Direct TV ripoff Tampa Florida

I decided to try the "free" 4 room offer from Direct TV. When I called the person I spoke with was less than thrilled to be helping me. That should have been my first clue. Anyway, she said that it was actually going to cost $19.95 instead of being free. I figured and said ok. Then I mentioned that I had a HD TV. That meant that I had to pay $350 for the HD receiver. I really didn't want to, but agreed. Then found that if I wanted a recorder that would be another $100 for a Tivo box. I was also told that the service I wanted would be about $70 a month. I figured that eventually I would save what I was paying out for equipment in the difference in the bill I was paying and the one I was promised. I was going under the assumption that I would be able to back out of it if I didn't like it. I spoke with a gentleman the day after it was installed and he informed me that my monthly charges would not be $70, but $125 per month. He at first said that no, I couldn't get out of it and then said that they had "changed their policy" and that I would have a week to change my mind. I called 2 days after it was installed to cancel because the picture kept freezing and digitizing and I was really irked at the lies that I had been told, and I was paying MORE for their service! I was told at that time that I could indeed get out of the contract if I sent the equipment back. I agreed and the rep said she would send a "recovery kit". Empty pre-labeled boxes from FedEx. She said to send back the receivers and she would not charge me a $150 to break the contract. But, they would not reimburse me for the money I paid for the HD receiver.

I couldn't believe that they could require me to send back the hardware that I had purchased and not return my money. So, I put in a dispute with my credit card company and they rejected and returned the money that was originally charged to my account. I had no idea that I would not even be able to keep and try to re-sell the very expensive receiver that I had to purchase to get their service. Now they have sent me a past due notice and I'm sure threats of a collection agency are not too far off. I have called them and tried to get someone to make me understand how they can take back the equipment AND charge me for it. They keep saying that it was in the contract. The contract that I never got. Direct TV sucks. If that was all that was available now, I would go without before I gave them my business. I hope you decide against them too. And tell all of your friends to stay away from them too, if they are fond of their money.

Vicki
Holiday, Florida
U.S.A.