While DIRECTV doesn't offer an explicit plan or discount for seniors, they offer high-quality satellite and streaming services. With plans starting at $64.99 per month, DIRECTV is a bit pricier than other TV providers; however, their wide range of channels and nationwide availability make them a great option for most people.
DIRECTV’s Pros and Cons
DIRECTV Pros
- Free app for streaming: With the DIRECTV app, you can stream shows and movies on up to five screens, including phones, computers, tablets and televisions. Additionally, you can download DVR recordings to watch shows when you don’t have an internet connection.
- Wide range of sports channels: DIRECTV provides live sports coverage and access to 65,000-plus on-demand shows, including ESPN and NBC Sports. For no extra charge, you’ll also get access to every live football game with the NFL SUNDAY TICKET.
- Bundled savings: You can save by bundling both your DIRECTV service with AT&T Internet. When you bundle, you’ll get three months of HBO Max, access to live sports coverage, and help from a trained expert to set up your Genie HD DVR to record all your favorite shows and movies.
DIRECTV Cons
- Minimum two-year contract: Every DIRECTV plan requires you to sign a two-year contract, meaning that if you don’t like your service, you’ll be subject to cancellation fees of up to $20 per month for the remainder of your term agreement.
- Price increases: After the first year of your service, the cost of your plan will increase from the promotional rate. For example, their ENTERTAINMENT package will cost $64.99 for the first year, then rise to $102 per month for the second.
DIRECTV Packages
| Plan Name | Price | Number of Channels | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV Entertainment |
| 160+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Choice |
| 185+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Ultimate |
| 250+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Premier |
| 330+ channels |
|
Which DIRECTV Plan Is Best for Seniors?
While DIRECTV doesn't offer a senior discount or a specific plan for seniors, our favorite option would have to be DIRECTV CHOICE, which is just a few dollars more per month than their basic DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT package. Considered a step up from the ENTERTAINMENT package, CHOICE is affordably priced at $69.99 per month for 12 months with a 24-month term agreement, and over 185 channels.
For those who don’t have time to watch live shows, you’ll still get the chance to record your favorite shows using Genie HD DVR at no extra cost. For fans of quality programming and live sports, you can enjoy everything from HBO Max to football games with the included NFL SUNDAY TICKET subscription. With that said, there’s a Regional Sports fee of up to $11.99 per month attached to this package, but we think it’s worth it if you’re looking for more channel options and sports coverage.
DIRECTV Internet
Currently, DIRECTV doesn’t sell their internet service separately; instead, you can choose from several internet bundle options for both TV and . Depending on your location, the most affordable internet and TV package (DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT with AT&T Internet 50) starts at $129.99 per month and features over 160 channels. With unlimited streaming and browsing features, there are no internet usage caps, and HD DVR is included with your DIRECTV subscription.
There are a total of three internet and TV bundle options to choose from, ranging from $129.99 to $154.99 per month, depending on the availability of service in your area:
- DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE + INTERNET (AT&T FIBER, 300 Mbps)
- DIRECTV CHOICE PACKAGE + INTERNET (AT&T FIBER, 300 Mbps)
- DIRECTV CHOICE PACKAGE + INTERNET (AT&T FIBER, 1 Gig)
DIRECTV Streaming Plans
If you prefer streaming your favorite live shows and local channels on your tablet, smartphone, or other devices, then I’d recommend DIRECTV’s streaming plans starting at $69.99 per month, plus taxes. These streaming plans differ from satellite packages, as they are more affordable and don’t require a contract. If you decide to purchase a DIRECTV STREAM plan, first-time customers can get $30 for three months for a limited time.
Currently, DIRECTV offers the following streaming plans that let you stream live shows and on-demand content anywhere or when you’re on the go.
- ENTERTAINMENT: This streaming package offers over 65 live channels, including 45,000 on-demand titles starting at $69.99 per month.
- CHOICE: This streaming package offers over 90 live channels and local channels, including 45,000 on-demand titles starting at $89.99 per month.
- ULTIMATE: This streaming package offers over 125 live channels and local TV stations, including 55,000 on-demand titles starting at $104.99 per month.
- PREMIER: This streaming package offers over 140 live channels and local TV stations, including 65,000 on-demand titles starting at $149.99 per month.
DIRECTV Extra Features
DIRECTV offers extra features and add-ons such as DVR, access to NFL SUNDAY TICKET at no additional cost for some satellite TV plans, and additional channels. We’ll go over these in detail, below.
NFL SUNDAY TICKET: If you purchase a CHOICE, ULTIMATE, or PREMIER DIRECTV satellite TV package, you’ll get access to NFL SUNDAY TICKET at no extra cost.
Voice Remote: DIRECTV offers a smart voice remote that features voice control with Google Assistant and access to your DVR library. The remote also lets you access apps and doesn’t require additional remotes.
DVR: Currently, DIRECTV is offering unlimited Cloud DVR storage (valued at $10) for new DIRECTV STREAM customers.
DIRECTV STREAM App: DIRECTV offers a free DIRECTV STREAM app for download. With this app, you can start watching your favorite live shows and movies on compatible devices after you sign up for a DIRECTV STREAM plan. A few examples of compatible devices include iPads, iPhones, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast.
Special offers: DIRECTV is currently offering a special deal for customers who purchase their satellite TV plans. You can get HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and EPIX for free for three months. After the three-month promotion period, the rate will be $53.95 per month for the add-on premium bundles.
First TV connection included: When you purchase a DIRECTV plan, the first TV connection will be included along with one free Genie HD DVR. Additional TV connections start at $7 per month each.
Add-on channels option: If you want to stick with your current satellite TV plan but want more channels, you can easily add more channels to your plan during online checkout. Some of the channels include HBO Max or NBA League Pass Premium for $30 per month during the season.
Spanish-language shows: DIRECTV offers both English and Spanish-language programming options for customers starting at $69.99 per month with over 120 channels. You can also add on specific Spanish-language channels to your existing DIRECTV plans such as DIRECTV Deportes for $4.99 per month or Mexico Plus for $7.99 per month.
DIRECTV Contracts and Fees
If you purchase a DIRECTV plan, I’d recommend going over all of the fine print to make sure you understand any additional fees or costs you may incur. DIRECTV offers 24-month programming commitments for their services. Additionally, you may incur early termination fees if you cancel your service early, as detailed below.
Extra Fees
Here’s the breakdown on extra fees from DIRECTV (pricing depends on location and satellite or specific TV plan):
- Early termination fee: up to $20 for each month left in your plan.
- Regional Sports fee: Network availability and costs vary by service area, but they typically start at $11.99 per month.
- Damaged equipment fee: If your DIRECTV equipment is damaged, you may incur this fee.
- Non-return equipment fee: If DIRECTV doesn’t receive your equipment within 21 days, you may incur this fee.
- Activation fees: You may incur activation fees for select DIRECTV satellite TV plans. The cost is $19.95 for activation.
- Professional installation: a $99 one-time installation fee.
- TV connections: While the first TV connection is included, if you want to connect more TVs, they are $7 per month each which you can add on to your existing plan.
- Add-on premium, sports, international channels: Additional fees vary from $4.99 per month to as high as $65.99 per month for NFL SUNDAY TICKET MAX for six months for the DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT satellite TV plan.
If you were to purchase the DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT Satellite TV package for $74.99 per month for 12 months with a 24-month agreement, you would need to pay $19.95 in activation fees. Additionally, the policies for equipment non-return and additional fees may apply. If you decide to cancel the plan before it ends, you may need to pay an ETF of $20 per month for each month remaining on your agreement. Since the $74.99 per month is a discounted rate, after 12 months, you will be billed the standard rate of $107 per month during the second year of your agreement.
However, for the first 12 months, we think this is still a great deal as you can get three months of HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and EPIX for free, along with access to over 160 live TV channels and 45,000 on-demand titles. Included in this plan is the first TV connection for free, and the option of adding more TV connections at $7 per month if needed for additional TVs. If you were to add on the MLB Extra Innings channel for $23.33 per month for six months, that would bring your DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT package up to $98.32 per month. This is still a great deal for the number of channels you’re getting.
Did You Know: For more internet discounts, check out my article, Senior Discounts on the Internet.
DIRECTV Compared to Other Television Providers
While DIRECTV is one of the best satellite providers, there are also alternatives to consider like Xfinity, which offers a contract-free entertainment experience for older adults. If you’re not big on sports or don’t mind skipping out on more premium channels, Cox starts at just $53 per month and still features over 75-plus channels. Additionally, Cox offers plenty of bundles for the internet, cable television, and a Homelife smart device kit for an extra layer of security on top of quality entertainment and internet services.
| Provider | Price | Features | Contracts |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT | Starts at $74.99 per month |
| 2-year contract |
| Xfinity Limited Basic/CHOICE TV | Starts at $30.00 per month |
| None required |
| Cox Contour TV Starter | Starts at $53 per month |
| 1-year contract |
Bottom Line
Overall, DIRECTV is a great option for older adults who want an alternative to cable and more channels to watch. In our experience, their customer service has always been prompt and courteous, addressing each of our issues in a timely manner.
The only downside of DIRECTV is the cost. Its most affordable package is still more expensive than those of Xfinity and Cox. With that said, these providers won’t offer you as many channels (including premium ones) for a similar cost.
DIRECTV for Seniors Frequently Asked Questions
- Does DIRECTV give senior discounts?
No, DIRECTV doesn’t currently offer senior discounts, but you can visit their website to check for ongoing promotions and deals.
(Video) Dish Network vs. DirecTV - Does DIRECTV have a loyalty discount?
DIRECTV is top ranked for customer satisfaction. If you’ve been a loyal customer for many years, there might be some incentives that you can inquire about by calling customer service.
-
Yes, you may be able to qualify for a discount if you have both DIRECTV and AT&T. Talk to your service provider to inquire about discounts or promotions. In our experience, you can get up to a $15 discount on DIRECTV if you have an AT&T Unlimited Plus Enhanced Plan.
- What is the cheapest package on DIRECTV?
Currently, the cheapest package is the ENTERTAINMENT package, which starts at $74.99 per month for 12 months with a 24-month agreement. This package includes 160-plus channels and features Genie HD DVR and three months of premium entertainment.
FAQs
Does DIRECTV have specials for seniors? ›
Does DIRECTV give senior discounts? No, DIRECTV doesn't currently offer senior discounts, but you can visit their website to check for ongoing promotions and deals.
What is the cheapest DIRECTV package for existing customers? ›What is the cheapest DIRECTV package? DIRECTV's cheapest offering is the ENTERTAINMENT package. At $64.99 a month for the first year, it gives you 165+ channels, including multiple ESPN and Disney channels, along with FX and IFC.
Is DIRECTV offering any specials? ›$120 off over your first 12 months* Start your DIRECTV STREAM experience with $10 off your first 12 months when you sign up today! *New customers & select sales channels only. $10 discount/mo.
What is the best tier DIRECTV package and how much does it cost per month? ›How much does DirecTV cost? DirecTV's top tier Premier package ($134.99 per month) includes a whopping 330+ channels, access to live, out-of-market NFL games, plus premium channels such as HBO. Of course, you can enjoy DirecTV for much less.
Is DIRECTV offering a 50% discount to existing customers? ›It starts with a voicemail that states, "I'm calling you from AT&T/DirecTV to let you know that your existing account qualifies for 50%..." While this voicemail sounds like a great deal, it's actually a scam call that is making the rounds again. AT&T confirms these calls are a scam and the company is not behind it.
Is DIRECTV offering a 50% discount? ›They caller claimed they could offer her a 50% reduction in cost. She called DirecTV and they confirmed to her it was a scam. Cindy was worried other people wouldn't know it was a scam.
How do I get my DIRECTV discount from an existing customer? ›How do I get an existing DIRECTV customer discount? Existing DIRECTV customers won't find discounts out in the open. But you can call DIRECTV at +1-800-531-5000 to inquire about lowering your bill. $300 VISA Reward Card: $300 DISH SWITCHER VISA REWARD CARD: Offer ends 3/31/23.
How much is the basic DIRECTV package? ›DIRECTV packages start at $74.99/mo. for 24 months plus taxes and fees for DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT, which includes 165+ Channels. Or, go all out with DIRECTV PREMIER™ and get 340+ channels and 80,000+ On Demand titles. Choose your perfect package and start watching your favorites today.
What is the average monthly cost for DIRECTV? ›| Plan | Price | TV channel count |
|---|---|---|
| ENTERTAINMENT All-Included | $64.99/mo.* | 165+ |
| CHOICE All-Included | $84.99/mo. for 24 months plus taxes and fees† | 200+ |
| ULTIMATE All-Included | $109.99/mo. for 24 months plus taxes and fees† | 270+ |
| PREMIER All-Included | $154.99/mo. for 24 months plus taxes and fees.† | 340+ |
EVERYTHING else becomes the property of the homeowner, that is why they never get dish or cabling back. The receiving dish once installed is your property. That is how it always has been. They never take it back.
Which is better dish or DIRECTV? ›
Pricing: DISH, hands down, has the best pricing. While DIRECTV's and DISH's pricing looks similar, DIRECTV's monthly cost goes up to its current price after the second year of your contract, and DISH promises a 3-year price lock. That means you'll save money overall if you choose DISH.
What is the difference between DIRECTV ultimate package and choice? ›Choice ($84.99/month): 200+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket, Regional Sports Networks. Ultimate ($109.99/month): 270+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket, Regional Sports Networks. Premier ($154.99/month): 340+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket, Regional Sports Networks, HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax.
What age is DIRECTV senior discount? ›DirecTV does not offer a senior discount to its customers. However, the company offers various promotions and packages to all customers, regardless of age.
Do seniors get a discount with AT&T? ›Frequently Asked Questions About AT&T Phone Plans
AT&T doesn't offer an official senior discount, but AARP members can receive 10 percent off their plan, and veterans could receive 25 percent off their monthly bill.
Sorry but Directv does not offer any kind of low income discount.
How much is a basic DIRECTV bill? ›DIRECTV packages start at $74.99/mo. for 24 months plus taxes and fees for DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT, which includes 165+ Channels. Or, go all out with DIRECTV PREMIER™ and get 340+ channels and 80,000+ On Demand titles. Choose your perfect package and start watching your favorites today.