Call back today and request. Rep asks where I heard about offer and I told him I discussed with my original rep. Bing, bam, boom, done. Saving me another $60!

Did you have to sign up for another year commitment? Did you already have a commitment, being a new customer?

[Starrbuck]

I called on Tuesday and talked to a rep who told me that there is no such deal offered at this time.

I then sent this email to feedback@directv.com:


Subject: $20 off premier package?

Details: Hello, just heard from a friend that you are offering $20 off
the Total Choice Premier w/locals and DirecTV PVR package if I agree to
extend my contract one more year. I would like to take advantage of this
offer. If you need any other information please contact me. Thank you!


Later that evening, I received this reply:


Thanks for asking us about the DIRECTV promotions we have for our
current customers. We do have special customer offers that make it easy
to get DIRECTV in another room, order newer equipment, or even add
programming.

I want to reassure you that you are a valuable DIRECTV customer. We
would like to follow up with you by email or telephone in the next few
days to talk to you about your concerns and the options available to
meet your needs. Thanks again for your patience and for giving us the
opportunity to respond to your concerns.

Sincerely,

Neha
DIRECTV Customer Service


It's Thursday and they haven't contacted me a second time yet. I'm not holding my breath. :(

[dslunceford]

Originally posted by yourzero
Did you have to sign up for another year commitment? Did you already have a commitment, being a new customer?

Yes I had a previous one year that kicked off on Sunday. My *assumption* is that the clock reset to start a "new" one year commitment yesterday. There was no discussion that it would be two one-year commitments in succession -- and that's the way it looks when I just did "view activity since last bill." It shows only a single "one year commitment" and it's dated 10/15

[imac]

I just ran across the thread for these rebates...however, they have since expired.

Does anyone know if these have been renewed or updated in a new location?

Thanks!

IMAC

HBO $20 rebate:

http://www.hbo.com/camp/200301GL/coupon.html

Showtime $50 rebate:



Showtime $50 Home Depot gift card:

http://sho.com/now/rebate_form.cfm?...00093279&system

HBO/Cinemax $20 rebate:

http://www.hbo.com/apps/hboxpress/j...o200302SA_3.jsp

[shacky]

I have had DirectTV for only 5-6 months now with the Total Plus package and decided to upgrade to TIVO when I noticed they were offering it for $99.
Install is to be this weekend.
Yesterday, I stumbled upon this message board and found this thread and decided to call and see if I qualify.
The CSR I talked to asked where I heard about the special and I was frank with her and told her a TIVO message board. She then put me on hold while she checked and came back to say I qualified if I was willing to extend for another year. Final monthly charge will be $79.99. Basically I am getting all the extra pay channels for a mere $15 extra per month.
Thanks for the heads up guys!

[dmwierz]

For anyone interested, this promotion ended on 10/14 when DirecTV reduced the price of the Philips DSR 7000 to $99. I spoke with 5 different people at DTV tonight and finally spoke to a supervisor who told me this

[GTakacs]

I guess I just got lucky as I just swapped over to the promotion on 10/13/03 and I bought my DirecTiVo for $90 at Best Buy last Friday. Sounds like I got the best of both worlds.

However I kind of smell ********......

[staufj22]

I was on my 3rd 6-month promotion, and seems like the system messed up, so that I'll get the "See $20 credit above" message, but it'll show $0 discount.
Called about 5 times, and I guess they're tired of me calling, so they credited all 6 months on 1 bill, so now DTV owes me money..=)

The good part is, they also removed the 1-year commitment on my account.. I wonder what they'll offer me to get me back on some sort of commitment...

[vsop]

I still have just over two months at the special price of I think its like $56 to $59 a month for NFL Sunday Ticket with Total Choice Prem And DTV/Tivo.

I was getting total Choice any way so the way I look at it I was getting 4 months cheaper then I was going to pay, Plus free NFL sunday ticket.

I'm hoping they get the locals here in Rochester soon.. They say by end of 2003. But that probably means that it will have locals on dec 31st.

[betogat]

I just got this deal last night, this is the third time for me. You just got to ask for it. By the way I also was given a 10 off additional since they mess up my bill when I ordered De La Hoya fight. :-D

[MyAllyCat]

Hi I also have the $20 off for 6-months thing which December will be the last month for it. I was wondering how long to wait before i contact them to ask for another 6-months? Kinda thought that i shouldn't do it too quickly or they may not give it to me. Also how many tries at this should i do? Been reading a few posts where people has gotten it 3 times. Doesn't Directv catch on to this or do they just say whatever as long as you ask.

tbw...what to say in trying to get the $20 off again.
Just wondering.
Jana

[itsmeitsmeitsme]

Starting coming to this site about 3 weeks ago after i got my directivo. Called on 11/14 to direct tv after reading this post and they gave me the $20 off for the next 6 months with no problem......thanks so much all for the information.

[Dirac]

MyAllyCat: I don't have it anymore, but I did call and get it a second time. I was just honest with them and told them I had just had the $20 off of TCP, and I liked it and was willing to keep paying $67 (or whatever it was) to keep it, but if I couldn't get it for $67 I would have to drop down to TC+ for $39 because $87 was more than I was willing to pay (not to mention the $10 mirroring and $8 nationals). I have no idea what their margin is but I'm pretty sure they don't lose money on the $20 deal since they seem to be liberal with it. So just tell them you can't justify the $87. They'll probably take your $67 and be happy that you're happy.

Finally, I went back to TC+ because even $67 (plus $18) was too spendy for the old budget. I have grandfathered lifetime so I don't get hit with the $5 TiVo service fee, therefore the $5 savings for TCP wasn't a factor for me.

[MyAllyCat]

Thanks Dirac for your reply. I think that when the time comes that i will ask again. I guess it's worth a try & can't hurt to try. :)

Thanks again
Jana

[betogat]

Actually Dave (DirecTV) is lying to you!!!
I just got it last week, I can even show you my bill when I got it. So I say the representative is "full of $#!t" :D

[BTUx9]

Well, he's not the only one. The DirecTV CR I just got off the phone with couldn't find a deal like this, either.

What deal, exactly, did you ask for when you called?

[betogat]

OK let me tell you,
First I complained about the cheap new packages that Dish is having 4 receivers top 100 for 43.99 and the CR that I talk place me on hold. I've been a loyal customer since 2000 and have 4 receivers 3 of them TiVos. So after 3 minutes in hold he gave me the deal no only that but I am also getting 10 off in top of the 20off since I had a credit for De La Hoya fight. The only thing I can tell you is keep trying and you'll get it. Good luck!

[Sir_winealot]

Originally posted by dmwierz
OK, I need help. I have called DirecTV twice, and both times they told me that the $20 discount was only in effect before the DirecTiVo price reduction enacted a month ago.

What, excatly, are people saying to get the discount? The DTV operators are telling me that those reporting getting the discounts recently are "full of hot air" and just posting online to further a rumor.

Response?

Thanks.

Go back and read the last couple pages of this thread....there are many examples of exactly what people have said in previous posts....

Seek, and ye shall find. :D

[SpankWare]

Originally posted by dmwierz
It always amazes me how often people appoint themselves as Search Rule Nazi's - rather than taking their time to help people out, they take the same amount of time to berate and lecture folks who come to the boards looking for the very thing that the forums exist for - assistance.

I KNOW forum etiquette, as I run another forum on a different topic. Many of the posts above ask for specifics, and when I used these suggestions while on the phone with DTV, I ran into a brick wall. Thus, my question above, Sir_whinealot (apropos, BTW).

I think you'll find that it's not so much about "search nazi's" but more about a general disgust with people who are unwilling to help themselves. I know that I am constantly offended by people (usually on IRC) who ask questions and fail to do the slightest bit of investigation into their problem. People today (this does vary on region) are generally lazy. It would take very little effort on the part of a person to spend a little of their OWN time reading up on a subject to find the answer rather than polluting a forum (here, IRC, etc.) with needless questions. Unfortunately, many people today are not only accustomed to having answers delivered to them on their whim, but when somebody balks at their request they themselves become offended because somebody should have just been nice and help them.

People need help? I've got some advice. Try to help yourself first, then ask somebody else.

[dmwierz]

Originally posted by SpankWare
People need help? I've got some advice. Try to help yourself first, then ask somebody else.

Spank,

That is exactly what I did, but obviously some of the members of this group thought I needed a refresher course in how to ask a question in the forum.

After performing a couple of searches, and reviewing the various responses in this thread (BTW, you'll note a few folks in this thread asking for more specifics), I posted my question, since I felt I needed more info.

At any rate, I'll refrain from asking any more questions on this topic since it seems some of the folks here (a minority) would prefer to pedantically inform me how annoyed they are with my asking a question that THEY thought had already been answered rather than actually trying to help.

[jabroni]

Obviously I have not been a member of this particular forum for long, but I can tell it is by far one the rudest! I will be sure and ask no questions here and merely be content to lurk.

[jabroni]

I just sent an e-mail via the feedback link and have requested TC Premiere with a 20 dollar discount for the first six months. I will let y'all know if I am successful!

[rogo]

Customer retention is the department you must speak with.

This is explained numerous times above, I believe.

[JBRET30]

Just so you know... You are still on a 1 year commitment... The commitment for this kind of discount is located in a different place... The Test.... Call and ask the agent to check "BILLING COMMENTS" for an annual commitment. Your commitment will expire 1 year from that date. No one in customer service has the ability to remove it as the commitment is tracked by an automated system.

Sorry to burst your bubble my friend...

Also... Consecutive 6 month discounts will be detected by the system and end up reversing back to the account.. This normally only happens to customers that have had it several times, or call before the end of their discount and request another one.

Please keep in mind that when you get a 6 month discount on programming it requires a 1 year commitment to Total Choice Programming. You are on your third. I really hope the computer does not try to hold you now to a 3 year commitment. We have all been watching for that to happen!!!





Originally posted by staufj22
I was on my 3rd 6-month promotion, and seems like the system messed up, so that I'll get the "See $20 credit above" message, but it'll show $0 discount.
Called about 5 times, and I guess they're tired of me calling, so they credited all 6 months on 1 bill, so now DTV owes me money..=)

The good part is, they also removed the 1-year commitment on my account.. I wonder what they'll offer me to get me back on some sort of commitment...

[Frylock]

JBRET30, it requires a NEW one year committment, from that date. They don't just start tacking them onto one another.

[JBRET30]

Yes.. That is what happens with certain kinds of annual commitments such as: Annual Additional Receiver, Equipment Replacement, or any other kind of equipment commitment.....

The Discounted Programming commitment is different. It does not show to the agent as a commitment, it is maintained by a different computer system. As I said earlier.. Take the Test.. Call Customer Service and Check "Billing Comments" as compared to "SERVICES".. There is a big difference when it comes to discounted programming commitments.

I do not want anyone to get overly upset.. I have never seen the multi year commitment actually be held against a customer, but things change on a daily basis at DirecTV.... Those that have multiple or back to back commitments may want to watch out.. When it comes to calling a supervisor or escalation desk to ask for some sort of assistance due to a technical or billing issue YOU WILL BE LESS LIKELY TO BE HELPED as you feel you should. The $10 and $20 discounts are used for that purpose primarily as DirecTV frouns on giving Financial Credit for non-documented or non-billed things.

[acroswel]

The offer is definitely still available. I sent an email through the web site yesterday requesting the discount, got an email today confirming I was eligible, and a $20 credit already shows up in my account online. I'm less than five months into my originial one year new customer commitment, so it's also available to people who are already under a commitment.

<edit>added "new customer" to modify commitment, so no one would get confused and think I previously had the $20 discount</edit>

[JBRET30]

Sorry for dwelling on annual commitments earlier....

I forgot to even mention that.. Yes those discounts are in fact available and they have been for a long time. There is no word of getting rid of them.. Those that have Total Choice Premier are eligible for a $20 discount for 6 months. Those with at least Total Choice and 1 premium package, such as HBO are eligible for a $10 disc for 6 months.

All agents have about 15 discounts available to customer. The only qualification is that you are not past due. After that it is given based off of the agents judgement. Agents are required to offer you a discount if you ask though.

Just remember that anytime you get a discount it does add a one year commitment to Total Choice Programming... even if you only keep the discount for 1 month out of the 6.. you still have the commitment...

Let me know if anyone has any questions....

[newsposter]

My personal recommendation, contact them via email and say this:

"I'd like to take advantage of the $20 off premier package and agree to extend my contract 1 more year. If you need any other information please contact me. Thank you."

I received a prompt email saying I'm locked in for the deal. Maybe the email dept is better than the phone reps or maybe it's just a crapshoot. I don't know. But to those that haven't gotten this, try email. and keep trying!


(I don't know why some of you torture yourselves by calling for the deal. I may have gotten lucky but it seems to me that an email via their feedback form, worded as above, will give you what you want without getting any flack, interrogation or anything from any csr etc....it just seems so simple...what am I missing) :)

[Sir_winealot]

Originally posted by dmwierz
It always amazes me how often people appoint themselves as Search Rule Nazi's - rather than taking their time to help people out, they take the same amount of time to berate and lecture folks who come to the boards looking for the very thing that the forums exist for - assistance.

I KNOW forum etiquette, as I run another forum on a different topic. Many of the posts above ask for specifics, and when I used these suggestions while on the phone with DTV, I ran into a brick wall. Thus, my question above, Sir_whinealot (apropos, BTW).

"Search rule nazi?"

Ya know what dmwitz, in light of the fact that it has been posted numerous times in this very thread as to exactly what has been said to get this deal (right down to word-for-word email attempts), you still find it necessary to ask...specifically, how do I do it?

There are also numerous posts from people who, like you, have called and been turned down. And they too "hit a brick wall," yet continued to call and try for the deal, as suggested in post after post.


I didn't indicate that I felt you needed a "refresher course on how to ask a question," but eagads man! You're asking for more specifics on something that has been beaten to death for 25 PAGES!

I said "seek, and ye shall find" w/a smilie face, and you refer to me as a search nazi?

Yeah...you certainly know forum etiquette. Sheesh...grow up.

[SpankWare]

Originally posted by newsposter
My personal recommendation, contact them via email and say this:

"I'd like to take advantage of the $20 off premier package and agree to extend my contract 1 more year. If you need any other information please contact me. Thank you."


I would advise against intentionally asking DirecTV to extend your contract for one year. If you had an existing agreement, let's say 9 months left, this language would allow them to lock you in for 1 year and 9 months. If you're going to email them, you should replace the word extend with renew. While I doubt DirecTV would lock you in longer than normal, the language in the quoted post would allow them to do so. Remember, you're never extending your contract, you're always renewing it.

[jabroni]

UPDATE - I did the e-mail route asking for this offer and viola', just checked my account and I am activated!

Thank you all for the great heads up, and now I need the hard drive upgrade kit!

[unixadm]

Ok guys.....stop the bickering.....

I don't want to close the thread, but if it continues, we will have to!

[Maynard123]

I am interested in getting the $20 off TCP. I am less than a Newbie, because I bought the equipment a couple of days ago and I'm waiting to get an installation appointment.

Since I haven't been through this process, I don't know at what point I should bring up the $20 off deal. Is it with the installer, or after the installer leaves, or.....?

Thanks for the help.

[newsposter]

Originally posted by Maynard123
I am interested in getting the $20 off TCP. I am less than a Newbie, because I bought the equipment a couple of days ago and I'm waiting to get an installation appointment.

Since I haven't been through this process, I don't know at what point I should bring up the $20 off deal. Is it with the installer, or after the installer leaves, or.....?

Thanks for the help.

Installer has nothing to do with the 20 bucks off. I'd wait until you are hooked up and running with your lower priced package then email them that you want to take advantage of the 20 off TCP package.

Or......If you are at all interested in football, maybe they still have the NFL package available. I have no idea if it's still running, but when I first signed up, I got the package PLUS TCP for only the price of the NFL package. I'm not much into football but (I think) the price was less than $50 a month for 4 months so you'd make out even better if you could get that deal even though the season is almost over. TCP would be about 85-20=65. You should ask DTV if the deal is still available then I think that's your best option as a new sub.

good luck on the install, I hope it goes well.

[Maynard123]

Thanks...I will wait until I'm up and running and order the minimal package.

[davidduff]

maynard123,

fyi, i was a new install last week... they offered me 4 months of nfl sunday ticket plus total choice premiere for $59.75/mon. this was a no-brainer for me.

it was billed as follows:

nfl sunday ticket 2003 - 4 payments of $59.75.
directv dvr - $0.00 ("premiere bonus")
total choice premiere with locals $0.00 (special promotion for 1st four months)

i wanted at least hbo and locals (and dvr service, of course), which would have added up to more than $59.75 anyway. so this gives me all the movie channels and nfl sunday ticket as a bonus for 4 months.

after 4 months, i will either drop back to just total choice+locals+hbo+dvr or perhaps consider total choice premiere if i can get it at the $20 discounted price.

[Maynard123]

David,

That sounds like a great deal. I like the idea of not paying the 13/mo for Tivo, plus the additional discount. I don't watch much NFL, but would sure like to get the discount on the premium movie channels.

A process question on the new install (I'm still trying to get an install date scheduled): Once they physically hooked up your satellite, receivers, DVR, etc., at what point do they make the offer about which services you want, promotional discounts, etc?

Thanks again.

[Rugged]

I just called about the $33.99 discount on Total Choice Plus (w/ locals) and the CSR gave it to me no problem but that it would revert back to $39.99 after 6 months. I then asked her about adding HBO for 6 months at $10 off and she said no problem. The whole call lasted less then 4 minutes.

This is so great.

Rugged

And 20 minutes later the HBO is already up and running!!

So in the end I added HBO but am spending about $5 less a month.

[h3kb4y2k]

Sent This 11/24/03:

I'd like to take advantage of the $20 off premier package and agree to renew my contract 1 more year. If you need any other information please contact me. Thank you."


Received this 11/25/03:
Dear XXXX

Thank you for writing. We have processed your email request and added
the $20.00 off Total Choice Premier. Please know that this offer would
roll to the regular monthly price at end of 6 months. You can view these
changes on your next DIRECTV statement.

Sincerely,
XXXXX
DIRECTV Customer Service

Thanks everyone for pointing out this great deal!!

[Street]

got it now, still available 11/24/03. Thanks! Had no problem, read the description and mentioned it was a customer retention package.

[ElfenMagic]

Originally posted by davidduff
maynard123,

fyi, i was a new install last week... they offered me 4 months of nfl sunday ticket plus total choice premiere for $59.75/mon. this was a no-brainer for me.

I have two problems with this 'deal':

1) Why are you paying for "4 months" of NFL when there are only two months left in the season?

2) It's still much more expensive for those of us that only need TC+ + locals. :)

Back to making cookies

EM

[MD_TIVO]

I know that the Premier package comes with free Tivo, but does it also come with free additional receivers? Or do I still have to pay $5 for each additional receiver?

[davidduff]

maynard123,

the installer should do everything up to and including making sure that your reciever is fully hooked up and working, you have good satellite reception, etc. then immediately after that, you call up directv and follow the phone menus for setting up a new account. you'll get a live service rep who will explain the options. your installer will not have anything to do with ordering services (though you could ask him/her for his/her opinion or whatever).

they will need lots of information about your receiver(s): the model number, serial number, the access card number, and maybe one other number like the receiver id or something.

i got the 4-month special offer i described w/o asking for it. they just told me about it right off the bat.


one final note about the install process: you should plan to complete your installation, make the call to directv to establish service, then plan to wait at least 12-24 hours for your tivo to get caught up with downloading and processing programming data, software updates, etc. prior to this time, you'll be able to watch directv, and the tivo will seem to be working, but you'll find that you're missing a lot of programming data, which makes it hard, for example, to sign up for season passes. it will look like there are no upcoming showings for many of your favorite shows. i was worried at first that there was something wrong, but this problem will clear up in about a day.

one other minor point of clarification: you said in your last post, "That sounds like a great deal. I like the idea of not paying the 13/mo for Tivo". perhaps you might not be aware that tivo service for directivo is only $5/month. this is not any kind of special. it is the standard price. for standalone (non-directv) tivos it is $13/month. then on top of that savings, there are two other points to note about directivo service:

1. with directivo you can have any number of tivos on your account and you still only pay a total of $5/month for tivo service. with standalone tivo, you pay $13 for each tivo. (note there is also a $5/mo fee for mirroring programming to each additional receiver, but that's different from the tivo service fee).

2. with directivo, if you sign up for their total choice premiere package (including signing up for the free bundle i described), you get tivo service bundled (i.e., no additional charge).

3. with standalone tivo, you have a one-time payment option, aka "lifetime service". no such option exists for directivo.

[dmwierz]

Originally posted by MD_TIVO
I know that the Premier package comes with free Tivo, but does it also come with free additional receivers? Or do I still have to pay $5 for each additional receiver?

Nope, no mirroring charges for additional TV's. Good deal, IMHO.

[unixadm]

If you sub to Premiere, the TiVo $4.99 sub fee is waived, but you WILL have mirroring charges....$4.99 per additional receiver above and beyond the first. (whether they are Tivo or Not)

If that has changed, please let me know....my current bill and every bill since 1999 shows the mirroring charges even though I am Premiere