Directv Equipment Return

[HDefinicktion]

So, about two weeks ago, I had to return the original box that I bought over four years ago or they were going to charge me over $400.  I insisted that I purchased the box, but they kept telling me that it was a leased unit.  Unless I have missed the fine print everywhere, I thought that if you purchased the equipment upfront, and fulfilled your agreement, the equipment was yours.  Did the ruling recently change?    The reason I ask now is that I have acquired a H20 from a leaving customer and wonder if I can keep my Samsung for an OTA receiver or are they going to be asking for me to return this as well.  I have had the Samsung for over two years now, and originally signed a one year contract.  Any info or links would be helpful before I activate the receiver.

[Bebop]

The leasing program didn't start till few months ago. Try to speak with someone at DirecTV that's more knowledgeable.

[steve053]

I switched from D* to TWC this past August.  I purchased my D* equipment in 2001, and was not required to return it.  The D* rep who entered my cancellation noted that the equipment was purchased, and even offered to give me upgraded equipment as an incentive to stay.

I'd try another rep.

Steve

[HDefinicktion]

I would assume that if you purchased a mpeg2 box used, it would not fall under the leasing program...correct?  Since the program started just recently...

[bubbaridesfast]

More than likely it isn't leased. I believe the only sales outlets for leased boxes would be from D* directly or a BB or CC type outlet. They don't sell used equipment as far as I know. You must have purchased from another D* customer or on E-Bay in either case the original purchaser is the only one with a committment to D*.
If you bought one used and activated the card you still shouldn't have any committment and should own the box outright.
D*'s customer service people do not all have sufficient knowledge/training to have all of the right answers. If you ever think one gave out a wrong answer, always ask for some one else to verify it with i.e. customer retention or request to "escalate" your situation.