Can DishNetwork charge me for not having a phone line hooked up to my system? Does Direct Tv charge like that?

Question

Hi, I am currently a Dishnetwork subscriber. I do not have a phone line at my house so Dishnetwork is charging me $5 a month for not having that phone line hooked up. I do not have a home phone at all, all I have is a cell phone. They call it a programming fee. I think it is stupid and I am ready disconnect it.

Answer 1

I have Dish without a phone line and there is no "programming fee" charge. Call them and demand a refund! Unless you have a 2nd receiver? That $5 fee could be for that.

I believe the phone line is only needed if you order PPV from the remote. But you don't need a phone line if you order PPV by calling them.

Answer 2

DirecTV says you need a phone line, but you really don't, except for initial setup, ordering PPV on screen (you can do it on the web or with your cell phone), and for software updates. I have never heard of a fee for lack of phone connection. Program guides are sent via satellite. If Dish insists, cancel their service--I bet they change their minds fast when you do that,

Answer 3

I have direct with no phone lines hooked up and there is no fee.

However the Directv Tivo and DVR do need a phone line to be set up. After you set it up you never really need it.