Bell Expressvu HD RETENTION - FREE PVR (1 Year) FREE HD RECEIVER (2 years)

[beripari]

So, the installer (really nice guy!) just arrived to upgrade our cable/wiring for HD. Who knew it would be so complicated! We have 4 tvs in the house (2 are run with "splitters") -- before you think "who has 4 tvs, very easy to do in this day/age: kids room, den, living room, kitchen, "office". The current "box" was wired for up to 6 tvs. BUT, HD requires 2 cables & is set up for max 4 tv's - multiple boxes involved?!? PLUS, he needs to completely replace the entire satellite dish in order for HD to work.

We wanted each room's wiring (connection & cabling are already in place) wired for HD in case we move things around in future - he's here now, lets get everything "set up" at minimal cost -- he said a special connection has to be added to each room's cable but still because of the new "setup" will always only be max 4 tvs and splitters no longer work. Plus we can't put the PVR unit where we originally wanted it (cabling issue! from outside; has to go around the entire house) so we're swapping it with the TV that has the regular HD & will need to purchase an external hard drive in order to record.

We hadn't anticipated these types of complications; wasn't mentionted in any of our Bell discusssions but then of course those people aren't techies!

Might have been easier to just switch to Rogers/Shaw! I feel a slew of calls to Bell in my future!

[Inno]

So, the installer (really nice guy!) just arrived to upgrade our cable/wiring for HD. Who knew it would be so complicated! We have 4 tvs in the house (2 are run with "splitters") -- before you think "who has 4 tvs, very easy to do in this day/age: kids room, den, living room, kitchen, "office". The current "box" was wired for up to 6 tvs. BUT, HD requires 2 cables & is set up for max 4 tv's - multiple boxes involved?!? PLUS, he needs to completely replace the entire satellite dish in order for HD to work.

We wanted each room's wiring (connection & cabling are already in place) wired for HD in case we move things around in future - he's here now, lets get everything "set up" at minimal cost -- he said a special connection has to be added to each room's cable but still because of the new "setup" will always only be max 4 tvs and splitters no longer work. Plus we can't put the PVR unit where we originally wanted it (cabling issue! from outside; has to go around the entire house) so we're swapping it with the TV that has the regular HD & will need to purchase an external hard drive in order to record.

We hadn't anticipated these types of complications; wasn't mentionted in any of our Bell discusssions but then of course those people aren't techies!

Might have been easier to just switch to Rogers/Shaw! I feel a slew of calls to Bell in my future!

How much do they charge for all this? Or is it free if you sign up for a multi-year contract?

[andrewlala]

How much do they charge for all this? Or is it free if you sign up for a multi-year contract?

i was told its 3$/month extra on each regular receiver you need for each additional TV.

[beripari]

How much do they charge for all this? Or is it free if you sign up for a multi-year contract?

After MULTIPLE calls & being "cancelled", we bought the HD PVR from them @ 50% off PLUS worked out a deal where we bought the HD receiver from Source & Bell will credit a part of it to our bill so it works out to $99 for the second receiver - we will own both - way cheaper than renting! Installation & "new" required dish all free - we need to pay extra for the cabling for the second receiver & to have all the other room's cabling "HD-ready --- only an additional $50 for all this cause the installer's here. NO CONTRACT and I can't even tell you the FABULOUS deal I negotiated for programming - they asked me to keep it confidential! Let's just say its higher than anything I've seen posted here -- yes, I am a great negotiator - but it was a very frustrating & time-intensive ordeal! Plus, we've been with Bell Expressvu for over 20 yrs which no doubt had a huge impact in what we ended up getting!

BUT, the saga continues! His drill got stuck in the wall - some sort of metal behind it - & it broke. He/hubby had a helluva time getting it out! Fortunatey hubby has a drill so the guy's using that one. PLUS because the dish is at the front of our house & our MAJOR TV is at the back of the house, unsightly cable will be running down the full length of the house which I'm not overly thrilled about. And, 2 cables will also be very visible on the interior wall where they will connect to the equipment. The option is to cut out the drywall, install the "visible" portion of the cables inside then redo the drywall. The sad part is that our house is only 5 years old! Technology has changed so much that the builder didn't account for all of this when the house was being built -- and because everything is "finished", we don't want to be cutting out drywall, etc.

Repeat: it would have been easier & less complicated to go w/Rogers/Shaw!!
Poor guy has been here since 8:30 this morning and will most likely be here another couple of hours! I have no idea how unsightly the "boxes" he needs to install in each room will be.

[kevinlo2]

After MULTIPLE calls & being "cancelled", we bought the HD PVR from them @ 50% off PLUS worked out a deal where we bought the HD receiver from Source & Bell will credit a part of it to our bill so it works out to $99 for the second receiver - we will own both.

How can you get that? Do you know the name of the CSR you talk to?

I call them multiple times, I can only get $100 off to buy the 9241. I tell them I need 9242 and I know they don't have stocks. I ask them I want to keep my current rental one so I can keep my recorded program. They say it is a rental unit and they cannot sell it to me. They need to send me a new one (9241) and I need to return my current rental 9242. What a stupid policy!!!! I hate and don't want to waste time to disconnect old box and reconnect a new box and ship it back.

The Source is selling the 9242 at $50 off. Do you know if I can transfer my recorded programs from the current 9242 to the new 9242 using an external drive. I remember I read that the external drive cannot be recognized by another box and need to reformat it.

[beripari]

Sorry kevinlo2, I am not techy so can't answer your question. BUT, an even stupider policy: when I called to cancel, they told me I was a "3rd party" on the account and hubby would have to call to cancel but I can make any other changes!!?! I blew a fuse! Why after 20 years are you telling me this? Bill comes in BOTH names. Apparently that's how "Bell" set up the account - I don't care, I didn't ask them to do that and this 50's "little woman" needs a man behind her" mentaity is archaic. That was just ONE small example of the major problems I encountered with their CSR's. So, "how" I got what I got was because of the hell I went through with them & I ended up in Escalation dept (had already spoken to "Loyalty" numerous times), AFTER they already cancelled me & I threatened to go to the top executive. I think ours is a "unique" situation that will hopefully never recur for anyone else!

Update: the subcontractor was here for almost 4 hrs. working his butt off to wire our house - we gave him a tip! And hubby (who always has the newest "toys" and hates Rogers/Shaw) remarked "It would have been simpler to switch!" But the boxes are all working great & everyone is enjoying their tv viewing. Just getting geared up for a battle with the next bill arrives!

[beripari]

Just got an email from the Source. BELL 9242 HD PVR RECEIVER - the one that can hook up 2 TV's - is on sale until Oct. 7 (TOMORROW).
$249.99 Net price After $200 in subscriber credits

Regular Price: = $499.99 - immediate instore credit of $50 = $449.99

NEW subscribers get an additional $200 in subscriber credits

WAY CHEAPER THAN RENTING!!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1519&language=en-CA&product=1528202

Sale ends October 7, 2009.

[nufan]

Just got an email from the Source. BELL 9242 HD PVR RECEIVER - the one that can hook up 2 TV's - is on sale until Oct. 7 (TOMORROW).
$249.99 Net price After $200 in subscriber credits

Regular Price: = $499.99 - immediate instore credit of $50 = $449.99

NEW subscribers get an additional $200 in subscriber credits

WAY CHEAPER THAN RENTING!!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1519&language=en-CA&product=1528202

Sale ends October 7, 2009.

It's been like this at least a few months now. The source has their receivers $50 cheaper than elsewhere. Bell owns the source so they are probably trying to throw some business thier way :)

Both the 6131 and the 9241 are $50 cheaper at the source. I PM'ed them at FS when I got my 6131, though ended up getting it even cheaper when FS had their one day sale of it for $99 (ended up free with my new customer $100 credit)

[Mike53421]

We bought a new TV on Saturday, September 27th, scheduled Bell to come yesterday (Monday, October 5th) and they straight-up no showed our appointment, resulting in my Dad burning a vacation day. They've now told us the earliest they can come is Wednesday.

This is ridiculous and we're seeking realistic compensation, free HD programming and movie channels reasonable? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated, we've been loyal customers for five years without issue until this.

[tomtong]

Hmm... TS is selling 9242 included OTA tuner and output to 2nd TV that 9241 missed.


It's been like this at least a few months now. The source has their receivers $50 cheaper than elsewhere. Bell owns the source so they are probably trying to throw some business thier way :)

Both the 6131 and the 9241 are $50 cheaper at the source. I PM'ed them at FS when I got my 6131, though ended up getting it even cheaper when FS had their one day sale of it for $99 (ended up free with my new customer $100 credit)


Just got an email from the Source. BELL 9242 HD PVR RECEIVER - the one that can hook up 2 TV's - is on sale until Oct. 7 (TOMORROW).
$249.99 Net price After $200 in subscriber credits

Regular Price: = $499.99 - immediate instore credit of $50 = $449.99

NEW subscribers get an additional $200 in subscriber credits

WAY CHEAPER THAN RENTING!!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1519&language=en-CA&product=1528202

Sale ends October 7, 2009.

[sc00ter77]

I had the same issues with bell as we were given a years free rental for a 9242 and they wouldn't let us buy it outright and wanted to replace it with a 9241....Luckily the deal on TSCC was perfect and I just replaced the rental one. It's a great price also as brand new models on Ebay are around $600-$700, and Bell will not sell them to you anymore.

[xnaron]

So will thesource.ca sell the 9242 to existing bell customers? Ie: can I walk in the store and pay the $449+GST as an existing customer or is this for new customers only?

[sc00ter77]

I'm not sure...We ordered it on-line and it was delivered to our home and no additional information was needed, and you can just call the bell automated number and add the receiver....However, in the past when I bought a receiver direct from a store the did require account details.


So will thesource.ca sell the 9242 to existing bell customers? Ie: can I walk in the store and pay the $449+GST as an existing customer or is this for new customers only?

[ChzPlz]

Just confirming - the $200 subscriber credit is only available to **NEW** subscribers, right?


Luckily the deal on TSCC was perfect and I just replaced the rental one. It's a great price also as brand new models on Ebay are around $600-$700, and Bell will not sell them to you anymore.

[nufan]

Just confirming - the $200 subscriber credit is only available to **NEW** subscribers, right?
yes

[sc00ter77]

Yes exactly, but even finding the 9242 for $450.00 in my opinion is a great price, especially as they are very hard to find, and have better features than the current PVR's



Just confirming - the $200 subscriber credit is only available to **NEW** subscribers, right?

[beripari]

It's been like this at least a few months now. The source has their receivers $50 cheaper than elsewhere. Bell owns the source so they are probably trying to throw some business thier way :)

Both the 6131 and the 9241 are $50 cheaper at the source. I PM'ed them at FS when I got my 6131, though ended up getting it even cheaper when FS had their one day sale of it for $99 (ended up free with my new customer $100 credit)

REALLY?!?!? I hate Bell, hated them more when I found out the Teacher's Federation is the largest majority owner & now even hate them more!

In hindsight, we should have PM'd the 6163 we bought last week at either BB or FS - could have got BB dollars and "price guarantees" in both cases. Oh well, too late now! We just wanted to get it down & over with after all the frustrations. Wish we'd got the 9142 instead though!

[beripari]

So will thesource.ca sell the 9242 to existing bell customers? Ie: can I walk in the store and pay the $449+GST as an existing customer or is this for new customers only?

Yes, the $50 is instant in-store rebate for both new AND exisitng customers; we didn't need ANY account info whatsoever. The additional $200 savings applies only to NEW customers once they activate with Bell - it's supposed to appear as a credit on their billing.

You better hurry though, sale ends soon! If you can't decide, buy it & return it after you have more time to think about it; that way you won't lose out.

[Tiberius]

I have always been a cable customer but I'm moving and looking at Bell... how exactly does it work? How many TVs (tuners?) does a dish support? What costs are associated with increasing the number of TVs/tuners in your home?

They key consideration is to understand when additional dishes, and/or additional costs come in to play.

Thanks for answering this newb question... if anyone knows a good forum with the general "how Bell satellite TV" works, feel free to point me in that direction.

[Think]

Let bell die...rogers sucks but not as bad as bell.http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/images/smilies/laser.gif

[djino]

I have always been a cable customer but I'm moving and looking at Bell... how exactly does it work? How many TVs (tuners?) does a dish support? What costs are associated with increasing the number of TVs/tuners in your home?

They key consideration is to understand when additional dishes, and/or additional costs come in to play.

Thanks for answering this newb question... if anyone knows a good forum with the general "how Bell satellite TV" works, feel free to point me in that direction.

See -> http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=183

djino

[kevinlo2]

So will thesource.ca sell the 9242 to existing bell customers? Ie: can I walk in the store and pay the $449+GST as an existing customer or is this for new customers only?

I phoned TS to order the 9242 on Sat. The CSR does not ask if I am existing Bell customer. 9242 is only available online, but not in store. I got shipping email yesterday. I ship it to store to save the shipping cost.

Bell is sucked, but I like the 9242. I may switch to Telus or Shaw later on if they provide a better deal for new customer.

[evo_x]

hi everyone is it me or just that bell is losing more customers? I called in today and easily got the 40% off for a year. Whereas a few months ago they wouldn't even budge from 20%-30%. I passed up on the pvr offer to get the 40% but i think i'm gonna call one last time to see if they can give me both or i will just cancel and go to Telus.

[Bastich]

hi everyone is it me or just that bell is losing more customers? I called in today and easily got the 40% off for a year. Whereas a few months ago they wouldn't even budge from 20%-30%. I passed up on the pvr offer to get the 40% but i think i'm gonna call one last time to see if they can give me both or i will just cancel and go to Telus.

Did you ask the regular CSR, or did you have to go through retentions people to get the 40%?

[evo_x]

Did you ask the regular CSR, or did you have to go through retentions people to get the 40%?

I believe its called the Loyalty department as the rep mention that. I think its just another name for retentions. The regular billing/sales reps can't do much for you i doubt except apply some 1 time credits etc.. but yeah try for the 40 instead of the 20/30 thru retentions.

[Bastich]

I believe its called the Loyalty department as the rep mention that. I think its just another name for retentions. The regular billing/sales reps can't do much for you i doubt except apply some 1 time credits etc.. but yeah try for the 40 instead of the 20/30 thru retentions.

Ah, okay. Did you have to threaten cancellation to get through to them (as per OP), or did they voluntarily transfer you over?

[evo_x]

Ah, okay. Did you have to threaten cancellation to get through to them (as per OP), or did they voluntarily transfer you over?

yeah just call thru their bell express vu number and i believe its 6 for all other options then theres a number to cancel your service. I called on a weekday dont' know if that matters. Yes i did have to threaten to cancel.

[coleworld]

Call 1-888-673-3788
Follow these options.

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> Press #6 for all other options
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription
Step #5 -> Press #4 to cancel subscription (again!)
Step #6 -> It's going to ask you to enter your PIN, you may not have one, so just randomly enter 4 digits
Step #7 -> PIN again .. randomly enter 4 digits
Step #8 -> 'Please hold while we transfer your call.'

That's it, you're in on retention line now!!!

__________________________________________________ ______

Just called in for my parents, brought there bill down from $142 to $98 and got them another free HD PVR rental for 1 year.

You don't really need to threaten to cancel, just explain that there are great offers out there (do a search for a legit offer so at least you have one if they ask what youve been offered) and that you appreciate Bell but need consider switching based on price.... they should offer 40% OFF no problem.

P.S. Don't switch to Telus TV. The reliability is a joke, and the Guide display is disgusting, and hard to read (white and grey and black 'colors')

[351oreo]

I phoned cancellation line yesterday and asked the rep for the retention department. I was informed I was speaking to the retention department. After giving him my account number he immediately offered me 30% off. I asked for 40% and him pretended to ask his manager. It was no problem. The phone call probably lasted 1 minute. Thank you redflag for a 40% reduction off our TV bill.

[Memles]

Anyone have any experience doing this when there's a "Contract" involved? My parents are newly retired and trying to cut costs, but about a year ago they agreed to a two-year contract (w/ penalty for cancellation) for a measly $40 programming credit. They're not sure what the penalty would be, but it seems like the kind of red flag that would keep them from offering the 40% and all of that.

At least they have a "Our PVR is broken, so we're not happy with the reliability" for when they eventually take a stab at it.

[nufan]

Anyone have any experience doing this when there's a "Contract" involved? My parents are newly retired and trying to cut costs, but about a year ago they agreed to a two-year contract (w/ penalty for cancellation) for a measly $40 programming credit. They're not sure what the penalty would be, but it seems like the kind of red flag that would keep them from offering the 40% and all of that.

At least they have a "Our PVR is broken, so we're not happy with the reliability" for when they eventually take a stab at it.
I too would be keen to hear if anyone had any luck with "on contract" retention deals. I have 6 or so months left on mine. The obvious feeling is that since you are on contract they won't do squat (what are you gonna do, quit and pay the ETF anyway?).

I'm pretty resigned to the fact that I will wait until off contract to do the whole threaten to quit/get 30-40% off thing, but maybe it's worth trying before hand, who knows.

MTS (manitoba only) just came out with a deal in my area for $25 a month for the first 6 months, including 2 HD receiver rentals for 2 years (including their total home PVR). It might even be cheaper to pay the ETF for the difference in price per month, wonder if Bell will bite on that.

[evo_x]

I too would be keen to hear if anyone had any luck with "on contract" retention deals. I have 6 or so months left on mine. The obvious feeling is that since you are on contract they won't do squat (what are you gonna do, quit and pay the ETF anyway?).


Well I called in when i had 4 months left and I said i wanted to leave for another company and they mention i was still on contract. I told them i didn't care as the other company was offering a better deal in the long run i would be saving more money. They then asked me what kind of deal this was and i ********ed some offer and they gave me the 20% and i still wasn't satified as I told them i heard some friends/relatives were getting 30%. in the end they offered me 30%. Then called back when my contract was over and got the 40%. Hope this helps you. plus i believe its max 50 dollars from what i was told to cancel.

[dagos777]

Im currently on the 30% reduction plan as well for one year expiring early next year.

Im sure this has been answered but cant seem to find the answer. Is there a minimium price range you need to have to qualify for the 40% deal?

Before they offered me 30% off, I was paying 69$ plus tax for my service. With the 30%, im now paying 49$ plus tax. Is it possible to get 40% off with the rate im paying now?

I was thinking of inflating my services (maybe add movies package) right before my retention deal ends, and to try to get the 40% and then a month later, removing the movie package and still keep my 40% discount.

[timbit x]

Am I missing anything or should I jump on this deal?

HD PVR for the Year
30% off TV Bill
and $10 discount on Internet for 12 months.

They won't go to the 40% off.

I'm on their standard + 6 themes package. Got phone with them as well.

[thewit]

Hi
I called retentions and mentioned the recent Shaw Direct offer I received in the mail. Bell responed with 30% discount for 1 year on programing and a free HDPVR rental for 1 year.

I said okay.....than the agent saw that there aren't any Bell installers in my area of interior BC, which ment that they would not be able to offer the free HDPVR rental because an installer has to deliver/install it. I told her that I already have all the required switches/lnbs/cables, so no installer is requied to come to my house so just ship me one.

She again said no and the best thay could offer was a $100 programing credit if I purchased a HDPVR ie $499. I told I thought that was ludicrous.

Has anyone received a HDPVR free rental via retentions without needing an installer provide it?

Thanks
Tim

[Bastich]

Am I missing anything or should I jump on this deal?

HD PVR for the Year
30% off TV Bill
and $10 discount on Internet for 12 months.

They won't go to the 40% off.

I'm on their standard + 6 themes package. Got phone with them as well.
Were you trying for 40% on top of the other stuff, or did you ask for just the larger discount?
:cool:

[jblade44]

Were you trying for 40% on top of the other stuff, or did you ask for just the larger discount?
:cool:

I was talking to retentions, I am with Rogers now, cancelled Bell Nov of last year. She told me to wait as they have a new offer coming out in the next month to try and get old customers back. Offer includes free install for up to 4 rec plus 40% off for 1 yr. She said I should get something in the mail in the next couple weeks. I think I will wait and at least use it for leverage for Rogers to lower or extend my current offer.:razz:

[timbit x]

Were you trying for 40% on top of the other stuff, or did you ask for just the larger discount?
:cool:

I tried to get 40% on top of the free HD PVR for the year.

But with the $10 off internet a month they gave me, it made up for the 30% off I received.

Signed up one year contract, will see what will happen after the year.

[beripari]

Hi
I called retentions and mentioned the recent Shaw Direct offer I received in the mail. Bell responed with 30% discount for 1 year on programing and a free HDPVR rental for 1 year.

I said okay.....than the agent saw that there aren't any Bell installers in my area of interior BC, which ment that they would not be able to offer the free HDPVR rental because an installer has to deliver/install it. I told her that I already have all the required switches/lnbs/cables, so no installer is requied to come to my house so just ship me one.

She again said no and the best thay could offer was a $100 programing credit if I purchased a HDPVR ie $499. I told I thought that was ludicrous.

Has anyone received a HDPVR free rental via retentions without needing an installer provide it?

Thanks
Tim

Totally ludicrous!!! ESCALATE, ESCALATE, ESCALATE!

[leadingsimon]

As much as I dislike Bell services, I decided to help out my mom with retention and I think we scored a decent deal.

- 1 Free HD PVR (1 year)
- 30% off the monthly balance
- Free Installation on the new equipment

I tried to gun them down for a second HD receiver but they wouldn't budge. :lol:

[tofinoguy]

Hi
I called retentions and mentioned the recent Shaw Direct offer I received in the mail. Bell responed with 30% discount for 1 year on programing and a free HDPVR rental for 1 year.

I said okay.....than the agent saw that there aren't any Bell installers in my area of interior BC, which ment that they would not be able to offer the free HDPVR rental because an installer has to deliver/install it. I told her that I already have all the required switches/lnbs/cables, so no installer is requied to come to my house so just ship me one.

She again said no and the best thay could offer was a $100 programing credit if I purchased a HDPVR ie $499. I told I thought that was ludicrous.

Has anyone received a HDPVR free rental via retentions without needing an installer provide it?

Thanks
Tim

Bell will not provide rental equipment to anyone not serviced by a Bell installer. They would be unable to provide warranty service, cannot ensure that the wiring is installed to their specification, etc.

[TheOldGuy]

I got tried of all those incessant Bell signal substitutions at their uplink.

So I grabbed the Shaw Direct door to door deal in Ontario.

For $75, I got 1 HD + 2 SD receivers. I now pay $47 month + tax for 60 SD + 21 HD including all the sports channel HD. It also includes lifetime dish and receiver warranty.

Wife likes TCM. I never realized how soft TSN HD picture was on Bell until I got Shaw Direct. Sportnets ball games are much sharper as well.

[jjoaquin23]

i dunno if this was answered but when you get the 30% off on a one year contract, can you make changes to the programming like removing a theme pack. also, if i order a ppv event, is that subject to 30% off as well.

[jpaul]

Not sure if this has been answered before.. has anyone been able to extend the free 9142 rental after the intial first year, my 1 year is up in Nov.. :?: ,

[djino]

i dunno if this was answered but when you get the 30% off on a one year contract, can you make changes to the programming like removing a theme pack

Yes and the 30% will reflect the changes.


if i order a ppv event, is that subject to 30% off as well.

Nope. They will display it in a different section different from the programming section which will not raise the dollar amount of the 30% off credit.

djino

[djino]

Not sure if this has been answered before.. has anyone been able to extend the free 9142 rental after the intial first year, my 1 year is up in Nov.. :?: ,

I can't answer from experience, but from reading this thread, I'd say the answer is 95% No. You usually can only extend the xx% off programming.

The 5% that were able to do it had to send back the 92xx they had and get it replaced with the 9241 which was then free for another 12 months.

My 9242 free rental will be complete in December also. Since its usually very difficult to get a CSR to renew this free rental, I'm gonna try to get them at least to upgrade my 30% to 40% off programming and keep my 9242 as the $20 rental fee . In the end my bill should increase by $5-10 instead of the full $20. I suggest you do the same here.

djino

[ChzPlz]

I just went through this - my free year of the 9242 is up in December. I got offered 30% for an additional 6 months, or 20% for 12 months. No extension of free PVR. I said that I was looking at Rogers offer and he totalled up all the discounts I got over the past year and asked if that wasn't enough to make me stay. I said no, and he called my bluff and started the cancellation process.

Note - I only have TV with Bell - no home phone or internet, so I'm not a big customer of theirs.


I can't answer from experience, but from reading this thread, I'd say the answer is 95% No. You usually can only extend the xx% off programming.

The 5% that were able to do it had to send back the 92xx they had and get it replaced with the 9241 which was then free for another 12 months.

My 9242 free rental will be complete in December also. Since its usually very difficult to get a CSR to renew this free rental, I'm gonna try to get them at least to upgrade my 30% to 40% off programming and keep my 9242 as the $20 rental fee . In the end my bill should increase by $5-10 instead of the full $20. I suggest you do the same here.

djino

[bubble.tea]

Call 1-888-673-3788
Follow these options.

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> Press #6 for all other options
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription
Step #5 -> Press #4 to cancel subscription (again!)
Step #6 -> It's going to ask you to enter your PIN, you may not have one, so just randomly enter 4 digits
Step #7 -> PIN again .. randomly enter 4 digits
Step #8 -> 'Please hold while we transfer your call.'

That's it, you're in on retention line now!!!

__________________________________________________ ______

Just called in for my parents, brought there bill down from $142 to $98 and got them another free HD PVR rental for 1 year.

You don't really need to threaten to cancel, just explain that there are great offers out there (do a search for a legit offer so at least you have one if they ask what youve been offered) and that you appreciate Bell but need consider switching based on price.... they should offer 40% OFF no problem.

P.S. Don't switch to Telus TV. The reliability is a joke, and the Guide display is disgusting, and hard to read (white and grey and black 'colors')

Should be posted to post #1.

[attitude21]

I just got a discount on my phone lines for one year, and satellite for one year. But this time around (second year I've asked for discount) they weren't able to give me a free PVR rental for one year, that I got last year. I asked several times, but she wasn't able to do it. Said I could try asking the satellite department, they might be able to do something for me.

Anyone else get this?

My original offer was 30% off satellite, $5 off PVR rental, and a significant discount off of home phone (forget the amount, but it was about $10-15 a month). They were having some issues adding my $5 PVR rental discount, so I called today and they credited the $5 for the past two months that it shoudl have been there, and they gave me 40% instead of the 30%, and extended it a couple of months. They also indicated that I should be receving another $5 discount for a bundle (on phone and satellite), but I was tired of fighting, just wanted what I was originally promised, so we'll see if I get that extra $5 or not.

[BobLoblaw]

I just finished talking with retentions, and they initially offered me the free HD receiver for 2 yrs. I told them I would like to purchase the 6131 HD recvr. and they gave it to me for $99, I then told them I wanted to add a sports pack and a movie pack.
The new total was $62./month. I have the basic package now and it costs me $35./month for SD programming. She then offered my 30% off programming for a yr, and an additional $5.00 off a month if I bundle my Bell phone with the ExpressVu.
So after about 10 minutes of my time, I end up getting the new dish installed, HD programming, + 2 new theme packs for a total of $39.30/month as compared to the basic SD programming for $35./month. I went with the 6131 as they can be adapted to PVR with a external HDD that are now under $100. for a TB.
Thanks to the OP for the advice.

[ChzPlz]

I went with the 6131 as they can be adapted to PVR with a external HDD that are now under $100. for a TB.

Whoa. Thanks for this. I was bummed that they wouldn't extend my free HDPVR rental. IF I can get them to give me a free rental on one of these, I've got external hard drives that'll turn this into a HDPVR. And if they won't, at the price they're selling the 6131 for, it might be just worth buying.

[gfully1]

I just went from SD at $35 a month for basic and bought an 2 HD recievers at 50% off ($199 each less $100 credit for each) so 2 recievers for $200. I was first given basic and free HD channels plus 2 themes for $36.50 a month. I called back the next night and said I was looking for one more theme...the girl in retentions I was speaking to ended up working it out as a better deal with 5 themes for $41.00 per month all said and done.

[vesatoskala89]

just wondering.. just say i call on behalf of my dad (he doesnt know how to speak english) since the bell is under his name would they need him to give confirmation on the phone after i'm done negotiating?

thanks

[Zoolou]

just wondering.. just say i call on behalf of my dad (he doesnt know how to speak english) since the bell is under his name would they need him to give confirmation on the phone after i'm done negotiating?

thanks

Yeah they need confirmation that you are speaking on his behalf to re-negotiate a better package for him....had to do that for my folks...there wasn't any problem

[beripari]

just wondering.. just say i call on behalf of my dad (he doesnt know how to speak english) since the bell is under his name would they need him to give confirmation on the phone after i'm done negotiating?

thanks

Good luck with that one! See my post #1007

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/bell-expressvu-hd-retention-free-pvr-1-year-free-hd-receiver-2-years-550508/68/

re the problems I encountered because "Bell" had me down as a 3rd party - even though we've been customers for over 20 yrs and the bill is in BOTH mine/hubby's name! They said I can make "changes" to the account but I have no authority for cancellation.

[mayble]

Our ExpressVu contract just came up for renewal and my dh called today indicating we wanted a better deal or we would cancel our service. Right off the bat, my dh was offered 40% off for a year, he took with without further negotiating. Not sure if we could have gotten a better deal, but pretty happy with the offer thanks to this forum.

[djino]

So my Free Rental of 9242 and 30% Off for 12 Months has come to an end and so I called up today to "cancel" :).

Went straight to the loyalty department by choosing "Cancel Programming" when dialing 1-888-sky-dish. Told the CSR that I would like to cancel my programing and after will cancel my Bell Internet as the price of my 9242 Rental Credit/Programming Credit will stop and my Cable provider is offering a cheaper deal.

The CSR placed me on hold to take a look at my account and came back and said he could continue to offer me 30% Off for another 12 Months. I asked if there was anything he could do for the 9242 Rental as I would stay if things would remain the same, He said he could start up another 12 Months rental credit, but I'd have to sent back the 9242 and they'd send a tech along with a 9241.

Since I do not use the Dual-TV option with the 9242 nor the OTA, along with having several unused HDMI cables, I decided it was worth it to save $240+tax over the year to swap the receivers and everything will remain the same (30% off for a year, $20 rental receiver credit for a year along with my already in place $10 Bundle Credit).

Now time to call Bell Internet to keep my $24.95/month for Internet Performance for another 12 months.

djino
"Another client saved. Thank you Bell TV"

[tsgee]

just wondering.. just say i call on behalf of my dad (he doesnt know how to speak english) since the bell is under his name would they need him to give confirmation on the phone after i'm done negotiating?

thanks

I had this same problem. All I did was phone and we setup a pin for the account. Now any changes to programming or discounts I just call up give my dads information and pin.

[Skywalker514]

Just got off the phone with them , After telling the first CSR I want to cancel all my services I have with them today and move over to Rogers
,he said he can cancel one service but if i wanted to cancel them all i would have to talk to his supervisor
he then put me on hold for a good 10 minutes, till I was put through to the Retention Line. CSR told me he couldn't offer me more features or speed increases since i have all the top packages from bell.
He then proceeded to drop money off my bill like it was Christmas my original bill was $255 and they dropped it to $111 a month , that's for Phone,Satellite and Internet.
.
Thanks OP ::cheesygri

[Spidey]

I tried again today since its been 6 months since I called. Since I already had 30% off from the last phone call I couldnt get them to budge. Tried to get thr PVR rental waived again.

Oh well, Ill try again in 6 months

[jpaul]

So my Free Rental of 9242 and 30% Off for 12 Months has come to an end and so I called up today to "cancel" :).

Went straight to the loyalty department by choosing "Cancel Programming" when dialing 1-888-sky-dish. Told the CSR that I would like to cancel my programing and after will cancel my Bell Internet as the price of my 9242 Rental Credit/Programming Credit will stop and my Cable provider is offering a cheaper deal.

The CSR placed me on hold to take a look at my account and came back and said he could continue to offer me 30% Off for another 12 Months. I asked if there was anything he could do for the 9242 Rental as I would stay if things would remain the same, He said he could start up another 12 Months rental credit, but I'd have to sent back the 9242 and they'd send a tech along with a 9241.

Since I do not use the Dual-TV option with the 9242 nor the OTA, along with having several unused HDMI cables, I decided it was worth it to save $240+tax over the year to swap the receivers and everything will remain the same (30% off for a year, $20 rental receiver credit for a year along with my already in place $10 Bundle Credit).

Now time to call Bell Internet to keep my $24.95/month for Internet Performance for another 12 months.

djino
"Another client saved. Thank you Bell TV"

Well I need to call soon..my contract is kinda wierd.. as I have already renewed my 30% off for another year about 2 months ago.. but my the contract for the reciever ends in a few weeks.. intially I got the reciever a few months later cause I did not have a hd TV at the time.. once I got the TV I got the reciever.. . Anyways I do use the dual tuner options, so I need to keep this reciever.. hopefully they give me some kind of discount.. if not will look into buying one...

[djino]

I do use the dual tuner options, so I need to keep this reciever

Both 9242 and 9241 are dual tuner Receivers.

I was referring to the 9241 not having the 2 TV option (to be able to hook it up to 2 TVs and have both TVs be watching two different channels). This option is not something I need as I always have the 9242 hooked up to 1 TV only. So swapping this with a 9241 wont change anything for home setup.

djino

[jayoldschool]

Just got off the phone. My second retentions deal just ran out (40%year, free 9242). I got 30% off for a year, $20 credit, and a free 9241 for a year. The 9242 goes back. Another painless call to save lots of cash.:D

[thewongster]

I currently have an older BEV satellite along with 2 old SD receivers. I've been with bell for maybe around 8 years, but with no contract. I also have a bell dish at my grandmother's house under my contract. I have the basic package and I also have internet and phone signed up with them. I'm thinking of making the move to HD by upgrading the dish and getting the receivers. Will I be able to get any of these great retention offers, even though I'm not signed on a contract?

I was hoping that I could get the 2 HD receivers (6131HDs) for the current promotion price to new customers ($99) and also get free installation is this asking too much? I just wanted to know before calling them up and telling them a ridiculous demand... What do you think guys?

I live in Montreal BTW if that might help (or not?).

[beripari]

I currently have an older BEV satellite along with 2 old SD receivers. I've been with bell for maybe around 8 years, but with no contract. I also have a bell dish at my grandmother's house under my contract. I have the basic package and I also have internet and phone signed up with them. I'm thinking of making the move to HD by upgrading the dish and getting the receivers. Will I be able to get any of these great retention offers, even though I'm not signed on a contract?

I was hoping that I could get the 2 HD receivers (6131HDs) for the current promotion price to new customers ($99) and also get free installation is this asking too much? I just wanted to know before calling them up and telling them a ridiculous demand... What do you think guys?

I live in Montreal BTW if that might help (or not?).

I'm in Toronto & basically got what you want + discount on programming - all without a contract. We don't have any other Bell services so that could be a negotiating contract for you. They provided the installation FREE so make sure you get that. We bought a PVR from them @ 50% off!! (negotiated!); wanted to get a 2nd one but instead, we bought 6131 @ the Source & Bell credited our account for the difference - again, all pre-negotiated.

So, its possible!

[Bastich]

Both 9242 and 9241 are dual tuner Receivers.

I was referring to the 9241 not having the 2 TV option (to be able to hook it up to 2 TVs and have both TVs be watching two different channels). This option is not something I need as I always have the 9242 hooked up to 1 TV only. So swapping this with a 9241 wont change anything for home setup.

Unless you're using the second (RF) remote as your main room controller, due to line-of-sight issues.
:cool:

[azncapcom]

Does anyone know the charge for cancelling a contract? Is it similar to rogers like $20/month remaining?
This is for all 3 services

[RedSoxFan]

Just got off Retention.

40% off + free 6131 rental for 2 years

Couldnt`get them to wave the 20$ 9242 rental but its not bad imho

[inhaliburton]

Am moving from Haliburton area to Wellington, ON which is near Picton, ON.

Signed up with Cogeco for TV (no Internet or phone yet), cancelled Bell TV and Internet. Got a call 3 days later from Retention (?) dept. and was offered 40% initially, then 50% on programming and free PVR for a year, then 10.00 per month forever.

Second standard HD receiver for 3.00 / month forever.

Was told that NEW standard rental prices are 10.00/month and 3.00/month for PVR and Standard receiver.

Saw on another post that someone got PVR free for 2 years. Correct?

The above is with "no contract."

[SeeWhy2]

Am moving from Haliburton area to Wellington, ON which is near Picton, ON.

Signed up with Cogeco for TV (no Internet or phone yet), cancelled Bell TV and Internet. Got a call 3 days later from Retention (?) dept. and was offered 40% initially, then 50% on programming and free PVR for a year, then 10.00 per month forever.

Second standard HD receiver for 3.00 / month forever.

Was told that NEW standard rental prices are 10.00/month and 3.00/month for PVR and Standard receiver.

Saw on another post that someone got PVR free for 2 years. Correct?

The above is with "no contract."

Have fun in Wellington! We lived in Picton for over 20 years & it is beautiful country - in the summer :)
We had our trailer at Wilow Ridge Campgrounds just outside of Wellington on West Lake.
BTW welcome to RFD and thanks for the Bell info update!

[Mecne]

Just got off the phone with Rententions..

I had called over a year ago and got 40% off my bill and free rental on the 6131 for 2 years..

My 40% lapsed back in Sept billing cycle. It was odd. they creditd the accoutn for the full 2 year rental at once.. $240 . as that one is 10 per month.. which whatever..a credit is a credit..

Right off the bat the CS says .. you had 40% off you bill previously would you like that again? Dam skippy ..
Then I said I don't want to rent the receiver anymore.. I would rather buy it out right.. NP with that.. but she had to check on something.. put me on hold.. Came back and said I can offer you the new customer price of $199.99 - $100.00 credit .. Make is so!!!!

So I got 40% off total programming for 1 year and a 6131 for $99.99 on no contract.!!

I agree with above posts.. check and watch your bill , I had to call twice with my first rentention offer..

Happy to stay with Bell Expressvu with these offers.. Best recievers and quality for where I live in Rural Ontario ..


M

[jpaul]

Both 9242 and 9241 are dual tuner Receivers.

I was referring to the 9241 not having the 2 TV option (to be able to hook it up to 2 TVs and have both TVs be watching two different channels). This option is not something I need as I always have the 9242 hooked up to 1 TV only. So swapping this with a 9241 wont change anything for home setup.

djino

Sorry meant I need the option of being able to hook up 2 tv's..

[inhaliburton]

Thanks for the welcome and kind words.

Can someone please tell me if the PVR Pro can run 2 TVs? What model will it likely be?

Regards, Paul.
++++++++++


Have fun in Wellington! We lived in Picton for over 20 years & it is beautiful country - in the summer :)
We had our trailer at Wilow Ridge Campgrounds just outside of Wellington on West Lake.
BTW welcome to RFD and thanks for the Bell info update!

[djino]

Thanks for the welcome and kind words.

Can someone please tell me if the PVR Pro can run 2 TVs? What model will it likely be?

Regards, Paul.
++++++++++

PVR Pro? Huh?

If you are referring to the HD PVR Plus, this is Bell's 9241.

Currently right now you can no longer get a 2 TV option PVR from Bell. The 9241 is a dual tuner PVR, but does not have the option of hooking up to 2 TVs for different viewing.

djino
"You could check Fleabay or stores like The Source for a 9242 Model"

[inhaliburton]

PVR Pro? Huh?

If you are referring to the HD PVR Plus, this is Bell's 9241.

Currently right now you can no longer get a 2 TV option PVR from Bell. The 9241 is a dual tuner PVR, but does not have the option of hooking up to 2 TVs for different viewing.

djino
"You could check Fleabay or stores like The Source for a 9242 Model"

Thanks djino, for clearing that up for me.

Regards, Paul.

[hempopotamus]

Unless you're using the second (RF) remote as your main room controller, due to line-of-sight issues.
:cool:

Which is exactly what we do. My PVR is behind a wooden door so I exclusively use the RF remote.

[rabuol]

Just finished trying to renew last year's offer (free 9242 rental for a year + 30% off prgrm + free HD for 6 months).....

Was offered 30% off prgrm + 25% off the cost of a new 9241.....which I rejected. The 9242 is for me a better choice.

Decided to buy a new 9242 form The Source @ $ 450.00...Dell didn't want to offer free credits...but offered 40% off prgrm.

My prgrm cost is now $93.00 and with 40% off this will work at a $37.20 @ month saving + another $20.00 saving for the PVR 9242 rental...which means that the PVR will be paid within a year and the savings ($57.20 + taxes @ month) will keep coming.

On the long run I should be better off...

Lou

[berriez]

I can't believe that I didn't do this earlier! I've been with Bell for 8 years or so paying around $80 a month. Just called today and they wouldn't budge for 40% for the longest period of time. But eventually they gave in. I asked for free rental of a HD PVR but they said they cant offer that.. so I accepted the 40% and hung up

I want to call them again, but how do I get a HD PVR (what would I say since I just accepted 40% off)?

Also, I have a telephone line with them (Paying 36.33 a month), is there a discount I can do for that aswell?

Thanks! So excited that my bill has dropped significantly, could've saved thousands if I knew about this before.

[fatcat99]

Called the cancellation line a few months back and got a 30% discount very easily, tried for more but the rep didn't budge. Got the story it would take a month, maybe two before it would show on billing. 4 months later and nothing, same pricing - called back again, played the upset customer card and got 40% and a 6131 HD receiver for $99. Rep offered free rental on the 6131 for a year, but got him to sell it instead. Pretty happy with the deal since I was in the market for another HD receiver anyway.

Watch your billing to make sure you get your discounts.

[celica00]

Did I screw myself?

Had 20% off programming + free HD PVR for a year. Year is up, but I still have one year left on contract.

Very soon my bill will be --- programming $69 + $20 rental for HD-PVR. Taxes around $100, which I would never pay.

Called retentions, she offered 30% off the bat, taking the bill to programming $48.30 + $20 rental for HD-PVR . Taxes around $77

I tried for 40% but she wouldn't budge. I told her I have to think about it and she said she will put the notes on my account in case I change my mind.

Now, when I call back what's the best game plan to get 40% off? With the notes on file, do I stand a chance?

Thanks!!!

[beripari]

Watch your billing to make sure you get your discounts.
Exactly! My new parti-time job is calling Bell on a regular basis - still trying to get the billing sorted out! Why does it always take them "3 months" for anything to appear, then when it does, its WRONG! Totally inefficient! Pretty soon, I'm going to start charging THEM for my time! Imagine the CEO receiving a bill from a customer!

[MattE71]

Newbie here...

Source has 9242 PVR's for $450.00. I called Bell about a month ago and they offered me a 9241 for $400.00 and 30% off my programming. I am thinking about paying the extra 50 bucks to be able to run two TV's with the 9242 and pick up a Panasonic V10 Plasma on boxing day somewhere. How hard do you have to push to get 40% off the programming? I have been a Bell customer for 8 years (standard def) and I own my recievers with no contract.

[suezieq4u]

Just called retention line cause my contract was up..after some haggling..got 30% off of programming and an immediate credit of $240 (to cover $20 rental fee of PVR for 12 mnths)...better than nothing :) ...which is exactly what I would've gotten in not 4 this thread..and all the helpful advice :)

[oasis221]

Was offered the following

Digital standard 6 themes
4 hd theme packs

Free 9241 rental for yr
$51

Just called back to confirm order and now they say that after the 1yr I am locked into another year being charged the rental fee.

Guy says he cant do anything about the rental fee after the first year.
Has anyone else been told this?

[m4gician]

Was offered the following

Digital standard 6 themes
4 hd theme packs

Free 9241 rental for yr
$51

Just called back to confirm order and now they say that after the 1yr I am locked into another year being charged the rental fee.

Guy says he cant do anything about the rental fee after the first year.
Has anyone else been told this?

Offered this by the Indian call centre guy, so what I've done is get a better deal from Rogers.

[is350ty]

I was also offered 40% off for a year, and 1 year free rental on a HD PVR. They told me they will need an initial deposit of $100, but will credit it back through the billing.

However, they charged me today, but the amount was $112.00. what gives?:evil:

[MattE71]

I was also offered 40% off for a year, and 1 year free rental on a HD PVR. They told me they will need an initial deposit of $100, but will credit it back through the billing.

However, they charged me today, but the amount was $112.00. what gives?:evil:

So do you have to commit for 2 years and pay the rental fee on the second year?

Or should you go to the Source and pay $450.00 for a 9242 and be done with it?

I wonder if I will have a battle on my hands to get the 40% off?

[Gentile]

What can I expect to get as a new customer? I want to get one or two 6141 boxes and most of the HD channels. I know they are offering $100 crdit on the purchase of the box right now but can I negotiate for free HD or anything?

[djino]

I was also offered 40% off for a year, and 1 year free rental on a HD PVR. They told me they will need an initial deposit of $100, but will credit it back through the billing.

However, they charged me today, but the amount was $112.00. what gives?:evil:

The reason for the $112 as its $100 + tax.

When they apply the credit, it will be $100 credit before tax so essentially, $112 credit.

djino

[djino]

So do you have to commit for 2 years and pay the rental fee on the second year?

Or should you go to the Source and pay $450.00 for a 9242 and be done with it?

I wonder if I will have a battle on my hands to get the 40% off?

This offer isn't a 2 year contract. Its 12 Months of free rental on a 12 month contract. After the 12 Months you can choose to cancel the rental (return it to Bell) or Keep it and start paying $20/Month rental fee.

Most of us (as I have recently been able to do) was after my 12 Months call in to cancel (telling them I can't afford to pay $20 more per month). They are then able to renew the deal, but you'd have to send back the receiver and they send you another one with another 12 Months of free rental and contract. The bad thing about this is if you have a 9242 Rental, you'd have to send that back and receive a 9241. If you wish to keep your 9242, you'd have to start paying $20/Month or goto the Source and purchase the 9242 for $450.

djino

[djino]

What can I expect to get as a new customer? I want to get one or two 6141 boxes and most of the HD channels. I know they are offering $100 crdit on the purchase of the box right now but can I negotiate for free HD or anything?

Not as a new customer. The $100 credit on both boxes is a great deal and I suggest you get it. Wait until your contract ends and then you can get the deals that us loyal clients get.

djino
"Its about time companies start giving better deal to existing clients than to new clients."

[bf_ns]

After my first deal period ended they wouldn't budge on another free rental (9242) so I sent it back and bought the 9241 and continued with the 30% off.

I have had issues with the 9241 and am currently on my third one. So far the new receiver (#3) is ok. The others wouldn't turn on after being off for a period of time, had to reset by holding in power on receiver. I read online this is a common problem with the 9241 after a software upgrade a while back but Bell won't admit to it. I also had issues with freezing and rebooting on some of them. I had zero issues with the old 9242.

Anyone else having 9241 issues?

[oasis221]

Said to hell with renting and bought the 9242 at TheSource

Comes with HDMI cable and TV Gaming remote now.

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?language=en-CA&catalog=Online&category=bell_receivers&product=1558202&MSCSProfile=287001FD2674671CC1C6E1B8FD422E085F6732 CCEA3E18D0CB023CCB6098A4F6406F220B2DE512BF1B636FD3 1630E74F65C219D3B09E0C1770C13C3B51AC984E22868B3E98 B6A636B680711523363DD11412305447972453B46ECD54966D ECA738558B5BD91831C49E95E657FFB003D7664B979A7CD1B6 88683B594FC10116A21C9CB96A281316A6

[andsoitgoes]

I was also offered 40% off for a year, and 1 year free rental on a HD PVR. They told me they will need an initial deposit of $100, but will credit it back through the billing.

However, they charged me today, but the amount was $112.00. what gives?:evil:

tax?

[rambokid]

Said to hell with renting and bought the 9242 at TheSource

Comes with HDMI cable and TV Gaming remote now.

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?language=en-CA&catalog=Online&category=bell_receivers&product=1558202&MSCSProfile=287001FD2674671CC1C6E1B8FD422E085F6732 CCEA3E18D0CB023CCB6098A4F6406F220B2DE512BF1B636FD3 1630E74F65C219D3B09E0C1770C13C3B51AC984E22868B3E98 B6A636B680711523363DD11412305447972453B46ECD54966D ECA738558B5BD91831C49E95E657FFB003D7664B979A7CD1B6 88683B594FC10116A21C9CB96A281316A6Bell newbie. Is the 9242 newer than the 9241? Bell.ca doesn't list the 9242.

[bf_ns]

9242 was the first HD-PVR then the 9241 came out. Basically the 9242 can control two tvs, personally never had a use for it. I still think the 9242 is the superior receiver. They are not manufactured in the same country, the 9241 is now made in China I believe.

[gn22]

Has anyone ever tried to buy out their rental unit ??

Does Bell even offer this if you ask ??

I've done this before with rental hot water heaters, and a rental furnace I had in one house, the buy out cost was lower than simply purchasing the unit new because it had already been used for a year...

If someone owns their own receiver, are there any "retention" deals offered ??

[MattE71]

This offer isn't a 2 year contract. Its 12 Months of free rental on a 12 month contract. After the 12 Months you can choose to cancel the rental (return it to Bell) or Keep it and start paying $20/Month rental fee.

Most of us (as I have recently been able to do) was after my 12 Months call in to cancel (telling them I can't afford to pay $20 more per month). They are then able to renew the deal, but you'd have to send back the receiver and they send you another one with another 12 Months of free rental and contract. The bad thing about this is if you have a 9242 Rental, you'd have to send that back and receive a 9241. If you wish to keep your 9242, you'd have to start paying $20/Month or goto the Source and purchase the 9242 for $450.

djino


Thanks for the reply! I have found a used 9242 (apperently 3 months old) that I can pick up locally for $325 or maybe I should just bite the bullet and pick up a new 9242 from the Source for $450? I will make the call for the 40% off tomorrow.

[bungaboy]

Has anyone ever tried to buy out their rental unit ??

Does Bell even offer this if you ask ??

I've done this before with rental hot water heaters, and a rental furnace I had in one house, the buy out cost was lower than simply purchasing the unit new because it had already been used for a year...

If someone owns their own receiver, are there any "retention" deals offered ??

Read back 2 pages. Post # 1072!

I own all my receivers (6) and I got an extra 4 months free every thing for that plus 40% off for a second year (last year was only 39% off!) plus free HD for 6 months.

[djino]

Has anyone ever tried to buy out their rental unit ??

Does Bell even offer this if you ask ??

Nope. They don't allow it. Even if you are willing to pay full price, they will ship you (or ask you to goto a store and buy one) and you'd need to ship back the one you have.

Rental receivers are rental receivers, the Reps have no way of changing it.

djino

[deeman101]

I used to have Bell TV with the old packages (pre-2005) for free due to employee discount. As in the bill came up to $278, and went to zero with 100% employee discount. I made the stupid mistake of mentioning it to one of the Bell internet CSRs while upgrading my plan. She must've told someone cause Bell took it all away!!! :(

Most I can get now is 35% discount but all their damn plans are expensive. The whole bait with 1yr cheap and switch to $20 higher is pissing me off too. Is there any decent plan that will give me TLC, Spike, the US channels, and some movie channels? I tried to get Bell entertainment but they're not available in my area.


BTW don't patronize me about how lucky I was. You have no idea how sad I am to lose it all because of a dumb mistake.

[MattE71]

I called today and was able to get 40% off programming. I was offered $100 off a PVR (9241) and a 30% discount on programming, I thought the 40% was a better deal. I will now head to the Source and pick up a 9242 for $450.

I am sure glad I found this thread! :)

[sonspot]

how are you folks getting 30 to 40% off programming, i dont have a contract anymore, they still wont go above 20%, someone PM me some info to work with, please!!

[LeonPhelps]

What is the best course of action for a new subscriber ?

[Tigerjim]

how are you folks getting 30 to 40% off programming, i dont have a contract anymore, they still wont go above 20%, someone PM me some info to work with, please!!

I juste called retention and all they could offer was
1) 100$ credit toward a hd receiver
or
2) 30% credit for a year

anyone call them recently and got something better? Couldn't get both.

[praseodymium]

What is the best course of action for a new subscriber ?

I'd sign up and then give it a shot. I called retentions one month after signing up to inquire about canceling. The salesperson at Bell World told me I'd be getting a credit that I didn't end up qualifying for. I told the rep my story and he told me he could do better then the original credit and offered me 40% off.

[MattE71]

how are you folks getting 30 to 40% off programming, i dont have a contract anymore, they still wont go above 20%, someone PM me some info to work with, please!!

I told Bell that Shaw was sending me a new offer about every second week (which is true). I told them that they were offering me a free PVR if I moved to them. (I have been with Bell for 7-8 years with no contract). I could of taken the 30% off and $100.00 off a 9241 but I decided to go wth 40% off and go buy my own 9242 (found a used one 3 months old for $300).

:D

[Hugh Jass]

how are you folks getting 30 to 40% off programming, i dont have a contract anymore, they still wont go above 20%, someone PM me some info to work with, please!!

Are you talking to the retention dept, or just accounting? Make sure when you call, that you choose the cancellation option. Tell them you're cancelling coz you can get a better deal from Rogers ( or whoever).

How much is your programming bill each month?

[beripari]

But, be prepared in case they call your bluff & actually cancelled you! They did that to me - I was ready for it! Then asked to speak w/supervisor; took several months (still sorting out billing) but got everything we wanted + more -- all of course, on a NEW account! Experience has been posted elsewhere in this thread - you can search.

[Forgy23]

My contract is up at the end of the month so I called today and spoke to retentions. The first offer I got was 30% off for a year. I then told them that I have all my services with them, 2 cells, internet and home phone and was sure they could do better than that. Then he offered 40% off, I again asked for more and finally I hit pay dirt, 2 months free, then 30% off afterwards and wavied my PVR rental for 12 months. I am pretty happy with what they offered.

[Hugh Jass]

My contract is up at the end of the month so I called today and spoke to retentions. The first offer I got was 30% off for a year. I then told them that I have all my services with them, 2 cells, internet and home phone and was sure they could do better than that. Then he offered 40% off, I again asked for more and finally I hit pay dirt, 2 months free, then 30% off afterwards and wavied my PVR rental for 12 months. I am pretty happy with what they offered.

Nice score.

Did you threaten to cancel?

[Forgy23]

Nice score.

Did you threaten to cancel?

Not really threatened, just told the guy after his second offer that I would have to call Rogers and see what they would offer for all my services. Oh and this was all with no contract. :)

[fat1138]

My contract ends in jan,had 40% off programing and 12 month free rental hd pvr.Called, got retention(want to cancel)got 4 month free then 40%off programing for 12 months. They would not budge on free pvr rental though hence 4 month free ($340 credit).Got to love this thread

[loonieryan]

Just got my December bill. It looks different than my previous bills and both the $10/month credit nor the 30% off credit was applied to the bill.

I called Billing and got some moron in India, even though Bell TV calls usually go to someone local. He had no clue what he was doing (typical) and was just making up excuses as to why I shouldn't be getting any credits. I got frustrated, called him an idiot and hung up.

Called back 5 minutes later and thankfully got someone local. This time the CSR knew exactly which credits I was referring to and told me there was a known technical issue that was causing errors on people's bills and not applying the credits. I should be double-credited on my next bill.

Folks, check your December bills carefully. Make sure you get all the credits you're supposed to be getting.

[Hugh Jass]

This time the CSR knew exactly which credits I was referring to and told me there was a known technical issue that was causing errors on people's bills and not applying the credits.


Hahaha, known technical issue, pull the other one. This issue has been going on for a decade :)




Folks, check your December bills carefully. Make sure you get all the credits you're supposed to be getting.

Folks, check ALL Bell bills, barely a month goes by without some 'error'.

[beripari]

Ah, yes, the proverbial "billing" issue ensuring everything that's been promised has been provided! My ordeal started in August & still awaiting "next billing" for resolution! Seems to be par for the course with ANY billings (same situation with cell phone) when new "agreements" have been made. Always seems to take many MONTHS plus MONTHLY hour-long phone calls before things eventually get resolved! My new ploy is threatening to bill them for MY time as a "part-time" emplyoee in my effort to get things resolved! One day, I'm actually going to send an invoice to a company president!

An interesting "company billing" issue arose last week with Direct Energy who sent me a 19-month old bill (!) for a property I haven't owned in the same length of time! Don't most "bills" say: notify us with 60 days of any errors? I asked them why its taken them so long & told them that my lawyer, accountant & bank will be asked to FIND a record of the PAID bill ..... and that any cost for this "search" would be billed to Direct Energy!

[loonieryan]

I hate Bell so much! I'm so happy my phone & internet is with TekSavvy who always get their bills perfectly right.

I wish I had another choice for TV...

[RedEx]

They actually called me this month to tell me that my bill will be wrong and will be corrected next month. I was supposed to have a 40% reduction after talking to retentions last month but only had a 30% reduction (which is what I had previously and which was finishing)

[joecool2u]

After reading this thread I contacted Bell's retention line and all they would offer me was $100 credit for an HD-PVR (I want to buy my own) and 4 months free (approx. $400 value). Based on my conversation with the CSR, at no point did she even offer to give a % discount. So overall it comes to about a $500 value. Is there much more I can get out of them?

[mike1989]

To the people who are getting 30-40% discounts, how much were you paying per month before the offer? I just gave retentions a call and the lady only offered me

10% off programming for one year
$5 per month off for bundling phone service
6 month free hd programming
free hd pvr rental for 1 year + free installation

I pushed for 20% but she would not go any higher than 10% off... i'm currently paying about $62 a month before tax so maybe that has something to do with it?

[djino]

To the people who are getting 30-40% discounts, how much were you paying per month before the offer? I just gave retentions a call and the lady only offered me

10% off programming for one year
$5 per month off for bundling phone service
6 month free hd programming
free hd pvr rental for 1 year + free installation

I pushed for 20% but she would not go any higher than 10% off... i'm currently paying about $62 a month before tax so maybe that has something to do with it?

My Monthly Bill:

$40.00 - Digital Standard + 1 SD Theme
$20.00 - AOV :)
$5.00 - 1 HD Theme
$2.50 - Much Vibe
$1.00 - HD U.S. Networks 2nd Feed

-$20.55 - 30% Off Credit

$3.00 - Digital Subscriber Fee
$1.06 - Contribution Fee to CRTC LPIF
$20.00 - 9241 Rental Fee

-$20.00 - 9241 Rental Fee Credit
-$10.00 - Bundle with Internet Credit
---------
$42.01 - SubTotal

$47.42 - Tax Included


Internet:

$3.95 - HN Modem Lease
$44.95 - Total Performance Internet

-$15.00 - 12 Months Public Relations Credit (Quebec Client Deal)
-$5.00 - Bell TV Bundle Credit
--------
$28.90 - SubTotal

$32.62 - Tax Included


$80.04 - Total for both Bell TV & Bell Internet Tax Included

[mike1989]

Should I call back and see if I can get a bigger discount? I feel that what I was offered is not very good considering i've had my home phone service with them for close to 20 years and tv for almost 10 years now, and i've never been late to make a payment.

Is there anything I should say when I call retentions again to increase my chances of getting say at least a 20% discount? Everyone else on here seem to be getting at least 30% and some even 40%.

*Edit* Just called retentions again and spoke with a different person and what a difference that made! This rep was much more understanding and right off the bat he offered me the 30% discount on top of the $5 monthly credit for bundling my home phone. He was also nice enough to give me a credit of $25 on the my next bill since the offer wasn't suppose to be effective until the month after that.

Now my offer is:

30% monthly discount for 1 year
$5 monthly credit
6 month of free hd programming
1 year hd pvr rental free and free installation

[chen0289]

are these offers good for new customers as well? or do I have to start a regular package then get it setup, then call in and sign the 2 yr contract?

[DrXenon]

I was offered a 30% discount retention deal in the summer. Every time I get a bill, there is no discount. Every month, for 4 months now. I call them every time, and it's "Please to be waiting for the next bill, I promise discount will be there for sure."

I'd like to dump these scummy folks and get cable, but I have $500 in the receiver that I don't want to lose.

Any thoughts as to how to approach them this time?

[Hugh Jass]

Any thoughts as to how to approach them this time?

Call them and cancel, or least sound like you actually are. They'll ask why and you tell them what you said above. They should offer a credit for the amount, but this time get their name/number, and tell them that you want the credit done right away, not the next bill. Make sure you owe them money when you call so you can get a new balance, not just a credit.

Other than that, straight away demand to talk to a manager.

[bungaboy]

I was offered a 30% discount retention deal in the summer. Every time I get a bill, there is no discount. Every month, for 4 months now. I call them every time, and it's "Please to be waiting for the next bill, I promise discount will be there for sure."

I'd like to dump these scummy folks and get cable, but I have $500 in the receiver that I don't want to lose.

Any thoughts as to how to approach them this time?

I made them email the offer so I had a "written" copy for my records.

[sonspot]

I was offered a 30% discount retention deal in the summer. Every time I get a bill, there is no discount. Every month, for 4 months now. I call them every time, and it's "Please to be waiting for the next bill, I promise discount will be there for sure."

I'd like to dump these scummy folks and get cable, but I have $500 in the receiver that I don't want to lose.

Any thoughts as to how to approach them this time?

your living my life, they've fcuked so many times with our bill its not funny anymore..

[Hugh Jass]

He did advise 112 dollars would be charged to my credit card and credited back to my bill upon activation of receiver.

A Bell special. Good luck with that ;)

[raylau]

I called in last year and got the following retention offer:
-40% off all programming
-12 months of free HD PVR rental

The retention offer is about to expire. What's the best way to get it extended? Should I call and ask them if they can extend my current retention deal or should I start from scratch again and threatening to cancel again?

[djino]

I called in last year and got the following retention offer:
-40% off all programming
-12 months of free HD PVR rental

The retention offer is about to expire. What's the best way to get it extended? Should I call and ask them if they can extend my current retention deal or should I start from scratch again and threatening to cancel again?

You: dial 1-888-sky-dish and choose option to cancel programming
Rep: "Thank you for calling Bell TV, how may I provide you with excellent service"
You: "I would like to cancel my programming"
Rep: "I can help you with that, may I get your telephone number"
You give info
Rep: "Can I get your 4 digit pin"
You give info
Rep: "May I ask the reason why you'd would like to cancel"
You "I believe my contract is about to expire which will mean I will lose the 40% discount and will lose the PVR credit. I have taken a look at my cable provider and they are able to give me a great deal."
Rep: Let me place you on hold as I might be able to work something out for you
Rep places you on hold while he looks at your account to see the discounts you were getting and then comes back to give you an offer
Rep: I am able to extend your 40% discount for another 12 months, how does this sound?
You either accept it or push for HD PVR credit: "That sounds decent, but I would definitely stay if my billing/credits would remain the same, is there anything you can do about extending the PVR credit
Rep may say no sorry, or offer for you to return the HD PVR you have and send out a tech with another HD PVR (which could mean that if you have a 9242 PVR currently, that that would need to be sent back in exchange for a 9241)
You accept offer

djino
"Try that"

[penguin318]

Was going to go to futureshop to get the 6131 for $99, decided to call bell instead got the 6131 for $99 + free install of a new dish = 30% off my bill

now I have 5900 PVR, 6131HD PVR digital essentials with 5 theme packs for $43=tax

I know I could have went for 40% off but I'm a happy bell customer... for now :twisted:

[karmanwalia]

After the Bell moved the accounts to 'One Bill', my HD receiver credit and HD Programming credit vanished from the bill(30% off the programming was still there). Called up their billing dept and landed at technical support(:confused:). But the guy there said the move to One bill thing has created a lot of glitches and it will take atleast one month to sort it out. He put a note to have both the credits restored and gave me a $20 credit for the hassle.

I also have South Asian combo + B4U + ATN Punjabi which was $35/month. He asked me if anyone was offering it for less and I said Shaw was giving it out for $15/month. So he talked with the loyalty dept and offered them at $20/month i.e. their price for new customers.

Now, waiting for the next month to see a really messed up bill. :D

[oahu]

I have called mentioning this offer from Rogers
http://giveme.rogersoffers.ca/
and got
- 1 year free rental, free installation of 9241 to replace 9242
- $3/mo rental or $70 credit toward buying 6131 from Best Buy to compensate for no 2nd TV of 9241
- 30% off
- 6 mos free HD programs
Good enough for me as I only have standard+1 theme

[Sergio]

Guys, I just called Bell for my mother'n'law, here is what I got


3$ a month for 2 HD receivers for 12 months
Free install of HD dish
30% discount off programming service


I currently have 40% off and free PVR for 12 months. I did not want to push agent. She offered 20%.

I will be there when tech guy installs new dish - I will watch him like a hawk.

Good luck to all!
Sergio

[ottawarc]

I called and got 40% off everything for 12 months with no contract. I had 30% with free HD PVR. There was no way to get the PVR free :( (I tried 3 calls and this was the best deal offerred)

[jayace]

Called Friday to see what Bell would do for me and thought I would share my results. My 2 year contract expires Apr 2010, my normal monthly programming is $92. I currently own a 9242, 2700 and 4100. They initially offered a 9241 free for 1 year, free install and 30% off programming for 1 year but I would have to pay for the extra sw44 switch I now require because I will have 6 tuners to feed. After a little haggling and me complaining that the sw44 from them was $150 and they wouldn't budge on that, they increased the programming discount to 40% for the year. Pretty consistent with what a lot of you have gotten and decent I think given that I don't have any other services with them and my monthly package isn't huge either. I'll get a sw44 switch off Ebay for $30-40 and all is good. I tried to get her to email a copy of what we talked about but she said she couldn't. I at least got her name and agent #. Now as long as they don't crew up my bill I'll be happy.

[SigBro]

I called in tonight as my last years deal was ending (which wound up being a great deal because we were getting 20% off programming plus HD rental free for a year, yet they were also supposed to credit us $50 for a screw up on their end, but they actually credited us $500, so we didn't pay a cent for satellite for about 7ish months).

This time we got:
-30% off programming for 1 year
-another free Standard Box (not sure what the model # is)
-We are moving to a new house in the next couple months, so they were willing to waive the hookup fee for the new house (which would equal $100)


I would have loved to got 40% off plus a free HD PVR rental for a year, but I think we still did good.

Until next year Bell, Cheers!

[fishwallop]

Urg. Called to cancel - chose "more options", then "cancel my service" and asked to cancel. No fuss, just "OK, sir, that will be effective in 30 days." I think they might be glad to lose me because I'm on an old grandfathered plan, but I didn't get any invitation to bargain.

[Barrels]

Urg. Called to cancel - chose "more options", then "cancel my service" and asked to cancel. No fuss, just "OK, sir, that will be effective in 30 days." I think they might be glad to lose me because I'm on an old grandfathered plan, but I didn't get any invitation to bargain.

here is a little tip for anyone making the call.

be polite

when they ask how they can help you today ,

tell the rep how much your paying a month ,(if you have all your services with bell mention that also ) highlight to them what your shelling out monthly to Bell empire.


tell them your "thinking about" leaving and you would like to stay, but you see better deals elsewhere(name the competition and mention they are offering you a free box).Then say you just wanted to call to see if they are willing to do anything for you .

If they make you an offer of free box/free install for 1 or 2 years and % off your bill,(if your not happy with the % off your bill)you can always ask if this is the best they can do....then you will get "hang on ill talk to my manager"


this leaves you an out instead of playing russian roullete ,calling up and saying "hey i quit" , sometimes they will let ya walk

[Bamelin]

UPDATE FEBRUARY 12th:

Here's an update ..

Call 1-888-673-3788
Follow these options.

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> Press #2 for all other options
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription
Step #5 -> Press #4 to cancel subscription (again!)
Step #6 -> It's going to ask you to enter your PIN, you may not have one, so just randomly enter 4 digits
Step #7 -> PIN again .. randomly enter 4 digits
Step #8 -> 'Please hold while we transfer your call.'

That's it, you're in on retention line now!!!

Remember, the larger monthly bill you have, the better the discount you can negotiate!

Hope that helped!


As a prospective new customer would it make sense for me to call in on the retention line to see if I can get a better deal than going through the direct Bell line?

[elnino]

got %40 off year bill
got new dual prv installed free--installed today being Friday
no $20 fee per month
no fixed contract--but end of one year
---------
have to call back to see if they will extend this for another year...or
cancel and return pvr.....or
get a better offer
------------------
sick/sweet deal for sure, can't believe they just said okay to all the above...

[mikeeymike]

I was on a 40 percent off for 12 months and it is expiring soon.. just got extended for another 12 months at 30 % off. I'm pleased and didn't argue for more.

[Fife]

As a prospective new customer would it make sense for me to call in on the retention line to see if I can get a better deal than going through the direct Bell line?


I am a Bell SD customer and was interested in HD.

Called in and they say I get basic HD channels already sent to my place as I have "two eyes" on my dish.

First quote for HD rentals:
$10/mos regular HD receiver
$20/mos HD PVR

I told them Rogers was offering me free.

Then they said i could choose one regulyar or PVR for free for 12 months....then charged after 1 yr.

Cant complain...free HD for the Olympics

For newbies interested, the regular HD receiver can turn into a PVR if you use your own USB external HD.
Just that the PVR can record one channel while you watch another channel at the same time...the regular HD recevier is limited to one channel at a time.

[karmanwalia]

I am a Bell SD customer and was interested in HD.

Called in and they say I get basic HD channels already sent to my place as I have "two eyes" on my dish.

First quote for HD rentals:
$10/mos regular HD receiver
$20/mos HD PVR

I told them Rogers was offering me free.

Then they said i could choose one regulyar or PVR for free for 12 months....then charged after 1 yr.

Cant complain...free HD for the Olympics

For newbies interested, the regular HD receiver can turn into a PVR if you use your own USB external HD.
Just that the PVR can record one channel while you watch another channel at the same time...the regular HD recevier is limited to one channel at a time.

hmm.. I think with 6231, you can NOT record one channel while you watch another. You can however watch a recorded event while recording another one.

[novembersnews]

Referred to Rogers deal

http://giveme.rogersoffers.ca/


Got 2 free months, then 30% off for the rest of the year (I own my PVR). Also got local and long distance phone for less than half of what I was paying.

[Havo]

I am a Bell SD customer and was interested in HD.

Called in and they say I get basic HD channels already sent to my place as I have "two eyes" on my dish.

First quote for HD rentals:
$10/mos regular HD receiver
$20/mos HD PVR

I told them Rogers was offering me free.

Then they said i could choose one regulyar or PVR for free for 12 months....then charged after 1 yr.

Cant complain...free HD for the Olympics

For newbies interested, the regular HD receiver can turn into a PVR if you use your own USB external HD.
Just that the PVR can record one channel while you watch another channel at the same time...the regular HD recevier is limited to one channel at a time.

I'm in the same boat. They offered me the PVR rental for free for 1yr. Disappointed that they didn't give it to me since rogers is giving them out if you trade in your old equipment. If your receiver already has two eyes on it do you still need to change it out? I don't want to pay extra to rent it per month if I already have a capable receiver.

[Fife]

If your receiver has 2 eyes, you already are getting HD channels...jsut nened to buy/rent a HD recevier or HD PVR and you are set to go.

If you take the free 1 yr rental from Bell, they come to install, re-wire (if you get PVR) and setup.

Cant go wrong as after one year, you can stay or leave.

6131 can only watch/record one channel at a time
9241 can watch/record one channel and record another at the same time


I'm in the same boat. They offered me the PVR rental for free for 1yr. Disappointed that they didn't give it to me since rogers is giving them out if you trade in your old equipment. If your receiver already has two eyes on it do you still need to change it out? I don't want to pay extra to rent it per month if I already have a capable receiver.

[crimsondr]

Is it possible to get any of these deals as a new customer? Can I sign up, then call a couple days later and cancel?

[Sheed30]

I was on a 40 percent off for 12 months and it is expiring soon.. just got extended for another 12 months at 30 % off. I'm pleased and didn't argue for more.

My retention deal will soon be ending too so I will have to call in again very soon..Did you follow the same steps as before and threaten to cancel again? What did you say to the retentions dept for them to extend the offer for another year?

I'm not sure if I should threaten to cancel again or if I should bring up that I'm on a soon to expire retention deal and would like to get it extended if possible..What tactic did you use?

[NYR]

Is it possible to get any of these deals as a new customer? Can I sign up, then call a couple days later and cancel?
Not likely. You can try, but you'll likely fail.

[beripari]

Is it possible to get any of these deals as a new customer? Can I sign up, then call a couple days later and cancel?

I disagree with the above poster; if anything, I'd think they would be likely to give enticements to NEW customers!
You should call & say you're currently with XXXX but your Bell Expressvu friends have told you about some fabulous deals their getting so you're considering switching; what can they offer you? It really doesn't hurt to try - if you don't get anywhere with the first call, make a few more - it all usually depends on who's at the other end of the phone!

[petez166]

okay, I called yesterday, I have one year left on a 2 year tv contract and want to upgrade to HD. The CSR gave me their standard offer, I mentioned I'd found some tempting offers from their competitors, which got me to "loyalty department". After some negotiating and mentioning rogers free pvr offer, I was eventually offered free lnb and pvr installation, 2 free months of programming ($144 "value") and a free 9241 for the year. I'm a bit underwhelmed by the offer seeing what others have gotten, but I am on a contract that would break for $150. I also have home phone and internet with them.

The thing that bugs me is I was offered $100 credit when I signed up a year ago but it never materialized. When I mentioned this, the CSR said "i'm sure you would have gotten this, let me check your bills.............oh I can't access your bills from that far back"

How does this deal strike you guys?

[beripari]

[QUOTE=petez166;10166757]The thing that bugs me is I was offered $100 credit when I signed up a year ago but it never materialized. When I mentioned this, the CSR said "i'm sure you would have gotten this, let me check your bills.............oh I can't access your bills from that far back"
QUOTE]

What?!? By law, they're supposed to keep that data for 7 years! Tell her to FIND someone who CAN access your bills from that far back & prove to you that the credit was applied or give you the credit now!

[beripari]

The thing that bugs me is I was offered $100 credit when I signed up a year ago but it never materialized. When I mentioned this, the CSR said "i'm sure you would have gotten this, let me check your bills.............oh I can't access your bills from that far back"


What?!? By law, they're supposed to keep that data for 7 years! Tell her to FIND someone who CAN access your bills from that far back & prove to you that the credit was applied or give you the credit now! You can bet your boots they'd be able to QUICKLY find the info if it was YOU who owed THEM $$. !!! I get so sick & tired of these lame excuses!

[Fife]

Not likely. You can try, but you'll likely fail.

For new customers BELL csutomers, not likely.

For existing Bell customers without HD, HD basic and rental is free for 1 year but you need to sign for 1 year.

So in the end its free for 1 year but you stay 1 year with Bell.

[beripari]

For new customers BELL csutomers, not likely.

For existing Bell customers without HD, HD basic and rental is free for 1 year but you need to sign for 1 year.

So in the end its free for 1 year but you stay 1 year with Bell.

Not my experience (previously posted here). Am existing customer; got 50% off with NO contract PLUS negotiated 50% off purchase of equipment vs. any type of rental AND free installation + wiring of ENTIRE house at ridiculous low price. So, there is no steadfast plan/rule; its not "one plan fits all" --- everyone's mileage varies. NEW customer, please ignore all the "not likely" naysayers - you have absolutely nothing to lose by trying! In fact, everything to gain!

[crimsondr]

Usually in new residential areas they offer 3 months free. I had a flyer when I first moved in. This was for all services, internet, tv, phone. I only subscribed to the internet and now I lost the flyer. I don't have the number to call anymore to get the 3 months free tv. If you just call the regular line they always say they know nothing about such a promotion.

Does anyone know what I'm talking about and have the number to call?

[Bamelin]

Usually in new residential areas they offer 3 months free. I had a flyer when I first moved in. This was for all services, internet, tv, phone. I only subscribed to the internet and now I lost the flyer. I don't have the number to call anymore to get the 3 months free tv. If you just call the regular line they always say they know nothing about such a promotion.

Does anyone know what I'm talking about and have the number to call?

I know what you are talking about. I just moved into a new subdivision in September and called in to enquire about this deal.

The catch is that you have to sign up for a 2 year contract. I'm considering this deal ... btw the 3 months free is on everything ... TV, Internet and Home Phone.

I had already gone through Cogeco's "3 months get everything free" deal but unfortunately Bell's 2 year contract is a deal breaker for me.

[crimsondr]

I know what you are talking about.

The catch is that you have to sign up for a 2 year contract. I'm considering this deal ... btw the 3 months free is on everything ... TV, Internet and Home Phone.

I dont' mind signing up for 2 years. Do you have the number?

[Bamelin]

I dont' mind signing up for 2 years. Do you have the number?

I called the main line 310-bell. Just tell them you "just" moved into a new home and heard about a deal where you can get 3 months free

edit: Just realized you already called main line. You may want to try retentions, usually those reps are abit sharper than 1st tier support. With that said when I called the main line they knew exactly which deal I was talking about ... I did mention that I had taken advantage of the same deal with Cogeco

[mymadelynn]

Currently a bell customer on a contract, any way to upgrade to a free hdpvr

[crashxxx]

Referred to Rogers deal

http://giveme.rogersoffers.ca/


Got 2 free months, then 30% off for the rest of the year (I own my PVR). Also got local and long distance phone for less than half of what I was paying.

thanks for posting this link. seems like a great deal and possibly more could be weaseled out of them.

anyone know with these 'trade in your old bell receiver for a free one' deals ... do they have to be from an active sub and functioning??? is a card required to go with them when you turn them in???

you can often scoop a non functioning box off kijiji for $10 LOL and i have one from about 8 yrs ago sitting in my basement .. anyone?

[dealCker]

I disagree with the above poster; if anything, I'd think they would be likely to give enticements to NEW customers!
You should call & say you're currently with XXXX but your Bell Expressvu friends have told you about some fabulous deals their getting so you're considering switching; what can they offer you? It really doesn't hurt to try - if you don't get anywhere with the first call, make a few more - it all usually depends on who's at the other end of the phone!

I think I read something in this thread that described new subs getting the deal. (don't quote me though ;-) ) do a search or read through all 70 odd pages of the thread.

Anyways, I called in recently to see if i could get the my 30% deal extended and they said nope. then I asked about cancelling and got a 40% deal, no questions asked, no bickering, so I am all good with that.

[hellnation]

I'm a SD BEV subscriber and looking at upgrading to HD as many others.

I'm still with an old 2700.

I'd like an upgrade and get 2 PVR, I got 2 sets at home.

Any other provider have similar offers? multiple receivers/PVR deals etc?

I might try my luck and call Bell and get a deal.

[laboremus]

Anyways, I called in recently to see if i could get the my 30% deal extended and they said nope. then I asked about cancelling and got a 40% deal, no questions asked, no bickering, so I am all good with that.

That usually worked for me in a past. Unfortunately wireless companies bevame resilient to this method recently >:(

[Hugh Jass]

That usually worked for me in a past. Unfortunately wireless companies bevame resilient to this method recently >:(

Quite. I called Bell recently to extend my discount and the retentions dept guy tried explaining to me that they can only offer these discounts once or twice. He said Bell is competitively priced and can't keep their prices so low. He wouldn't budge so I played the trump card and said to go ahead with cancelling the TV and while he's at it, can he cancel the phone and internet also.

He said there's a dept he can put me through to that can cancel all services in one shot, so I told him to put me through. He asked if I was sure I wanted to, trying to call my bluff. So a few minutes passed and he came back on yet again to ask if I was sure, lol.

I then get through to the escalations dept and a very well spoken lady listened attentively to what I had to say. She then asked if she was able to offer me a deal, would I stay.

So I got my original 40% off tv and another $10 a month off Internet I locked into a one year contract.

[suezieq4u]

Called today..to see if I could renew offer I received a yr ago....
Wasn't willing to waive the 1yr pvr(9242) like last time fee of $20/mnth..but willing to offer one time credit of $240+tx equavalent..(12x$20 fee) and 30% off programing..
So I am a happy camper...$270 in svgs off the top + discounted programming ;)

[gfully1]

Has anyone noticed if their monthly rate for basic service went up from $32 to $34? I really hate when they slide through an increase without notice...still shouldn't complain after getting 40% off. It would be nice to know if it was only me...please check your bills for me. Thanks :-0

[MacGyver]

Prices went up $2 in January for everyone, on the Digital Basic package that everyone is forced to subscribe to.

[bungaboy]

Watch you bills from BellExpressVu!

My "everything free for 4 months" . . . . They withdrew $135 from my bank account last month.

What a bunch of sleezeballs!

DO NOT TRUST WHAT THEY TELL YOU OVER THE PHONE!

When I called today to complain. The agent went into my account and said "Ah yes I see that in the notes. Four months free."

So I asked for my money back and he said they would credit my account for next bill. I said NOPE! I won't receive a bill for another two months. Put the money back in my account. You can take it out so you can put it back!

Be careful.

[blahs]

Watch you bills from BellExpressVu!

My "everything free for 4 months" . . . . They withdrew $135 from my bank account last month.

What a bunch of sleezeballs!

DO NOT TRUST WHAT THEY TELL YOU OVER THE PHONE!

When I called today to complain. The agent went into my account and said "Ah yes I see that in the notes. Four months free."

So I asked for my money back and he said they would credit my account for next bill. I said NOPE! I won't receive a bill for another two months. Put the money back in my account. You can take it out so you can put it back!

Be careful.

they have done exactly the same thing to me. They were supposed to charge a $100 deposit to my creditcard and instead charged me $279. They said that they'll only refund it onto my next bell bill. So wtf, my bell is less than $50 a month so theyve basically stolen my money for 3 and a half months.
Going to attempt a chargeback with VISA.

[midget_man]

They are NOTORIOUS for not actually honouring the deal they tell you on the phone. I have had issues with this for YEARS with them.

As said before, I'll say again. WATCH YOUR BILL. And write everything down while you are on the phone negotiating the deal. Trust me.

[blahs]

they have done exactly the same thing to me. They were supposed to charge a $100 deposit to my creditcard and instead charged me $279. They said that they'll only refund it onto my next bell bill. So wtf, my bell is less than $50 a month so theyve basically stolen my money for 3 and a half months.
Going to attempt a chargeback with VISA.

just an update, phoned one last time and said I was going to dispute the charge through VISA and they told me now that they will send me a cheque for the amount owed. If only they had done this before, they could have saved me two weeks of hassle. Bell is such a pain in the ass.

[tsgee]

they have done exactly the same thing to me. They were supposed to charge a $100 deposit to my creditcard and instead charged me $279. They said that they'll only refund it onto my next bell bill. So wtf, my bell is less than $50 a month so theyve basically stolen my money for 3 and a half months.
Going to attempt a chargeback with VISA.

I feel your pain. This why I stopped automatic payments with them. I now pay by credit card online and save a copy (even though the reference number means nothing to the person on the phone), took them six months to correct my bill.

[Sheed30]

Prices went up $2 in January for everyone, on the Digital Basic package that everyone is forced to subscribe to.

Ah yes...Bell with their annual price increase..And to think when I first subbed to Bell years ago the price for the locals as they were called back then was only $10.99...

Now the lowest price you can sub with BellTV is $34 for the Digital Basic package + $3 service fee + 1.5% CRTC local tv tax + 13% HST (for me) = $42.44..So for anyone who is considering BellTV will have to pay at least $40 just for the basic package...

The price for BellTV is getting ridiculous with their price increases every damn year....

[Rastus8]

*** UPDATED JANUARY 17th, 2009***

Thanks to MikeeyMike for the update to on how to call

call 1-888-sky-dish and 1 for english, 6 for other information, and 3 for cancel..call during business hours.

Looks like some are still able to get the deal, not as good though. It also looks like there have been a few people able to renew for another year of savings. There is also mention of new receivers out today starting on Page 32.

*************************

UPDATE FEBRUARY 12th:

Here's an update ..

Call 1-888-673-3788
Follow these options.

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> Press #2 for all other options
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription
Step #5 -> Press #4 to cancel subscription (again!)
Step #6 -> It's going to ask you to enter your PIN, you may not have one, so just randomly enter 4 digits
Step #7 -> PIN again .. randomly enter 4 digits
Step #8 -> 'Please hold while we transfer your call.'

That's it, you're in on retention line now!!!

Remember, the larger monthly bill you have, the better the discount you can negotiate!

Hope that helped!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ORIGINAL POST:

Just thought I would post my experience with Bell HDTV and what I just got.

HD PVR 9242 - Free rental for 1 year ($20 a month thereafter)
Free HD Programming for 6 months, plus an additional $60 credit (equal to 6 additional months of programming)
Free installation
Free hardware upgrade

On top of this, I also got a 30% discount on all of my Expressvu programming for 1 full year. That equates to a $24.90 discount plus taxes each month!

I also had the option to go with the 6100 free for 2 years, $10 a month thereafter
----------------------

I told them that I was thinking of moving to Rogers and that they were offering me 2 years free HD programming, and 2 years free rental of an HD unit.

The original offer was only:

HD PVR 9242 - Free rental for 6 months ($20 a month thereafter)
Free HD Programming for 6 months
Free installation
Free hardware upgrade
10 % discount for 1 year

What everyone needs to know about Bell is that they do not offer 5.1 sound with their regular HD channels. Only with pay per view!!! StarChoice does have 5.1 wherever is offered by the original channel (FOX CBS CTV etc. and regular movies) If you have a surround sound system, don't buy Bell.
I tried them for 9 days and had to eat the cost of the receivers ($629) and then, after they told me I could try it for 10 days at no cost, got a bill for $29.00.

[PR0BLEMZ]

Yup, I'm canceling with Bell and going to Rogers.
Good idea or no ?

[Pavel6969]

Had my 20%off and free HDPVR for a year run out, got my bill for this month, $150. Called in and they offered 30% off for another year, but no more. I am very happy with the service so I accepted.

On a side note, how come I can't just buy out the HDPVR I am renting. Having to send my unit back and buy another one is just stupid. Wouldn't they actually be better served to sell me my current unit, since it is already used? Makes no sense.

[djino]

Had my 20%off and free HDPVR for a year run out, got my bill for this month, $150. Called in and they offered 30% off for another year, but no more. I am very happy with the service so I accepted.

On a side note, how come I can't just buy out the HDPVR I am renting. Having to send my unit back and buy another one is just stupid. Wouldn't they actually be better served to sell me my current unit, since it is already used? Makes no sense.

I agree they should allow this option.

Since at the point you rent a receiver, its forever in their system market as a rental and cannot be changed.

djino
"So yup, thats that"

[PR0BLEMZ]

Question,

I already have a standard satellite but I'm planning on going HD.
By this, I will be upgrading to an HDPVR and HD channels. My question is, do I have to upgrade the satellite as well to get true HD, or can
I still use my existing satellite?

[Hugh Jass]

Question,

I already have a standard satellite but I'm planning on going HD.
By this, I will be upgrading to an HDPVR and HD channels. My question is, do I have to upgrade the satellite as well to get true HD, or can
I still use my existing satellite?

They will put a different box on your dish and may run an extra cable.

[tomtong]

If you do not currently have 2 LNBs (white knob pointing to the dish), they will need to install the upgrade kit. If you go for the HDPVR, you will need 2 lines from the dish to your box as it's dual tuner.

[PR0BLEMZ]

They will put a different box on your dish and may run an extra cable.


If you do not currently have 2 LNBs (white knob pointing to the dish), they will need to install the upgrade kit. If you go for the HDPVR, you will need 2 lines from the dish to your box as it's dual tuner.

Oh okay, thanks guys !

[achc]

If you go for the HDPVR, you will need 2 lines

But HD receiver (not PVR) will not require two cables right?

Anyone know any deals to obtain HD box from Bell? I have been with Bell for many years, no contract on them. I have the old standard box which I purchase long ago. I want to upgrade to HD. I see that for new customer, they get TWO HD BOX for FREE as long as they sign a 24 months term. I have no problem with a 24 months terms but because I am an existing customer, I need to buy the box according to Bell. Either at $200 each (I need two) or $5 each per month on rental for one year then rental price goes up after that.

I do not want to rent at all, I want to purchase. They told me to go to theSource/BB/FS....I even told them I will switch to Rogers but they said there is nothing they can do.

Any ways to go around this as new customers can get it for free...

Another thing with HD, I have a HDTV Sony KV34-HS510. It is 1080i but does not have HDMI port. There are component, composite and DVI but no HDMI. How do I hook up HD box to it? I know HD box have HDMI but do they have DVI? If I hook up component cable, will I get HD resolution?

[Hugh Jass]

I do not want to rent at all, I want to purchase. They told me to go to theSource/BB/FS....I even told them I will switch to Rogers but they said there is nothing they can do.

Any ways to go around this as new customers can get it for free...


Have you tried calling up to cancel? The retention dept will listen to your reason for quitting Bell. Dont act like you're bluffing, as they'll smell a rat.

[tsgee]

Another thing with HD, I have a HDTV Sony KV34-HS510. It is 1080i but does not have HDMI port. There are component, composite and DVI but no HDMI. How do I hook up HD box to it? I know HD box have HDMI but do they have DVI?

If I hook up component cable, will I get HD resolution?

You'll need an adapter that converts the HDMI to DVI , but you'll need to run audio cables for the sound.

You'll still get HD if you use component cables but of course not 1080p.

[tkyoshi]

If you do not currently have 2 LNBs (white knob pointing to the dish), they will need to install the upgrade kit. If you go for the HDPVR, you will need 2 lines from the dish to your box as it's dual tuner.

If you have a DishPRO (DP) switched installed (like DPP44) you can feed your dual tuner box with 1 line when used in combination with a DP Separator. However I don't know if Bell uses DP equipment, if you have a "legacy" switch/lnb then you will need to run 2 lines.



Another thing with HD, I have a HDTV Sony KV34-HS510. It is 1080i but does not have HDMI port. There are component, composite and DVI but no HDMI. How do I hook up HD box to it? I know HD box have HDMI but do they have DVI? If I hook up component cable, will I get HD resolution?

Yes you can use component to get HD, and the box only outputs to 1080i. No TV broadcast is in 1080p.

[movieking]

Just realized that my bill has gone up almost $50 in the last couple of months, since my free PVR and 20% discount have expired. Time to call in and see what happens. Although I hated Rogers in the past, I'd have no issues in switching back if it was cheaper. I've been having a lot of trouble with the service lately, and my main issue with Rogers was as my IP (especially with the packet shifting...this was a few years ago, so I have no idea what happened afterwards). Anyway, wouldn't go back to them as my IP, but they'd be good enough for cable.

[twotoneblue]

Seems they are getting tight with the discounts. Offer 30% for 6 months first, asked for something better and they gave me 50% for 6 months. Better than a kick in the teeth. :D

[micronta]

Seems they are getting tight with the discounts. Offer 30% for 6 months first, asked for something better and they gave me 50% for 6 months. Better than a kick in the teeth. :D

How much is your bill before the discount ? I could only get 30 % for 6 months. I'm thinking of calling again.

[twotoneblue]

Bill before was $99 with 20% discount that was for 12 months. That included $20 for my PVR rental.

He offered 30% first but told him that wasn't enough and asked for something better.

[llcooljayce]

I just got offered 30% off for 6 months and just came off a 40% off for a year discount ... should I take it?

Currently have a $56 bill

[predator314]

I've been with Bell for 10 years now. Never used any credits/promos.

First call today:
Offer 1: HDPVR free for 1yr
Offer 2: HDPVR free for 1yr + 20% off for 1yr

Call#2 today:
Offer 1: Same as Offer 2 (note was left on my account)
Offer 2: HDPVR free for 1yr + 50% off for 6months
Offer 3: Two months free with purchase of either HD or HDPVR + 50%/6mo or 20%/1yr

He listed other offers he saw:
10% for 1yr, 30% for 6months

Shaw sent a promo to me in the Mail: HDPVR free for 1yr + $25 off programming for 1yr. I called and they'd do 2xHD for 1yr free + $25 off.

Bell wouldn't do the 2xHD.

Shaw pricing came out to $88 ($63 after discount), Bell was $73 after the 20% off for the equivelent packages.

Thing I don't like is he said to rent they need to install the receiver (and upgrade dish if required.. all for free). I already have 2 LNBs and 2 feeds to main room from an SW44... I don't want to schedule to wait for a guy to screw in 2 coax cables at my acreage in the middle of nowhere. :-(

I really wanted either 2x HD free for 1yr + 20%/1yr or 1xHDPVR + 30% for 1yr.

Anyone do better lately?

I will be calling again and saying the only reason I will not be staying with bell is because Shaw will do 2xHD boxes for 1yr and their closest package is $10 cheaper per month. See if they will 'talk with their supervisor' again. Even though I believe they just have a program they look up possible offers in while they leave you on hold.

Like damn, I've been with them for 10 years with no promos. Been overpaying past 3 years for $5.99 for multiple receivers, $6.99 system fee and channels have been vanishing since 3 years ago that I used to be subscribed to.

[Registered]

But HD receiver (not PVR) will not require two cables right?

I see that for new customer, they get TWO HD BOX for FREE as long as they sign a 24 months term. I have no problem with a 24 months terms ...

Where have you seen this deal for new customers ?

What prevents you from canceling, and then calling back as a new customer in two weeks?

Do you have any friends or family that you can start a new account under?

[achc]

Have you tried calling up to cancel? The retention dept will listen to your reason for quitting Bell. Dont act like you're bluffing, as they'll smell a rat.
I will call tmr again to sound more firm with them. But I do not want to cancel at all, esp during the Olympics, I do not want to have no TV for a couple days. I just need to make sure they will re-tent me. Else I am screw


You'll still get HD if you use component cables but of course not 1080p.
Component cable is analog, not digital. What will I get with component cable?


Yes you can use component to get HD, and the box only outputs to 1080i. No TV broadcast is in 1080p.
So using component cable vs. HDMI video quality will be the same for TV broadcast?

predator314, nice details you got there. But all those HDPVR free 1 yr are all rentals right?

I am looking for plans for purchase. I never like renting, I rather buy it off. HD receiver is $200 MSRP. Like I said, Bell is offering 2 HD receiver for new customers that signs 2 years term. I don't mind two years term at all. I am in similar situation as you predator314, I have been with Bell 8 years and never used any promo. I do not have a contract with them either. I just want to upgrade to HD, no PVR needed.

Did you get all those promo deals from the retention dept and you said cancel or did you call in and ask for upgrade?

[achc]

Where have you seen this deal for new customers ?

http://www.bell.ca/shopping/PrsShpTv_HD_Receiver_61065.page?tab=1#tabNavigatio n


What prevents you from canceling, and then calling back as a new customer in two weeks?

Do you have any friends or family that you can start a new account under?

I don't want to mis any Olympics game. Yes, I can get someone else in the family to sign up.

[nambro2000]

I've been an Expressvu user for the past 10 years. Currently paying $70. I was able to get 30% off each of the past 2 years.

My deal just expired so I called again to get some sort of discount. Told them Shaw was offering me $25month (including HD) for 1 year.

The Bell lady said the 30% I received was a 1 time deal, so the best she could offer me was 10% off 1 year. I told her it was still too high and asked her nicely if she could do better? She wouldn't budge. So I told her to disconnect my account.

She didn't counter and agreed to disconnnect me in 30 days. I guess they rather lose my business (10 year user) than give me 30% off. Go figure.

[crimsondr]

http://www.bell.ca/shopping/PrsShpTv_HD_Receiver_61065.page?tab=1#tabNavigatio n


I don't want to mis any Olympics game. Yes, I can get someone else in the family to sign up.

Only the first receiver is free. And it's free for the first year only.

Second receiver there is a discount but never free.

[achc]

Only the first receiver is free. And it's free for the first year only.

Second receiver there is a discount but never free.

Scroll down and under offer & pricing details, it appears to say free.

[achc]

I've been an Expressvu user for the past 10 years. Currently paying $70. I was able to get 30% off each of the past 2 years.

My deal just expired so I called again to get some sort of discount. Told them Shaw was offering me $25month (including HD) for 1 year.

The Bell lady said the 30% I received was a 1 time deal, so the best she could offer me was 10% off 1 year. I told her it was still too high and asked her nicely if she could do better? She wouldn't budge. So I told her to disconnect my account.

She didn't counter and agreed to disconnnect me in 30 days. I guess they rather lose my business (10 year user) than give me 30% off. Go figure.

This is exactly I don't want to see happening to me so I am a little nervous telling them firm that I want to cancel. Bell is horrible at retention compare to Rogers IMO.

According to Bell.ca login to 'myBell', this is what the INTERNET self serve page offers me...

For two years contract, I get to choose from:
1. 25% discount on the retail price of a receiver (that is still $150 per box which I can easily find at BestBuy, Futureshop, Bricks, theSource when they come on sale)
2. 6 months free rental of a receiver (then 10 bucks a month per receiver after)
3. Credit of up to $60 on Pay-Per-View movies (I found PPV channels that cost $0.00...is that true?)
4. Credit of $40 on your ExpressVu account

None of them is what I want. I guess What I really have to do is cancel and re-join after. But I know for existing customer, Bell will upgrade the hardware (that knob on the dish) free of charge if their customer buy a HD box. For new customer, I am not sure if they do that so for free I am hesitating.

[crimsondr]

READ THE WHOLE PAGE, SCROLL DOWN, CLICK 'OFFER AND PRICING DETAILS' AND YOU WILL SEE!!!

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c158/achc/BELL.jpg

The bottom section refers to the installation of the receivers. Not the rental.

[achc]

The bottom section refers to the installation of the receivers. Not the rental.

ah, ok

but it says
'Save on the price of your main receiver' -$100
'Enjoy extra savings on the purchase price of your 2nd HD receiver' -$100

So does that means two HD box for $200 in total?
($200-$100)+($200-$100) = $200 for two HD box, pretty good deal I think.

[crimsondr]

ah, ok

but it says
'Save on the price of your main receiver' -$100
'Enjoy extra savings on the purchase price of your 2nd HD receiver' -$100

So does that means two HD box for $200 in total?
($200-$100)+($200-$100) = $200 for two HD box, pretty good deal I think.

Yes, you get $100 off each HD receiver you purchase.

[achc]

Yes, you get $100 off each HD receiver you purchase.

But not available to existing customers.

predator314's deal of "Two months free with purchase of either HD or HDPVR + 50%/6mo or 20%/1yr" is pretty good.
HD cost $200 but 50%/6months can save you at least $150. So you get HD box for $50

So that is either $50 for one HD or $200 for two HD.

[predator314]

Did you get all those promo deals from the retention dept and you said cancel or did you call in and ask for upgrade?

I went through the Loyalty Department (choose to cancel from menu). And told them I've gotten offers from Shaw Cable and Shaw Direct. Current Shaw Cable offer is $25 off per month for 1yr + HDPVR free rental for 1yr. Shaw direct I mentions the 'new customer' perks from their site.

I'd like to purchase as well, but not at full retail price. I have a chance that a friend can get me a deal through his work, or my work is going to carry Bell equipment soon and I'll get cost.. just need to wait. Was hoping they'd just offer something I could easily jump at.

[predator314]

Oh yeah, I forgot one of their offers.. Free rental on an HD box (non-PVR) for 2yrs + 20%/1yr or 50%/6mo on a 1yr term. However they still wouldn't do 2 HD for 1yr rental.. *shrugs*

[predator314]

You should select Quebec for the province and check out their crazy packages.. cheap and you have the option of selecting individual channels.

[djino]

You should select Quebec for the province and check out their crazy packages.. cheap and you have the option of selecting individual channels.

Yup, I jumped on it myself. They are competing with Videotron in Quebec with their A LA CARTE programming. New Programming for Quebec is:


$25 - The Basics

You must choose this package as bare minimum. Almost equivalent to the $34 Digital Standard from the Theme base programming. If you subscribe to another Bell service, you get a $10 credit bringing it down to $15

The following are optional add-ons:


A LA CARTE

They have a listing of almost 100 channels in this block. Most of these channels are SD Picks (some come automatically with their HD equivalent).

You choose from:

1) 15 A LA CARTE for $15
2) 20 A LA CARTE for $19
3) 30 A LA CARTE for $22

Each additional channel is $2/month

You will see they have grouped about 20 channels together NOT AVAILABLE as an A LA CARTE channel and called the group THE FAVOURITES

The Favourites is an additional $5 (for all 20 Channels), but you must choose one of the 3 A LA CARTE packages before The Favourites is an Option.


Bell's Preassembled Packages

If you do not wish to go A LA CARTE you can choose from Bell's preassembled packages which contain more channels then if you were to choose them A LA CARTE. You may see Value in the following Bell Choices:

1) Top Franco - $16
2) Top Angelo - $20
3) Top Bilingual - $20
4) Top Bilingual extra - Includes Top Bilingual plus many extras - $30
5) Best of the Best - Includes all channels from 1 to 4 above plus many extras - $60


HD Themes & Specialty Channels are the same as the Theme Based programing.

djino
"Take a look here -> http://www.bell.ca/web/tv/en/qc/pdfs/channels/channels.pdf "

[achc]

This is my conclusion:

Call BellTV, press 1 EN, press 6 others, press 3 cancel

With my contract expired in 2007, told Bell about Shaw deal of $25/month for 1 YR and free HD-PVR 1 YR, this is what I got...not as nice as some other rfd members has got.

$199 HD 6131 receiver
-$100 Bell credit
-$60 HD programming (1 time/month)

That means my box only cost $40.

Also because of my upgrade to HD, I get $5 dollars off a month when bundle with Bell home phone. That sounds sweet.

No contract or term has been added to this deal.

My original idea was to go with either:

-2 months free programming with purchase $200 HD receiver + 50% off for 6 months
(that means $200 for the receiver minus $120 free programming minus ($25*6))
Total value of $280 saving + $199 for receiver, that will be getting a HD receiver free +$80 of money. Too bad they won't offer me this deal that predator314 told me about :(

-free rental on an HD box for 2yrs + 50%/6mo on a 1yr term
($50/2)*6 = $150 value but I do not own the box. I don't really like renting as after two years...I will have to pay 15 bucks a month + this needs 1 yr contract

thx rfder

[predator314]

-free rental on an HD box for 2yrs + 50%/6mo on a 1yr term
($50/2)*6 = $150 value but I do not own the box. I don't really like renting as after two years...I will have to pay 15 bucks a month + this needs 1 yr contract


Only thing you'd be locked with is the 6 months in the 1yr term that would be full price.. at the end of the 2yr rental you can either send the receiver back and try to get another retention deal or make a purchase. in 2 years, there might be a new line of receivers that you can take a stab at. I don't really see a rental as being a bad thing if it is free. It's not like you are throwing money away on something free. :-)

[dealCker]

This is my conclusion:

Call BellTV, press 1 EN, press 6 others, press 3 cancel

With my contract expired in 2007, told Bell about Shaw deal of $25/month for 1 YR and free HD-PVR 1 YR, this is what I got...not as nice as some other rfd members has got.

$199 HD 6131 receiver
-$100 Bell credit
-$60 HD programming (1 time/month)

That means my box only cost $40.

Also because of my upgrade to HD, I get $5 dollars off a month when bundle with Bell home phone. That sounds sweet.

No contract or term has been added to this deal.

My original idea was to go with either:

-2 months free programming with purchase $200 HD receiver + 50% off for 6 months
(that means $200 for the receiver minus $120 free programming minus ($25*6))
Total value of $280 saving + $199 for receiver, that will be getting a HD receiver free +$80 of money. Too bad they won't offer me this deal that predator314 told me about :(

-free rental on an HD box for 2yrs + 50%/6mo on a 1yr term
($50/2)*6 = $150 value but I do not own the box. I don't really like renting as after two years...I will have to pay 15 bucks a month + this needs 1 yr contract

thx rfder

Ummm, did you get any sort of discount on your bill other than the HD credit?
IMHO it's preferable to get a discount on the whole bill over a big discount on a small portion of the bill
For example 30% of an $80 bill is $24/month
and 24 *12 is 296 bucks over the year

I got 30 off of a 100 dollar bill that saved me over 300 a year and even got them to give me a 100 credit on buying a receiver last year.

[achc]

Only thing you'd be locked with is the 6 months in the 1yr term that would be full price.. at the end of the 2yr rental you can either send the receiver back and try to get another retention deal or make a purchase. in 2 years, there might be a new line of receivers that you can take a stab at. I don't really see a rental as being a bad thing if it is free. It's not like you are throwing money away on something free. :-)

I guess if its completely free, its ok. They were only able to give me $5 rental compare to $15. But after two years, I still have to go through a hassle talking to them to get more deals. But with a contract (no matter how long), I can't spam them anytime soon. Right now, since they only give me one month free and no contract, I will call them after two months for cancel again through retention. I wonder if that works...any ideas?


Ummm, did you get any sort of discount on your bill other than the HD credit?
IMHO it's preferable to get a discount on the whole bill over a big discount on a small portion of the bill
For example 30% of an $80 bill is $24/month
and 24 *12 is 296 bucks over the year

I got 30 off of a 100 dollar bill that saved me over 300 a year and even got them to give me a 100 credit on buying a receiver last year.

Like I said, the plan I wanted to go for was:

-Purchase HD Receiver for $200
-Two months free HD programming
-50% off whole bill for 6 months <-- whole bill discount

Unfortunately, they won't offer that. I even ask for it because I said Shaw was able to do $25 bill discount for 1 year but they said bills discount option has just been removed from there system.

Instead, they give me $100 credit up front. My bills are only $50/month ($45 after I get HD bundle) so if I got 50% off whole bill for 6 months (sounds good but..), I save $135 over 6 months. Right now, I get $100 credit so its close enough, just $35 less. However, I only get one month HD free instead of the two months I had in mind.

[predator314]

They said they'd give me 2 whole months free programming if I purchase HD or HDPVR. + 50%/6mo or 20%/12mo


Has anyone tried the whole, 'I see new customers get a $200 credit for their first HD box and $100 for their second." and ask for that ? And say it would be easier if they gave you that credit than canceling and creating a new account under your spouses name.

Or say since you've been with them for so long, ask for the new customer credits + a discount on programming for the year.

[fishwallop]

This system is very silly. I had a 30% discount for six months. It expired. I called in and said I was leaving for the Other Guy. They asked why; I said the Other Guy would give me a very similar deal, and more HD at that price. They offered me 20% off to stay. I said they've done better in the past. They increased the offer to 30% again, and so I signed on for six more months. What a ridiculous dance.

[achc]

This system is very silly. I had a 30% discount for six months. It expired. I called in and said I was leaving for the Other Guy. They asked why; I said the Other Guy would give me a very similar deal, and more HD at that price. They offered me 20% off to stay. I said they've done better in the past. They increased the offer to 30% again, and so I signed on for six more months. What a ridiculous dance.

When did you do this? Because all Bell offered me was one month free programming, no whole bill discount for 6 months of any kind. I called a couple days ago.


They said they'd give me 2 whole months free programming if I purchase HD or HDPVR. + 50%/6mo or 20%/12mo

Has anyone tried the whole, 'I see new customers get a $200 credit for their first HD box and $100 for their second." and ask for that ? And say it would be easier if they gave you that credit than canceling and creating a new account under your spouses name.

Or say since you've been with them for so long, ask for the new customer credits + a discount on programming for the year.

I tried to ask for 2 months free programming + 50% off for 6 months when I purchase my HD receiver a couple days ago but all I got was 1 month free programming and $100 credit. Since they gave me $100 credit, its not bad altho 50% off for 6 months will be $35 more (base on $45 bill). Your deal you mention was nice and I will be able to save $85 more.

New customer gets $100 off their first receiver and $100 off their second. I thought it was $200 / receiver as well. New customer also needs contract.
Details are here: http://bell.ca/shopping/PrsShpTv_HD_Receiver_61065.page#1

____
I really think you should go ahead for the (2 whole months free programming, purchase HD & 50%/6mo) predator314. If you don't mind purchasing instead of rent, its a great deal IMO. Here is the math

2 HD receiver - $400
2 months free ($90 x 2) = $180 saving
6 months 50% ($90 x 0.5) * 6 = $270 saving

Boom, you own HD receiver + $50 credit extra as long as you agree and stay with them for 6 months. If you prefer rentals (free rentals) and still get all the discount, then yes, that will be cheaper but in the end, you do not own the HD receiver.

IMO, buying vs. renting is a gamble of the 1 yr gap. This should be very common out there. Receivers have 1 year warranty on them for purchase and full warranty during rental period. Rental is $10/month = $240 in two years. If you buy one, and it last longer then two years, you gain as it would have cost you $40 more for warranty. If it broke right after one year, you loose as you will have to replace it or get it fix and you paid $200 already.

[dealCker]

I guess if its completely free, its ok. They were only able to give me $5 rental compare to $15. But after two years, I still have to go through a hassle talking to them to get more deals. But with a contract (no matter how long), I can't spam them anytime soon. Right now, since they only give me one month free and no contract, I will call them after two months for cancel again through retention. I wonder if that works...any ideas?



Like I said, the plan I wanted to go for was:

-Purchase HD Receiver for $200
-Two months free HD programming
-50% off whole bill for 6 months <-- whole bill discount

Unfortunately, they won't offer that. I even ask for it because I said Shaw was able to do $25 bill discount for 1 year but they said bills discount option has just been removed from there system.

Instead, they give me $100 credit up front. My bills are only $50/month ($45 after I get HD bundle) so if I got 50% off whole bill for 6 months (sounds good but..), I save $135 over 6 months. Right now, I get $100 credit so its close enough, just $35 less. However, I only get one month HD free instead of the two months I had in mind.


oops, my bad,

[edmonite]

My 12 month deal (free HD PVR rental plus 40% off programming for 12 months) just expired. I called retentions, and was offered free HD PVR rental plus either 50% off programming for 6 months or 20% off programming for 12 months. I settled for the free HD PVR rental plus 50% off programming for 6 months.

[Sheed30]

Yup, I jumped on it myself. They are competing with Videotron in Quebec with their A LA CARTE programming. New Programming for Quebec is:



You must choose this package as bare minimum. Almost equivalent to the $34 Digital Standard from the Theme base programming. If you subscribe to another Bell service, you get a $10 credit bringing it down to $15

The following are optional add-ons:



They have a listing of almost 100 channels in this block. Most of these channels are SD Picks (some come automatically with their HD equivalent).

You choose from:

1) 15 A LA CARTE for $15
2) 20 A LA CARTE for $19
3) 30 A LA CARTE for $22

Each additional channel is $2/month

You will see they have grouped about 20 channels together NOT AVAILABLE as an A LA CARTE channel and called the group THE FAVOURITES

The Favourites is an additional $5 (for all 20 Channels), but you must choose one of the 3 A LA CARTE packages before The Favourites is an Option.



If you do not wish to go A LA CARTE you can choose from Bell's preassembled packages which contain more channels then if you were to choose them A LA CARTE. You may see Value in the following Bell Choices:

1) Top Franco - $16
2) Top Angelo - $20
3) Top Bilingual - $20
4) Top Bilingual extra - Includes Top Bilingual plus many extras - $30
5) Best of the Best - Includes all channels from 1 to 4 above plus many extras - $60


HD Themes & Specialty Channels are the same as the Theme Based programing.

djino
"Take a look here -> http://www.bell.ca/web/tv/en/qc/pdfs/channels/channels.pdf "


I was looking at yesterday...I wish Bell offered something like that to all of Canada instead of just Quebec...It would be much better than having to be forced to buy a full theme pack for only 1 or 2 channels that you actually want..

What Bell is doing for Quebec now with the A LA CARTE package is what should be available to every subscriber in Canada..I would love to be able to pick the channels that I actually want instead of having to pay for many channels I never watch...Unfortunately though I doubt it will ever happen...

Maybe BellTV subscribers in the rest of Canada should be calling in and voicing their displeasure as to why we shouldn't be offered something similar or the exact same package...My retention deal is up now and after seeing the new Quebec programming brochure I'm considering calling in and canceling...

[twboy1999]

being a bell customer for at least 5 yrs

my discount expiring this month

called, and they only willing to give 20% off

i said byebye, and they dont put any effort try to make me stay

[achc]

being a bell customer for at least 5 yrs

my discount expiring this month

called, and they only willing to give 20% off

i said byebye, and they dont put any effort try to make me stay

LOL, I am a Bell TV customer for 10 years and I didn't get discount until a week ago.

[is350ty]

So anyways, I just got my 2nd bill after offered free HDPRV for a year and 40% discount.

I was charged the first month without a discount, because they told me that it takes 1 billing cycle for the credit to apply. Is this true?
From January 3 (installation date) to February 20, I was charged a $32.85 because credits didnt start until February 12.

I was also charged $20 from February - March, but got that credit.

I asked them why couldnt they just credit from the beginning, but they said they have to wait 1 billling cycle.

[achc]

So anyways, I just got my 2nd bill after offered free HDPRV for a year and 40% discount.

I was charged the first month without a discount, because they told me that it takes 1 billing cycle for the credit to apply. Is this true?
From January 3 (installation date) to February 20, I was charged a $32.85 because credits didnt start until February 12.

I was also charged $20 from February - March, but got that credit.

I asked them why couldnt they just credit from the beginning, but they said they have to wait 1 billling cycle.

This is true. With my HD upgrade, I get one month free but it won't happen until two billing cycle after according to the rep. Its either a policy of Bell or they are just slow. Therefore, make sure you know when your discount is going to apply so you can maximize it. I sign up for bundle which gives me a discounts. The representative said it will not appear until two bill cycles later because it takes time...so for two more months, I don't get discount.

In your case, you will get 40% discount for 12 bills, just make sure you know which bills those are so you can maximize your saving.

[tomtong]

Yeah... the rep told me the same thing but they don't show up after 3 months. I have to call retention 3 times (once every month I got my statement) to have them credit them. The last rep told me the discount % will last 12 months, in my case, from it shows up on the first statement. Now, I've 15 months 20% off instead of 12 months.

[dealCker]

being a bell customer for at least 5 yrs

my discount expiring this month

called, and they only willing to give 20% off

i said byebye, and they dont put any effort try to make me stay

Just for refererence, how big was your bill? I am wondering if they givve biggerr discounts to larger bills..

[crimsondr]

I just called Bell to cancel my TV service. Bill was about $80/month. It was basic digital service with Fairchild and Premium Movies. I own my receivers. The CSR asked if I watch all the channels I pay for. I said mainly I just watch Fairchild and not much of the movies. So he offered the Premium Movies free for 6 months. But actually I don't even watch that so I said it doesn't matter I could just cancel that anyway. So he offered 20% off. I didn't push for more and just agreed. So in the end I cancelled the Premium Movies and got 20% off the rest.

[twboy1999]

Just for refererence, how big was your bill? I am wondering if they givve biggerr discounts to larger bills..

like $100 before the discount?

anyway, they call me back today and offer me 40% off for 12 months

i thought i got a good deal and took it, apprantly you guys even get free pvr

now i feel bad

lol

[predator314]

New customer gets $100 off their first receiver and $100 off their second. I thought it was $200 / receiver as well. New customer also needs contract.
Details are here: http://bell.ca/shopping/PrsShpTv_HD_Receiver_61065.page#1

HD PVR is $200 for PVR, $100 for 2nd HD box for purchase under NO term.

[jrross]

How long do you guys think you would have to be a customer before you can call in for the retentions deal?

also if you cancel within the two years what is the penalty?

Thanks

JR

[nikkis]

My TV Bill is way to high what can I do about it? I still got 1 year to go on my contract and its ridiculous!

Monthly Services (Jan 15 to Feb 14)
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 US Timeshifting 1.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
1 5 Themes 23.00
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 61.00

RENTAL HDPVR 20.00
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 1.22
Total Other Charges or Credits (before taxes) 21.22

Amounts to about $82 with taxes

How can I get a better deal and what should I aim for?

[Havo]

My TV Bill is way to high what can I do about it? I still got 1 year to go on my contract and its ridiculous!

Monthly Services (Jan 15 to Feb 14)
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 US Timeshifting 1.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
1 5 Themes 23.00
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 61.00

RENTAL HDPVR 20.00
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 1.22
Total Other Charges or Credits (before taxes) 21.22

Amounts to about $82 with taxes

How can I get a better deal and what should I aim for?

Did you not ask for your bill total before you agreed to sign a contract?

Anyway... I'm getting the same thing you are but for cheaper than that. I'm getting it with the Chinese combo for about $55/month with the PVR. Since you're on contract there might not be much you can do. You can try calling in and seeing if they will give you a discount. If you have any other services with bell you can always bundle them and get $5 off per service you have.

[Havo]

How long do you guys think you would have to be a customer before you can call in for the retentions deal?

also if you cancel within the two years what is the penalty?

Thanks

JR

If you're on a contract I think the penalty is $100. If you're not on a contract then it won't cost you anything.

[achc]

Has anyone tried the whole, 'I see new customers get a $200 credit for their first HD box and $100 for their second." and ask for that ?


HD PVR is $200 for PVR, $100 for 2nd HD box for purchase under NO term.

No predator, I fell into the same ditch before.

Look at my screenshot below taken off Bell.ca
For NO term:

1st HD receiver cost $199-$100 = $99
2nd HD receiver cost $199-$100 = $99

1st HD PVR cost $499 - $200 = $299
2nd HD PVR cost $499 - $100 = $399

I really don't see where your get HD PVR for $200. Maybe $299 but not $200.


http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c158/achc/BellTV.jpg

[Chi-tel]

Just got installation today

My freind offered me a petty good deal for Bell TV

Basic package $15/mon in bundle + $3/Mon digital TV fee (it is in QC, I think it should be $28 in ON)

buy 2 reciever (1 HD so I can get $10 bundle discount and 1 standard ) only $15+tax

2 years agreement

2 mon movie package free

free installation

the recievers are 6100 and 3100,my freind told me they were sold for 199 and 80 from Bell, but their pomotion is only $15 for both, I can not found any info on Bell.ca

confirm by bell CSR that my cost is $18+tax every month in the bundle

[crimsondr]

Hi guys,

I'm new to satellite and had a question about the installation. My installation is tomorrow.

I was wondering if each receiver requires a separate line to the dish? Or can a single line from the dish be split to a couple receivers?

Thanks.

[Battscrew]

Hi guys,

I'm new to satellite and had a question about the installation. My installation is tomorrow.

I was wondering if each receiver requires a separate line to the dish? Or can a single line from the dish be split to a couple receivers?

Thanks.
usually separate.

[crimsondr]

usually separate.

That was not the answer I wanted to hear lol... Thanks though.

Do you know how many receivers a dish can support?

[radical53]

usually separate.

NO, (unless HD which requires two dishes) the main line runs inside to a splitter where it is then sent individually to each box.


That was not the answer I wanted to hear lol... Thanks though.

Do you know how many receivers a dish can support?

we have 4 here......

[tomtong]

NO, (unless HD which requires two dishes) the main line runs inside to a splitter where it is then sent individually to each box.


Do you mean this 4x4 switch?

http://www.prosatellitesupply.com/images/SAM-4402-3A.jpg

This is a switch different from splitter that work with cable.

[crimsondr]

NO, (unless HD which requires two dishes) the main line runs inside to a splitter where it is then sent individually to each box.

So HD receivers require two lines? My bedrooms are already pre-wired by the builder but with one line only. So the Bell tech will need to run another line. I assume they will just run the line from outside and drill through the wall...

[achc]

I am pretty sure you can't use a splitter inside. There has to be one line per receiver from the dish outside.

You don't need two dish, you need two feed horn on your dish for if you have HD. One feedhorn for SD, one for HD. No matter if you order SD or HD service now, they give you two feedhorns. Plus, there is really no point of getting SD now.

For HD-PVR, you need two cables coming in because your PVR receiver can record a different channel that you are watching at the same time, so it needs to feeds. HD receiver (non PVR) or SD receiver only needs one feed.

And as far as I know, one dish can support up to 6 receivers.

[tomtong]

So HD receivers require two lines? My bedrooms are already pre-wired by the builder but with one line only. So the Bell tech will need to run another line. I assume they will just run the line from outside and drill through the wall...

I will say they probably will run 2 wires from outside at the same time and not worry to hook up you pre-installed jack. Save them time to figure out what your pre-existing wiring is.

[PR0BLEMZ]

Ok guys, I just called and got offered this:

1 Free HD PVR for 1 year
Free HD Programming for 6 Months
Free Installation

I'm thinking of going with the HD Essential Package (4 HD theme packs, 6 Digital theme packs) But $66 per month after my free 6 months is up seems like a lot, don't you think ?

Anyways, I also tried getting 50% off my bill for 1 year by telling the csr that Rogers was offering me it, but he wouldn't bite.
He told me "Rogers doesn't offer that, sorry."

I was hoping he'd offer me at least 30 or 20 percent off lol.
I told him I'd call him back, I'm just talking to my parents about it to see if they want to go with it.

What do you guys think ? Good deal or not ?
Should I still try to get 30% off my bill for a year ? What else can I tell them so they can offer me more things ?
Someone post an offer you got, so I can maybe copy it and hopefully get the same offer you guys got lol.

[Jaye1111]

I'm ... comfortable with what I got... it took 3 calls and going in a lot of circles. And 90 minutes.

I'm in Quebec, so:
Basic (All of the Canadian channels)
A la carte 30
The Favourites (All of the news networks, A&E, Teletoon retro, Spike, WGN, some music stuff, Military, and a few others).
Free HDPVR for a year (I don't have any HD TVs, so more hassle because he "took it back" and then insisted I just take it so I can get the discount. It works anyway, so I don't care.).

$34.60+ tax. (it's a 20% discount, apparently)

Apparently a bundle is no longer 2+ services, but 2+ services and either owning an HD receiver or the PVR. If I didn't accept the PVR, it's $44.60+tax. Possibly $57. I have no clue what they were doing.

Really annoying.

[achc]

1 Free HD PVR for 1 year
Free HD Programming for 6 Months
Free Installation

I'm thinking of going with the HD Essential Package (4 HD theme packs, 6 Digital theme packs) But $66 per month after my free 6 months is up seems like a lot, don't you think ?

Anyways, I also tried getting 50% off my bill for 1 year by telling the csr that Rogers was offering me it, but he wouldn't bite.
He told me "Rogers doesn't offer that, sorry."

I was hoping he'd offer me at least 30 or 20 percent off lol.
I told him I'd call him back, I'm just talking to my parents about it to see if they want to go with it.

What do you guys think ? Good deal or not ?
Should I still try to get 30% off my bill for a year ? What else can I tell them so they can offer me more things ?
Someone post an offer you got, so I can maybe copy it and hopefully get the same offer you guys got lol.

Sounds like you are a new customer. How long is the contract they make you sign?

Free HD Programming for 6 Months is awesome. You can max out your subscription during the 6 months. Don't just get 4 HD and 6 digital pack, get them all, its all free. Get
5 HD Theme Packs
12 Digital Theme Packs
A Premium Movies Pack
Premium Sport

If you are a new customer, they won't give you bill discount of 20% or 30%. That probably won't happen.

Free installation, PVR 1 yr, and 6 months max out is a value of over 1k already. You want more discount? LOL

[PR0BLEMZ]

Sounds like you are a new customer. How long is the contract they make you sign?

Free HD Programming for 6 Months is awesome. You can max out your subscription during the 6 months. Don't just get 4 HD and 6 digital pack, get them all, its all free. Get
5 HD Theme Packs
12 Digital Theme Packs
A Premium Movies Pack
Premium Sport

If you are a new customer, they won't give you bill discount of 20% or 30%. That probably won't happen.

Free installation, PVR 1 yr, and 6 months max out is a value of over 1k already. You want more discount? LOL

Well, I'm a current customer at Bell.
Right now I have Bell express Vu and digital basic. I've been with Bell for about 3-4 years now I think ?
Anyways, I just got a new 52" TV and my family and I decided to go HD.
So, I was thinking of upgrading to a HD PVR and HD channels.

I then came upon this thread, and called up Bell. Told them I wanted to cancel because Rogers had a better offer. They then gave me that offer (HD PVR- 1 year, 6 months free HD programming)

Anyways, if I get them all instead, just like what you said, what will I do after the 6 months is up ? Wouldn't my bill be a lot after the 6 months ? Or do I just cancel the channels I dont need, and keep the ones I want ?

[achc]

Well, I'm a current customer at Bell.
Right now I have Bell express Vu and digital basic. I've been with Bell for about 3-4 years now I think ?
Anyways, I just got a new 52" TV and my family and I decided to go HD.
So, I was thinking of upgrading to a HD PVR and HD channels.

I then came upon this thread, and called up Bell. Told them I wanted to cancel because Rogers had a better offer. They then gave me that offer (HD PVR- 1 year, 6 months free HD programming)

Anyways, if I get them all instead, just like what you said, what will I do after the 6 months is up ? Wouldn't my bill be a lot after the 6 months ? Or do I just cancel the channels I dont need, and keep the ones I want ?

Ok, so you are existing customer. I thought you were new because you mention 'FREE installation'. You don't really need to install anything if you are any existing customer. Your dish should be HD ready. All you need it a HD receiver.

I upgraded from Digital Basic to HD a month ago. I have been with Bell for over 10 years.
After 6 months, call in and REMOVE all those extras you don't want to pay for. Call in before 6 months tho as they can say it takes up to 30 days to process.

Its hard to get full bill discount for all of a sudden. Another rfder mention about 50% off 6 months when he call into retention but they won't offer it for me. Instead they gave me $100 credit and one month HD programming. So it works out to be about the same. If you check a couple pages back, this was what Bell offered me and what I got now: buy HD receiver for $200, get $100 credit and 1 month free. I was happy with that. No full bill discount but I get the $100 credit. They offer me free rental as well but I like to purchase instead of rental. If they gave you 6 months free programming, its great...its $500 value (I only got $100 credit).

[predator314]

I meant $200 discount and $100 discount. someone was saying it was $100 for first and 2nd... was just pointing out it can be $200 discount for PVR and $100 for an HD box as well.


No predator, I fell into the same ditch before.

Look at my screenshot below taken off Bell.ca
For NO term:

1st HD receiver cost $199-$100 = $99
2nd HD receiver cost $199-$100 = $99

1st HD PVR cost $499 - $200 = $299
2nd HD PVR cost $499 - $100 = $399

I really don't see where your get HD PVR for $200. Maybe $299 but not $200.


http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c158/achc/BellTV.jpg

[GarthD]

Ok, so you are existing customer. I thought you were new because you mention 'FREE installation'. You don't really need to install anything if you are any existing customer. Your dish should be HD ready. All you need it a HD receiver.
Well, I'm a long term (10yr) Bell customer and I'm just about to upgrade to an HD service and I do need to have upgrades done to my dish and do need an additional line brought in for the HD PVR. I'm hoping these installs will be thrown in with the retention deal.

[crimsondr]

NO, (unless HD which requires two dishes) the main line runs inside to a splitter where it is then sent individually to each box.

I just had my installation yesterday. I have 2 HD receivers. They installed one dish and ran a single line to each receiver from the dish. So it looks like only HD PVR requires 2 lines.

[tomtong]

Well, I'm a long term (10yr) Bell customer and I'm just about to upgrade to an HD service and I do need to have upgrades done to my dish and do need an additional line brought in for the HD PVR. I'm hoping these installs will be thrown in with the retention deal.

Yes, they will included the receiver upgrade installation that if you take their 12 month free HDPVR promotion. Receiver upgrade installation means they replaceyour existing receiver that with one line with the HDPVR and run an extra line to it.

Last time I told them leave my existing receiver alone and run 2 new lines to the HDPVR and they refuse me on the spot. I have to call retention again to have a second installation for that.

[crimsondr]

Just called and as a new customer they would only offer me 20% off.

[ChzPlz]

I've been with Bell for TV for ~3 yrs. Got the 1 yr 30% discount + free HDPVR, and it expired in December. Called back right after and they essentially offered me nothing. Just called back today, quoted the "Steve" new customer offer from Rogers, and got offered 20% off for 12 months, then 30% off for 6 months, then 50% off for 6 months. Took the 50% for 6.

Oh - and they never started charging me for the HDPVR after my 1 yr was up. :)

[dealCker]

Well, I'm a long term (10yr) Bell customer and I'm just about to upgrade to an HD service and I do need to have upgrades done to my dish and do need an additional line brought in for the HD PVR. I'm hoping these installs will be thrown in with the retention deal.

Hmm, Last year they did it for me..there was something in there system that was an HD upgrade promo or something.
good luck

[Havo]

Anyone with the 9242 hd pvr still experiencing the IR interference issue causing stuff like the info box to keep popping up?

[canadian250]

Called in a year ago to cancel and was offerd 30% off for 1year. Just called in a couple of days ago to see what I could get this time if anything. Gave them the same excuse as last year hoping to get the same dicount for another year. Wasn't offers that this time but finally agreed on 50% over 6months. Can't complain as it works out better this was.

6 months from now, I'll call in agian and see if they will offer me anything further:)

[fredsmith]

I signed up in mid January and they installed on Feb 4 - my deal was 'different':

1. HD Essentials package w/4 HD and 6 SD theme packs at $74
2. $100 off each of 4 HD receivers
3. $10/month discount for switching from Videotron
4. $10/month off for being a bell phone client
5. Free installation
6. 2 months free movies

And then it ran off the rails

They showed up and didn't want to install the dish where I wanted them to, claiming there was 'no signal' - well that was interesting because there had been a dish pointed at their birds at that spot previously. So THEY cancelled and then I called and reactivated the order;

Then they didn't want to credit me for the 3rd & 4th receivers, claiming that the deal had changed the day before and they also said the HD Essentials package was no longer available - they recanted when I pointed out that this was what I'd ordered and they checked their records (took a supervisor to do this, mind you).

They installed, then refused to activate 3 of the receivers, claiming I had cancelled them. Why would I do that? After all they don;t charge extra for the extra receivers programming?

Then they activated the wrong package - I finally got them to give me my channels on my receivers.

Then, when I checked, they charged me $125 a month instead of the agreed $54 plus taxes - they screwed up. It seems that to get the second $10 discount I had to bundle my phone billl with my television one - and , thankfully I had recorded the conversation where it was clearly NOT said it had to be bundled and they again recanted and told me that they would give me 20% off the $64 instead - didn't fix up my billing, though.

So - according to the CSR, I'm supposed to pay $51 for 2 years - I'm sure I'll have to fight them for the pricing, because I was very clear in stipulating that this was to be the invoice total total - they will certainly try to charge me the $3/month service fee and the 1.5% per month local programming charge - I will refuse and play them their own deal if necessary.

I am supposed to see an adjustment in the bill this month as wel as my $400 receiver credits - and I have to remember to cancel my movie service ahead of the end of the 2 month preview period . . . . .

I can see this is not going to be a pleasant relationship.

[bramzy]

Newbie Here Bell Customerf for about 8-10 Years. Current Bill For TV is 122.73.
87- 6 Themes and Digital Standard
20 Rental HDPVR

What is the best way to get some of these discounts that are out there? I am also considering second HD box.

Any suggestions?

[Fatchan]

I'm sure there are many experts out there, but here's what I did today:

I called 1-888-759-3474, pressed 1 for ENG, pressed 2 then said "cancel subscription" when prompted.

They'll ask you to confirm with your keypad whether you really want to cancel and you just give them the confirmation, they will transfer you to a rep who can deal with you immediately.

At that point, you just tell them that you want to cancel your service. I told them that I was offered a better deal by the competition that included two free HD-PVR rentals for a year and lower prices on the HD programming.

I was offered a free HD-PVR rental right away and 20% off my bill. I didn't get a very good offer compared to other posters so YMMV.

FYI I ended up switching to Shaw because their bundle was hard to beat.

[Vladimir]

They showed up and didn't want to install the dish where I wanted them to, claiming there was 'no signal' - well that was interesting because there had been a dish pointed at their birds at that spot previously. So THEY cancelled and then I called and reactivated the order;



FYI, Even though you technically can get a signal in a spot, it might not be very good, and they won't install it there because there would be a degrading signal.

We had a dish in a spot that while did receive a signal, we found that at some points we were getting corrupt video.
When we upgraded to HD they had to install a new dish and a new line.. Anyways the installer wouldn't put it in the current location because he couldn't get a signal. So we installed it in another location, and we never have had a corrupt signal since... There was a small tree branch that was blocking a bit of the signal.

[fredsmith]

FYI, Even though you technically can get a signal in a spot, it might not be very good, and they won't install it there because there would be a degrading signal.

We had a dish in a spot that while did receive a signal, we found that at some points we were getting corrupt video.
When we upgraded to HD they had to install a new dish and a new line.. Anyways the installer wouldn't put it in the current location because he couldn't get a signal. So we installed it in another location, and we never have had a corrupt signal since... There was a small tree branch that was blocking a bit of the signal.

The first installer was just being somewhat lazy - my home is very tall and he didn't want to go that high - and I refused to allow them to bolt the dish to the front of my home, which was his alternative.

The second installer had no such issues and the new dish is now installed where the old one was . . . it works just fine. Signal levels all above 90.

[bungaboy]

Back in November I was able to get 4 months free, 6 months free HD and after 4 months 40% off.

For the first two months I got a partial credit then my bill went skyhigh. I called them and they apologized, said they saw all the information on my account and said they would fix it.

Next month . . . . same thing . . . . Bill was $135. I called them again today. Was on the phone for almost an hour. Said they would fix it.

I am at my wits end with these morons.

Anybody have any meaningful suggestions . . . . other than quit?:D

[jjoaquin23]

Back in November I was able to get 4 months free, 6 months free HD and after 4 months 40% off.

For the first two months I got a partial credit then my bill went skyhigh. I called them and they apologized, said they saw all the information on my account and said they would fix it.

Next month . . . . same thing . . . . Bill was $135. I called them again today. Was on the phone for almost an hour. Said they would fix it.

I am at my wits end with these morons.

Anybody have any meaningful suggestions . . . . other than quit?:D

for the past 4 months its either they miss the 30% off or the 20$ HDPVR credit. Its getting ridiculous.

[fredsmith]

Well, yesterday brough a new chapter to the unfolding drama.

An envelope arrived from Bell with a new invoice. This one was for $114 and some pennies and stated that there was no prior balance - I was charged $50 twice for 'programming credit' on two receivers for the one month period of March, plus the 1.5%.

When I called, I was told this was a new account (so far so good, except that it was double what I was quoted and agreed to) and that the original account was still in place and owed some $250!!!

I told the clerk (who sounded like she was of Philippine origin) that as far as I could tell Bell presently owes me $300 rather than me owing them almost $400 and that until they clarified anything they would see no money. She agreed.

I recorded her restating that from what she could see this was correct and I was promised that a supervisor would be calling within 24 hours.

I wonder what concession I'll be able to squeeze out of them in return for suffering through these stupidities? Maybe they'll donate a PVR to the cause?

[bramzy]

Ok called last night and this is what i got.

Phone- 20% off and 1500 free minutes
Internet 20% off
TV- 20% off

Would not do anything for rental HDPVR for me.

Any suggestions/deals for HDPVR out there?

[achc]

for the past 4 months its either they miss the 30% off or the 20$ HDPVR credit. Its getting ridiculous.

+1

I can't get any whole bill discount like 30% off 6 months or anything like that.

I called retention a month ago about it and posted details earlier in the thread. I still think all I got for HD receiver for $100 and one month free programming is nothing enough.

@bramzy, phone as in wireless phone right? Well I don't have Bell Cell or Bell Internet. But how did you get 20% off your TV? That is 20% off for what? for how long?

[bramzy]

1500 minutes long distance minutes home phone ( no cell )

TV Package $87 ( 6 themes Leafs TV Digital Standard) now minus 20%.

I am locked in for a year for home phone and Internet, but not for TV. I will keep shopping for HDPVR.

It took about 1.5 hours but i thought worth out. I will do the same in a year from now.
@achc

[BCguy2]

30% off, for 6 months. Best I could grind out of them. Upside is, I am now 2.5 years into this retention deal....

Thanks

[llcooljayce]

Hey guys, just thought I would share my experience.

Called Bell and after the IVR gauntlet, I got to the cancellation/retentions department. I asked how much it would be cancel my service and the CSR basically said they require 30 days notice and $100 cancellation fee.

The CSR didn't ask why I was leaving or why I was inquiring so I basically did it for her. I said that Shaw was offering a free PVR for a year and 50% off my HD programming. I was expecting her to say something along the lines of 'sorry, we can only offer you 30% off' because I had called in a couple of weeks ago with the same inquiry and that's what I was offered. Instead, she said 'I'm afraid I can only offer you one or the other'.

I jumped on the 50% off (only for 6 months though) because I already own the HDPVR.

So 50% off is still possible.

[tsgee]

The CSR didn't ask why I was leaving or why I was inquiring so I basically did it for her. I said that Shaw was offering a free PVR for a year and 50% off my HD programming. I was expecting her to say something along the lines of 'sorry, we can only offer you 30% off' because I had called in a couple of weeks ago with the same inquiry and that's what I was offered. Instead, she said 'I'm afraid I can only offer you one or the other'.

I jumped on the 50% off (only for 6 months though) because I already own the HDPVR.

So 50% off is still possible.

Got offered 50% off for 6 months or 30% off for 12months or 2 months free and 20% for 12 months after.

Took the 50% off and will see in 6 months.

[Jaye1111]

I just got my first bill from my (Quebec) a la carte package.

Yes, they did tell me it may take an extra billing cycle to rectify.

They did NOT tell me that The first month would be at full price because they couldn't give me the "one bill" plan right away, even though I've had 2 services with them for 5 years, and that my extra discount for my HD receiver would start next month.

Not to worry, but I still get 12 months at 20% off.

So I pay full price for March-April, and then get my discounts for April until May til June(1), May (2), June(3), July (4), August (5), September (6), October (7), November (8), December (9), January (10), February until March (11)

But then my "contract" is over, and I have to give back the receiver. But not to worry, because I still get 20% off my next bill. So one month at $55, and 12 at $34.60. But they don't "get" that that's 13 months.

So they can bill me for my new package right away, but they can't apply the discount? WTF?

I hate them. Why did I do this to myself?

[camero]

I have had Bev for 10 years plus under loyalty the Rep offered free install plus two hd receivers at $100 each.Had it installed got a bill for full install plus $200 each plus tax. Contacted BEV ,they have not record of the offer!
Do your self a favor and stay away from these guys from India.:(:mad:

[Variance]

I just can't stand the interface/layout on the Shaw PVRs. The BEV just seems so much better.

[FernieBanff]

Call Bell this afternoon as the 30% off will soon be expired, offered either 30% for 6 months or 20% for 12 months, agent said that's all she can do with the system, I did not put up a fight, took the 30% and run, will call again in 6 months.:)

[Crowbarfoot]

Back in November I was able to get 4 months free, 6 months free HD and after 4 months 40% off.

For the first two months I got a partial credit then my bill went skyhigh. I called them and they apologized, said they saw all the information on my account and said they would fix it.

Next month . . . . same thing . . . . Bill was $135. I called them again today. Was on the phone for almost an hour. Said they would fix it.

I am at my wits end with these morons.

Anybody have any meaningful suggestions . . . . other than quit?:D

That seems about right. Usually takes about 6 months before they fix the issue.

[Snake-Eyes]

That seems about right. Usually takes about 6 months before they fix the issue.

Isn't that enough of a reason to leave? Been entrenched with 3 bell services for over a decade (phone, sat, and dsl) and can't take any more of it.

There are plenty of other providers that compete in these markets that have better customer service or better price or both.

Switching home phone to TekSavvy
Switching internet access to Acanac (TekSavvy doesn't have dsl service in my area)
TV going to OTA broadcast. (I only watch a few shows so can't justify cost of sat or cable). Whatever I can't get over broadcast can be downloaded.

EDIT: Sorry for the rant, but just wanted to say there are alternatives if you look for them.

[bubba67]

Called in this PM - got the same offer as others, either 6months @ 30% or 12months @ 20% without a contract. I'm with them since 2003. My monthly bill before discount is $190 (ouch). He stated that their system only allows a total of 4 offers per account for the lifetime of the account.

[Ninja Robot Pirate]

Last contract I had 30% off, free HD PVR rental for one year, and 6 months HD programming. Called March 28th and told them I was going to Rogers to get the 99.46 VIP Ultimate w/ TMN package plus $5 HD PVR rental and free HD receiver rental with 6 months free HD programming. The rep said they didn't have anything that could match that and I scheduled my cancellation for April 28th.

Got a call today offering 30% off plus $100 off a new receiver as I have a 9242, 6131 and an old ass 3100. I told the guy I didn't need a new receiver but wanted 6 months free HD programming 'cause I've been paying $117 for BellTV and I didn't feel it was worth it. He offered to bump up the discount to 40% to make up the cost of my PVR rentals also give me a bill credit so I could try all the HD theme packs for 3 months free.

All of that was without a contract, so I jumped on it. I also got him to send me a free remote for my 9242 since I can't find it. I've had ExpressVu/BellTV since 2004 and only started getting discount last year, I also have home phone (10+ years) and internet (also 2004) so maybe that's why the offer was so good? I'll now be paying $83.20 after tax for my HD receiver, HD PVR and all my HD programming, and I can still go on contract if I do want to upgrade my crappy 3100 later on.

[don242]

Reading through these posts but getting confused (also looking at Bell and Rogers site so that was probably the main reason for my confused state).

Anyway, been with Bell for 5+ years (no contract). We bought the PVR and just have digital std package. Want to switch to HD soon so need to get a new HD PVR. Do they provide any discounts for purchasing the PVR or only rentals? I just can't see paying the monthly rental fee after. I don't really care about the programming, just want to stay on the basic programming.

I just don't want to pay $500 for a HD PVR, and certainly don't want to pay them $240/yr to rent one.

[dealCker]

Reading through these posts but getting confused (also looking at Bell and Rogers site so that was probably the main reason for my confused state).

Anyway, been with Bell for 5+ years (no contract). We bought the PVR and just have digital std package. Want to switch to HD soon so need to get a new HD PVR. Do they provide any discounts for purchasing the PVR or only rentals? I just can't see paying the monthly rental fee after. I don't really care about the programming, just want to stay on the basic programming.

I just don't want to pay $500 for a HD PVR, and certainly don't want to pay them $240/yr to rent one.

Yes it's confusing, I would read as many of these posts as you can and try and figure out what you want to get out of the deal. And if you're lucky you may get a good CSR that'll be helpful and get you a decent deal. Either way you'll have to use your negotiating skills :-)
good luck

[soblecram]

had 30% for 1 yr, free hd rental for 1yr. expired in dec, didn't notice until my wife flipped about the TV bill...
called back in today, got 20% for the next 12 months. Not as nice as the first agreement, but I was ready to cut them after 15 years. This just made them competitive with Cogeco (rural ontario, only other provider would be starchoice/shaw/whatever they are called)

[pharmer1]

My retention deal is about to expire. A year ago I read this thread and contacted the retention department. My bill is ~$120 before the discount and I order ppv on a regular basis. I received 40% off for 1 year.

I called back the other day to get the discount extended, stating Shaw was willing to offer me a better package for 1 year. I also told the rep I have been a customer for 10 years and order ppv on a regular basis. The best I could get out of them was 30% for 1 year. I told him if they could not extend the 40% discount (essentially matching Shaw's offer) then to cancel my account. The rep said they no longer offer a 40% discount and said he would cancel my account and it would take one month to take effect. I told him to hold off on the cancel until I could discuss it with my wife.

My questions are:

1) has any one had any luck in getting their 40% discount extended for another year? And if yes what tactic did you use?

2) Should I call their bluff and tell them to cancel in hopes of having someone call me back and offer me a 40% discount?

Any advice is much appreciated

TIA,
Curt:)

[beripari]

My retention deal is about to expire. A year ago I read this thread and contacted the retention department. My bill is ~$120 before the discount and I order ppv on a regular basis. I received 40% off for 1 year.

I called back the other day to get the discount extended, stating Shaw was willing to offer me a better package for 1 year. I also told the rep I have been a customer for 10 years and order ppv on a regular basis. The best I could get out of them was 30% for 1 year. I told him if they could not extend the 40% discount (essentially matching Shaw's offer) then to cancel my account. The rep said they no longer offer a 40% discount and said he would cancel my account and it would take one month to take effect. I told him to hold off on the cancel until I could discuss it with my wife.

My questions are:

1) has any one had any luck in getting their 40% discount extended for another year? And if yes what tactic did you use?

2) Should I call their bluff and tell them to cancel in hopes of having someone call me back and offer me a 40% discount?

Any advice is much appreciated

TIA,
Curt:)

Careful about calling their bluff - the actually cancelled me when I did that! Only saving grace was that I asked to speak to a supervisor immediately following who reinstated it as a NEW account. I warned hubby in advance that I might threaten to cancel to make sure he was OK with it "justi in case it actually happens"! I still had to make several more calls afterwards in order to get any type of discount.

[jr!]

I got an offer from Rogers in the mail today, a free pvr if I trade in a satellite box.
A friend of mine got the same thing recently, called Bell & managed to get a free HD receiver out of it, I am going to try the same, all I want is a SD receiver, I have no HD tv's & don't plan on getting any anytime soon.

[Havo]

I got an offer from Rogers in the mail today, a free pvr if I trade in a satellite box.
A friend of mine got the same thing recently, called Bell & managed to get a free HD receiver out of it, I am going to try the same, all I want is a SD receiver, I have no HD tv's & don't plan on getting any anytime soon.

Do you want a pvr though?

[don242]

I got an offer from Rogers in the mail today, a free pvr if I trade in a satellite box.
A friend of mine got the same thing recently, called Bell & managed to get a free HD receiver out of it, I am going to try the same, all I want is a SD receiver, I have no HD tv's & don't plan on getting any anytime soon.

But if you read the fine print you also have to sign up for either home phone or internet as well to get the free PVR. I got the same thing and was tempted but I very much want to keep the internet service I have since they are cheaper and a million times better customer service, problem is it is DSL so I also need to keep the phone.

[TE7]

problem is it is DSL so I also need to keep the phone.

You can have DSL without phone.

http://www.teksavvy.com/en/res-highspeed.asp

[don242]

You can have DSL without phone.

http://www.teksavvy.com/en/res-highspeed.asp

Yes I know. I just have no interest in paying for a dry loop connection.

[djino]

Yes I know. I just have no interest in paying for a dry loop connection.

You do not pay dry loop fee with Bell (you do with DSL resellers like Teksavvy)

djino

[don242]

You do not pay dry loop fee with Bell (you do with DSL resellers like Teksavvy)

djino

Didn't know that. Thanks. Still doesn't help me since I am with a reseller. Anyway, when the time comes to buy the HD PVR, I will talk with Bell and see what they will do. If nothing, I will find some way to make it work somewhere else.

[pharmer1]

My retention deal is about to expire. A year ago I read this thread and contacted the retention department. My bill is ~$120 before the discount and I order ppv on a regular basis. I received 40% off for 1 year.

I called back the other day to get the discount extended, stating Shaw was willing to offer me a better package for 1 year. I also told the rep I have been a customer for 10 years and order ppv on a regular basis. The best I could get out of them was 30% for 1 year. I told him if they could not extend the 40% discount (essentially matching Shaw's offer) then to cancel my account. The rep said they no longer offer a 40% discount and said he would cancel my account and it would take one month to take effect. I told him to hold off on the cancel until I could discuss it with my wife.

My questions are:

1) has any one had any luck in getting their 40% discount extended for another year? And if yes what tactic did you use?

2) Should I call their bluff and tell them to cancel in hopes of having someone call me back and offer me a 40% discount?

Any advice is much appreciated

TIA,
Curt:)


Hi guy's,
here is an update for long time customers like myself coming off of a %40 discount (see original post/quote above). The best I could do is 30% off for another year after speaking to two different reps. I was told they no longer offer a %40 off discount. I even played hardball during one call and politely told them to cancel my account if they could not extend the 40% offer (because shaws offer was better) and they said "OK it will take one month to take effect". I then told the rep to hold off until I could speak to my wife.

Bottom line I ended up taking the 30% for an additional twelve months. My bill is just under $100 after the discount and taxes.

Anyone else have any luck getting the initial 40% discount or having an existing 40% extended?

Curt:)

[orthoman]

Also had a 12 mo 40% off deal that is ending. First call, offered 6 mo at 30% off or 12 mo at 20% off. Rep stated that they no longer offer 12mo at 40% off. Told rep that I would think about it. I called back a couple weeks later and she listed all the offers that were available to me from my account. This time there was an offer of 6 mo at 50% off. I jumped on this deal as the rep told me to call back in 6 mo to get another deal. I asked why I wasn't offered the 6mo at 50% off the first time I called and she didn't know why.

Anyways, I'm very happy with the 6mo at 50% off discount!!

[Sneaks]

I just moved, and don't have nay extra Bell services, so didn't get anything too special, but here's what I have:

HD basic plus

20% off for 1 year so $47
$3 DSF fee credited back for the year
2 year free rental of HD receiver 6131
free install (since I was moving)
$50 to install my original SD receiver - that they will credit back after first bill (I recorded this to be sure I would get it)

[thepred]

My question is. I was going to go with Bell. I have 5 HD TV's in my house. With a new account how many free receivers can I get, and how much are they to buy for new customer? Do I pay a premium for each receiver. Do they offer a subscription discount to new customers?

[fredsmith]

My question is. I was going to go with Bell. I have 5 HD TV's in my house. With a new account how many free receivers can I get, and how much are they to buy for new customer? Do I pay a premium for each receiver. Do they offer a subscription discount to new customers?

You can officially have up to 6 receivers without paying a monthly premium, though they will only install the first 4 receivers for free (I believe it is $50 for each additional receiver).

You get none for free and (officially) you purchase your receivers and wll get $100 back for each of the first two 6131 (HD, non PVR) receivers you buy. I will say that the max number of receivers they will credit you for used to be four, but their promotions changed.

You can get a few discounts:

1. If you are moving from a competitive supplier you can get $10/month off for the first 2 years.
2. If you have a Bell service (telephone) and subscribe to 'onebill' bundling, you will save $10/month from the satellite and $5/month on the phone bill.

Note that some of this (like free installation) requires a contracdtual commitment.

But all that is on Bell's web site.

Look for specials at places like The Source to save some startup money.

Note that the 6131 is an HD receiver than also does standard definition. And if you plug a USB drive into it, it will turn the unit into a single-tuner PVR that allows pausing live TV and recording shows - but you cannot watch one channel while recording another, though you can play back one recorded program while recording at the same time.

[don242]

2. If you have a Bell service (telephone) and subscribe to 'onebill' bundling, you will save $10/month from the satellite and $5/month on the phone bill.



I have phone and satellite but don't receive these discounts. Can't even figure out a way to bundle things in my account. We only have basic phone and tv though so maybe a bundle is not available for this?

[thepred]

So are you saying there is a chance that they will give me a $400 credit towards my bill if I get 4 6131 receivers?

[fredsmith]

So are you saying there is a chance that they will give me a $400 credit towards my bill if I get 4 6131 receivers?

I managed to get nine that way, even though the promotion had expired a coule of days earlier, but the likelihood of success diminishes, the farther away you are and it HAS been 2 months since they changed the deal.

Also, many offers are regional; For example, if you live in AB, Bell isn;t the POTS provider so obviously you can;t bundle.

But if you have Bell as your cellular provider or subscribe to their internet, I see no reason why you wouldn't qualify; Ask the CSR about the OneBill discounts . . .

Note that there is a serious inconsistancy on the Bell site in that they state that you can get 4 OR five installations freee with a 24 month commitment;

It says first install is free with commitment and then that 4 additional receiver installs are free. but the summary says 'up to four installed free'.

Since Bell has to provide additional hardware for the 5th receiver and beyond, you might have to argue if you wanted that fifth one free.

Check out the web site for those details.

In the meantime Bell's billing is still seriously messed up - just got a payment reminder for an account that doesn't exist and never has . . . you have to wonder. I suppose it is now time for me to have my monthly session with Bell's customer service people.

[rcit]

Tried REALLY hard for 40% again after mine finished in Jan. They are standing pretty hard at the 20% now, without much hope of moving. They gave me an additional $50 credit. I felt lucky>:(

[exitmusic13]

Called Bell today and followed the prompts outlined on page 1 of this thread (very helpful). I currently pay $114 before tax. The best they could offer was 20% on programming. I get my PVRs for free (don't know the models exactly, but we have two). I think that expires in another 12 months. The agent was pretty forthcoming that there is nothing anyone at any higher level will offer me and that they were in a recent "negotiating" meeting where managers shared the millions that had been given out in discounts (in their opinion, too freely). I suppose they haven't considered what it will look like if we leave.

Hope this helps.

[Spidey]

Im calling today and see what i can re-negotiate. I have it marked on my phone to call every 6 months to see what offers they have. Currently have 30% off and $20 a month for a PVR.

Telus Tv is offering a free PVR, so will see of I can get the $20 a month taken off. I have the basic programming, so my bill is just under $50 right now. But Id rather have it under $30 :lol:

[Havo]

Im calling today and see what i can re-negotiate. I have it marked on my phone to call every 6 months to see what offers they have. Currently have 30% off and $20 a month for a PVR.

Telus Tv is offering a free PVR, so will see of I can get the $20 a month taken off. I have the basic programming, so my bill is just under $50 right now. But Id rather have it under $30 :lol:

I tried negotiating for a free pvr to keep but they will only give you free rental. I even brought up the free pvr offer from rogers when you trade in your dish but they wouldn't budge. Anyone else have luck getting a free pvr to keep?

[DarthV]

I've been a customer for 7 years now and they would only give me 10% off. Maybe it's time to just drop them.

[mikeh1159]

I just got off the phone with them and they started out at 10 % and I said that wasn't really that great. Then she said the max was 20% and I hummed and hawed and she said she was going to check my account and talk to her manager.

She came back and said that because I have been a customer for 5 years and I pay my bill on time that they could offer me a one time deal of 30% off for a year. I tried to get more (IE Free HD for 6 months but no go).

That is okay - last year I got free install (actually was an upgrade to HD) plus a free HDPVR, 6 months free HD and 30% off so this isn't too bad.

Bottom line - be persistant people. Good luck to everyone that has to deal with Bell.

[sandals99]

i just called retentions, and i have been with bell for the last 7 years, and during the last 2 years, i have been getting 30% off my bill. My last offer expired so i phoned to get it renewed and they stated that because in the last 12 months i have had 2 offers from them, they could not give me any other discounts!! (i had 30% off for six months, and then 30%off for six months)

WTF!

[mjl]

I am just finishing my 30 % off and free pvr for one year. After a 30 min conversation I ended up only getting 20% and $50 one time credit. I hung tough but they did not want to play.

[openskies]

My problems with Bell are Legion. always over a billing issue. Here is the latest. I received a phone call yesterday from collections, saying I owed four hundred dollars and they wanted payment immediately. I hung up, but when I checked my banking account on line I discovered I indeed had not paid my bill in three months. But in discussing it with my wife, We agreed that we had hot received a bill.
When I phone customer service to complain, they said they now send my bill by email, a process I had never consented to. While they were on line I went back over my emails and could not find one bill from bell. I told them if they wanted payment to send my statements in the mail. I was told There is now a five dollar service charge to send me a paper statement.

Has anyone else encountered this? Naturally, I'm pissed. They are always looking for ways to reach further into our pocket.

[don242]

My problems with Bell are Legion. always over a billing issue. Here is the latest. I received a phone call yesterday from collections, saying I owed four hundred dollars and they wanted payment immediately. I hung up, but when I checked my banking account on line I discovered I indeed had not paid my bill in three months. But in discussing it with my wife, We agreed that we had hot received a bill.
When I phone customer service to complain, they said they now send my bill by email, a process I had never consented to. While they were on line I went back over my emails and could not find one bill from bell. I told them if they wanted payment to send my statements in the mail. I was told There is now a five dollar service charge to send me a paper statement.

Has anyone else encountered this? Naturally, I'm pissed. They are always looking for ways to reach further into our pocket.

They should have told you they were switching how they were sending the statements. However, as with any bill, it is always your responsibility to make payments whether you receive the statement or not.

[Spidey]

I am just finishing my 30 % off and free pvr for one year. After a 30 min conversation I ended up only getting 20% and $50 one time credit. I hung tough but they did not want to play.

Same here, my 30% was done at the end of April, and all I could get was 20% off. Even said telus Tv has a free PVR offer but they stuck tough.

Problem is Expressvu is my only option besides star choice. But they dont need to know I live out of the city.

[karmanwalia]

My 30% Off on programming + 1 HD receiver Rental free was expiring on 10th May. Gave a call to Bell today morning and all this guy offered me was a 20% discount.

So I called Telus and got the details for their HD PVR Anywhere(Basic TV - $9.99 for 6 months, $23 after that, Internet speed bumped up to 15mbps for free, 1 HD Receiver rent free).

Called back Bell, gave them the details, got back 30% off programming, 1 HD receiver Rental free, 1 HD theme pack free for 1 more year. So if you dont get the old deal back the first time, call back and talk to another agent.

[Jason]

I just got a letter from Bell stating that they will be increasing my monthly TV bill by $5 starting in June and canceling my Ultimate 7 package in February. They say I must change to one of their current packages.

[fredsmith]

I just got a letter from Bell stating that they will be increasing my monthly TV bill by $5 starting in June and canceling my Ultimate 7 package in February. They say I must change to one of their current packages.

I presume that you were not on a contract? Because if you were, then this is your 'out' and you are free to negotiate with the competition (cable/Telus/whatever) and then use that to push a better deal with Bell if that's what you want to use. Its almost like being a new subscriber . . . except you should be able to geta better deal since your hardware has been amortised.

They can change the price, but it frees you from your obligations if they do.

Go get 'em.

[Jason]

I presume that you were not on a contract? Because if you were, then this is your 'out' and you are free to negotiate with the competition (cable/Telus/whatever) and then use that to push a better deal with Bell if that's what you want to use. Its almost like being a new subscriber . . . except you should be able to geta better deal since your hardware has been amortised.

They can change the price, but it frees you from your obligations if they do.

Go get 'em.

When I originally signed up I was on a 2 year contract but that hasa long since expired. I was talking to a local Rogers rep today and have the option of trading in my equipment for an hd pvr and sd receiver but he offered 6 months free of internet, phone and tv on a 2 year contract. Will have to see what bell has to say.

Jason

[FunkyC]

I was just wondering if anyone has had any experience with Shaw Direct and what sort of deals you can get with them. I hate rogers and am looking at getting Shaw Direct or Bell Tv any suggestions or deals that are out there for them?

[junkyard dog]

My 30% Off on programming + 1 HD receiver Rental free was expiring on 10th May. Gave a call to Bell today morning and all this guy offered me was a 20% discount.

So I called Telus and got the details for their HD PVR Anywhere(Basic TV - $9.99 for 6 months, $23 after that, Internet speed bumped up to 15mbps for free, 1 HD Receiver rent free).

Called back Bell, gave them the details, got back 30% off programming, 1 HD receiver Rental free, 1 HD theme pack free for 1 more year. So if you dont get the old deal back the first time, call back and talk to another agent.

i just got off the phone with Bell retention. I had 30% discounted rate off my total bill for the last 2 months, but I thought I could get better. he wouldnt budge and didnt give me anything better than my current 30% off, even though i kept telling him i was ready to switch to Shaw cable.

my bill is still $81.96 before taxes, which includes:

Digital Standard, HD PVR rental, HD PVR programming, 6 theme pack, multricultural channel & one specialty channel

does this seem like a good deal? what else do you think I can get? Perhaps another HD PVR rental unit for my bedroom tv?

[Havo]

i just got off the phone with Bell retention. I had 30% discounted rate off my total bill for the last 2 months, but I thought I could get better. he wouldnt budge and didnt give me anything better than my current 30% off, even though i kept telling him i was ready to switch to Shaw cable.

my bill is still $81.96 before taxes, which includes:

Digital Standard, HD PVR rental, HD PVR programming, 6 theme pack, multricultural channel & one specialty channel

does this seem like a good deal? what else do you think I can get? Perhaps another HD PVR rental unit for my bedroom tv?

You're getting a lot though. Do you need all of that? I opted for 5 theme packs instead of 6 because I couldn't decide on a 6th and the rep told me I could go for 5 and I did. Saved a few bucks there. HD PVR rental is kinda expensive. Its about $20/month... you might be better off buying your own since the 9141 is on sale at FS right now for $299 (you can make that back in a year and half). Right now... I have 30% off, free pvr rental for 1 year, 6 months free hd programming, 5 themes and the chinese channel and I get it for about $50 all in. I would try to get free pvr rental budge then I would prob end up buying my own unless you're willing to switch to rogers and get a free one.

[don242]

You're getting a lot though. Do you need all of that? I opted for 5 theme packs instead of 6 because I couldn't decide on a 6th and the rep told me I could go for 5 and I did. Saved a few bucks there. HD PVR rental is kinda expensive. Its about $20/month... you might be better off buying your own since the 9141 is on sale at FS right now for $299 (you can make that back in a year and half). Right now... I have 30% off, free pvr rental for 1 year, 6 months free hd programming, 5 themes and the chinese channel and I get it for about $50 all in. I would try to get free pvr rental budge then I would prob end up buying my own unless you're willing to switch to rogers and get a free one.

Where do you see the $300 HD PVR? I couldn't find it at FS. That has always been the one thing holding me back from upgrading to a flat panel. I don't want to pay $600 for a new PVR. Right now we just have the SD PVR with Bell.

[Havo]

Where do you see the $300 HD PVR? I couldn't find it at FS. That has always been the one thing holding me back from upgrading to a flat panel. I don't want to pay $600 for a new PVR. Right now we just have the SD PVR with Bell.

I guess you missed the boat... but it was $299 a couple of days ago. I remember seeing it on the site and people were doing pm's at bb and getting it for $279 along with 4x the rewardzone points. I just checked the FS site and its back up to $399 but it'll prob go on sale again when they clear out the 9141's as they get replaced with the new model some time this year. Here's a link to the deal thread.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/9241-bell-pvr-279-bb-after-pm-4x-bb-points-890866/

[junkyard dog]

You're getting a lot though. Do you need all of that? I opted for 5 theme packs instead of 6 because I couldn't decide on a 6th and the rep told me I could go for 5 and I did. Saved a few bucks there. HD PVR rental is kinda expensive. Its about $20/month... you might be better off buying your own since the 9141 is on sale at FS right now for $299 (you can make that back in a year and half). Right now... I have 30% off, free pvr rental for 1 year, 6 months free hd programming, 5 themes and the chinese channel and I get it for about $50 all in. I would try to get free pvr rental budge then I would prob end up buying my own unless you're willing to switch to rogers and get a free one.

I wouldnt say i was getting a lot, i'd say thats a pretty standard package. all your HD channels plus alot of the regular channels.

But yah the HD pvr rental of $20 is driving up the price. i'm gonna call back and try to get it waved, then i'll be happy with the price..

if you switch to rogers/shaw, you get a free pvr? i wasnt able to get that offer, but i'll try again

[junkyard dog]

wow, so I called back Bell and talked to loyalty/retention. this latest csr was quite rude.
she insisted that 30% off is the absolute best they can do and she's surprised i even had that. when i tried to tell her what shaw was offering, she cut me off and she knows what the competition is offering and to be aware of what happens in 6 months. she had a horrible tone. all i was asking for was for 2nd additional hdpvr at a free rental (i just purchased a 2nd plasma) and she wouldnt budge.

I wasnt happy with her manner (i was calm and polite), so I went ahead and cancelled (one month notice required)

in the meantime, i'm gonna negotiate with Shaw cable.

[don242]

I guess you missed the boat... but it was $299 a couple of days ago. I remember seeing it on the site and people were doing pm's at bb and getting it for $279 along with 4x the rewardzone points. I just checked the FS site and its back up to $399 but it'll prob go on sale again when they clear out the 9141's as they get replaced with the new model some time this year. Here's a link to the deal thread.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/9241-bell-pvr-279-bb-after-pm-4x-bb-points-890866/

Oh well. Eventually I will get one.

Anyone know what this means? A new line on my Bell bill says " HD/PVR Flag $0.00".

I don't have a HD PVR, just curious what this means.

[cyn88canada]

Hi,

I'm going through Bell Hell billing with retention deals, and was recently offered a free PVR rental for a year, with free installation. (Previously, I've only had SD receivers). This the second year for my rentention deal attempt.

I have 4 receivers, (two around 10 years old), and two 4100s, one owned and one rented. The plan was to return the rental 4100 and upgrade to the PVR 9241, since it was offered "free for a year"

Now that the PVR has been installed, I've received the rental paperwork in the mail...but it shows the PVR as being a monthly rental ($20+tx), $100 activation fee with $100 to be credited on the following bill, and then...$159.90+tx=$180.69! This is for "Hardware billable to customer SW24". (A SW44 Switch Install was billed $0).

Has anyone who had "free installation" of their PVR rental received this type of paperwork? I wouldn't have had the "free" PVR installed if I had to pay extra for it as I can easily live without.

My bill doesn't come out until mid-June, and I'm not sure if I need to call Bell retentions to clarify these charges now, or just cross my fingers and hope they apply the "free installation", "free PVR" credits automatically.

Anyone have any advice? Thanks!

[fat1138]

had 12 month free hd pvr rental and 12 month 40% off programing expired in feb,called retention in feb had agreed to 40%off programing and four month program credit if i bought hd pvr.three months of incorrect billing and phoning later they say i am wrong and there is no 40% off programing,have had it with these jerks will switch to telus tv

[baz5]

My free PVR and 30% off is also done, so they are charging me $20 per month for the PRVR.

I got a thing in the mail from Shaw today, and they are offering basic Cable and basic HD for $9.95 a month, with a free HDPVR and another receive for the next year. Then it's $35.99. Not a ton of channels, but pretty much the ones I watch on Bell. Bell which is pretty much the same channel just in 5 different time zones. So I'm thinking on cancelling Bell for good because I doubt they can come anywhere close to what Shaw is offering.

Any thoughts?

***update

Well I cancelled it. I didn't dig for anything special, and she said she couldn't give me the 30% off and free PVR again, but she can give me 10% off and $150 off the purchase of the HDPVR, which is $499, so I could get it for $250 lol.
My current bill is like $70/month. So it would be like $63, compared to $9.95 Shaw is offering lol.

[darklord700]

After 4 years, the annual call to retention to get my 30% off programming fees finally failed. They only offered 10% off so I'm moving on to Telus TV. Seems like Telus's Microsoft Media Room is the new way to go.

Maybe in a year, I'll be back with Bell when they offer me free PVR and 40% off programming fees, such is the game we play.

[Hugh Jass]

My bill doesn't come out until mid-June, and I'm not sure if I need to call Bell retentions to clarify these charges now, or just cross my fingers and hope they apply the "free installation", "free PVR" credits automatically.



Lol, yeah right. Call the bastards because otherwise it'll be a case of 'it will all be fixed on your July bill' etc etc

[baz5]

Maybe in a year, I'll be back with Bell when they offer me free PVR and 40% off programming fees, such is the game we play.

lol yeah I kinda felt like she was trying to call me out on my bluff! Oh well, I'll be paying 1/6 the price for the next year, why would I stay.

[brockster]

I think the retentions dept is quite the joke there. I called after my retentions was up, was told that I needed to call back in 2 weeks when the "computer" would allow my account to get another offer. That was a week ago, called and told to call back today so that is really when the "computer" would allow another offer.

So, called today and was told no offer until June. I asked for a supervisor who then told me that my account will NEVER be eligible for another retention offer due to previous offers. I told him I am will be cancelling my account as soon as my 2 year contract is over and asked him why I was told 2 different things by 2 customer service reps and then he said I would never be eligible. He had no answer.

I asked him when my 2 year contract is over and that I will be calling back then to cancel. I am going with my HD Antenna and getting rid of these a$$clowns.

What a joke retentions has become. (Bell was always a joke!)

[TE7]

I canceled my account after they refused to give me a PVR 9141.
Bell called me back after 2 days and I got 40% programming discount for a year, two 6131 receivers rent free for 2 years, and free movie pack for 2 months. I bought 2x640Gb (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/wm-640gb-external-hard-drive-50-a-891592/15/#post10894183) HDD from Wal-Mart ($50 each) and now I have dual tuner PVR. :D

[ajadudu]

Need some advice. I am moving end of September. My Bell contract tied me in till December 2010, 2 years contract. I plan to jump ship to cogeco. What options do I have with Bell?
I know I can cancel all my channels except the digital standard, but can I tell them I no longer want to rent the HD-PVR and standard receiver I currently rent and stop getting billed for that? Looking for options ideally not to pay bell or worst pay as little on the last 3 months of my contract.

[julienvf]

I canceled my account after they refused to give me a PVR 9141.
Bell called me back after 2 days and I got 40% programming discount for a year, two 6131 receivers rent free for 2 years, and free movie pack for 2 months. I bought 2x640Gb (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/wm-640gb-external-hard-drive-50-a-891592/15/#post10894183) HDD from Wal-Mart ($50 each) and now I have dual tuner PVR. :D

Hmm.. so that's how they work now? You have to cancel and a couple days later, they call you back. Interresting.

[Dare1]

I was on a 50% off for 6 months. Was told at the time of this last discount, to simply call back to obtain a new 50% discount. After calls to the Bell TV loyalty team, which is a joke, talked to the manager and emails to the exec office, I was told no more offers for me. I was told by the manager that Bell does not offer discounts now, which is BS. I was told no by the Exec office. So I cancelled. In contacting the loyalty team to cancel, they tried to save me. Too little, too late. The loyalty person told me that since I received 2 Bell TV discount offers in a twelve month period, I could not receive a new discount. A change in policy and their system prevents a new discount offer. I was offered instead a discount on phone and internet to help compensate for no Bell TV discount, but I just laughed. Bell does not get it IMO. The competition is offering substantial discounts. And it will cost Bell more in the end to try to win back customers then setting a reasonable, competitive fee structure up front. So moving on to the competition. Have had it with Bell pricing.

[don242]

Need some advice. I am moving end of September. My Bell contract tied me in till December 2010, 2 years contract. I plan to jump ship to cogeco. What options do I have with Bell?
I know I can cancel all my channels except the digital standard, but can I tell them I no longer want to rent the HD-PVR and standard receiver I currently rent and stop getting billed for that? Looking for options ideally not to pay bell or worst pay as little on the last 3 months of my contract.

If you agreed to the contract, you are stuck with it unless you pay the penalty. You can downgrade your services as you mentioned. Why not just stay with them till December, then switch?

[karmanwalia]

First bill after renewing the contract for 1 year, and I get charged for 7 HD receivers + 1 SD receiver. That are 8 receivers in total.
Will need to call them and spend an hour trying to sort out the billing mess.

[fat1138]

First bill after renewing the contract for 1 year, and I get charged for 7 HD receivers + 1 SD receiver. That are 8 receivers in total.
Will need to call them and spend an hour trying to sort out the billing mess.

billing sometimes is a nightmare from bell,three calls three bills later got correction

[beripari]

billing sometimes is a nightmare from bell,three calls three bills later got correction
Wow, they've improved! It took me 6-7 months to get billing back on track -- of course with SEVERAL "goodwill" credits thrown in to cover my incessant time on the phone with them as a "part-time" Bell employee!!

[julienvf]

First bill after renewing the contract for 1 year, and I get charged for 7 HD receivers + 1 SD receiver. That are 8 receivers in total.
Will need to call them and spend an hour trying to sort out the billing mess.

Can you even have 8 receivers activated in one account? Thought the limit was 6 max...

[darklord700]

The loyalty person told me that since I received 2 Bell TV discount offers in a twelve month period, I could not receive a new discount. A change in policy and their system prevents a new discount offer.

Seems like no discount to serial discounters like us is the norm these days. Fair enough, we'll just come back in a year and be treated like new subscribers and get the win-back discount instead.

[oasis221]

Well my 30% discount ended and tried retentions and the best she could offer was 10%. Said forget it and canceled my service. Will see if I get a call and if not its on to Rogers

[baz5]

I've missed three calls since I've cancelled, but keep missing them.
I'm sure Bell knows about this post. I'm guessing their strategy now is to see if people are bluffing and let them cancel, then phone them and see if they can get them back. Interested to see what they will say when they phone, but I'm sure they can't come anywhere close to the $9.99 offer Shaw has.

[ChzPlz]

I got a thing in the mail from Shaw today, and they are offering basic Cable and basic HD for $9.95 a month, with a free HDPVR and another receive for the next year.

Has anyone got a link to this deal?

[baz5]

Had a flyer in the mail. I'm in Manitoba, not sure if it's for all of Ontario, but they did ask if I was in Thunder Bay. I don't know how much Shaw covers now? But if you phone they should know about it.

Anyways, Bell phoned today and I got it. They offered 30% off and free PVR for a year again. I said no thanks though.

Can't remember if I posted it, but Shaw's is $9.99 for Basic channels, includes TSN and RSN West. ANd I think because I have my interent and phone with them, I get the HDPVR and basic HD channels. And they have a $19.99 package which has a bunch more channels, but the basic seemed like it had most of what I watch anyways. May upgrade to Sports package to get all of RSN and also Raptors TV.

** Number it says to phone is 1 888 642 9946.

[Hugh Jass]

I've missed three calls since I've cancelled, but keep missing them.
I'm sure Bell knows about this post. I'm guessing their strategy now is to see if people are bluffing and let them cancel, then phone them and see if they can get them back. Interested to see what they will say when they phone, but I'm sure they can't come anywhere close to the $9.99 offer Shaw has.

Quite possible. Last retention deal I got, CSR had told me that I'd no more discounts available. I told him I could do better so please cancel all my bell accounts ( tv, dsl and homephone). He put me on extended hold and came back on every few minutes with a "Are you sure about this sir?".

Eventually some senior lady came on and I told her I was prepared to cancel. She gave me 30% programming and $4 a month of Internet, both for six months. Will play same game again soon.

[fmpsportsguy2]

My take is Bell is aware that people are using this forum to get "retention" deals..and thus have stopped giving loyal and long time customers anymore deals. Which for them is a crap shoot.. remember everyone can play the "new customer game" and cancel one service, and take advantage of a better offer as a new customer somewhere else...

this is where the marketing idiots think they earn their money by getting new customers to sign up.. justifying their jobs.. when in fact it is in keeping your existing base paying you monthly... you have to have something the other guy doesn't have...... maybe BELL is thinking people won't think it is worth the hassle??

so... if and when you ask for a deal, suggest to them the fact as a loyal customer, you feel cheated that just because you are on their "books'.. and you don't deserve to be rewarded for being LOYAL.. then perhaps you will play the new customer game, and move all your services to another provider... complain about their prices.. complain about their billing problems..

[ibeleaf]

Anyone know what this means? A new line on my Bell bill says " HD/PVR Flag $0.00".

Curious about this too. Bell had better not be getting ready to charge me for the "privilege" of having a PVR...

[MacGyver]

Curious about this too. Bell had better not be getting ready to charge me for the "privilege" of having a PVR...Bell has a new deal if you move; if you have at least one HD receiver, then you get ALL receivers installed free at your new place. Otherwise, the first receiver is free, and the rest are $50 a pop.

EDIT: I called the retention department today (June 9th 2010) and told them I was moving in two weeks and what kind of offers they could give me in response to the endless onslaught of Rogers ads. As a six year customer with only SD programming, I had no trouble getting the 9241 free for a year, but since I have bare bones programming with one theme, and no other Bell services, they could not offer me a discount. Plus, because I am going HD, I now get a new dish, SW44 multiswitch, and all of my receivers connected for free. It would have cost me a fair bit of time and money to do all that myself, so I think it's a good deal. Especially since I have better things to do moving into a new home.

Also, no contract.

[julienvf]

got 10% off my Bell TV bill without contract (+bell bundle 10$ off) and 5$/month rebate on my phone bill (+ bell bundle deal 5$ off) with a 1-year term. I didn't argue much but I'll give it a shot after a couple months... I doubt Bell will give me 30% off after 3 months being a Bell TV client and just after I bought 6 brand new HD receivers...

[karmanwalia]

Can you even have 8 receivers activated in one account? Thought the limit was 6 max...

Yes, six is the limit. They added the SD recievers i had returned and came to the grand total of 8. So they said they are crediting the rentals back to my account. Waiting for the next bill now.

[oasis221]

Well my 30% discount ended and tried retentions and the best she could offer was 10%. Said forget it and canceled my service. Will see if I get a call and if not its on to Rogers

Well retentions called back over the weekend and offered the 30% for another year. :lol:

[djino]

Well retentions called back over the weekend and offered the 30% for another year. :lol:

Sweet good stuff. I'll try that again myself when my 30% ends in October. So far I've received it for 2 years straight.

djino

[androidus]

My 40% promotion just ended. When I called the first CSR couldn't offer any deal but when I mentioned the possibilty of canceling they transferred me to retentions. Retentions first offered 20% but I when I told them I was aware of others receiving 30% the CSR went away for a moment to (supposedly) talk to a higher-up and came back with the 30%. This was easier than I thought since I didn't have to actually cancel and wait for retentions to call back.

[redgrandam]

Anyone got any tips for retentions for me?

I have been having some problems with their 9241 receiver since I got it. After much troubleshooting with them, it's a software problem that they are 'working on' for a while now. Because of this I suspended our programming for the summer because I was frustrated. Well I decided today to call them to cancel, since i don't want to keep paying for it for the summer if I'm just going to cancel it anyways.

Long story short, they had no problem meeting my request for a free PVR rental for 12 months, but I wanted some programming discount too (since rogers would also give a free PVR if we switched, and not a rental) but all they would do is a $5/month credit on programming. I was hoping for more like 30% off, since with all this I'll still have to live with a crappy receiver until they finally release the update.

[sml]

So, here's my retention story: Had been with BEV for 6 years, the last year I had 40% off programming and the previous year I had 30% off. The years before that I got some free HDPVR rental periods and eventually a discount on the purchase of the 9241. My 40% off had expired a few months back and I got an offer from Shaw cable for $10/month basic tv with free HDPVR rental for 1 yr. Called up Bell to see if there's a reason to stay with them and the best they could offer me was 20% off. My bill's $45/month so 20% off is $36. With similiar channel lineup at Shaw for $10/month, I'm saving $26/month for 12 months = $312 and with the free HDPVR rental I'm not missing out on having to replace hardware for a while. I'm sad to leave and I know I have been given lots of freebies in the past from Bell but at the end of the day, I have as much loyalty to them as they have to me. I don't know what I'm going to do after my 12 months with Shaw, but I do know that in the meantime I'm saving $312 for the next 12 months without giving up anything and Bell is out $36/month in revenue for the next 12 months because they don't want to throw me a bigger bone. Hope others can benefit from my experience.

[WallyCarbo]

Cancelled beginning of June because of 10% off programming offered. 30 day wait time before cancellation so hoping for a phone call back. I did and got 30% off programing, rental free HD PVR for 1 year, 6 months free of 4 HD theme packs, installation and switch free.
Sounds like the standard as of now.
But you might have to call there bluff and wait for the call after cancellation.

Good Luck

[dirk]

My 40% promo is ending so I called Bell last night; best they would do is 20% which I said wasn't good enough. She did offer a number of useless (to me) hardware upgrades such as free PVR rental. She actually said if I liked it I could purchase the PVR at the end of the year. I replied I wasn't confident Bell you let me do that next year as I was unable to do so last year.

I said add discount to my account, hoping to catch the current billing cycle, but I will be calling back to cancel as soon as I schedule my new installation.

[redgrandam]

I said add discount to my account, hoping to catch the current billing cycle, but I will be calling back to cancel as soon as I schedule my new installation.

Do they do a new installation EVERY year when you sign on a retentions deal with a free PVR for a year? Seems so pointless. I'm waiting right now for the installer to come and replace my rental 9241 with another 9241 as I just signed a retention offer. What a waste of equipment / time / money. Wouldn't it be better for us and THEM if they would just do a credit of $20/mo for a year?

[ggparts]

My 40% promo is ending so I called Bell last night; best they would do is 20% which I said wasn't good enough. She did offer a number of useless (to me) hardware upgrades such as free PVR rental. She actually said if I liked it I could purchase the PVR at the end of the year. I replied I wasn't confident Bell you let me do that next year as I was unable to do so last year.

I said add discount to my account, hoping to catch the current billing cycle, but I will be calling back to cancel as soon as I schedule my new installation.

I have had 40% for a year just ended they would not budge past 10% I have called twice so far (during second call CSR mentioned that I had called before)
I suggested I will cancell but want to confirm new installation dates from Roger first.
Hope they will call with better offer
Will post if I get the call.

[baz5]

So I'm on Shaw now, and wow their PVR is disappointing lol. It seems like it's the first PVR ever made. Bell should be using that as a selling point to retain customers.

[dirk]

Sorry for confusion, I didn't take the PVR as I own my 9242 and I will be calling to cancel as soon as I schedule Rogers or Shaw for an install. I did not sign or agree to a contract, it's added to my account and I can cancel service at any time.

The swap you are waiting on is the PVR she told me I would be able to buy if I wished at end of the free rental period.


Do they do a new installation EVERY year when you sign on a retentions deal with a free PVR for a year? Seems so pointless. I'm waiting right now for the installer to come and replace my rental 9241 with another 9241 as I just signed a retention offer. What a waste of equipment / time / money. Wouldn't it be better for us and THEM if they would just do a credit of $20/mo for a year?

[Hugh Jass]

I have had 40% for a year just ended they would not budge past 10% I have called twice so far (during second call CSR mentioned that I had called before)
I suggested I will cancell but want to confirm new installation dates from Roger first.
Hope they will call with better offer
Will post if I get the call.

What's your monthly bill?

[redgrandam]

Sorry for confusion, I didn't take the PVR as I own my 9242 and I will be calling to cancel as soon as I schedule Rogers or Shaw for an install. I did not sign or agree to a contract, it's added to my account and I can cancel service at any time.

The swap you are waiting on is the PVR she told me I would be able to buy if I wished at end of the free rental period.

They never said anything about buying it at the end, but as you know that doesn't usually work. Sure we will sell you one, but a 'new' one again. lol. What a terrible system

[razz1329]

Just tried for 30% off because mine had run out in May. Ended up with 20% off, free HD PVR for a year and free HD channels for 6 months. Rep would not budge past the 20%. Pretty satisfied as it is a hardware upgrade for me, but maybe I should have pushed harder for the 30%!

[redgrandam]

Just tried for 30% off because mine had run out in May. Ended up with 20% off, free HD PVR for a year and free HD channels for 6 months. Rep would not budge past the 20%. Pretty satisfied as it is a hardware upgrade for me, but maybe I should have pushed harder for the 30%!

Beats my 10% I got (and free PVR). they wouldn't go any higher for me. Technically I was still under contract though (I found out after due to their miss information), so I'll leave it till next year then I'll go for something higher for sure...

[nufan]

Curious for those Bell experts out there, I signed up July 31 of 2009 for a 1 year contract which will be ending July 31st of this year. Do I wait until August 1st to call up to try get a retention deal? Can I try after my July bill has printed seeing as I am paying the month in advance past my contract date? When do you guys call up?

I am prepared to quit if I don't get a decent deal (seems 30% is the going rate and seems pretty reasonable) as MTS has some pretty aggressive pricing at the moment, though I do like everything about the Bell service apart from the price :)

[Hugh Jass]

Curious for those Bell experts out there, I signed up July 31 of 2009 for a 1 year contract which will be ending July 31st of this year. Do I wait until August 1st to call up to try get a retention deal? Can I try after my July bill has printed seeing as I am paying the month in advance past my contract date? When do you guys call up?

I am prepared to quit if I don't get a decent deal (seems 30% is the going rate and seems pretty reasonable) as MTS has some pretty aggressive pricing at the moment, though I do like everything about the Bell service apart from the price :)

IMO, call before your contract ends, otherwise you'll be asking for credits which could take months.

[Bathgate]

I have been with Bell now for years and am not under contract. The bill is in my gf's name, not mine.

I want to upgrade my recievers and purchase a couple of hd pvr's.

Is there a way to get around having to pay $499 each for them?

Do I cancel my service and then put it in my name as a new customer?

Thanks for your help.

[redgrandam]

I have been with Bell now for years and am not under contract. The bill is in my gf's name, not mine.

I want to upgrade my recievers and purchase a couple of hd pvr's.

Is there a way to get around having to pay $499 each for them?

Do I cancel my service and then put it in my name as a new customer?

Thanks for your help.

She will have to set you up as an authorized person to make changes on the account. You should be able to sign into a new contract through detentions and get better prices and rentals on pvr. It us pretty easy to call them up and get ten percent off programming and at least a year of free pvr rental. After the year though you will have to renegotiate. Just tell them about the Rogers or other company promotions where you get a free pvr to switch.

[nufan]

1 year contract ends at the end of July for me. Called them up and they offered 20% off and 6 months free PVR. Not really interested in the PVR but was hoping for at least 30% off, she said they no longer have access to offer that though. Really can't be bothered waiting around for a Bell rep to stop by as they are usually late/don't show and when they do they take so long.

Is this the standard deal or should I hold out longer?

[TE7]

Received my first bill after discount and had to call 5 times to remove receiver rental fees.
That was expected anyway but my advice is to check your bill carefully every month.

[nufan]

ended up getting next month free ($84 value) and 20% off per month for a year after that (around $200 value over the year). Pretty happy considering I've only been a customer for a year. Almost took the PVR free for 6 months but I knew I'd want to keep it once I had the dual tuner receiver, and didn't want the expense in 6 months time :) Also the poor quality and unreliable installers turned me off that as well, didn't want to take a whole day of work in hopes that they would show up when they said.

Thanks for the thread, great savings to be had!

[samboscully]

It took me over 6 months to finally get my 20% discount squared away with these morons. Had to make one last final call today to clear up a balance owing that shouldn't have been on my bill because of their screw ups.

Just an FYI for those that are just dealing with retentions now. Write everything down and make sure you check your bill every month after you make a deal.

I think they must want to make it so frustrating for people that they finally just give up and forget about their promised discount.

Unfortunately for them I would not go away.

[redgrandam]

It took me over 6 months to finally get my 20% discount squared away with these morons. Had to make one last final call today to clear up a balance owing that shouldn't have been on my bill because of their screw ups.

Just an FYI for those that are just dealing with retentions now. Write everything down and make sure you check your bill every month after you make a deal.

I think they must want to make it so frustrating for people that they finally just give up and forget about their promised discount.

Unfortunately for them I would not go away.

Funny how they do these 'save offers' to save you as a customer, and then they screw that up too. Just drives me away as a customer. Of all the people they need to bill correctly, I think it should be the ones that are thinking of leaving, i.e. signing up for save offers.

[PeteAce]

I originally just had a basic regular programming + TalentVision for $47+taxes. Thanks to this thread, I was able to phone in and got it down to $39 per month for the next 12 months (they said I can always call in at the end of that and renew the discount). I also got 24 months free HD receiver and basic programming + installation of a new line into the HD TV.

Not as good as some of the other offers here, but I really do not have a big monthly fee to start with. I felt that I couldn't get any lower, I was on the phone with the same rep for close to an hour.

[sml]

They ALWAYS say that you can call back when the promo period is over to get the same discount but that's rarely true. That rep will be long gone in 12 months time and the next rep could care less. At least that's my experience.

[Sergio]

Guys, I had 40% off, and free 12 months of HD/PVR receiver. My bill has not almost doubled.

Today. I paying full price on programming and 20$ extra for HD/PVR per month. After call they can only offer me 10% or 10$ off Bell TV price. The guy suggested I take the 10$ since it is higher.

The rep said that the 30%, 20% discounts have stopped 3 months ago.

I need better, can you guys let me know how far I push them before I cancel.

Also for receiver, has anyone negotiated to buy or continue to get free rental on loaner Bell receiver?

Thanks...
Sergio

[Hugh Jass]

The rep said that the 30%, 20% discounts have stopped 3 months ago.



Which is an obvious lie, as per posts here recently. I think the 40% might be gone.

If I were you, I'd find a good deal with a competitor and tell Bell you're going with that unless you get a better deal than $10 off. Follow through with the cancellation. They'll probably call you afterwards anyway, once they've seen you're not bluffing.

[Sergio]

Ok make sense! What about receiver? Also in Quebec what are my options, just in case I really cancel?
Sergio


Which is an obvious lie, as per posts here recently. I think the 40% might be gone.

If I were you, I'd find a good deal with a competitor and tell Bell you're going with that unless you get a better deal than $10 off. Follow through with the cancellation. They'll probably call you afterwards anyway, once they've seen you're not bluffing.

[mapleleafs89]

Ive been with Bell TV for 7 years and pretty much had the same package ever since. $82 / month for SD + The Movie Network and 5 Theme packs. I dont want in a contract though, because I want to switch to Bells FibeTV once its officially launched in more locations.

So if I call in, what should I be looking to get if I dont want a contract. It would be nice to get an HD receiver, I dont need the full PVR, but Im not into that crap, get free for 1 year if you sign a contract or whatever because I want the option to leave for FibeTV at any time.

[barter2007]

My 1 year 30% off and free HD PVR was finished, so I called in to close my account. I got 20% and a free HD PVR for another year, although I had to pay the 100 dollar deposit on my VISA which will be reimbursed. A installer also has to come to the house to swap out the PVR for a new one, which does not make any sense and cost Bell money but that's the way it has to be.

[mapleleafs89]

lol thats pretty stupid imo

[peano]

My 1 year 30% off and free HD PVR was finished, so I called in to close my account. I got 20% and a free HD PVR for another year, although I had to pay the 100 dollar deposit on my VISA which will be reimbursed. A installer also has to come to the house to swap out the PVR for a new one, which does not make any sense and cost Bell money but that's the way it has to be.

I bet you are now locked in for 2 years.

[visionqueen]

thanks op

[bubble.tea]

Got 20+free several years ago. Just now couldn't get 30% :(., nor free hdpvr :(... only 20%., paid pvr...wtf.

I need motivation folks :).

[redgrandam]

My 1 year 30% off and free HD PVR was finished, so I called in to close my account. I got 20% and a free HD PVR for another year, although I had to pay the 100 dollar deposit on my VISA which will be reimbursed. A installer also has to come to the house to swap out the PVR for a new one, which does not make any sense and cost Bell money but that's the way it has to be.
I had to do the same thing with deposit and swap out the receiver. a huge pain when you have to reprogram all your favorites, recordings etc for nothing. And yes, it's a huge waste of their time and money. They booked my installer for a full HD install from scratch, so he said that is what he was getting paid for, in reality he only pulled out a 9241 then activated a new one. For the $100 deposit (not sure why they can't just bill you after if you aren't there for the apointment), they will charge it on your home phone bill if you have that with them, then they credit back on there. I did it that way.

[barter2007]

I bet you are now locked in for 2 years.

Nope just one year same as the last time.

[mapleleafs89]

I called in and got this

- HD PVR free 1 year
- 20% discount + $5 discount for HD (which I assume everyone gets)
- no contract

So maybe I will call in, in another month since im not on a contract and cancel to try and get even more :)


EDIT: does anyone know if they do the same thing with the internet?

[redgrandam]

I called in and got this

- HD PVR free 1 year
- 20% discount + $5 discount for HD (which I assume everyone gets)
- no contract

So maybe I will call in, in another month since im not on a contract and cancel to try and get even more :)


EDIT: does anyone know if they do the same thing with the internet?

What more do you think you will get? And how did you get that with no contract? Generally the contract is a given, you got a really good deal considering the no contract part.

[bubble.tea]

I called in and got this

- HD PVR free 1 year
- 20% discount + $5 discount for HD (which I assume everyone gets)
- no contract

So maybe I will call in, in another month since im not on a contract and cancel to try and get even more :)


EDIT: does anyone know if they do the same thing with the internet?

Pls say if you're a first time dealer., or 2nd or 3rd.
I find it frankly impossible that you got no contract. Is no contract with this offer even possible?

[mapleleafs89]

This is the first time Ive called in saying I was canceling so maybe thats why. Also the fact Ive been with them for 7 years for TV might help + Home phone + Internet even longer.

I wasnt expecting it to be no contract but yeah I asked him multiple times and he said there was no contract or commitment which pleased me very much.

[Hugh Jass]

I called in and got this

- HD PVR free 1 year
-


EDIT: does anyone know if they do the same thing with the internet?

Is this a new HD install?

Yes, they'll do you a deal if you attempt to cancel Internet.

[mapleleafs89]

Yes its new HD install.

Free install, which i expected.

[mjl]

I only got 20% after the 30% ran out. I also have to return the pvr but they gave me a $50 bonus. I have been phoning and telling them that I was to have the pvr for another year. So far they have been giving me a credit voucher towards the next month. The people at bell are fried!

[dealCker]

Pls say if you're a first time dealer., or 2nd or 3rd.
I find it frankly impossible that you got no contract. Is no contract with this offer even possible?

Is there any reason why you find it impossible?
After all you're just dealing with a CSR who is entering information into a provisioning and billing system.
Unless you sign a contract or at the very least agree to their call script that ask/tell you are going to be on a contract, you aren't bound to it


Not trying to flame, but trying to figure what you are assuming or experienced to think that a contract is required.

[redgrandam]

Is there any reason why you find it impossible?
After all you're just dealing with a CSR who is entering information into a provisioning and billing system.
Unless you sign a contract or at the very least agree to their call script that ask/tell you are going to be on a contract, you aren't bound to it


Not trying to flame, but trying to figure what you are assuming or experienced to think that a contract is required.

Usually it is, and it makes sense. Did you ask about a contract? Or just assume since it wasn't mentioned that a contract was not involved. If it just wasn't mentioned, I would call up and ask of you were put in a contract, because there is a good possibility you were.

[dealCker]

Usually it is, and it makes sense. Did you ask about a contract? Or just assume since it wasn't mentioned that a contract was not involved. If it just wasn't mentioned, I would call up and ask of you were put in a contract, because there is a good possibility you were.

It also does make sense that month to month contract is the first option after a contract is over (I'm betting you'll find that in your original contract). for example, if you are a 2 year contract, on your 25 month you have gone to a month to month contract and that is where you are at.

and since we are dealing in renewals after a contract has expired, I would find the probability that no contract is more likely the casee.

Bell would have some issues if they tried to hold a person to a 2 year "contract" if the customer doesn't agree to it or physically sign a contract. The consumer has to agree to it. (especially over the phone where there is no paper contract)

I made no assumptions and made sure I had no contract during my calls with them
Remember that we are dealing with CSRs with provisioning and billing systems and these systems are falliable.

All I am getting at is that each person will have varying experiences and that you can't assume that you get the same experience. All things are possible, just ask for it. after all, if some of us didn't read this thread, we wouldn't ask to get a discount in the first place :-) and on top of that ask not to be on contract as part of the negotiation.

see following links for others who state they weren't put on contract.
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/10167352-post1157/
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/bell-expressvu-hd-retention-free-pvr-1-year-free-hd-receiver-2-years-550508/75/#post9896764
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/9116776-post874/

[redgrandam]

All inwas saying is that they 'usually' have you enter into a new contract for the length of the promo you are signing with. If you didn't have to, that's awesome, just sometimes it can sneak up on you. When your contract ends, yes you would go month to month. Usually to get free install on something they want to make sure you will stay with them, which they seem to do with the retention offers, where they come install a replacement receiver.

[tomtong]

I called earlier and enquire about my contract, I was told there's none other than the very first one I signed 12 years ago. However, I have a contract of the HDPVR rental for 12 months they offered. To me, it's almost the same as a contract. However, since they reimbursed the rental fee upfront, it may be a different story.

[Vladimir]

so my 30% discount comes off this month so I called the retentions line, and like others have recently stated they said "Sorry the 30% discount no longer exists, highest we can give is 20%"
I said well, the agent last year promised us that we could call back in a year and get the 30% discount again, he then said ok well max I can do is 20% however I can transfer you to my manager he might be able to do something for you.
Talked to the manager and he siad can't offer it, my only options is 20% of or cut out programming to reduce costs.
not sure what im going to do

[DarthNihilius]

Ive been with Bell TV for 7 years and pretty much had the same package ever since. $82 / month for SD + The Movie Network and 5 Theme packs. I dont want in a contract though, because I want to switch to Bells FibeTV once its officially launched in more locations.

So if I call in, what should I be looking to get if I dont want a contract. It would be nice to get an HD receiver, I dont need the full PVR, but Im not into that crap, get free for 1 year if you sign a contract or whatever because I want the option to leave for FibeTV at any time.

Don't hold your breath on Bell Fibe rolling out Nationwide soon. I can't see that happening for a while.

[mapleleafs89]

Im not talking nation wide. Bell FibeTV is already in some areas of Toronto which is near me and they will be expanding to all of the 416/905 area next. I am estimating 3-8 months for it to be available to me. Ive already got Fibe 25 available to me so those are the areas where it will be available the soonest because neighbourhoods with outdated lines and equipment will need more upgrades to support the service.

Anyways, I just called bell for internet and ended up getting 10$ off for 1 year with contract. Doesnt matter to me Ive been with bell for 10 years so.. They also offered me 1 month free first but that was 45$ off vs $120. Now paying 40$ with my bell bundle discount for Fibe 12 service.

[bubble.tea]

Is there any reason why you find it impossible?....
Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.

Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

[beripari]

I'm not on contract ... I asked numerous times during my various negotiations. My 12 month "discount period" (not contract): 50% off programming (AND PVR's we purchased both from Bell AND elsewhere) come due in a few months. I know I won't get anywhere near that again.

[dealCker]

Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.
I only gave 3 examples, there are more out there, all you gotta do is use the technology and search.



Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

As soon as you agree to continue to subscribe for even the next month they've gotten that revenue.
Of course they'll want to max their profits by having you pay full price but they also realize that a customer given a discount at any profit margin and sometimes a loss is better than a customer with the competition. They are betting that you will stay with them because of the discount. (You know, like all them other fun Marketing strategies to get you to try the product at a discounted price and then continue to buy that product and potentially purchase other services from you.)



The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

It's not about being special, it's more about being open minded and seeing that companies will do business differently than the way you think/assume the business is done.

From what I've read here, I see that everyone is going to get different deals depending on each situation. i.e. from the person who gets 10% to the person who had gotten 40 or even 50%plus other perks (including no contract). Bell is probably happiest to give the least amount as possible, but they are looking at retaining a customer for a variety of reasons.

To me it's all about getting / negotiating a deal you can live with.
Oh well, if it still bewilders you, I hope you one day accept it and can find some peace ;-) Good luck in your quest for accepting that people can receive deals you don't believe in. ;)

[krd67]

Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.

Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

My 40% off ran out in Jan. I called and received 30% for 12 months, NO contract!

[akuma2]

Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.

Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

Dude.... don't be an idiot. Bell's retention department's job is to retain customers, not drive them away. Offering a perk to an existing customer to remain is easier than trying to solicite new business from new customers. I've received several retentions offers from Rogers and Bell over the past 10 years, none of them requiring me to be locked into a contract. The fact that you're bewildered tells me that you aren't a serious negotiator. Here's a tip, don't be afraid to walk away from your existing service if they aren't offering you something worthwhile to remain a customer. Tip #2 don't get too greedy, accept a reasonable offer if presented. Rememeber, if the competition is offering something worthwhile and Bell says "we'll match so long as you sign a new contract," you haven't gained anything. In fact you've lost.

[beripari]

Here's a tip, don't be afraid to walk away from your existing service if they aren't offering you something worthwhile to remain a customer.
That's exactly what I did before getting the 50%! Cancelled it right there & then & told them phone would be next! They opend a new account.

[micronta]

Called in and I didn't even mention the no contract, the CSR said it herself. Like everyone else says, it seems harder now to even get 30 % off. Was only able to get 20 % which is better than nothing. I think I could have gotten 30 % if I really cancel which I'm not going to do although the Telus deals looks tempting. Basically it comes down to how unsatisfied you are and how far you're willing to go to get the deal.

[wiebecj]

I just got 20% off after getting 40% for a while - bill's going up!! Oh well.. I am too lazy to fight for more

[mapleleafs89]

Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.

Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

I said to the rep, and this is a one year contract right, he said no, no contract. Asked him a few more times throughout the conversation as well. I think it is because I was with them for so long, almost 7 years for TV, 10 years for internet, phone beginning of time.

[bubble.tea]

... Tip #2 don't get too greedy..
What do you define as too greedy?

The discount is pretty much across the board now 20%. Nobody has said they're getting the free hdpvr renewed as well in the last weeks? (Unless I missed it..in which case Great! I'll try for that also lol). I'm not expecting much, but once again., the # of people saying they got offers without renewals are extremely far and few between, Just stating fact. If you're saying that's being greedy, I say why? If you claim it's routinely being offered. Anyway., ymmv ftw!

Am I being too easy on the Bell EV negotiations...definately-my first settlement made me lazy., I guess I'll try a few moar times.

[bubble.tea]

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> Press #2 for all other options
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription

FYI., this sequence is incorrect. I tried it a few times and it didn't work.

You need #6 for 'other options'., then #3 for cancel. Something like that anyway :).

Anyway, the #2 and #3 have changed.

I think I had tried that back in January and couldn't get through-hence I never tried again since then lol.

[bubble.tea]

Score:

20%., freeJust wanted to point out.

The free HDPVR offer is a single-tuner. We have a dual-tuner., Has anybody received a dual-tuner free hdpvr offer RECENTLY?

Was told Bell is releasing/working on a *new* dual-tuner hence none available.

I opted to get call-back from the kind rep., still undecided if we *really* need dual-tuner or if the $20x12 is worth dropping down.

Oh well., accepted the offer.

2nd time around :).

After all our discussions, I completely forgot to ask if it was a term basis or not. Am I incorrect in assuming that if they offer you a discount for a fixed term...there is a contract associated? How could they give you 20/30/50% discount for 12months, but it not be attached in the system to a term renewal? It may as well be an indefinate credit then?:razz:

[wiebecj]

I didn't get put on contract again - just got 12 months of discount (I don't have a pvr rental or anything through them)


Score:

20%., freeJust wanted to point out.

The free HDPVR offer is a single-tuner. We have a dual-tuner., Has anybody received a dual-tuner free hdpvr offer RECENTLY?

Was told Bell is releasing/working on a *new* dual-tuner hence none available.

I opted to get call-back from the kind rep., still undecided if we *really* need dual-tuner or if the $20x12 is worth dropping down.

Oh well., accepted the offer.

2nd time around :).

After all our discussions, I completely forgot to ask if it was a term basis or not. Am I incorrect in assuming that if they offer you a discount for a fixed term...there is a contract associated? How could they give you 20/30/50% discount for 12months, but it not be attached in the system to a term renewal? It may as well be an indefinate credit then?:razz:

[djino]

Score:

20%., freeJust wanted to point out.

The free HDPVR offer is a single-tuner. We have a dual-tuner., Has anybody received a dual-tuner free hdpvr offer RECENTLY?

Was told Bell is releasing/working on a *new* dual-tuner hence none available.

I opted to get call-back from the kind rep., still undecided if we *really* need dual-tuner or if the $20x12 is worth dropping down.

Oh well., accepted the offer.

2nd time around :).

After all our discussions, I completely forgot to ask if it was a term basis or not. Am I incorrect in assuming that if they offer you a discount for a fixed term...there is a contract associated? How could they give you 20/30/50% discount for 12months, but it not be attached in the system to a term renewal? It may as well be an indefinate credit then?:razz:

With those retention offers, you are only obligated to another 12 month term is if they are sending out a new rental (where a tech comes out to install). Otherwise no term, just month to month.

djino

[mapleleafs89]

With those retention offers, you are only obligated to another 12 month term is if they are sending out a new rental (where a tech comes out to install). Otherwise no term, just month to month.

djino

I have no contract, and its a new HD install with tech coming in tuesday to install HD PVR and second arm on the satellite.

[djino]

I have no contract, and its a new HD install with tech coming in tuesday to install HD PVR and second arm on the satellite.

If thats what Bell told u then u are in for a rude awakening when the installer makes u sign a 12 month rental agreement before he leaves.

djino

[mapleleafs89]

Then ill send him on his way so he will have to uninstall everything.

[redgrandam]

Score:

20%., freeJust wanted to point out.

The free HDPVR offer is a single-tuner. We have a dual-tuner., Has anybody received a dual-tuner free hdpvr offer RECENTLY?

Was told Bell is releasing/working on a *new* dual-tuner hence none available.

I opted to get call-back from the kind rep., still undecided if we *really* need dual-tuner or if the $20x12 is worth dropping down.

Oh well., accepted the offer.

2nd time around :).

After all our discussions, I completely forgot to ask if it was a term basis or not. Am I incorrect in assuming that if they offer you a discount for a fixed term...there is a contract associated? How could they give you 20/30/50% discount for 12months, but it not be attached in the system to a term renewal? It may as well be an indefinate credit then?:razz:

Umm. What single tuner pvr are you talking about? Bell doesn't even sell a single tuner one right now. The standard offer of free pvr for a year is the 9241 which is dual tuner (single tv) HD PVR.

[djino]

Then ill send him on his way so he will have to uninstall everything.

Then thats what you'll have to do :D

djino

[Sloan55]

Just found this thread recently and wanted to post my experience. Live in the Niagara Region and switched my home phone to Cogeco and was going to switch TV to them as well. This was in April. When I called Bell to cancel my contract, I had no idea that they had a retentions department. When they transfered me to it, within 2 minutes, after telling them the deal Cogeco was offering me, they gave me 50% off my entire bill (excluding my PVR rentals) for 6 months. Didn't know if that was good or bad, but I am saving almost $40 per month for the next 6 months. Will call Cogeco again just near the end of my contract and see what they can offer me and then go back at Bell and try again.

[bubble.tea]

Umm. What single tuner pvr are you talking about? Bell doesn't even sell a single tuner one right now. The standard offer of free pvr for a year is the 9241 which is dual tuner (single tv) HD PVR.

No clue. I'm just saying what the rep said.

Single Tune HD PVR., record one show at a time
Dual Tuner HD PVR., record TWO shows at a time., can output feed to two separate tvs, you get two remotes, to control the image to the two tvs independantly & concurrently.

Are we talking about the same thing?

I got the impression that there is only a free HDPVR for the Single-Tuner currently.

[sml]

No clue. I'm just saying what the rep said.

Single Tune HD PVR., record one show at a time
Dual Tuner HD PVR., record TWO shows at a time., can output feed to two separate tvs, you get two remotes, to control the image to the two tvs independantly & concurrently.

Are we talking about the same thing?

I got the impression that there is only a free HDPVR for the Single-Tuner currently.

I'm pretty sure Bell does not have a single tuner HDPVR. The rep is probably confused between single tv output HDPVR vs single tuner HDPVR.
So to recap:
- dual tuner HDPVR with 1 tv output - 9241 (current model)
- dual tuner HDPVR with 2 tv output - 9242 (discontinued model)
- single tuner HDPVR of any kind - does not exist

[djino]

No clue. I'm just saying what the rep said.

Single Tune HD PVR., record one show at a time
Dual Tuner HD PVR., record TWO shows at a time., can output feed to two separate tvs, you get two remotes, to control the image to the two tvs independantly & concurrently.

Are we talking about the same thing?

I got the impression that there is only a free HDPVR for the Single-Tuner currently.

6131/6141 Receiver = Single Tuner HD Ready PVR (need to add external HDD to have PVR Capabilities).

9242 Receiver = Duel Tuner HD PVR (able to feed to two separate TVs to watch/record two different shows at the same time OR feed to 1 TV with the ability to record two shows at the same time)

9241 Receiver = Duel Tuner HD PVR. Cannot feed to two separate tvs for separate viewing, just feeds to 1 TV with the ability to record two shows at the same time).

Bell stopped giving out 9242 and is only supplying 9241s. Though I believe places like The Source is still selling 9242s.

djino

[redgrandam]

The above posts are correct. The only HD receivers available right now with BELL is 9241, and 6131. (also a SD receiver, NOT pvr, whatever that one is I don't know now)...

I don't know why he would tell you about the two remotes etc, that one is no longer available, at least not through Bell. You likely won't find it anywhere now.

They MAY bring back dual tuner dual TV soon.. That's what an installer told me anyways, but he didn't know for a fact. Eitehr way, the 12x$20 offer is for the 9241, that's the $20/month one. Dual tuner (record two shows at once, and watch one at the same time, or watch one and record at the same time)

[Mooned By Jamario]

I'm just off my 30% off from the past year. I figured that the 20% off that most everyone has been getting would be easy... not so. My roughly $80 bill per month may not be the biggest, but this is what they offered... #1 $40 off over a year (a little more that $3 a month off) I wanted 30% but I knew that 20% was more realistic... so I kept pushing for at least 20%. After talking to a manager (yeah right) she offered $10 off a month. I still wouldn't take it. They will tell you that different subscribers have different accounts and therefore have different offers available to them. I didn't take it. Pushed again for 20% as I know lots of people (RFDers are my friends hehehe) who have received 20% off recently and quit wasting my time. After a second "I have to talk to my manager" talk, I got 20% off. Be prepared to battle.

[1C5]

How is the PVR function of the 6131 when hook up to a hard drive compared to the PVR of the 9241? Is it the same in term of ease of use and functions or is it more "ghetto" than the 9241?

[redgrandam]

How is the PVR function of the 6131 when hook up to a hard drive compared to the PVR of the 9241? Is it the same in term of ease of use and functions or is it more "ghetto" than the 9241?

It's the same, you just can't watch something else while it is recording, and just know that you have to use a drive that doesn't go to sleep on it's own, so your HD will be spinning 24/7 till the day it dies, which might not be too long depending on the drive.

Edit, you can watch another show, just not live while it's recording, you an only watch another recorded show.

[flavp5]

just wanted to share my story

after a heavy rain storm my hd signal was lost.. the next day , the reg channels worked however the hd feed was out and showing 0 signal.. i checked the connection outside etc, all seemed fine

contacted bell support and was told i was to be charged $75 for a tech to come out.. obviously i didnt pay.. i assumed it was a bad lnb and when a neighbour had a spare we tested it out and it worked fine..

called bell back and told them i wanted to cancel.. they said ohh the best they could do was $5 off a month

tried to call bell a week later with all intentions of cancelling this time.. and was offered the tech for free.. which i explained i had already fixed the problem..
then was offered 10 % off which was only about $6.50 a month on my $65 bill

i told them no go ahead and cancel as i am renting a $10 month hd box..
finally thye offered me the 10% off and a free hd box rental for one year.. $10 off per month

so i said ok ill keep it..

however the catch was i was told the tech had to come swap by hd box with another identical to the one i already have.. why i asked .. and was told the box i have now is in their system as a hd rental and the new one would be a hd rental free for one year..

total bs.. on top of that i was to be charged $100 for the box and then credited back $100 on my next bill

what a bunch of idiots
needless to say
i canceled

[mapleleafs89]

whats the big deal though, your not paying $100 really, just a deposit. And your getting a new HD box switched for your used one, right? Why is that bad, stupid on their behalf but not like it affects you other than having to be home for the guy to do it.

[Hugh Jass]

..... other than having to be home for the guy to do it.

....probably wont even be a guy, they'll send you the new one and you'll have a week to send back the old one. Ooh, the hardship.

[jrees]

whats the big deal though, your not paying $100 really, just a deposit. And your getting a new HD box switched for your used one, right? Why is that bad, stupid on their behalf but not like it affects you other than having to be home for the guy to do it.

Given Bell's history of messing up credits, it is a big deal. There is no reason why they should have to charge him the $100 now, and credit it back later. That is just stupid.

[bubble.tea]

I'm pretty sure Bell does not have a single tuner HDPVR. The rep is probably confused between single tv output HDPVR vs single tuner HDPVR.
So to recap:
- dual tuner HDPVR with 1 tv output - 9241 (current model)
- dual tuner HDPVR with 2 tv output - 9242 (discontinued model)
- single tuner HDPVR of any kind - does not exist
ahhhh., thanks for the clarif'n.


...Be prepared to battle.
To be honest, I just hinted at wanted to get another deal., and they offered it right away. That wasn't the issue. It was the confusion about the type of pvr.

Now that it's been clarified., heck we never needed output to two tvs in the first place. If the pvr is still a record-two-shows-at-once...then I will GLADLY trade mine back and swap for the 41. Awesome :).

w00t!!!!

[mapleleafs89]

Given Bell's history of messing up credits, it is a big deal. There is no reason why they should have to charge him the $100 now, and credit it back later. That is just stupid.

Well they did the same with me, I dunno, but my bills always over $100 for my 3 services so doesnt matter to me. If they screw up though I will just start to cancel all my other non contract services for payback.

[flavp5]

yes i like having to stay home for work, in all day time window to switch out a perfectly good working box for a the exact same box...

thats makes no sense ... enter in a discount code, its 2010 for christs sakes

[redgrandam]

It's a pain, and you can argue and state the obvious all day long and they will still send a tech to switch the boxes. It's one of the stupidest things they do. So wasteful in time, resources, and waste of a perfectly good receiver. All for really nothing. I don't know why they don't see that, but I think it has something to do with the contract they have with the installation companies. Otherwise they could just send you a replacement.

And the deposit thing. I think Bell probably has a worse track record for showing up than we do for being home. What assurance do we have that THEY will show up on the date promised?

It's just one of those things that they do that makes no sense. The 5 hour window is kinda broad too. They could at least get it down to a few hours. I've sat and waited from noon till 5 then they show up at 4:50. Makes you waste half a day for it.

[celica00]

Does anyone know of an alternative to the 9242 for a two tv output?

I have the house wired nice and clean for the 9242

Just checking options in case Bell calls my bluff....

To the best of my knowledge there isn't anything.

Thanks!

[Neb]

Just called bell today, dad wanted a HD receiver. Was only able to get 6 mos free rental on 12 months term... so 60 bucks for a full year isn't too bad, have been receiving 20% off , and she won't extend that.. Any way to get them to renew it when it's up?

[bubble.tea]

Hmmm...something is peculiar.

Called in to accept the downgrade to 9241 to get the free yr (2nd time around)., rep said., no need, you can keep it, I'll issue credits for 12mos?

Seems there's only one thing for sure 20%. The free hd pvr can come in various ways.

Oh and talk about nickel and diming. This rep couldn't credit full rental., so credited all but a dollar thereof...wtf. Proceeded to say "well since you are getting a bundle discount that dollar doesn't matter cuz you're still saving ($5-$1=)$4/month:razz:....are you kidding me? So I said fine just credit me a one-time amt of $12., guy said I can only do $10 :eek:...W-T-F.

w00t free hdpvr well....(minus a quarter or so)...2nd time around.

[phil615]

Just to clarify, are people in search of 20% off or 20% off AND free HDPVR? I called a while back regarding the phone and inquired about TV and apparently the fellow would only give me one or the other.

[Neb]

How did you get them to renew the free PVR? I will have to try next year.



Hmmm...something is peculiar.

Called in to accept the downgrade to 9241 to get the free yr (2nd time around)., rep said., no need, you can keep it, I'll issue credits for 12mos?

Seems there's only one thing for sure 20%. The free hd pvr can come in various ways.

Oh and talk about nickel and diming. This rep couldn't credit full rental., so credited all but a dollar thereof...wtf. Proceeded to say "well since you are getting a bundle discount that dollar doesn't matter cuz you're still saving ($5-$1=)$4/month:razz:....are you kidding me? So I said fine just credit me a one-time amt of $12., guy said I can only do $10 :eek:...W-T-F.

w00t free hdpvr well....(minus a quarter or so)...2nd time around.

[bubble.tea]

20% off AND free HDPVR?...

les deux!!

and I got it!!

^Just asked. Took two tries.

[djino]

les deux!!

and I got it!!

^Just asked. Took two tries.

wow..bravo.. comment tu le dit??

djino

[bubble.tea]

wow..bravo.. comment tu le dit??

djino

Je luis 'eh' dee., que je voudrais rester y'avec mais que le prix etait trop cher., et que je suis un 'big deal'. Il ma dit., fuggidaboudit.

I really struggled with that one...thank you.:twisted:

[phil615]

Je luis 'eh' dee., que je voudrais rester y'avec mais que le prix etait trop cher., et que je suis un 'big deal'. Il ma dit., fuggidaboudit.

I really struggled with that one...thank you.:twisted:

Your spanish perplexes me. :lol:

[Variance]

I'm just off my 30% off from the past year. I figured that the 20% off that most everyone has been getting would be easy... not so. My roughly $80 bill per month may not be the biggest, but this is what they offered... #1 $40 off over a year (a little more that $3 a month off) I wanted 30% but I knew that 20% was more realistic... so I kept pushing for at least 20%. After talking to a manager (yeah right) she offered $10 off a month. I still wouldn't take it. They will tell you that different subscribers have different accounts and therefore have different offers available to them. I didn't take it. Pushed again for 20% as I know lots of people (RFDers are my friends hehehe) who have received 20% off recently and quit wasting my time. After a second "I have to talk to my manager" talk, I got 20% off. Be prepared to battle.

Oh man I just went through the same thing. The best they can offer me was 10% off my bill. I sort of also want another HD receiver. So they offered 1 year rental for the HDPVR for free or the 10%. I was trying to push for 20%, but guy kept insisting on how 10% was all he could do. My bill is about $87 after taxes.

So bringing up the manager thing is the only way to get 20%?

[GarthD]

So bringing up the manager thing is the only way to get 20%?
We just negotiated a deal this weekend. We got 20% off programming and $100 credit towards a new receiver (plus they replaced our 10 year old dish, added a switch and installed an additional line into the house all for free). We didn't have to talk to a manager, just retentions...we hadn't previously been receiving a discount and are long-term customers so maybe that helped.

[Tig]

Well...if it was possible we'd be reading about a lot more than 3 people among the 1400 posts in this thread reporting it.

Retention offers, are never given without some form of contractual guarantee that the provider is going to secure revenue by doing so. If you were already without contract paying $90...what benefit does the company have to discount you to $50...and STILL let you cancel without penalty the next month? lol?

The fact that you claim you got it...and have linked those three people who also claim they got it...is simply bewildering.

I'm not saying you're all lying., just utterly intrigued at how something that potentially is so possible...has only happened to FOUR individuals over the last year. I know your mommy told you you were special growing up...but this is ridiculous :lol:.

Sorry for the late reply on your post last month Bubble.tea, but last year I was pissed at Bell because they wanted to charge me install after I moved to a new house so I told them not to bother coming out and that I'd just ask Rogers to waive the install fee and told them to cancel me on the spot (I was month to month and I wasn't bluffing)...that's when they forwarded me to retentions where I was promptly offered a free install and 6 months free services & PVR renta which for me amounted to over $650 in savings and they never asked me to renew.

Of course I took it but I remember thinking to myself how foolish it was for bell to put me in a position where I could strong arm them again in 6 months time...but that's what they did!

[dealCker]

les deux!!

and I got it!!

^Just asked. Took two tries.

So, were you put on a contract ?

[akuma2]

So, were you put on a contract ?

I keep wondering why people seem to think their obligated to sign a contract to get a good deal.

When I signed up for Bell originally, I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I cancelled and retentions offered me 50% off for 6 months I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I called in to cancel because I was pissed at a rep at Bell World and got offered 30% off for a year I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I called in recently to cancell and got offered 30% off, plus a free PVR for a year I didn't have to sign a contract.

WTF with these people asking about contracts?

[dealCker]

I keep wondering why people seem to think their obligated to sign a contract to get a good deal.

When I signed up for Bell originally, I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I cancelled and retentions offered me 50% off for 6 months I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I called in to cancel because I was pissed at a rep at Bell World and got offered 30% off for a year I didn't have to sign a contract.
When I called in recently to cancell and got offered 30% off, plus a free PVR for a year I didn't have to sign a contract.

WTF with these people asking about contracts?

I just asked to see if he got put on one, as he was a non believer.
Just trying to see if he has become a believer of no contract deals :cheesygri:cheesygri

[djino]

When I called in recently to cancell and got offered 30% off, plus a free PVR for a year I didn't have to sign a contract.

If this free PVR was a new rental where a tech came out to install receiver, then it did come with an implied 12 month contract even if Bell is crediting the rental charges. Before the installer left, he would have made you sign a 12 month agreement even if a Bell rep told you otherwise :)

Just try and cancel before the 12 month ends, and you'll see cancellation equipment charges posted to your account. :)

djino

[SilverVice]

I just called bell today for my brother. I got 50% on the 9241 (250$) but they force me to take the 75$ installation. So I got the PVR for 325$.

Is it a good deal?

[don242]

I just called bell today for my brother. I got 50% on the 9241 (250$) but they force me to take the 75$ installation. So I got the PVR for 325$.

Is it a good deal?

We just got the 9241 for $250 and no installation.

The funny thing was, I went through the Bell website earlier and logged in and got a price of $300 including installation. Bell emailed back and told me I could not do it and to call in. I called, they said that I used a form for new customers so it didn't apply to me. I argued it couldn't have been for new customers only as there were options for my other services to "Keep my existing services". If I was a new customer, I would not have existing services. They still said they could not give it to me for that price.

Long story short, I called retentions and told them I wanted the price I was supposed to get. They said no and then offered me their deal instead which was $250 and free install. So they wouldn't give it to me for $300 but they would for $250??? I caved and accepted that deal.

[Hugh Jass]

Long story short, I called retentions and told them I wanted the price I was supposed to get. They said no and then offered me their deal instead which was $250 and free install. So they wouldn't give it to me for $300 but they would for $250??? I caved and accepted that deal.

Hahahaha, priceless.

[dealCker]

We just got the 9241 for $250 and no installation.

The funny thing was, I went through the Bell website earlier and logged in and got a price of $300 including installation. Bell emailed back and told me I could not do it and to call in. I called, they said that I used a form for new customers so it didn't apply to me. I argued it couldn't have been for new customers only as there were options for my other services to "Keep my existing services". If I was a new customer, I would not have existing services. They still said they could not give it to me for that price.

Long story short, I called retentions and told them I wanted the price I was supposed to get. They said no and then offered me their deal instead which was $250 and free install. So they wouldn't give it to me for $300 but they would for $250??? I caved and accepted that deal.

nice. I am in need of a new receiver.

[SilverVice]

Long story short, I called retentions and told them I wanted the price I was supposed to get. They said no and then offered me their deal instead which was $250 and free install. So they wouldn't give it to me for $300 but they would for $250??? I caved and accepted that deal.

Wow, just wow. That sell rep is due for a promotion. lol

[Hugh Jass]

Wow, just wow. That sell rep is due for a promotion. lol

Guess they never got the memo about ripping off customers.

Or..........it's all part of the plan. Tell the customer it's $250 but next statement will ding for $599 and it'll take 3/4 months to fix.

[don242]

Guess they never got the memo about ripping off customers.

Or..........it's all part of the plan. Tell the customer it's $250 but next statement will ding for $599 and it'll take 3/4 months to fix.

Don't say that. That is still my concern as I wait for my next bill.

[darklord700]

I stopped my service at the end of May and I still got a bill charging me a full month now. This is the third time I have to call them to get credit. I'm calling my credit card company, getting new card, and stop this none sense.

[Demeech]

I called in as they say the term I was on was for 1 year, and they said all they could offer was 20% off and that I had to start paying for the PVR rental. I was in retentions and actually spoke to a manager. She said that the deal last year isnt offered as of this year. I told her cogeco offered me the same service at 40% off, and a free pvr for a year. She said that if they are offering that, it is a great deal and they cannot match it. What do you guys think? Is that the best Im going to do. On a side note, is it a better deal to go in as a new customer, or continue as an existing one? I have 2 names at my residence so I can claim I moved. Just wondering if I could get a better deal as a new customer. Also, when they brought me the new pvr last year, the tech left the old pvr here. He never took it with him. Think its possible to reactivate that one, or will they know I havent paid for it?

[Tmex]

So I called Bell today to go through the annual dance of getting a discount. Was gettting 30% but they tell me the best they can do is 20%. I have most packages except for two (sports and interactive TV) which I have no interest in although they told me I can get a "deal" on those. Already have a glut of channels I never watch.

Anybody get a better deal this week other than 20%? Considering playing chicken and cancelling to see if I get a call with a better deal.

[Hugh Jass]

Considering playing chicken and cancelling to see if I get a call with a better deal.

If you're willing to 'risk it' and are prepared to switch providers, you should go for it. I'm sure they're well aware of the folk that threaten to quit but don't go through with it.

Last time the csr wouldn't budge, tells me I'm out of discounts. I say ok no probs, in that case I think I'll cancel my Internet and home phone also. He put me on hold for a few mins then came back on and asked me was I sure, to which I said yes. I got put through to some retention dept for one bill accounts, where the lady gave me 50% off programming and $10 off Internet.

[Edival]

I'm wondering if anyone has tried getting specialty channels for free through retention? The channel I want requires subscription to other channels I don't want... doesn't make sense to me.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

[dealCker]

I'm wondering if anyone has tried getting specialty channels for free through retention? The channel I want requires subscription to other channels I don't want... doesn't make sense to me.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

??????
Did you already get a retention deal on your whole bill?
if not.. I would focus on getting that first before getting a deal on a specialty channel.

oh forgot to mention, they probably require subs to the other channels due to CRTC rules.

[BCguy2]

Just called, 2 minute conversation. The guy was very pleasant...had a choice of;

20% off programming, no contract (previously was at 30%)

or

2 year contract and half price for a HD/PVR, no programming discount.

I currently have a 9141 which I don't want to part with and they will not let me purchase it - seems ridiculous?

Took the 20 points off and stuck renting the 9141 for now. There has to be a new model HD/PVR on the horizon, I don't think the 9241 is worth purchasing this late in the game?

[dafunky1]

So I tried to swing a deal with the retensions department. Talked to a guy named Jimmy and the best he could offer me after about 20 mins of back and forther was 2 months free and 10% off. My current bill adds up to about 70 bucks (5 theme packs + HD). I own 4 receivers and don't rent.


So I cancelled....I have 30 days to decide if I want to keep it before the programming ceases. I'm hoping for someone to call me back to retain me.

We shall see.....anyone with success using this approach?

[dilbert76]

short version: BCguy2 is correct this is best deal I could get after much complaining and phone calls. Call 310-bell for extra discounts if you have other services like cell, phone, internet. Dafunky1 tried that too, but gave up after not hearing from them in 2 weeks

long version: I like bell's HD TV and wanted a PVR since new baby is cramping my tv watching.

Call 1: got a miserable CSR. She would only give me 10% off. I told her Rogers was offering free pvr rental for a year with cheaper programming that was similar to mine. She wouldn't budge even when I asked for manager. She said he's on the phone. I told her to note deal in file and cancel my service. She said it'll take 30 days and I can change my mind. Waited 2 weeks and nothing but a survey from bell on how they did on call.

Call 2: this time got a stubborn CSR. He gave me 3 options. Option 1 20% off of bill no contract. Option 2: free pvr rental for 1 year. Option 3: 50% off of purchase of PVR. Option 2 and 3 had to come with installation which he offered for free. I said no thanks I can plug the PVR in myself. He said no they have to do it. So I said let me get this straight, I have to be home and miss a day of work so that maybe your guy will show up between 9 and 5 so he can spend 2 minutes plugging it in while I spend the whole day missing work and pay (nevermind the fact that my wife is home everyday and I wouldn't have to miss work, but the CSR doesn't need to know that). He said yes that's the way it is. I got him to note it in the file and got quite upset with him but it didn't help. Waited another few days in case bell would call me at home.

Call 3: best CSR so far. Told him to skip the bs and just read the notes. He said go with option 3 since no contract and probably can get HD PVR somewhere else (anyone know where cheapest place is to get HD PVR dual tuner?) He said to call 310-bell and see what discounts I could get. End result is I'm saving roughly $40 on what was a $175 bill per month for expressvu, phone, internet. I considered switching to teksavvy for phone and internet but only would have saved another $10/month. But to switch to them need to pay a one time $25 for switching phone and would need to buy a high speed modem.

[penduboy]

Looks like no one is getting more than 20% discount. Called Bell retention yesterday, since my 40% discount expired last month. CSR said that the best he can do is 20% discount, I said Shaw and telus they are offering good deals and I would like to cancel my service, if I can't get anything more than 20% and he cancelled my account with effect from end of Sept. I am with Bell for last 5 years in good standing. I guess, they are not interested in keeping my business.

Anything best I can do?

Pendu

[Altaflyer]

Hopefully they get some people bailing by December because while I like the service, I watch very few channels and am not prepared to pay much more than the 40% off I am getting now. The customer service with Bell is APALLING, beyond BAD. We shall see what happens I suppose.

[JamieO]

I'm completely new to bell (have been with Rogers in the past). I currently have bell internet and was hoping to add cable. What sort of deals are available to me as a new customer? Can I also call the retention lines since I already have internet? Any help would be appreciated, thanks

[TE7]

I currently have bell internet and was hoping to add cable.

Bell offers satellite TV only. IPTV is in the test phase.
The worst case scenario would be to get bundle discount.

[redgrandam]

short version: BCguy2 is correct this is best deal I could get after much complaining and phone calls. Call 310-bell for extra discounts if you have other services like cell, phone, internet. Dafunky1 tried that too, but gave up after not hearing from them in 2 weeks

long version: I like bell's HD TV and wanted a PVR since new baby is cramping my tv watching.

Call 1: got a miserable CSR. She would only give me 10% off. I told her Rogers was offering free pvr rental for a year with cheaper programming that was similar to mine. She wouldn't budge even when I asked for manager. She said he's on the phone. I told her to note deal in file and cancel my service. She said it'll take 30 days and I can change my mind. Waited 2 weeks and nothing but a survey from bell on how they did on call.

Call 2: this time got a stubborn CSR. He gave me 3 options. Option 1 20% off of bill no contract. Option 2: free pvr rental for 1 year. Option 3: 50% off of purchase of PVR. Option 2 and 3 had to come with installation which he offered for free. I said no thanks I can plug the PVR in myself. He said no they have to do it. So I said let me get this straight, I have to be home and miss a day of work so that maybe your guy will show up between 9 and 5 so he can spend 2 minutes plugging it in while I spend the whole day missing work and pay (nevermind the fact that my wife is home everyday and I wouldn't have to miss work, but the CSR doesn't need to know that). He said yes that's the way it is. I got him to note it in the file and got quite upset with him but it didn't help. Waited another few days in case bell would call me at home.

Call 3: best CSR so far. Told him to skip the bs and just read the notes. He said go with option 3 since no contract and probably can get HD PVR somewhere else (anyone know where cheapest place is to get HD PVR dual tuner?) He said to call 310-bell and see what discounts I could get. End result is I'm saving roughly $40 on what was a $175 bill per month for expressvu, phone, internet. I considered switching to teksavvy for phone and internet but only would have saved another $10/month. But to switch to them need to pay a one time $25 for switching phone and would need to buy a high speed modem.


When they explained option two, about sending a tech to install (just did the same thing, have a PVR already though, they brought a new one, traded it, and plugged in the new one, tech told me that he was getting paid for a FULL DUAL RECEIVER install at my house for this 10 minutes work, most of the time waiting on the phone to activate the receiver), did he mention to you that they require a $100 deposit to even set up that tech to come? They can bill it on your Bell Phone bill, but you will end up paying that on your next bill, then the bill after the $100 will be credited back. Well they forgot to credit back my $100, for the SECOND time.. they are working on it apparently, and it should be fixed in 3 weeks. Heard that story before...

just watch closely for that..

[BCguy2]

Bell is - hands down - the worst company in history for Billing problems. Hard to believe an outfit that size can be...that bad. I had the distinct displeasure, of having a cell phone of there's 10 years ago. Billing nightmare!

Unfortunately, for me, there is no one that offers a TV product that comes close. I certainly wish that wasn't the case.

When I am stuck watching Cable, even the menu/guide makes me crazy.

[Nexstar3]

After giving retention dept shot for the 1st time, I was able to get 20% off (1yr programming) Although I was a little surprised there was no mention of HD pvr option. Is this something I have to bring up as a suggestion? If I call back later today/tomorrow to try and get the HD option anything I can do differently?

Bell: My name is XXXX how can I help you?
Me: I would like to cancel BEV service
Bell: Certainly! I can help you with that
Bell: Can I have your phone number & pin
Me: xxx-xxx-xxxx & xxxx
Bell: Great! may I ask why you wish to cancel with as you been a subscriber for 5yrs
Me: Economy is in the toilet, money reasons, blah blah
Bell: Do you have any other services, internet/phone with us
Me: Nope, just BEV
Bell: Ok, let me see what I can do for you.
Me: Ok
Bell: The only thing we can do from our end is offer a 20% on your total bill which is XYZ for 1yr, is that something you might be interested in?
Me: Maybe
Bell: Great, we'll get that adjusted to your account and you should see it take effect on your next bill.

[redgrandam]

After giving retention dept shot for the 1st time, I was able to get 20% off (1yr programming) Although I was a little surprised there was no mention of HD pvr option. Is this something I have to bring up as a suggestion? If I call back later today/tomorrow to try and get the HD option anything I can do differently?

Bell: My name is XXXX how can I help you?
Me: I would like to cancel BEV service
Bell: Certainly! I can help you with that
Bell: Can I have your phone number & pin
Me: xxx-xxx-xxxx & xxxx
Bell: Great! may I ask why you wish to cancel with as you been a subscriber for 5yrs
Me: Economy is in the toilet, money reasons, blah blah
Bell: Do you have any other services, internet/phone with us
Me: Nope, just BEV
Bell: Ok, let me see what I can do for you.
Me: Ok
Bell: The only thing we can do from our end is offer a 20% on your total bill which is XYZ for 1yr, is that something you might be interested in?
Me: Maybe
Bell: Great, we'll get that adjusted to your account and you should see it take effect on your next bill.

you say maybe and they sign you up? lol. Not sure if that works as a contractual agreement.. lol.. Anyways, I might say that sounds ok, but I might need a little more, or can you offer anything better? Make it look like you are starting to budge, but aren't convinced...

[akuma2]

The problem that most of you are having is you are expecting the INBOUND customer service rep to offer you 30% off your bill along with a 1 year PVR. That doesn't happen anymore. The most you'll get if you call in is 20% off your bill and/or a discount on the purchase of a HD receiver or PVR. In order to get the 30% discount and free PVR you have to cancel and wait for the OUTBOUND RETENTIONS department to call you, which is usually a few days after your cancellation. You also have to know what you're looking for and accept it when you receive the call. Sometimes they'll only offer you 30%. You have to make sure to mention the their competitor (Rogers, Congeco, Shaw etc.) is also offering a PVR and then they will throw in the free PVR rental.

You can't call back later as you'll only reach the INBOUND CSR who is only able to offer 20%. Also, the free PVR isn't really free, you have to put a $100 deposit at the time you accept and you will then be credited $100 on your bill a month or two later.

Best way to operate is to call in, say you want to cancel because company XYZ is offering a cheaper alternative. When they offer 20% say it sounds interesting but you still want to cancel. If you're lucky OUTBOUND Retentions will call you within the week to offer you something sweet. If you haven't received a call, just wait until a week or so before the 30 day cancellation period is almost up and take the 20% deal the CSR is offering. If they waffle, just say you called and this is what was offered. Speak to a manager if they won't budge. Lastly, don't keep calling back every few days. They keep a log of your conversations and know when you're trying to bluff them.

[fmpsportsguy2]

A couple of things... the numbers on the first page to get to retentions has changed.. I believe you press 6 now instead of 2 to get the "other"

Just a quick recount of 2 hrs of Bell Hell... Calling in for my mom's account.. has Phone, Internet and Satellite.. so eligible for bundle discounts... Before tax, and after bundle discounts she is Paying $43 for Phone , $26 for Internet, and $42 for satellite ( 1 theme, 1 extra channel, standard def..) First call I got the right dept to handle all accounts.. was able to get the phone down to $24 a month ($18 savings), internet was no change, but the biggest confusion and hassle was satellite service.

Just received a Cogeco Flyer in the mail stating that all 3 could be bundled for $70 a month... importantly 12 month term on HD Cable for $35 a month, including HD receiver.. and this is where the fun begins with bell. Ultimately I was offered on my moms behalf.. the choice of 20% off, no contract , or free pvr for a yr with a 2 yr contract .. told the rep who I got name and employee number from that I would pass the info on to my mom and let her decide.. her new bill would be $88 a month, compared to $111 she is paying now.. she was going to take the 20% off offer, but I had one more question so called back into bell, but this time just got the satellite dept, and spoke with a new CSR.. explained to her that I had just called in, gave the previous CSRs name and employee ID number.. to reference the notes that were supposed to be on the account.. I mentioned that we were probably going to go with the 20% off offer.. she replies.. we don't have a 20% off offer, and the person you spoke with has no authority to give you that offer.. and she only gave you $5 off the account ( which in fact, was all she had done!!!.. I had asked for the new pricing to be broken down so I could show my mom where and what she was savin) pricing. The new CSR was adamant that they had no 20% off offer.. and at this point I said I wanted to speak to a manger.. she tried to blow me off saying the manager would say the same thing.. I was firm but polite and said I don't care what he says about your offers, but I need to know which one of you is lying to me? The CSR I spent over an hour on the phone with or you.. I did in fact get to speak to a manager.. explained the situation about the lying and said look I have in front of me a cogeco $70 bundle package, 12 month contract, free HD receiver rental.. which is $35 a month, your package you offer is $15 more a month, no HD and no rental.. he too was adamant about there being no 20% discount available.. after 1/2 hours of various offers which mainly involved a 2 year contract term, I had had enough and said look, cogeco, HD service and free rental for only a 12 month term.., your offers are 2 yr contracts, still $15 dollars a month more.. and you aint offering me an IPAD are you?? I threw in the "if you are going to tie me into a 2 or 3 year contract you better be giving me a free IPAD" In the end.. the "deal" I was offered on my moms account.. a HD receiver billed to the account, free installation, an immediate credit to the account of the HD receiver and 10% off programming for a year.. so free HD receiver ( not sure which one, but probably 6131), 10% programming discount for a year ( allows my mom to upgrade to digital plus.. more channels for same price), and free installation which was needed to help straighten out the cable mess in my moms 100 year old house! Will wait and see though what the real offer is when we get the email confirming the above details !

[Hugh Jass]

.. was able to get the phone down to $24 a month ($18 savings), internet was no change, but the biggest confusion and hassle was satellite service.



Interesting. When I 'cancelled' all my Bell services, a one-bill CSR looked through my phone/net/tv prices and was adamant that she couldn't do anything about my $39.95 phone bill. She did give me 50% off programming and $29.95 internet, so I wasn't complaining too much.

[james-007]

Called today CSR was only give me 20% for 12 months. So I asked them to cancel my account.... Making the long story short aster a while she offer $120 one time discount + 20% for 12 months. Add the 2 together almost 30% so I was happy.

[Tig]

The problem that most of you are having is you are expecting the INBOUND customer service rep to offer you 30% off your bill along with a 1 year PVR. That doesn't happen anymore. The most you'll get if you call in is 20% off your bill and/or a discount on the purchase of a HD receiver or PVR. In order to get the 30% discount and free PVR you have to cancel and wait for the OUTBOUND RETENTIONS department to call you, which is usually a few days after your cancellation. You also have to know what you're looking for and accept it when you receive the call. Sometimes they'll only offer you 30%. You have to make sure to mention the their competitor (Rogers, Congeco, Shaw etc.) is also offering a PVR and then they will throw in the free PVR rental.

You can't call back later as you'll only reach the INBOUND CSR who is only able to offer 20%. Also, the free PVR isn't really free, you have to put a $100 deposit at the time you accept and you will then be credited $100 on your bill a month or two later.

Best way to operate is to call in, say you want to cancel because company XYZ is offering a cheaper alternative. When they offer 20% say it sounds interesting but you still want to cancel. If you're lucky OUTBOUND Retentions will call you within the week to offer you something sweet. If you haven't received a call, just wait until a week or so before the 30 day cancellation period is almost up and take the 20% deal the CSR is offering. If they waffle, just say you called and this is what was offered. Speak to a manager if they won't budge. Lastly, don't keep calling back every few days. They keep a log of your conversations and know when you're trying to bluff them.

Ok I just did exactly this. I called in and told them that Rogers offered me PVR rental for free for 1 year. He told me that he can't counter this because all of the Retentions offers that they used to have are now gone and all he could counter with was $5 off. I thanked him and told him that it wasn't enough, so he gave me my 30 day notice.

Now I wait.

[Demeech]

I called in and they said all they could do was 20%...So I called in to ask if they would give me one of their start up deals and give me a discount on the new PVR. I must have called 4 or 5 times in the span of a week. Finally, I called to cancel and that CSR said he could give me a 250 (half price on the PVR) credit and 20 % off for a year. Since it was a straight credit there was no contract and I could go out and buy the PVR anywhere I wanted. The Source had, and I believe still has, a sale on where u can get either the PVR and 6131 for 249 net, or the PVR for 349 net. This is 200 off the first receiver, and 50 off the second from the source, and then 250 in credit from bell when u sign up as a new customer. I decided to just get the PVR, so I got that for 350 or so after taxes. I got home, installed it, and called bell to activate. All has been good so far. (knock on wood). So when that 250 credit kicks in I ended up getting the unit for about 100 bucks lol. I think I did pretty well with that one. The key was the 250 credit, not getting HALF PRICE on a receiver. If you have to buy it through bell they send a tech to ur house with one, and theres no way to get the in store credits from the source. One more thing, dont go by the sources website, its always wrong. Check out their flyer. Deal is still in there today.

[dealCker]

I called in and they said all they could do was 20%...So I called in to ask if they would give me one of their start up deals and give me a discount on the new PVR. I must have called 4 or 5 times in the span of a week. Finally, I called to cancel and that CSR said he could give me a 250 (half price on the PVR) credit and 20 % off for a year. Since it was a straight credit there was no contract and I could go out and buy the PVR anywhere I wanted. The Source had, and I believe still has, a sale on where u can get either the PVR and 6131 for 249 net, or the PVR for 349 net. This is 200 off the first receiver, and 50 off the second from the source, and then 250 in credit from bell when u sign up as a new customer. I decided to just get the PVR, so I got that for 350 or so after taxes. I got home, installed it, and called bell to activate. All has been good so far. (knock on wood). So when that 250 credit kicks in I ended up getting the unit for about 100 bucks lol. I think I did pretty well with that one. The key was the 250 credit, not getting HALF PRICE on a receiver. If you have to buy it through bell they send a tech to ur house with one, and theres no way to get the in store credits from the source. One more thing, dont go by the sources website, its always wrong. Check out their flyer. Deal is still in there today.

good for you. persistance and perserverance and luck with CSRs is also a good thing.
It sounds like you got a double deal, Did The source make you sign up as a new customer?
Im still getting 40% off for another 5 or 6 months yet.. so I am not gonna play the cancel card yet..
oh well Guess I'm gonna have to wait it out

[chachu]

Will be moving next month ,what makes sense to move existing account Dish or go with new Account . Also need to go with there Phone (Alarm issues) as well as Internet to bundle it with phone.Billing is a big hell with them have suffered few times>:(

[Tig]

Ok well it's been a week now since I canceled and still no call back :lol: I think I'm going to dump my cable bill altogether...I watch all my shows and movies through my WDTV player anyway...the only thing I use my satellite and pvr for are live sporting events...I'll have to figure something out for that

[dafunky1]

Ok well it's been a week now since I canceled and still no call back :lol: I think I'm going to dump my cable bill altogether...I watch all my shows and movies through my WDTV player anyway...the only thing I use my satellite and pvr for are live sporting events...I'll have to figure something out for that

Same here...cancelled and no call back. I'm going to continue waiting until around day 30. I may succumb.

[plantage]

Question for you guys...If I'm a Rogers subscriber, what are the best deals I can expect to get from Bell currently, if I decide to switch? More to the point, what should I hold out for? I would like to get a discount on internet and cable with them, and also 2 free PVRs. Also, any theme packages I can hold out for?

Finally, is it better to call them directly or can you have equal success with their online chat?

[phil615]

I called in and they said all they could do was 20%...So I called in to ask if they would give me one of their start up deals and give me a discount on the new PVR. I must have called 4 or 5 times in the span of a week. Finally, I called to cancel and that CSR said he could give me a 250 (half price on the PVR) credit and 20 % off for a year. Since it was a straight credit there was no contract and I could go out and buy the PVR anywhere I wanted. The Source had, and I believe still has, a sale on where u can get either the PVR and 6131 for 249 net, or the PVR for 349 net. This is 200 off the first receiver, and 50 off the second from the source, and then 250 in credit from bell when u sign up as a new customer. I decided to just get the PVR, so I got that for 350 or so after taxes. I got home, installed it, and called bell to activate. All has been good so far. (knock on wood). So when that 250 credit kicks in I ended up getting the unit for about 100 bucks lol. I think I did pretty well with that one. The key was the 250 credit, not getting HALF PRICE on a receiver. If you have to buy it through bell they send a tech to ur house with one, and theres no way to get the in store credits from the source. One more thing, dont go by the sources website, its always wrong. Check out their flyer. Deal is still in there today.

How did you pull that with the source when the credits are for it's for new subscribers?

[sml]

For people who are expecting a callback after "threatening" to cancel with Bell, I have news for you: you won't get a callback. I cancelled a few months ago to go over to Shaw and waited my 30 days and got no calls. Although my situation was a bit diffferent because I really wanted to cancel and I knew that Bell would not be able to come close to the offer that I got from Shaw.

[seanb10]

I cancelled mid july. no big fuss. Got a call back from retentions two weeks later on a Saturday around 3pm. Offer was $60 off for next two months if I stay till december. Then offered same and 30% off total if I signed contract. Really wanted the free pvr, offered a pvr for $250. Said no. They may have called the next Saturday,( I think it was the same # on call display) but I was out. I really miss all the soccer but not really anything else. OTA HD is good. I may have stayed if I was offered or would have known to ask for a credit like DEMEECH above. TV is expensive! But now that I'm done with expressvu, I'm actually looking at Primus for telephone instead of Bell. I just don't know if I can stand missing soccer! Did I mention that. LOL. I may have to look deeper into Shaw Direct now that Bell is gone. Or maybe that will pass also...... I wanted to hit on the you may get a call at anytime, anyday, including weekends.

[plantage]

If you're a first time customer (or retentions) is it better to call Bell and get deals or using their online chat? I've tried a couple times their chat and didn't get much.

[don242]

If you're a first time customer (or retentions) is it better to call Bell and get deals or using their online chat? I've tried a couple times their chat and didn't get much.

Always call. The chat is no better than a directory. All they do is give you the number to call.

[mary mary]

Ok well it's been a week now since I canceled and still no call back :lol: I think I'm going to dump my cable bill altogether...I watch all my shows and movies through my WDTV player anyway...the only thing I use my satellite and pvr for are live sporting events...I'll have to figure something out for that

hi saw your post I have no recommendations for you but a question, what is a WDTV, I currently have no cable because I am upset with rogers and do not want to go to bell. so no tv watching for this family,
thanks

[FernieBanff]

My 30% discount will be expired soon, called Retention, was told no more 30% discount, put me on hold, came back and advised that I could get $20/month off for the next 12 months instead. It's not as good as 30% but more than 20%. Not a bad deal at all in 5 minutes.

[SheeB]

My 30% discount will be expired soon, called Retention, was told no more 30% discount, put me on hold, came back and advised that I could get $20/month off for the next 12 months instead. It's not as good as 30% but more than 20%. Not a bad deal at all in 5 minutes.

I am in the same boat, so I will post what they offer up when I get a chance to call in.

[fredsmith]

I am in the same boat, so I will post what they offer up when I get a chance to call in.
I'm holding my breath with excited anticipation . . . NOT

[Hugh Jass]

I'm holding my breath with excited anticipation . . . NOT

Why are you even in this thread?

[jims]

My 30% discount will be expired soon, called Retention, was told no more 30% discount, put me on hold, came back and advised that I could get $20/month off for the next 12 months instead. It's not as good as 30% but more than 20%. Not a bad deal at all in 5 minutes.


Why are you even in this thread?

Called today and got $60 immediate credit and $10 off per month for the next 12 months....works out to about 20% off for 1 yr for me.

[redgrandam]

I signed up with a detentions deal for bell tv in june. Just emailed them because I was confused about the credits applied, as they charged me for two rentals one month I guess as things overlapped when they installed the new one. They credited this months rental back, but that is the first credit I've seen. This is the email they sent me

We understand that you wish make a follow up on your HD PVR rental
credit. We checked your account and verified the 2 charges of $20 on
your August 8 invoice. Please be advised that we are billing a month in
advance, and those charges are for the months of June to August. Since
you have not received yet the offer of free HD PVR rental for 12 months,
we have sent a follow up request to the department that provided you the
said offer. Please be advised that it will be applied in the next 3-6
weeks. Please bear with us and rest assured that we will apply the offer
accordingly. We thank you for your patience and understanding on this
matter.

Seriously? I set this up BEFORE june and they STILL haven't set up the save offer!

I'm ready to call them up and cencrlnsincd they haven't held up their side of the offer, as far as I can tell.

[micronta]

My 30% discount will be expired soon, called Retention, was told no more 30% discount, put me on hold, came back and advised that I could get $20/month off for the next 12 months instead. It's not as good as 30% but more than 20%. Not a bad deal at all in 5 minutes.

Just curious how much is your bill pre discount ? Mine's $79 final including all tax and I was only able to get 10 dollars off each month despite calling twice.

[fredsmith]

Why are you even in this thread?

I could ask you the same question.

[orthoman]

My 6 month promotion of 50% off programming expires this month so I called retentions to get another deal. The rep only offered 10% off for 12 months so I declined. I called back a few days later and once again the best she could offer was also 10% off for 12 months. Therefore, I called the following day to cancel and the rep tried to keep me as a customer but she offered the same 10% off for 12 months. I told her to continue with the cancellation which would take 30 days. I was hoping I would get a call from the loyalty department with a better deal and my bluff worked. I received a call from the loyalty department 3 days after I submitted my cancellation notice. The rep stated that he is from the loyalty deparment not retentions department and that he can offer better deals to retain a customer. I creatively made up a Shaw offer and he countered with a $5 credit for 12 months which he would consolidate into a one month credit of $60 and then 30% off for 12 months. I pretended to be only somewhat impressed with the offer and then agreed to the terms. After reading the last few pages on this topic, I'm really happy with the 30% discount for 12 months including a $5 credit per month. BTW - my monthly programming bill is $70.

[fishwallop]

I called today and asked to cancel my service. They asked why; I said because it will be cheaper to go to Rogers. The rep said "ok, your service will be terminated in 30 days" and that was that. No offers made.

[Intro]

I called today and asked to cancel my service. They asked why; I said because it will be cheaper to go to Rogers. The rep said "ok, your service will be terminated in 30 days" and that was that. No offers made.

They called me back within 3 business days and offered 30% off for 12 months, so make sure to pick up...hopefully. :)

[dmyvr]

They called me back within 3 business days and offered 30% off for 12 months, so make sure to pick up...hopefully. :)

Anyone know what number they call from (1-888-???). I block all toll free calls as most of them are just marketers (including Bell, but I think I would want to take this call).

[Mike71]

Does anyone know when/if Bell will start carrying Sportsnet One? I'm a little pissed that I am going to have to miss a bunch of Flames games because of this.

[gt2001]

What is everyone paying for Basic phone + Fibe 12 + Digital Essentials 1 HDPVR & 1 HD box? Taxes in.

[GarthD]

Does anyone know when/if Bell will start carrying Sportsnet One? I'm a little pissed that I am going to have to miss a bunch of Flames games because of this.
I hope they don't and it forces Sportsnet to shut down the new channel. They already have 4 regional Sportsnet channels to show content on. Why should we pay for an extra channel so that they can now spread the same content over 5 channels?

[akuma2]

Anyone know what number they call from (1-888-???). I block all toll free calls as most of them are just marketers (including Bell, but I think I would want to take this call).

Then you're going to be out of luck. The number usually shows up as 1-888-759-3474 or some variation of that number. Last time they called me the number showed up as 887-593-474 which I thought was odd.

[dafunky1]

Same here...cancelled and no call back. I'm going to continue waiting until around day 30. I may succumb.

They called me back...I was able to get 30% off for 12 months going forward and also was offered retro active application for the 3 months I had paid at regular price.

[torontoraptor]

I called twice. First time, I got this girl (caucasion) who was quite nice but wouldn't give me more than a $10/month discount. I told her I would think about it and call back later. I called back today and lo and behold, they offered me a 30% discount! I got this guy (sounded Indian), who was new because he didn't really know what to do and was fumbling through his script but was also pretty nice.

I told him that another company was offering me promotions to join them. He put me on hold and came back and told me he could match it.

My BEV bill after taxes is about $75 and he mentioned that since I was a long time customer (8 years), they wanted to keep me.

So it's definitely YMMV. From the sounds of things in this thread lately, I think I was lucky.

[redgrandam]

I called twice. First time, I got this girl (caucasion) who was quite nice but wouldn't give me more than a $10/month discount. I told her I would think about it and call back later. I called back today and lo and behold, they offered me a 30% discount! I got this guy (sounded Indian), who was new because he didn't really know what to do and was fumbling through his script but was also pretty nice.

I told him that another company was offering me promotions to join them. He put me on hold and came back and told me he could match it.

My BEV bill after taxes is about $75 and he mentioned that since I was a long time customer (8 years), they wanted to keep me.

So it's definitely YMMV. From the sounds of things in this thread lately, I think I was lucky.

If he was new, then I hope he knows how to use their crazy billing system to apply the offer for you!

[torontoraptor]

If he was new, then I hope he knows how to use their crazy billing system to apply the offer for you!

Yes, I have been bitten before by this situation so I got his name and employee number.

[yuwayne25]

FYI - i just called Bell's expressVu retention today and got 20% off for 1 yr.

I have been with them for over 3-4 years and currently pay $94 (+tax) for HD programming.. it's pretty heavy but i was happy with 20% off.

[Hugh Jass]

FYI - i just called Bell's expressVu retention today and got 20% off for 1 yr.

I have been with them for over 3-4 years and currently pay $94 (+tax) for HD programming.. it's pretty heavy but i was happy with 20% off.

Is that 20% off your whole bill or just the programming part?

[plantage]

So, I suppose when it comes to bell I actually have to call them up instead of using their online chat. I've tried three times to deal with an online CSR and got no where with them. I said I was considering moving all my rogers services to bell and was getting 20% off services, pvr, and extra channels (which I was). In the last conversation, the chat lady gave me this crap about a free pvr and one terminal for free, but no discount and a crap promotion of 2 months of a movie package. All junk found on their website. When I told her I was also looking for a discount with everything she said my 'bundle' would add up to $5 in savings. I ended the chat right there. So, I guess you have to call them in order to get the deals.

:facepalm:

[Hugh Jass]

So, I guess you have to call them in order to get the deals.

:facepalm:

Oh yeah. You have to tell them you're cancelling their services.

[plantage]

Oh yeah. You have to tell them you're cancelling their services.

I would hope, as a means of luring new people in, that they will have great deals for new customers. I currently have no services with Bell. But the pathetic online chat rep was simply offering me the same crap on the website, no discounts, no extra digital packages.

If I do decide to call them up and tell them, "I have no services with bell, am considering switching from Rogers for internet and TV" what should I hold out for? Seems most people are getting between 20-30% off. So, I expect nothing less. I also would like a 2nd free PVR, but will settle for just the one. I would also like to get more digital packages (I was planning on getting digital essential with the 6 Digital Theme Packs, but would like to get more for free). I would also consider the dell.ca deal for free internet for 4 months, but was wondering if they will outright give it to you if you negotiate with them.

With a little persistence, is what I'm asking for plausible? I'm more than willing to call 3-4 times to get the service rep who will negotiate such a deal. Considering Rogers offers this stuff to new customers, I was hoping Bell would as well.

[HarvsDad]

So here's my tale - hoping for some insight from fellow RFD'rs as to what to shoot for...

We had an install booked for this past friday between noon and 5p (we just moved to a new house so it's transferring our service). Called twice before to confirm the date. Friday comes and nobody shows up. So I call at 5p and got a CSR who pulled up my file and confirmed the install was supposed to happen. She couldn't offer an explanation as to why nobody showed up or even called. So she put a priority note to the technicians to call and rebook a time, saying someone would call within 36 hours...it's 3 days later and still no call. To say I'm beyond furious is an understatement, but now I'm waiting until tomorrow so I can deal with a normal Customer Relations/Retentions person as opposed to the weekend part timers.

If you were me, what would it take to make things right and not pull the ripcord and chute to Rogers?

[Sheed30]

I would hope, as a means of luring new people in, that they will have great deals for new customers. I currently have no services with Bell. But the pathetic online chat rep was simply offering me the same crap on the website, no discounts, no extra digital packages.

If I do decide to call them up and tell them, "I have no services with bell, am considering switching from Rogers for internet and TV" what should I hold out for? Seems most people are getting between 20-30% off. So, I expect nothing less. I also would like a 2nd free PVR, but will settle for just the one. I would also like to get more digital packages (I was planning on getting digital essential with the 6 Digital Theme Packs, but would like to get more for free). I would also consider the dell.ca deal for free internet for 4 months, but was wondering if they will outright give it to you if you negotiate with them.

With a little persistence, is what I'm asking for plausible? I'm more than willing to call 3-4 times to get the service rep who will negotiate such a deal. Considering Rogers offers this stuff to new customers, I was hoping Bell would as well.


There's no harm in calling to find out what Bell can offer to get you as a new customer... Since you're not an existing Bell customer you can't call the retentions dept threatening to cancel so you would have to deal with a different dept for new customers and getting a sweet deal to get you to sign up might be a little harder to get.. Just call anyway and they might give you what you are looking for or something similar but to expect 20-30% off your bill + free 2nd PVR + extra programing for free and you might be hoping for a little too much but there's no harm in giving it a shot.. It just might work.. :)

Please let us know what happens if/when you call in.. I'm curious now as to how Bell will handle this situation when a potential new customer calls in asking for a 20-30% discount + free 2nd PVR + free extra programming before I switch/sign up to your service will work.. Please keep us updated on what they can offer you to switch..

[Hugh Jass]

If you were me, what would it take to make things right and not pull the ripcord and chute to Rogers?

At least a $50 credit, but try for something like a credit per month for a year or so, like free pvr rental etc.

[HarvsDad]

So just spent the last hour on the phone with BELL. Explained how nobody called me to reschedule my already missed install, so the CSR put it thru and has the guy coming this afternoon. HOWEVER, they had to charge me a priority install fee of 74 dollars...WTF?!? I said, this was your screw up not mine so I'm not paying it. She said she had to charge the fee but I could call in when I get my bill and have it reversed. I realized I was going nowhere with this, so I said thank you and ended the call. THEN I called Retentions, and got a 'follow-by-the-CSR-flowchart' Retentions person. I explained how I was pretty frustrated at this point that I'm doing all the calling and following up when it was THEIR mistake. She agreed to follow up on the install charge and credit it back to my account. Then she said she could only give me 20% off of my programming for a year. I expressed how that was what was offered to me months ago BEFORE this clusterf*ck of an install. I said what about waiving the PVR rental fee, and she said she could only do one thing per session. I asked her if I called back again, will that be offered to me - she basically said you can try, but don't do it right away. I ended making her put into her notes that I WASN'T satisfied with how this whole situation was handled, and really I just wanted some accountability and an apology (which I got neither between both CSR's I spoke with).

I'm ready to call back and just cancel the whole damn thing and go the Rogers route...GRRRRRRR!!!!

Thanks to everybody in this thread and their suggestions!

[redgrandam]

So just spent the last hour on the phone with BELL. Explained how nobody called me to reschedule my already missed install, so the CSR put it thru and has the guy coming this afternoon. HOWEVER, they had to charge me a priority install fee of 74 dollars...WTF?!? I said, this was your screw up not mine so I'm not paying it. She said she had to charge the fee but I could call in when I get my bill and have it reversed. I realized I was going nowhere with this, so I said thank you and ended the call. THEN I called Retentions, and got a 'follow-by-the-CSR-flowchart' Retentions person. I explained how I was pretty frustrated at this point that I'm doing all the calling and following up when it was THEIR mistake. She agreed to follow up on the install charge and credit it back to my account. Then she said she could only give me 20% off of my programming for a year. I expressed how that was what was offered to me months ago BEFORE this clusterf*ck of an install. I said what about waiving the PVR rental fee, and she said she could only do one thing per session. I asked her if I called back again, will that be offered to me - she basically said you can try, but don't do it right away. I ended making her put into her notes that I WASN'T satisfied with how this whole situation was handled, and really I just wanted some accountability and an apology (which I got neither between both CSR's I spoke with).

I'm ready to call back and just cancel the whole damn thing and go the Rogers route...GRRRRRRR!!!!

Thanks to everybody in this thread and their suggestions!

All I can say is that is likely not the last time you will be asking them to credit the $75 back, as it will probably show on your next bill, and your one after that.

[bossboy]

When you guys are saying you are getting a free HD PVR, are you getting a free rental for a year or two, or getting it OUTRIGHT for free?
IE owning it for free?

[djino]

When you guys are saying you are getting a free HD PVR, are you getting a free rental for a year or two, or getting it OUTRIGHT for free?
IE owning it for free?

Free Rental. Basically a rental charge with a rental credit for 12 months on a 12 month contract.

djino

[bossboy]

Free Rental. Basically a rental charge with a rental credit for 12 months on a 12 month contract.

djino

Interesting. I thought ppl were getting the PVR for free outright. hehe.
I'd just hate to have to start paying for the rental after the 12 months are up :(

[redgrandam]

Interesting. I thought ppl were getting the PVR for free outright. hehe.
I'd just hate to have to start paying for the rental after the 12 months are up :(

The idea is to call up every 12 months and get a 'new' retentions plan that would again cover the rental for another year, and keep on doing this BS every year for the rest of your life :D

[Sloan55]

My 50% off for 6 months just came due so I called Bell and asked what they could do for me. Been a customer for 7 years and bill is $70 pre tax per month for BEV. The best that the lady offered me was $10 per month for 1 year. I said thanks but no thanks and asked to cancel. She didn't even heistate, she cancelled me right on the spot. So that was on October 5th, and I figured I would have gotten a call by now from loyalty department but still nothing. My question is, if I have to call back with my tail between my legs and "un-cancel" can I still ask for some type of retention deal? I am planning on giving it until the end of the month before I call back and speak to them, hoping, in that time frame that they will call me and offer me something. Any thoughts?

[sml]

In my experience, don't expect to get a call back if you cancel. I didn't, most people don't. Very rarely a few people (1 or 2) on this thread claims to have gotten a call back so it's a huge YMMV. If you wanted to "threathen" them, you should have taken the $10 off discount first, then call back to cancel, then wait for a call back. Worst case is if you don't get a call back, you call them to uncancel and still get your $10 discount.

[redgrandam]

Does anyone have any suggestions to get Bell to follow through with the Free PVR rental for a year offer? They told me I could get that, I've called up and they always tell me they look at next month and it shows up that I'm getting it, and credit for the missed months. Here's the odd thing though, they applied a 'customer service' credit Oct 6th , well 2 actually, one for $105 and one for $100. I'm not really sure why those are there, other than maybe they applied the credit all at once instead of monthly? But I've had so many billing problems that those credits could be a fix for previous calls at the rate they fix stuff. Either way, I don't want to loose those credits of course..

EDIT: I just want to run out the end of my contract in June (this is how long I've been waiting for the offer to be applied properly) so I can jump ship I guess. They are applying my 'save offer' for the programming credit, but it's only $5 (as agreed upon)

[bubble.tea]

... if I have to call back with my tail between my legs and "un-cancel" can I still ask for some type of retention deal?...
Certainly!!!

Just because you're opting to remain doesn't translate into compliance to their prices. It could be that;

you're out of contract and are waiting for a good promo with a competitor which hasn't dropped yet.
financial trouble so you dont' want to commit to a new contract with another company just yet.
etc..etc....etc..............


HOWEVER, it will definately show up that you asked to cancel, and removed, so to a switched-on rep, they can use that against you.

Do we have a Sympatico Retention deal thread? What's the best deal to benchmark against currently for the 7mb service? 4 years ago I got the $14.99/19.99/24.99(yr 1)-$34.99(yr 2) set up., I ran that out, now barely doing under 40. I need help!!! Stupid BS Nickel&Dime fees, and the modem rental (yrs cost is ~$40 so still not worth to buy my own, rather have a rental that can be replaced gratis if any trouble arises).

I renewed the 20%, and got free hdpvr. 20% showever up promptly...but free rental didn't. Been 2 months now. Called finally today (first time) to follow up. Confirmed it was offered, so they did a F/U., hopefully it shows up next month.

Since it took me 4months to muster the motivation to reneg this deal., I'll have to remind myself 4months BEFORE THIS deal expires so by the time 12months comes around, I'll be into the mood of doing this.

[redgrandam]

I renewed the 20%, and got free hdpvr. 20% showever up promptly...but free rental didn't. Been 2 months now. Called finally today (first time) to follow up. Confirmed it was offered, so they did a F/U., hopefully it shows up next month.

Since it took me 4months to muster the motivation to reneg this deal., I'll have to remind myself 4months BEFORE THIS deal expires so by the time 12months comes around, I'll be into the mood of doing this.

Same with me, I signed up the retentions deal in June, and just got my october bill, and they STILL aren't taking off the $20. Has anyone ever tried to get out of a contract based on the fact that they aren't applying the proper discounts? I called in August and they said they looked at my 'next' bill and it showed the $20 correctly, as well as my missed months. I guess that was a lie. I just want out now!

Edit:

I forgot I emailed in sept. too, this is what they said:

We thank you for your time to contact us, and we are pleased to assist
you. We understand that you wish make a follow up on your HD PVR rental
credit. We checked your account and verified the 2 charges of $20 on
your August 8 invoice. Please be advised that we are billing a month in
advance, and those charges are for the months of June to August. Since
you have not received yet the offer of free HD PVR rental for 12 months,
we have sent a follow up request to the department that provided you the
said offer. Please be advised that it will be applied in the next 3-6
weeks. Please bear with us and rest assured that we will apply the offer
accordingly. We thank you for your patience and understanding on this
matter.

I got some large customer service credits, but they don't even total the years worth of PVR rentals.... It's sooo confusing too becuase they double billed when they installed the 'new' one by at least a full billing cycle.

[spotvi]

Hi,

Called Bell TV to threaten them to leave.

Been a customer for 7 years.
Had a 40% off deal for 12 months that expired last month.

Loyalty guy was pretty independent, offered 10$ off, that's the best he could do.
-Can't give you 40% forever...blah, blah...
-You have 4 receivers, to will cost you alot to replace with Rogers...

All true, but still surprised he didn't offer more...

I guess I'll have to cancel for REAL and see if they move.

[antman59]

Want to get rid of Rogers. Have had everything with them for the last year which is almost up. The home phone is crap, and even though I have a contract the fees keep increasing WTF. Also they are now throtling encrypted traffic. Was thinking of going with Bell but after reading the crap people have to go through I am not so sure anymore. Might have to install that Over the Air antena. Rogers need to be forced to resell their TV service like they are with the internet. I hate feeling trapped with Rogers and Bell. A contract is supposed to be an agreement between 2 parties, however with these guys it's agreeing to let them screw us however whenever they want.:evil:

[raverguy]

For those of you who are getting 30% off for 12 months take a quick look at your bill this month. After initially fighting with them to get the billing correct for 3 to 4 months they finally got it correct and the billing has been running okay for the last 4 or 5 bills. Unfortunately that came to a halt today when I got my latest bill, the HD PVR credit is still there but the 30% off of the programming magically disappeared even though the 12 months are not up. I called them up and said that the credit should be there till December and they agreed and said I will see it plus the missing credit for this month on next month's bill. Sadly having enough experience with them in the past I'm sure I will need to call them next month again.

[weebg]

I got the $20/month discount.

In talking with the Retentions rep, I got the feeling she's been harassed before since she started the conversation quite curt and was very adamant as to what the maximum discount she could give.

I just kept the conversation simple and accepted the $20 discount since I've read that that's pretty much all I could get on a call with retentions without doing the cancel-and-wait-for-loyalty-to-call-back game. I don't have the time or resources to spend waiting for Bell to beg me back in hopes for an extra $10-$20 discount.

During the call, I kept my answers calm and quiet. I repeated many "I understand you are running a business" and "We are trying to help each other out" comments. By the end of the call, she was very apologetic about her tone which, I suppose, was some small consolation.

One odd tidbit I got from her is that she mentioned this would probably be the last time I get a discount from retentions since I originally had the 40% discount (free HD PVR) for a year, then the 30% discount (free HD PVR), and now the $20 discount (no free HD PVR). I asked why and she said that management is "tightening up" (her words) the number of retention deals given to a single account.

:facepalm:

[Bushaway]

I just completed my 2nd year of 40% off programing, and credit for HD reciever rental ($240.00). (See post #914) Called retention department and was offered $20.00 credit per month for the next 12 months. She said that the 40% was no longer offered. After a little coaxing I was able to get her to throw in another 1 time credit of $20.00, to cover 2 months of reciever rental. I did not have to agree to a contract, as I have been a customer of Bell for 8 years. I should see the credit on my November bill, but if not, on the December bill at the latest. Keeping my fingers crossed.

[james-007]

Why is it that Bell can't get their F*in bills straight. They charge your account right away but takes them months and months to give you your credit back. I've been with them for 2 years let me tell you every time you call them for discount or change your programming they f*up. Everyone in these forums complain about the same thing and yet we put up with it.
Last month I renewed my discount of 20% + one time discount of $120. What I got on my bill was only $100 discount and charged me $2.50 for late payment fee. WTF late payment fee... Payment is charged to my credit card which they have on file. So how can there be late payment?
We should just boycott Bell. What a pain in the A$$ they are.

[Hugh Jass]

Why is it that Bell can't get their F*in bills straight.

Coz they make a truckload of cash from it. You never see it as a mistake in the customers favour.

[wiebecj]

I just renegotiated to get a 20% discount in August, got 2 months of it, and now it's gone on this bill.. tried calling billing but i guess they are gone for the day now..

[pidd]

I had to let Bell go. I got an offer I couldnt refuse from Shaw. The retention guy offered me a free pvr... it wasnt enough for me to stay. Then the calls started coming in to try to get me to stay on. The guy I got was good... he really tried... $20/m off, free pvr and $75 one time credit. I had to tell them the Shaw offer was better. The girl that called back told me they dont match competitors... gave me a line "we are a premium server provider" like no one could hold a candle to them. I laughed and asked them to keep my cancel notice. Told them I guess Shaw wants me more as a customer than Bell wanted to keep me as one.

Shaw gets installed on Friday I hope!

[spotvi]

Hey Pidd,

How many days after your cancelation notice at Bell, before they called back?

Cheers,

[Sloan55]

My 50% off for 6 months just came due so I called Bell and asked what they could do for me. Been a customer for 7 years and bill is $70 pre tax per month for BEV. The best that the lady offered me was $10 per month for 1 year. I said thanks but no thanks and asked to cancel. She didn't even heistate, she cancelled me right on the spot. So that was on October 5th, and I figured I would have gotten a call by now from loyalty department but still nothing. My question is, if I have to call back with my tail between my legs and "un-cancel" can I still ask for some type of retention deal? I am planning on giving it until the end of the month before I call back and speak to them, hoping, in that time frame that they will call me and offer me something. Any thoughts?

It's funny that I am still within my 30 day window of cancelling, I haven't received a call yet from Loyalty or Retentions, but today I get a letter in the mail saying "sorry you cancelled and you no longer have any services with us but if you call this number, 1-877-723-4710 we would love to discuss your needs". I don't get it. They can't call but they will send a letter? Does this give me any bargaining power at all? Anyone have any exprience with this type of letter?

[redgrandam]

It's funny that I am still within my 30 day window of cancelling, I haven't received a call yet from Loyalty or Retentions, but today I get a letter in the mail saying "sorry you cancelled and you no longer have any services with us but if you call this number, 1-877-723-4710 we would love to discuss your needs". I don't get it. They can't call but they will send a letter? Does this give me any bargaining power at all? Anyone have any exprience with this type of letter?

Call the number, tell them you got a letter inviting you to call them, ask them if they have decided to extend any additional offers or something along those lines. You got nothing to loose, you might get lucky :)

[Sloan55]

Call the number, tell them you got a letter inviting you to call them, ask them if they have decided to extend any additional offers or something along those lines. You got nothing to loose, you might get lucky :)

So I called them, and again all they told me was the best they could do was the $10 off my bill. The guy was nice, he did say that if Loyalty could do better then I would get a phone call before my cancellation period was up (I have yet to receive it. I asked why they sent the letter, he said he didn't know.

[redgrandam]

So I called them, and again all they told me was the best they could do was the $10 off my bill. The guy was nice, he did say that if Loyalty could do better then I would get a phone call before my cancellation period was up (I have yet to receive it. I asked why they sent the letter, he said he didn't know.


wow. there really is a serious disconnect there now isn't there. Not surprising though, however unfortunate. The letter IMO is better than a phone call since you can call them at your convenience, and not sit by the phone for 30 days..

[kgbrunn]

Called bell tonight to cancel, told them cogeco was offering me a great deal, they came back with $20 discount on home phone, $8 discount on internet and $20 discount on tv. My bill total will now be 187/month down from 250/month.

I haven't accepted the offer yet, wondering what everyone else has gotten for all 3 services?

Kelly

[pidd]

Hey Pidd,

How many days after your cancelation notice at Bell, before they called back?

It only took a week.. and after I talked to them they called 4 times a day. (I didnt pick up until I new exactly what I got from Shaw)

[james-007]

Last month I didn't get all of the one time discount.... This month no 20% discount... Boy was |I ever pissed. CSR was offering free channels I declined because that would be another reason for them to screw up the bill all over again.

[kevinlo2]

I just get my new bill and find out my 40% off expires. Call Bell and the best I can get is $20 off with no contract. After reading the latest posts here, it seems that is the best people can get. I accept it for now as it has no contract. But it is my fault that I don't call before my 40% expire and I cannot get the $20 off this month!!!!!

I am considering switching to Telus Optik as I am using Telus internet and phone. Let see what Telus can give me. I have been with Bell for more than 8 years. Maybe time to cut it as $20 off is sucked. I just cut the HD channel to save $10 as I don't watch it much. I like the Oasis HD, but $10 + HST for watching it a few times a month is not worth it. For other HD TV drama, I can watch them somewhere.

Anyone has switched from Bell to Optik, can you tell me how it is comparing with Bell?

I called Telus to check what I can get. I am using its phone with 3 features (26.62) and high speed internet ($9.95). That $9.95 promotion price expires soon. The retention guy gives me this deal in the next 12 months at $53.95 + tax without contract:
1) Phone with 3 features
2) Optik high speed internet (15 Mbps)
3) Optik HD PVR + 2 HD box (my area can get 2HD and 1SD live)

I think that is a good deal. The Optik HD PVR can record 3 programs at the same time and the other two boxes can view its recorded (Bell HD PVR cannot do that). Although I bought the Bell 9242 and two 61xx last year, I am planning to switch as Telus has no contract and the deal is cheaper in total. If Bell has good promotion later on, I don't mind switching back.

The competition is high now, I don't know why Bell can cut their promotion. If they give me back the 40% off, I won't research what is offer in other company and switch. Sorry for Bell that just lose a 8 years loyal customer.

[mre]

I've been with Bell for 5 years and just got the following. I pay $72 (incl. taxes per month).

- $10 month credit
- $120 one time "loyalty" credit.

My savings are basically 28% for the year. This isn't as good as the 40% discount I had last year, but it's acceptable.

[MikeyP]

Got them to send me a 9242 (as I returned our 9241 after the free rental. I didn't think they'd have any to give! Long story behind that after a little debacle).. for a nice discount. Had been with them since they were "Dish Network Canada" back in the early 90's.

[kevinlo2]

After reading MRE getting $120 credit, I call Bell again today telling the CS that Telus offers me a good deal to use their Optik TV. I need not ask me for the $120 credit, the guy offers it to me. I even ask me to give me $30 credit for my current month that they already print the statement. He then offers me 3 month free movie channels.

Planning to stay for now. But I will keep an eye on the Telus Optik deal. Its all boxes sharing the same HD PVR is a good feature that I want. Sometimes I record a program in the basement box and I want to watch it in my bedroom.

[dealCker]

Got them to send me a 9242 (as I returned our 9241 after the free rental. I didn't think they'd have any to give! Long story behind that after a little debacle).. for a nice discount. Had been with them since they were "Dish Network Canada" back in the early 90's.


What did you pay for the 9242? please do tell.. This is the first post I've read that someone was successful in getting one after they were discontinued.

[trdd]

...Had been with them since they were "Dish Network Canada" back in the early 90's.

Sorry Dude, never has been a "Dish Network Canada". ExpressVu used / bought the technology of "Dishnetwork".
Dish Network was never allowed to sell anything directly to Canada, courtesy of the gus I mean CRTC.

[barter2007]

TRDD
Originally Posted by MikeyP
...Had been with them since they were "Dish Network Canada" back in the early 90's.
Sorry Dude, never has been a "Dish Network Canada". ExpressVu used / bought the technology of "Dishnetwork".
Dish Network was never allowed to sell anything directly to Canada, courtesy of the gus I mean CRTC.

Actually you are the one that is incorrect. When Expressvu first launched in service on September 10th 1997, as "Dish Network Canada", then "ExpressVu Dish Network", using the Echostar logo. ExpressVu actually went with Echostar after a deal for Star Choice to use the Echostar equipment fell apart.

ExpressVu was third DTH service launched in Canada. The first was Alphastar which launched in the Spring of 1997 and failed in a few months. The second was Star Choice in the summer of 1997.

In 2000 Bell took over full ownership of ExpressVu

[MikeyP]

What did you pay for the 9242? please do tell.. This is the first post I've read that someone was successful in getting one after they were discontinued.

$299.. I should have mentioned it's a refurb, but came with all the little plastic sticker bits over everything and new remotes. If the rep didn't mention it was a refurb I wouldn't have known. Not sure if I like it as much as my old 9241 (I don't really need the ability of controlling the two TVs), but I was able to transfer all my recordings over to it; plus making the UHF remote control TV1 was a little bit of a research hog. PIP is kind of nice, but not really a necessity for me either. Just wanted to see what the hype was about a 9242. PLUS my local Bell store has a 9242 sitting on display (not even on) I could have had.

[MikeyP]

Actually you are the one that is incorrect. When Expressvu first launched in service on September 10th 1997, as "Dish Network Canada", then "ExpressVu Dish Network", using the Echostar logo. ExpressVu actually went with Echostar after a deal for Star Choice to use the Echostar equipment fell apart.

ExpressVu was third DTH service launched in Canada. The first was Alphastar which launched in the Spring of 1997 and failed in a few months. The second was Star Choice in the summer of 1997.

In 2000 Bell took over full ownership of ExpressVu

Glad to see someone else remembers those days! It was the Dish Network logo of old with "Canada" written below it. I thought it was before 1997.. my bad. We had a US DN subscription before that (the only DSS you could get) as that was "the way to go" back then, and once DNC came into play there was no grey-market shenanigans to deal with.

[imnew]

What is the chance of getting a deal on hdtv receiver from bell? have been with bell for 9 yrs, but just basic, 1 theme and fairchild...

finally just got a led tv.. ahahhaah

[Sergio]

Guys, I just got off the phone with bell. I called and asked to cancel my account. They transferred me to the loyalty department. My 40% discount and free 12 month PVR was removed recently, and my my monthly cost shot up to 102$ per month. I revamped my complete package, and settled for following:


Basic package @18.27
30 Channels "a la carte" @22.33
Favorite Pack @5.08
Movie Network @12.15
Loyalty Discount @-20.00
New Monthly Total = 38$ + taxes


I'm returning the Bell receiver, and replacing it with my 99$ receiver I purchased last boxing day from Future Shop.

I will be saving 64$ per month and I will need to adjust to new programming list which is less, but should not have much impact.

I immediately called Bell Internet, and was able to get chance my current plan 43$ (Performance 6Mbps) + 3.95 (rental) down to 32$ a month. I paid 25$ flat price for DSL modem, so they will stop charging me the 3.95 per month, and negotiated base price.

Good luck!
Sergio

<------- PS: If this helps anyone, please click the THANKS icon - thank you!

[Sloan55]

I've been with Bell for 5 years and just got the following. I pay $72 (incl. taxes per month).

- $10 month credit
- $120 one time "loyalty" credit.

My savings are basically 28% for the year. This isn't as good as the 40% discount I had last year, but it's acceptable.

Just to recap, I was only offered the $10 per month credit, so I cancelled my services, have phoned twice in the past month and they wouldn't budge, I only have 2 days left to "uncancel" so after seeing MRE's post, I called and mentioned it to the rep and it took 2 minutes for him to match it. I was logged into MY BELL on wwwl.bell.ca and I could see the credit already applied to my account. Thanks for posting MRE.

[Hugh Jass]

Guys, I just got off the phone with bell. I called and asked to cancel my account. They transferred me to the loyalty department. My 40% discount and free 12 month PVR was removed recently, and my my monthly cost shot up to 102$ per month. I revamped my complete package, and settled for following:

I will be saving 64$ per month and I will need to adjust to new programming list which is less, but should not have much impact.

I immediately called Bell Internet, and was able to get chance my current plan 43$ (Performance 6Mbps) + 3.95 (rental) down to 32$ a month. I paid 25$ flat price for DSL modem, so they will stop charging me the 3.95 per month, and negotiated base price.

<------- PS: If this helps anyone, please click the THANKS icon - thank you!

Thx for posting. Gives me encouragement for this weeks call. I let the discount lapse and last bill was $117 for TV. Dumb me.

We have too many channels we never watch so might try the a la carte as you say.

[jblade44]

Guys, I just got off the phone with bell. I called and asked to cancel my account. They transferred me to the loyalty department. My 40% discount and free 12 month PVR was removed recently, and my my monthly cost shot up to 102$ per month. I revamped my complete package, and settled for following:


Basic package @18.27
30 Channels "a la carte" @22.33
Favorite Pack @5.08
Movie Network @12.15
Loyalty Discount @-20.00
New Monthly Total = 38$ + taxes


I'm returning the Bell receiver, and replacing it with my 99$ receiver I purchased last boxing day from Future Shop.

I will be saving 64$ per month and I will need to adjust to new programming list which is less, but should not have much impact.

I immediately called Bell Internet, and was able to get chance my current plan 43$ (Performance 6Mbps) + 3.95 (rental) down to 32$ a month. I paid 25$ flat price for DSL modem, so they will stop charging me the 3.95 per month, and negotiated base price.

Good luck!
Sergio

<------- PS: If this helps anyone, please click the THANKS icon - thank you!

Wow ... they still gave you 40% discount ?? You are one of the lucky ones.....

[pidd]

Wow ... they still gave you 40% discount ?? You are one of the lucky ones.....

Well technically he got only about a 20% disc. Bell did the same with me... change the channel line ups... buy your own receiver.. etc. In the end all Bell did was give you a $20 discount. Not bad mind you but not the 40% it looks like.

[tbpd349]

I just got off the phone with BEV. I was told that the 9242 receivers were unavailable, refurbished or not.

With very little haggling, the CSR offered a 9241 for $499 less 50% in BEV credits.

Just a FYI for anyone interested in purchasing a HD PVR from BEV.

[gfully1]

Just got off the phone with Bhell - after being a customer for more than 10 years...

Kissed the 40% good-bye all they could offer me was $10 per month plus my 5$ bundle on my BEV.
They screwed me on my home phone...said my contract was $5 off per month for the first year of a 2yr contract. I was not informed of that...oh well sorry Mr. Fullerton.

They wouldn't budge with anything...even asked about using my own wireless modem instead of renting and was told I can't. Is this true?

Wow, what a joke:evil:

[imnew]

Just got off the phone with bell...

been with them 7-8yrs.. just basic and chinese => monthly bill 74 tax inc...

Their offer...

50% of HDPVR towards programming credit
6 months HD programming
Free installation...

That's it...

This is the first call..

think i can get more?? I asked for 1 yr hd programming.... wouldn't budge... Will keep on file for 30 days....

any suggestions??

[jblade44]

Well technically he got only about a 20% disc. Bell did the same with me... change the channel line ups... buy your own receiver.. etc. In the end all Bell did was give you a $20 discount. Not bad mind you but not the 40% it looks like.

If he is getting basic package for 18.27 is that not 40% off the regular basic package cost of 30.00 ?? The other items look to be 40% off as well??

[MattE71]

Hey guys,

I have been a customer for 8 years. The best that I could do so far was half price on a 9241 or $10 dollar credit per month and a $50 dollar one time credit. The lady told me that is the best they can do at this time. This makes me wonder if something could change soon, like around Christmas or early January when more new flat screen tv's are sold. I think I will look in to the new Telus Optik tv and see what's the best they can do.

I cant believe Bell is going from $40% discount to a $10 dollar credit. That leaves a bad taste in the mouth's of current customers.

[pidd]

If he is getting basic package for 18.27 is that not 40% off the regular basic package cost of 30.00 ?? The other items look to be 40% off as well??

Technically yes... but BELL isnt giving him the entire 40%, Other factors make up the savings... program changes, buying HW, etc.

He saved himself 20% and Bell saved him another 20%.

[PANACHE70]

Well, the time had finally come. My 40% discount was over and I decided to play CSR roulette to see what offers I could get this year.

I managed to get the 20$ off for a year on a 71$ per month programming package. No contract.

A discount of approximately 28%.

It is not 40% but I figured 28% was pretty good.

When I factor in the 10$ bundle discount, I am actually getting 47% off.

I was also offered to swap my rental 6131 and purchase one for 50% off (99$). They would deliver and install.

While I was at it, I managed to change my home phone from the old platform to the new platform which allows me to get an additional 5$ off in the bundle (don't know why I did not do that a long time ago). They also kicked in another 5$ off per month for 12 months.

They could not do any better on my internet pricing (10$ off per month), so I left it the way it was.

In the end, I managed 30$ off a month on my Bell TV (with bundle discount), 100$ off a receiver delivered and installed, and 10$ a month off my home phone (with bundle discount).

Not a bad day's work.

[TLeader1999]

Hi...just phoned in to cancel my Expressvu after over 11 years. Had 30% off and a free HDPVR for past year but they would only offer me either 20% off for 1 year, or free rental of a new HDPVR for 1 year of a 2 year plan. Have internet and phone with Shaw and signed up with their "Triple Play" deal. Increase my Shaw bill about $20/month and removed my Bell bill of $120/month. When I called Bell to cancel, he tried to keep me with a $20 off for a year. Then for cancelling be aware that you have to give them 30 days notice (not in my info from when I signed up but they always change the rules). Originally he said I would still owe $65 for 1/2 a month not already pre-billed. I told him I am not using the service as of today, so why charge me more? After a bit of conversation I asked him to drop all of my packages down to the lowest cost package and then cancel me. Turned out then I owed them under a $1 so he said the bill would be for zero. They are sending out a pre-paid shipping box to send back the HDPVR. I guess I should have said to put me "on vacation" for a month then cancel me, maybe they would have owed me my 1/2 month of service back :)
If you want to check out the Shaw deal please see: http://forums.redflagdeals.com/shaw-tv-internet-phone-deal-59-95-a-895719/4/
Shaw have been so much better to deal with...glad I finally made the decision. Now I just have to wash 11 years of memorizing channel numbers out of my head - ha ha.

[darklord700]

I guess I should have said to put me "on vacation" for a month then cancel me, maybe they would have owed me my 1/2 month of service back :)
If you want to check out the Shaw deal please see: http://forums.redflagdeals.com/shaw-tv-internet-phone-deal-59-95-a-895719/4/
Shaw have been so much better to deal with...glad I finally made the decision. Now I just have to wash 11 years of memorizing channel numbers out of my head - ha ha.

When I was cancelling a while ago, they told me I had to give them 30 days notice. I said my PVR was broken why should I pay you for 30 days of service I never got to use. They gave me the contract speech and I said, fine, just drop my package to the lowest level and be done with. They said I'll need 30 days notice for the drop to take effect. I said WTF and hung up on them. Called my credit card and had the charge reversed. What a bunch of thieves working there?

Needless to say, I'll never go back. And I'll never tell people to sign up with Bell.

[adams7]

Today I was actually considering going back to using ExpressVu TV services, but this thread reminds of how poor Bell's service policies remain. Many of the communications companies have adopted a policy of charging long-term customers a much higher price than the newly-snagged customer, they can do it because many people don't want to bother to switch, and the companies have those fee-reduction enticements to lock you up with a contract. It seems to me they should be doing the reverse, they should steadily reduce your bill for additional years as a loyal customer.

As of 4 years ago, I was an ExpressVu subscriber for 8 years and then for no reason they tacked on a $150 "installation fee" which I complained about, they said it was a mistake and I didn't have to pay it. But then it took 4 more months and about a half dozen long phone calls before they finally confirmed they made a mistake (they somehow believed I had them "re-install" my equipment) and they removed the $150 fee (but not the interest on the $150 they were adding on monthly). Finally I got fed up with the endless hassle to try to resolve the situation and I terminated my account.

for 4 years I've been using an outdoor antenna, which gets me CBC and Global-TV and maybe 1 or 2 others if the weather is good. So I have only up to 4 channels, not many, but they cost me nothing. With satellite I had about 70 useful channels, plus more radio feeds. Believe it or not, 3 or 4 channels is not bad, because CBC TV and radio documentary and news programs are excellent, I have several low-cost DVD stores nearby, we have the internet for news and entertainment, and now there are even more sources of legal movie and TV internet streams and downloads. How many TV channels does a person really need, and have time to watch?


Did you know that in the UK, satellite TV is free? They don't have all the possible channels, but they have a total of 164 channels of television (2 HD), radio and text.
http://www.freesat.co.uk
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freesat

[riesman20]

Did you know that in the UK, satellite TV is free? They don't have all the possible channels, but they have a total of 164 channels of television (2 HD), radio and text.
http://www.freesat.co.uk
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freesat

I don't think that is 100% accurate. Freesat would be similat to Free-to-air in North America. There are many free channels here as well on the Free-to-air systems. They have Sky in the UK that would be similar to our Bell/Shaw/etc.

Someone can correct me if I am wrong but that is how I understand it.

[TheOldGuy]

Bell satellite is dropping HDNet on December 7, 2010

Price increase for all subs in January $2 to $6/month regardless of contract status

[worldjerseys]

Bell satellite is dropping HDNet on December 7, 2010

Price increase for all subs in January $2 to $6/month regardless of contract status

This may be the final straw.

[djino]

Bell satellite is dropping HDNet on December 7, 2010

Price increase for all subs in January $2 to $6/month regardless of contract status

Wow, I think I've had about enough of these price increases.

Once netflix is supported on the boxee box I'm gonna start removing a lot of my packages to eventually have it all canceled.

djino
"F'ing Bell"

[redgrandam]

This may be the final straw.

I agree.. AFter all my billing problems, hours on the phone, things are sorted out, well kinda, not done right, but dollar amount ads up, after all the 9241 PVR issues and such, and with netflix around, and everything else available online, I think I'm done. Contract is up in June, see if we make it that long.

It was retentions that screwed up my last billing mess, so I can't even accept an offer from them to stay, no matter how good.

[adams7]

"Free-to-air" satellite in North America is not generally intended for consumers, it's just random unencrypted channels intended as feeds for local TV stations mostly in the USA, and they are scattered over many satellites at various orbit positions. Similar to the channels people would get 20 years ago with the 10' dishes. Receiving these channels is an underground (but probably legal) activity for electronics hobbyists with some technical ability and people who really want some international channels in non-English languages. It requires a 30 to 36" dish and a motorized dish mount to move between satellites. Many of the channels are foreign language or religious, although it is possible to find some regular network feeds such as PBS, many of the feeds are are "wild" and not always broadcasting or move from one satellite to another as required by the commercial users.
http://www.ftalist.com/index.php

In contrast, Freesat in the UK is intended for consumers and has a wide selection of SD channels all on one satellite, although they have only 2 HD channels, BBC and ITV 1. Looks to me like their channels would cost $80+ on ExpressVu. The competing Sky dish system is similar to ExpressVu and no doubt has more channels and many in HD, but if I was in the UK I'd probably go Freesat, I mean look at their channels list, it's very extensive and even includes several big USA channels such as CNN, CNBC, Bloomberg. Freesat doesn't charge anything other than the cost of the receiver box and even that is optional as many types of box can pick up the Freesat channels which are all unencrypted. They are financed as a joint venture of the BBC and ITV which wanted wider availability of their many channels to all of the UK.
http://www.freesat.co.uk/what-you-get/our-channels

There is a company "FreeHD Canada" that may try the free satellite service here, they've got CRTC approval but it's uncertain if they will actually become operational. They only want to provide HD channels that a user might be able to pick up over the air in their local area. They will charge for additional channels, and initially they say not all channels will be HD.
http://www.freehdcanada.ca/


I don't think that is 100% accurate. Freesat would be similat to Free-to-air in North America. There are many free channels here as well on the Free-to-air systems. They have Sky in the UK that would be similar to our Bell/Shaw/etc.

Someone can correct me if I am wrong but that is how I understand it.

[randyh66]

Cancelled bell today

2nd time talking to retentions

rental reciever credit and thats it. No budging. bye bye bell

[contact_markm]

Offered me 20 credit. That was the best they could offer.

[PANACHE70]

Wow, I think I've had about enough of these price increases.

Once netflix is supported on the boxee box I'm gonna start removing a lot of my packages to eventually have it all canceled.

djino
"F'ing Bell"

Don't get too excited about Netflix Canada just yet. Have you seen what they have to offer?

It is not even close to being half as good as Netflix in the USA.

[PANACHE70]

Cancelled bell today

2nd time talking to retentions

rental reciever credit and thats it. No budging. bye bye bell

Keep playing loyalty CSR roulette... You are only allowed one loyalty offer (the days of two offers per account are over).

Eventually, one of them will offer you the best deal which is 20$ off per month for 12 months (but you will have to pay for your receiver rental).

I managed to get around the "1 loyalty offer" rule by getting the HD receiver free for 2 years as my loyalty offer and having them apply 240$ in credits (in 2 seperate billing cycles) as one-time loyalty credits. One -time credits are not considered a "loyalty offer". So I get the equivalent of 20$ off per month for a year plus the HD receiver free.

It's the only way to get both. Sometimes you have to spin the CSR wheel until you get a really cool person to really help you out.


Good Luck!!

[djino]

Don't get too excited about Netflix Canada just yet. Have you seen what they have to offer?

It is not even close to being half as good as Netflix in the USA.

Yes I have. But if you are "CREATIVE" you can find a way to get Netflix USA working :)

djino

[imnew]

Bell satellite is dropping HDNet on December 7, 2010

Price increase for all subs in January $2 to $6/month regardless of contract status

what is HDNet??? Kind of channels..

[redgrandam]

Called up Bell TV to cancel today. Was put through to loyalty twice, both times they hung up on me, well disconnected, right after we started talking. On the THIRD call to just cancel my service, I find that the Philippines call centre is undergoing an upgrade, so they are having problems. No kidding.

Anyways, turns out the second guy that disconnected from me went ahead with the cancellation without really talking to me, other than got my name and password. Never talked to me about loyalty (call lasted all of about 30 seconds, literally). The third rep that told me the last one had cancelled it asked me if there was anything they could do to get me to stay, but I declined remembering my last 'save' offer which included about 8 calls to them to get them to actually process the save offer correctly and apply credits. Took about 6 months until it finally was on my bill (still not done the right way, but done nonetheless).

But to sum up, that's what they think of us as Bell Canada customers. Our loyalty department in in the Philippines.

[peano]

Time for Shaw Direct OVP for $42 per month. Comes with excellent customer service and vastly superior PQ to Bell.

[MattE71]

Time for Shaw Direct OVP for $42 per month. Comes with excellent customer service and vastly superior PQ to Bell.

I have been told by Shaw customers that use to be on Bell, the picture quality of Bell is superior. I can't stand the on screen guide on Shaw. It looks totally dated, 90's looking. I am suppost to get Telus Optik in my area in January, I think I will go that route. I will make the call for the $20 off and maybe pull the plug in January.

I agree that calling retentions is like rolling the roulette wheel. You can almost tell how its going to go by hearing the reps voice on the phone, right from the start.

[imnew]

Just got off the phone with bell..

this is what i got..

10.00 off from chinese combo
hdpvr rental 1 yr
6 mnths hd programming free
50 instant crredit..

no contract...

good or not??

[worldjerseys]

Just got off the phone with bell..

this is what i got..

10.00 off from chinese combo
hdpvr rental 1 yr
6 mnths hd programming free
50 instant crredit..

no contract...

good or not??

Is this a retention deal or a new customer deal?

[imnew]

Is this a retention deal or a new customer deal?

retention... i have been with them for a while.. but never phoned about it before...

[worldjerseys]

retention... i have been with them for a while.. but never phoned about it before...

Wow... huge difference as opposed to what others have been reporting.

[imnew]

Wow... huge difference as opposed to what others have been reporting.

wat u mean....

good or bad...

i basically agreed with it... hopefully it's good...

[worldjerseys]

wat u mean....

good or bad...

i basically agreed with it... hopefully it's good...

Excellent. Read over the last few pages. Retentions have been pretty stingy. Maybe there is hope... my deal is coming to an end. Or, maybe it's your one time deal since you've never called in before???

[imnew]

Excellent. Read over the last few pages. Retentions have been pretty stingy. Maybe there is hope... my deal is coming to an end. Or, maybe it's your one time deal since you've never called in before???

Yeah.. Maybe...

I asked for 2 yrs free rental but he wouldn't budge... he said call back in one yr.... told him that's such a waste of time... lol..

Good luck on yours....

[PANACHE70]

Just got off the phone with bell..

this is what i got..

10.00 off from chinese combo
hdpvr rental 1 yr
6 mnths hd programming free
50 instant crredit..

no contract...

good or not??

When you look at what was obtained, the $ value is pretty much what most people are getting.

I received 20$ off per month for a year and HD rental for 2 yrs. That's worth 480$ (20$ x 12 and 10$ x 24)

Imnew received 120$ off programming, 240$ HDPVR rental credits, 90$ of free HD (I am assuming he got all 5 HD packs), and a 50$ one-time credit. Total = 500$

People just need to be patient, and continue to play CSR roulette until you get what you want.

[WalmartMartyr]

Just called, I got a 10$ discount for 12months and he hooked me up to the "new" package which gives me more HD channels.

My package is basics plus the Theme that has Home n garden plus $10 for the HD channels.

Total with tax should come to $50

Good enough for me I guess.

[PANACHE70]

What the heck is the "new" package??? LOL

I saw the programming flyers to be released on Dec 15, and the HD packs look the same to me...

4 packs for 10$, 5 packs for 15$ ... Am I missing something?

[peety6]

I've gone through the retention route a few times now and it does seem like they are getting more stingy on their offers.

The first time I went through, I was able to get 40%, the time after 30% and just a few months ago, I was only able to get 20% off for a year.

[fredsmith]

Hmm . . . . I'm due in February, so I need to call at the end of December or in January.

My package (HD Essentials) is $74/month less $10 (for moving over from Videotron), less 20% - the 20 for political reasons because while I have a Bell phone in my house I didn't want to bundle and they clearly said I didn't have to, which I had in writing. They posted the discount for one year and tole me to call back to renew it for year 2. I did and that's been confirmed.

However as an alternative to the discount they offered to sell me an extra 6131 and install the extra switch (I already have 4 receivers connected) for $100 plus tax all inclusive, a savings of a few hundred dollars, which is better than the 20% . . . . now I don't really NEEEEEED a 5th receiver - though there are 2 sets ion the house we don't use and which aren't connected at the moment, but it might be nice . . .

Maybe I can push 'em into the receiver deal PLUS the 20% - anyone care to rate my odds for success?

[redgrandam]

I cancelled Bell TV a few weeks ago. We haven't been really having that much time to watch TV, and didn't want the added expense when the shows we want are available through alternative means, (including netflix) at a much better price.

I had been on a retention offer that they COMPLETELY messed up, they never applied the free HDPVR credits right, and ended up putting them on my account as a lump sum payment. I had 5 dollars off per month on programming. I found that they didn't put me into a new contract when I signed up for that offer last spring, so I decided to cancel. I'd spent hours and hours getting billing problems fixed.

Now bell called tonight, and silly me, I listened to their offers. They offered to bump the $5 monthly programming credit to $20. I said no to that, then they added a $50 one time loyalty credit, all no obligation.

I reluctantly accepted, but I'm regretting it already (due partially to the previous billing nightmares I've had with them). I think the only way I really would be 'satisfied' was if I had $20 off AND a free HDPVR rental. Is that attainable? I doubt they would go for that, hence my cancelling.

I took the offer to give me a chance to figure it out since I can still call back and cancel once the $50 has been applied, if it gets applied. Our bill is just basic + $10 of HD packs, + HDPVR rental, was $67 a month, now $47.

[Ninja Robot Pirate]

I get 40% off and $5.98 in credits for having Sympatico, so I'm currently paying ~$87 for Digital Standard + 7 Themes and Premium Movies, 1 HD box and HD PVR. I'd been trying to get a rental credit for one of my receivers, but they wouldn't budge. I set up a cancellation in hopes that rententions would call me, but no one did.


My service disconnected this morning, so I called Bell and said someone was supposed to call me to discuss the account. I was offered a 3rd receiver free for one year, and I'll keep my 40% off. I took the deal as my HDPVR is a 9242 and I have it hooked up to two TVs, but I want to be able to watch different shows while recording.

[Hugh Jass]

. I set up a cancellation in hopes that rententions would call me, but no one did.


My service disconnected this morning, so I called Bell and said someone was supposed to call me to discuss the account.

It seems like they should be making the calls but aren't.

I have to call, paid two non-discounted bills already (duh). Last time they told me I can't keep getting credits so I told them cancel phone/tv/Internet in one go. Got transferred to some one-bill retention that gave me 50% off programming and $8 off Internet. Ill play same game when I call. This time I'm prepared to walk, wasn't last time.

[Angela V]

I've had a weird thing happen. I was suppose to get free rental of one HDPVR and one HD for 6 months. I'm on the 8th month and am still getting them free. The family is taking bets on how long this will last. :)

[imnew]

I was told u have to call them up to cancel it or else they are just going to charge u...

[Hugh Jass]

I've had a weird thing happen. I was suppose to get free rental of one HDPVR and one HD for 6 months. I'm on the 8th month and am still getting them free. The family is taking bets on how long this will last. :)


I hope you don't get a bill in a few months for the all the back rent.

[Angela V]

I hope you don't get a bill in a few months for the all the back rent.

The information keeps changing on my bill. I printed out my total bill for October because I was wondering why I was still getting free rentals for the 2 boxes. There was a Promo entered on Aug 31st. So I am keeping an eye on it. Just doesn't say now how long the Promo is. I never spoke to Bell about the freebie rentals in August.

[Bookeroo]

I spoke with a Bell rep today and he told me that all the deals right now are for new customers since they are aiming at Christmas buyers. They couldn't offer me a deal at this time, but he said if I call January first they will have deals for existing customers. Could be worth waiting, or could be a load ;)

[dealCker]

I spoke with a Bell rep today and he told me that all the deals right now are for new customers since they are aiming at Christmas buyers. They couldn't offer me a deal at this time, but he said if I call January first they will have deals for existing customers. Could be worth waiting, or could be a load ;)

sure hope that happens, my deal is coming up soon

[beripari]

My 50% discount ended a few months ago (yes, 50%, not a typo but extremely unique situation). When the first bill arrived, I called immediately to cancel the movie chanel to reduce our bill & that I may be cancelling all services in future once we've had time to investigate what else is available out there. No comment from CSR.

Next statement arrived a few days ago and guess what? While they cancelled the availablility of the movies effective immediately after I called, the billing wasn't done as quick ... still being charged for movies ... surprise, surpirse ... it took 6 mos. last time to get all the billing straightened out!

I called Bell to sort this out then asked to be transferred to Loyalty Dept asking if there are any offers for existing customers. CSR said, while she can't offer me the same discount I had last time (of course!), she could offer me 20% off programming for 12 mos - no contract. I took it - better than nothing! At lease it covers most of the tax! She applied it to the account immediately to take effect from our next billing cycle (Jan. 16th for 12 mos) but of course it take billing "up to 2 months" to catch up -- more like 4-6 mos!

TWO INTERESING ITEMS:
CSR said they are offering movies free for 3 months; I declined because we're extremly busy right now & would lose an entire month but she said this is an onging offer. I can call back in January to ask for this offer then just have to call in the 2nd month to give 30 days notice to remove the movies otherwise we'll start being charged. We're going to do that in January - we all miss the movie option.

Looking at the back of the envelope that the bill arrived in, it says "Exceptional services. Guaranteed. 30-day satisfaction guarantee or your money back. bell.ca/satisfaction"
Anyone tested out this theory ?????

[inhaliburton]

I'm confused. What is the best retention deal(s) right now with Bell? 40% reported off programming and / or free prv have been mentioned. Also mentioned is 20% off.

I spoke with retentions in October, a month before my contract ran out. At the time I was getting 50% off programming, free pvr and free hd box for another tv.

New deal was to be 40% and free pvr + another hd box. She said she would "put it through in the meantime." I said I would think it over.

Talked to retentions again yesterday expecting to get the above deal, and they told me best deal was 20% off or 20$ per month + free pvr and hd box which is $30. per month. New bottom line is $105.00 / month.

For programming I was paying $116., plus 20 + 10 for boxes = total of 145. less 50% programming disccount and $30. pvr and box discount for total of Bell tv bill of $84.

New Bell deal after discounts = $105.

I called Shaw, the former Starchoice. Told him I'm fed up with Bell. He came up with package called, "Ontario Value Pack" which they give to former Bell clients. This package is not posted on their website. All kinds of stuff including HD for total cost of $62.00 per month. No rental of boxes, though. He said I have to pay for boxes up front. After their newbie discount I pay 199 for pvr, 199 for hd box for 2nd set, and 99 non-hd box for 3rd tv in the can.

Changing over the Shaw will save me $43. per month after Bell's various discounts.

Any comments?

Thank you.

[robbiezyg]

Whats the best deal a new customer can get right now? I just bought the Bell HD 6131 receiver from the source and will be calling bell for installation right away. Are there any specials or what not that I should know about that aren't publicized?

[achc]

I just got the standard retention (just as the title says).

Free HD Receiver - 2 year rental
- with a 2 year lock on the receiver

Asked for one more HD receiver, rep said no, ask for programming discount, rep said no.
Will this be because my monthly bill is low?? *$49 before tax (-$5 for bundle with home phone) = $44 only for programming. I have heard from some people, the larger your bill is, the more discount you get.
Just basic HD and Fairchild is all I have

Half a year ago, I got a Bell HD receiver (purchased directly from Bell via rentention) $200 with $100 discount and one month free programming ($50 value for me) so the box cost me $50 no contract.

Now is no cost with a contract.:evil:

[Havo]

I've had a weird thing happen. I was suppose to get free rental of one HDPVR and one HD for 6 months. I'm on the 8th month and am still getting them free. The family is taking bets on how long this will last. :)

Are you sure you're still getting free hd? There's a bunch of hd channels that you get for free regardless if u get the 6 month thing or not. As for the 6 months free hd... supposedly its for hd channel packages. After 6 months I called in to cancel and it turns out the hd channels I have are already free and there was no such thing as free 6 months of hd programming on my plan. They never told me that when I signed up. All they said was I get 6 months of hd programming free so you're prob thinking the free hd channels are only avail for 6 months free but in fact they are actually just free channels unless you actually got hd channels packages.

[tzontchev]

I am looking into Shwa Direct extra value pakage and trying to compare to Bell but it is very confusing and hard to figure out waht I will be actually getting. Any advise on what is the best package including most HD channesl.
Thx

[tzontchev]

Also when I read the posts and people are tallking aobut 40% or 50% off with Bell. It is off from what? From the advertised package? Thx.

[Hugh Jass]

Also when I read the posts and people are tallking aobut 40% or 50% off with Bell. It is off from what? From the advertised package? Thx.

Usually just the programming.

[inhaliburton]

I am looking into Shwa Direct extra value pakage and trying to compare to Bell but it is very confusing and hard to figure out waht I will be actually getting. Any advise on what is the best package including most HD channesl.
Thx

Bell has the most HD channels by far, and best and most recent satellites and equipment and seems to be most expensive. I believe Shaw is the former StarChoice. Old stuff.

I was going to switch to Shaw but after looking at their lineup, it was obvious to me why they are less expensive.

I'm going to trim the packages we subscribe to save a few bucks.

The days of 40-50% off progamming are gone. Twenty percent seems to be the norm these days...

[peano]

Shaw Direct is only missing a few HD channels that Bell has. Treasure and RadX come to mind.

But Shaw Direct has Speed HD, and HD Net which Bell does not have. Far better channels IMHO.

[Havo]

My 1 year free PVR is pretty much up so I think I'll have to call in again. Its such a hassle. Why couldn't they be like rogers and offer free pvr to keep?

[djino]

My 1 year free PVR is pretty much up so I think I'll have to call in again. Its such a hassle. Why couldn't they be like rogers and offer free pvr to keep?

My 1 year free PVR was up / 30% discount, as well as my $20 discount on Bell Internet (was getting their dry loop 7mbps 60GB cap for $24.95 + $3.95 modem lease fee -> moved up to reguar price of $46.95 + $3.95)

Called Bell Internet Loyalty department and told them I'm canceling. She asked if I were canceling any other Bell services (said TV) so she transferred me to a rep that would be able to handle both TV/Internet.

Rep asked me why I'm canceling, I said times are tough, and my bill has gone up and I see some other companies like Acanac offering cheaper services and Videotron here in Quebec is offering a better deal on my TV).

I managed to get the following:

Bell TV:
- $20 Discount (instead of the 30% off which had amounted to $21.00) for 12 months
- No PVR Rental Credit :(

Bell Internet:
- $34.90 with no modem lease fee (They had to charge $50 one time fee to get rid of the modem lease fee and are applying a $50 credit to offset this fee). No more modem lease fees no matter if I switch my plan later, etc.
- They are upgrading my service starting January 6th to the Fiber but same speed/cap as I had before

I guess I'm content until 2012

djino

[uglyguy]

Arggg, I might have to call again to speak to a different rep. My 30% discount is expired for 3 months now. I just called back to cancel and hoping they can offer something similar to get my service. Suprisingly, the rep asking the date of cancellation and start to process my cancel request. :o

[Hugh Jass]

Arggg, I might have to call again to speak to a different rep. My 30% discount is expired for 3 months now. I just called back to cancel and hoping they can offer something similar to get my service. Suprisingly, the rep asking the date of cancellation and start to process my cancel request. :o

Might've been calling your bluff.

You can just come out with it "can you offer me more discounts or will I just cancel?".

[Havo]

I just called in. The rep told me that they changed the promos. He said they can no longer offer 2 discounts (free pvr and programming discount). He said its one or the other. He offered me free pvr for 2 years or $20 off my monthly plan.

[celica00]

Called in as my 30% off programming expired. I was offered either $20 off monthly bill or hdpvr purchase for $250. Ended up with the $20 credit for the year. This was essentially the same as the 30% off so I'm content for now

[Tijuana]

I just called in. The rep told me that they changed the promos. He said they can no longer offer 2 discounts (free pvr and programming discount). He said its one or the other. He offered me free pvr for 2 years or $20 off my monthly plan.

Rogers is doing this as well. Looks like they are colluding together to not give us any discounts.

[imac2225]

Arggg, I might have to call again to speak to a different rep. My 30% discount is expired for 3 months now. I just called back to cancel and hoping they can offer something similar to get my service. Suprisingly, the rep asking the date of cancellation and start to process my cancel request. :o


Drop Bell! Way too expensive and their customer service is brutal. I made the switch to Shaw and I have absolutely no regrets.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/shaw-direct-ontario-package-deal-receivers-889636/

[drumhead]

I am nearing the end of a 2 yr contract with Bell. Currently I'm renting the 9242 which was discontinued shortly after I got it. I like the fact that I can output the 2nd tuner to a different TV which the new receivers no longer do. I called them up a while back and asked how much it would be if I wanted to purchase it. They told that they couldn't sell it to me because it was discontinued and that I would have to buy it off someplace like Kijiji or whatever if I wanted it. I found this to be a bit stupid considering that I was willing to take a discontinued receiver off their hands which they wouldn't be able to rent out to someone else. On top of that, what ticks me off is that they won't sell it but they have no problem continuing to rent a discontinued receiver to me.

Any suggestions as to how I can manage to keep this box or get a new HD box from them? I know that Rogers currently has the free HD box for a satellite receiver promo going on right now. I would like to use this as leverage with them. Any help would be great. Thanks!

[Shredder59]

Rogers is doing this as well. Looks like they are colluding together to not give us any discounts.

yep, just got off the phone with rogers retention. same story i got.

i had
20% off internet
20% off cable tv
free hdpvr rental
$6 off home phone (SAF)

now all they would offer was:
20% off internet
free hdpvr rental
$10 credit on my wireless

shortfall of about $13/month versus what i had before.

[djino]

I am nearing the end of a 2 yr contract with Bell. Currently I'm renting the 9242 which was discontinued shortly after I got it. I like the fact that I can output the 2nd tuner to a different TV which the new receivers no longer do. I called them up a while back and asked how much it would be if I wanted to purchase it. They told that they couldn't sell it to me because it was discontinued and that I would have to buy it off someplace like Kijiji or whatever if I wanted it. I found this to be a bit stupid considering that I was willing to take a discontinued receiver off their hands which they wouldn't be able to rent out to someone else. On top of that, what ticks me off is that they won't sell it but they have no problem continuing to rent a discontinued receiver to me.

Any suggestions as to how I can manage to keep this box or get a new HD box from them? I know that Rogers currently has the free HD box for a satellite receiver promo going on right now. I would like to use this as leverage with them. Any help would be great. Thanks!

You simply can't.

When a Receiver is inventoried into their system, it is setup as either a RENTAL or OWN. Once the choice is made, it stays like that forever. a rental receiver will remain a rental receiver, just as a non-rental receiver will remain a non-rental.

Even if you some day decide to cancel the rental and decide NOT to return it to Bell and just sell it. The person who buys it and attempts to add it to their account, won't be able too as Bell will see that this is a rental receiver. :)

djino

[drumhead]

Even if you some day decide to cancel the rental and decide NOT to return it to Bell and just sell it. The person who buys it and attempts to add it to their account, won't be able too as Bell will see that this is a rental receiver. :)

djino

If I did cancel the rental and didn't return it would I not get charged by Bell for the receiver?

[djino]

If I did cancel the rental and didn't return it would I not get charged by Bell for the receiver?

Yes you would. But in addition to that, no one would be able to use the receiver as a non-rental.

djino

[aznives3]

like you guys, my 1 year retention deal was up, and i figured, an easy phone call and i should be able to match the 30% discount i got last year on my tv service, everyones happy done and done.

NOPE!

i was told by the CSR that the best he could do would be either $10 off, or 20% off. Of course the 20% off was more so i went with that for now, but still kind of disappointing. I actually went ahead and applied that, and then put a temporary suspension on my account as im living more at my gf's house right now and not using my tv all that much. We are moving out in march, so im not sure if i'll take the bell with me or switch over to shaw, and doing their basic digital cable for $36.95+$16hd plus, which gives me everything i pretty much use on bell anyways, for WAY less, plus then i can bundle services with internet & phone out here in edmonton, since bell doesn't have any of that here.

The only thing thats keeping me back is having to buy a new PVR for shaw, although im not sure what 9200's grab on the market anymore.

For the record i've been with bell since 2007, and am currently on the package of digital standard+6themes+4HD themes for $73. The shaw package would run $52.95, and even cheaper for the first 6 months & even thereafter with bundling.

[kevinlo2]

I am nearing the end of a 2 yr contract with Bell. Currently I'm renting the 9242 which was discontinued shortly after I got it. I like the fact that I can output the 2nd tuner to a different TV which the new receivers no longer do. I called them up a while back and asked how much it would be if I wanted to purchase it. They told that they couldn't sell it to me because it was discontinued and that I would have to buy it off someplace like Kijiji or whatever if I wanted it. I found this to be a bit stupid considering that I was willing to take a discontinued receiver off their hands which they wouldn't be able to rent out to someone else. On top of that, what ticks me off is that they won't sell it but they have no problem continuing to rent a discontinued receiver to me.

Any suggestions as to how I can manage to keep this box or get a new HD box from them? I know that Rogers currently has the free HD box for a satellite receiver promo going on right now. I would like to use this as leverage with them. Any help would be great. Thanks!

I had the same experience last year. It is really stupid that I cannot buy it. I finally bought it from The Source which still had the 9242 at that time. But I don't think it has it now. You may check the CL to see if anyone is selling it.

[Sloan55]

I had the same experience last year. It is really stupid that I cannot buy it. I finally bought it from The Source which still had the 9242 at that time. But I don't think it has it now. You may check the CL to see if anyone is selling it.

I found a couple of 5900's I was looking for last year on Ebay. Had the same discussion with Bell about simply purchasing the 5900's that I was renting from them and they wouldn't go for it. So I found an authroized reseller on Ebay based out of Alberta that takes all the returned Bell rentals, refurbishes them and resells them on Ebay. I assume if you took a look you can find your model somewhere on Ebay. Stupid business practices by Bell, but what else do you expect from that company.

[drumhead]

Well I just spoke with a Bell rep and here's what they basically offered me:

Either one of the following options:

2 Yrs free rental on the 6131 (2 Yr commitment)

OR

1 Yr free rental on the 9241 (2 Yr commitment)

OR

50% off the 6131 ($199 - 50% = $99.50)

OR

50% off the 9241 ($499 - 50% = 249.50)

The rep would not even offer me free rental on the 9242 which I currently have. Basically I will have to give it up or continue paying $20 a month to rent it. Now to decide what I want to do. With the 9242 I could feed 2 tv's. Now I am going to have to get 2 receivers if I want to continue having tv on both.

[achc]

2 Yrs free rental on the 6131 (2 Yr commitment)

OR

1 Yr free rental on the 9241 (2 Yr commitment)

OR

50% off the 6131 ($199 - 50% = $99.50)

OR

50% off the 9241 ($499 - 50% = 249.50)

The rep would not even offer me free rental on the 9242 which I currently have. Basically I will have to give it up or continue paying $20 a month to rent it. Now to decide what I want to do. With the 9242 I could feed 2 tv's. Now I am going to have to get 2 receivers if I want to continue having tv on both.

Do they offer 9242 anymore?

Those plans are standard retention plan, I got the '2 Yrs free rental on the 6131 (2 Yr commitment)' a month ago and '50% off the 6131 ($199 - 50% = $99.50) half a year ago.

Always go rental IMO

[drumhead]

Do they offer 9242 anymore?

Those plans are standard retention plan, I got the '2 Yrs free rental on the 6131 (2 Yr commitment)' a month ago and '50% off the 6131 ($199 - 50% = $99.50) half a year ago.

Always go rental IMO

The 9242 is discontinued. I'm debating between 6131 or 9241. I like the dual tuner part of the 9241. I do have an external hd to plug into the 6131 but I am also going to need a 2nd receiver for my other tv.

The only thing I don't comprehend is why they won't offer the free 1 yr rental on the 9242. It simply does not make sense to me.

[Hydride]

Does anyone know what a retention deal will look like for someone who owns all there receivers?

[bungaboy]

Does anyone know what a retention deal will look like for someone who owns all there receivers?

It's been a year and a bit but I got 4 months free, free HD for 6 months and 40% off for a year as I owned all 5 of my 6131's and one 4100 receiver. Keep in mind my monthly bill was like $112 and I had been with Bell ExpressVu for well over 10 years.

From what I am reading they have tightened things up a lot since then.

Try it out. The worse thing they can do is say is no.

[Hugh Jass]

It's been a year and a bit but I got 4 months free, free HD for 6 months and 40% off for a year as I owned all 5 of my 6131's and one 4100 receiver. Keep in mind my monthly bill was like $112 and I had been with Bell ExpressVu for well over 10 years.

From what I am reading they have tightened things up a lot since then.



Have you called recently?

[bungaboy]

Have you called recently?

No I haven't.

[Hydride]

It's been a year and a bit but I got 4 months free, free HD for 6 months and 40% off for a year as I owned all 5 of my 6131's and one 4100 receiver. Keep in mind my monthly bill was like $112 and I had been with Bell ExpressVu for well over 10 years.

From what I am reading they have tightened things up a lot since then.

Try it out. The worse thing they can do is say is no.

I can't try it out just yet, my 1 yr free promo is about to roll off in a few months and I am debating on buying some receivers off of kijiji, I'm wondering if they have retention deals for this scenario or if it's better to buy a few receivers and take a promo on a free receiver for a year or something.

[s2k_ek]

Just spoke with them my current programming is 79 a month, they offered me either free ovr rental for a year or 20 bucks off my programming for a year.

I took the 20 bucks off.

[is350ty]

So i was originally getting the 40% off programming and free PVR rental unit for one year. That expires this month, so i called in to cancel my subscription after being with bell TV for 11 years.

When I called in, the best they could offer me was the $20 off a month that everyone else is getting here. I said it wasn't good enough, so I continued to cancel my subscription with Bell.

Fast forward 3 to 4 days, I get a call from "Unknown", and it was bell retentions! I currrently have basic programming + Chinese combo ($30). She said she was able to discount my chinese combo to $15 indefinitely, meaning even after one year, I would continue to get this discount. On top of that, she gave me the $20 discount everyone was getting. Once i return the rental PVR, my total should be around $43.

[Havo]

So i was originally getting the 40% off programming and free PVR rental unit for one year. That expires this month, so i called in to cancel my subscription after being with bell TV for 11 years.

When I called in, the best they could offer me was the $20 off a month that everyone else is getting here. I said it wasn't good enough, so I continued to cancel my subscription with Bell.

Fast forward 3 to 4 days, I get a call from "Unknown", and it was bell retentions! I currrently have basic programming + Chinese combo ($30). She said she was able to discount my chinese combo to $15 indefinitely, meaning even after one year, I would continue to get this discount. On top of that, she gave me the $20 discount everyone was getting. Once i return the rental PVR, my total should be around $43.

I have something similar. I have the digital basic pkg, chinese combo for $10 and I got the $20 discount. The chinese combo discount was applied last year and its set to expire in one year. When I called last year, I was offered the free pvr rental for 1 year, half off the chinese combo for 2 years and 20% off my service for a year. I called in when it all expired and I chose to return the pvr and go with the $20 monthly credit for a year and I still have my chinese combo discounted. I wonder what's going to happen later on when everything expires again.

[Angela V]

Are you sure you're still getting free hd? There's a bunch of hd channels that you get for free regardless if u get the 6 month thing or not. As for the 6 months free hd... supposedly its for hd channel packages. After 6 months I called in to cancel and it turns out the hd channels I have are already free and there was no such thing as free 6 months of hd programming on my plan. They never told me that when I signed up. All they said was I get 6 months of hd programming free so you're prob thinking the free hd channels are only avail for 6 months free but in fact they are actually just free channels unless you actually got hd channels packages.

I meant I am getting free rentals of the receivers. One is a HDPVR the other just a HD receiver. It was suppose to be for 6 months and they are still showing up as free rentals (started middle of last March with Bell). I'm paying for my programming. I have 3 services with them so am getting discount bundles.

[Havo]

I meant I am getting free rentals of the receivers. One is a HDPVR the other just a HD receiver. It was suppose to be for 6 months and they are still showing up as free rentals (started middle of last March with Bell). I'm paying for my programming. I have 3 services with them so am getting discount bundles.

That's odd... normally they offer 1 year terms on free rentals.

[Sergio]

Yes very stupid. I have same problem. I was thinking of shipping back to them an empty box. Why are they blocking us for purchasing a bell receiver we had for 1 year???????? They are allowing us to finally buyback DSL modem so we stop paying rent????

I will push little harder, since I do not understand what they will do with all the receivers that are returned back? What is their hidden agenda?

Sergio





I am nearing the end of a 2 yr contract with Bell. Currently I'm renting the 9242 which was discontinued shortly after I got it. I like the fact that I can output the 2nd tuner to a different TV which the new receivers no longer do. I called them up a while back and asked how much it would be if I wanted to purchase it. They told that they couldn't sell it to me because it was discontinued and that I would have to buy it off someplace like Kijiji or whatever if I wanted it. I found this to be a bit stupid considering that I was willing to take a discontinued receiver off their hands which they wouldn't be able to rent out to someone else. On top of that, what ticks me off is that they won't sell it but they have no problem continuing to rent a discontinued receiver to me.

Any suggestions as to how I can manage to keep this box or get a new HD box from them? I know that Rogers currently has the free HD box for a satellite receiver promo going on right now. I would like to use this as leverage with them. Any help would be great. Thanks!

[drumhead]

Yes very stupid. I have same problem. I was thinking of shipping back to them an empty box. Why are they blocking us for purchasing a bell receiver we had for 1 year???????? They are allowing us to finally buyback DSL modem so we stop paying rent????

I will push little harder, since I do not understand what they will do with all the receivers that are returned back? What is their hidden agenda?

Sergio

Let us know if anything comes of it. I am really interested to know why they don't allow us to buy them and take them off their hands.

[anml]

Just got off the phone with Bell retentions. Two months left on contract ... got 9241 HD PVR for $500 - $250 - $75 = $175.

not bad.

plus it did not extend my contract - still ends in two months.

[fat1138]

Just got off the phone with Bell retentions. Two months left on contract ... got 9131 HD PVR for $500 - $250 - $75 = $175.

not bad.

plus it did not extend my contract - still ends in two months.

was that money off the hd pvr or bill credit?if bill credit they can be pain in butt to get billed properly(endless phoning for couple months at bill time)

[di_bee]

I spoke with a Bell rep this morning. Before, they were only able to offer me 20% off the bill and the Chinese combo @ $10. On top of the Digital Standard, I also have the 4 HD themes pack ($10) and since I want TSN, they force me to take the Sports Theme ($8). Today, I got the $20 off per month instead of 20% and I also got an additional $5 credit because I had to take on the extra sports theme. The breakdown of my bill is now:

Digital Standard - $34
Chinese Combo - $10
4 HD Theme - $10
Sports Theme - $8
Digital Service fee - $3
Total - $65 +GST = $68.25
Credit: $20 + $5 = $25
Total Bill = $43.25

Note: We own our receivers so Bell could not give us free rental or she would have.

[worldjerseys]

was that money off the hd pvr or bill credit?if bill credit they can be pain in butt to get billed properly(endless phoning for couple months at bill time)

So painfully true.


I spoke with a Bell rep this morning. Before, they were only able to offer me 20% off the bill and the Chinese combo @ $10. On top of the Digital Standard, I also have the 4 HD themes pack ($10) and since I want TSN, they force me to take the Sports Theme ($8). Today, I got the $20 off per month instead of 20% and I also got an additional $5 credit because I had to take on the extra sports theme. The breakdown of my bill is now:

Digital Standard - $34
Chinese Combo - $10
4 HD Theme - $10
Sports Theme - $8
Digital Service fee - $3
Total - $65 +GST = $68.25
Credit: $20 + $5 = $25
Total Bill = $43.25

Note: We own our receivers so Bell could not give us free rental or she would have.

I'm currently still on 40% off programing which ends soon. I've slashed my programming to include what I actually watch/need. I rent receivers but refuse to be tied to Bell. Prices go up, so I find movies, HBO etc on torrent downloads and dropped the premium channels. There is a way. Having said that, I'm always looking to find another option.

[ipoddave]

How long do people usually wait until they call in again after the discount is finished?

My 20% off is about to be over on the next bill, do I call now or wait until the bill is showing no discount?

Also, Is there a way to find out when your contract end online as well without calling? Thanks.

[illusionfx]

Hi all,

I've been a long time customer with bell and I believe I am being ripped off on my monthly bill. I was wondering if you guys knew about any better alternatives to the following items. Please see my bill below:

Telephone:
1 Home Phone Choice Package 39.95
Residence Line
Call Forwarding
3 Way Calling
Visual Call Waiting
Call Answer English
25C a minute feature
1 Service Area Charge 0.00
1 911 emergency service access 0.18
1 Touch-Tone Service 2.80
TOTAL: 42.93

Satellite:
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 Chinese Combo 20.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
TOTAL: 57.00

Internet:
1 Modem Lease 3.95
1 PC Care 6.00
1 Bell High Speed Internet Service 55.95
TOTAL: 65.90

SUBTOTAL: 165.83
TAX: 21.56
TOTAL: 187.39

All I really need is the following:

Phone: (only need resident line)
1 Resident Line
1 Service Area Charge
1 911 emergency service access
1 Touch-Tone Service

Satellite: (same package, want cheaper)
1 Digital Standard
1 Chinese Combo
1 Digital Service Fee

Internet: (same package, want cheaper)
1 Modem Lease
1 Bell High Speed Internet Service (Unlimited Download + Fast)

Any opinions on better packages or if retention can make it much cheaper?

[djino]

Hi all,

I've been a long time customer with bell and I believe I am being ripped off on my monthly bill. I was wondering if you guys knew about any better alternatives to the following items. Please see my bill below:

Telephone:
1 Home Phone Choice Package 39.95
Residence Line
Call Forwarding
3 Way Calling
Visual Call Waiting
Call Answer English
25C a minute feature
1 Service Area Charge 0.00
1 911 emergency service access 0.18
1 Touch-Tone Service 2.80
TOTAL: 42.93

USE VOIP: Port your Bell Telephone number to voip.ms (http://voip.ms)

Voip.ms Features/Pricing.

All the calling features you have plus more with more customizable options.

COST
- $4.95/month Unlimited Incoming (or $0.99/month with $0.01/minute charged on incoming calls)
- $1.50 - 911 Access (Optional)
- $0.0052 = 0.52 cents/minute - Canada Wide Outgoing calls (Local/Long Distance)
- $0.011 = 1.1 cents/minute - U.S. Wide Outgoing Calls
- Good International Rates
Charges are in 6 second billing (so if you say talk for 20 seconds, you will only be charged for 24 seconds)

I have chosen the $0.99/month option with the $0.01/minute on incoming calls) along with the $1.50 911 Access options means I pretty much only spend about $4-5/month total.

This is a VOIP setup, so you obviously need to have Internet access / ATA (Voip terminal).


Satellite:
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 Chinese Combo 20.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
TOTAL: 57.00

If you are NOT currently on contract (or coming close to the end), call and threaten to cancel, you most likely could get a $20 credit applied for 12 months (no contract).


Internet:
1 Modem Lease 3.95
1 PC Care 6.00
1 Bell High Speed Internet Service 55.95
TOTAL: 65.90

When I threatened to cancel my internet.. They were able to switch my Internet Performance (reg $44.95 + $3.95 Modem Lease fee) to the Fibe 7 service (same 7mbps speed..60GB cap) for the price of $34.90. I believe with the Fibe service, you don't get charged the $3.95 Modem LEase fee, but they did have to apply a $50 Modem charge to the account, but as part of the retention offer, she applied a $25 credit on the Internet and $25 on the TV to make up for this one time charge. So now all I expect to pay is $34.90 (for the next 12 months) with no additional charges. And I will no longer see a Modem Lease charge on my bill (forever).

If you decide to go VOIP, they will have to convert your Internet to Dry loop (but there is no additional charge).

djino
"Some options to explore"

[buddhababy]

Originally Posted by illusionfx

All I really need is the following:

Phone: (only need resident line)
1 Resident Line
1 Service Area Charge
1 911 emergency service access
1 Touch-Tone Service



I just switched to some offer they sent me in the mail - $24.95 / month, 12 month contract. They call it Home Phone Basic. Unlimited local calling, Call Display, Visual Call waiting. The usual 911 etc surcharges. They tried very hard to add a long distance something or other but I don't use Bell for LD so they put on the 25 cents a minute if I do use long distance + $2.80 for the first long distance call of the month. Don't care as I'm using Google phone for my LD.

The number on my letter is: 1 888 374 6444

[jayace]

My current programming is $102 and I'm receiving the 40% off promo with a free HDPVR that both expire this month. I called and was given the $20 or 20% off offer so took the 20% as my programming is going to $108 with the price increases. Takes my programming bill down to around $86. He told me he couldn't offer anything for the HDPVR until after that promo expires and to call back next month when it has. Hopefully there will be some other offer at that time or a decent deal on buying the PVR. I own my other 3 so would prefer to own it anyways.

[fredsmith]

When did this devolve into a VOIP and voice phone thread?

Do not go with VOIP unless you are prepared for sub-par service from time to time and NEVER go VOIP if you have a fax or alarm system.

[djino]

When did this devolve into a VOIP and voice phone thread?

Agreed. Should stick to the topic at hand, my bad.


Do not go with VOIP unless you are prepared for sub-par service from time to time and NEVER go VOIP if you have a fax or alarm system.

This though shows how little you know about customizing ones ATA and choosing the right ITSP! :)

djino

[deal_king]

Hi all,

I've been a long time customer with bell and I believe I am being ripped off on my monthly bill. I was wondering if you guys knew about any better alternatives to the following items. Please see my bill below:

Telephone:
1 Home Phone Choice Package 39.95
Residence Line
Call Forwarding
3 Way Calling
Visual Call Waiting
Call Answer English
25C a minute feature
1 Service Area Charge 0.00
1 911 emergency service access 0.18
1 Touch-Tone Service 2.80
TOTAL: 42.93

Satellite:
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 Chinese Combo 20.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
TOTAL: 57.00

Internet:
1 Modem Lease 3.95
1 PC Care 6.00
1 Bell High Speed Internet Service 55.95
TOTAL: 65.90

SUBTOTAL: 165.83
TAX: 21.56
TOTAL: 187.39

Holy CRAP! I pay $82 for all the above! You JUST realized that you were overpaying???

(It should be $70 without the Chinese combo.)

[fredsmith]

Agreed. Should stick to the topic at hand, my bad.



This though shows how little you know about customizing ones ATA and choosing the right ITSP! :)

djino
Alarm services require 100% up-time and excellent line quality to assure availability - and most ISPs don't operate using 64 kb Codecs by default in order to save money which means that you can't run SIA and data signalling protocols, even if they weren't subject to huge amounts of jitter. And Fax is hit-or-miss at best over VOIP.

[Havo]

ok so I have to return my pvr now since the free rental is up. I have a bunch of FS giftcards that I can use to buy my own. Are they replacing the 9241 any time soon? How often do these things break down? Is it worth getting warranty?

[Hugh Jass]

How often do these things break down? Is it worth getting warranty?




First HDPVR ( new unit) stopped working after 16 months. Replacement ( refurb) lasted about 6 months. Current one, also a refurb, has been going strong for more than 18 months.

SDPVR, usage is about 20% of the HD unit, crapped out after 2yrs, replacement going strong for more than 18 months.

At first I was unsure about renting, but after all the returns above, I have no qualms.

[EvolutionIV]

Just called in. 10+ years ExpressVu customer. Got free rental ($20/mo) for 2 years, no contract.

[djino]

Just called in. 10+ years ExpressVu customer. Got free rental ($20/mo) for 2 years, no contract.

Not that it makes much of a difference, but the $20/month is more of a programming discount which is the usual retention offer everyone (including myself) has been getting lately.

If it were a rental discount, you would have had to start a new rental and receive a rental credit and all "new" rentals come with at least a 12 month contract.

But like I said, $20 credit is a $20 credit, no matter what it is for.

djino
"Good job"

[EvolutionIV]

Not that it makes much of a difference, but the $20/month is more of a programming discount which is the usual retention offer everyone (including myself) has been getting lately.

If it were a rental discount, you would have had to start a new rental and receive a rental credit and all "new" rentals come with at least a 12 month contract.

But like I said, $20 credit is a $20 credit, no matter what it is for.

djino
"Good job"

Thanks for the clarification!

[goldeneyed]

i currently have bell home phone only. I'm thinking of switching to Bell TV from Videotron. Does the 20$ retention credit given depend on how many services you have with them?



USE VOIP: Port your Bell Telephone number to voip.ms (http://voip.ms)

Voip.ms Features/Pricing.

All the calling features you have plus more with more customizable options.

COST
- $4.95/month Unlimited Incoming (or $0.99/month with $0.01/minute charged on incoming calls)
- $1.50 - 911 Access (Optional)
- $0.0052 = 0.52 cents/minute - Canada Wide Outgoing calls (Local/Long Distance)
- $0.011 = 1.1 cents/minute - U.S. Wide Outgoing Calls
- Good International Rates
Charges are in 6 second billing (so if you say talk for 20 seconds, you will only be charged for 24 seconds)

I have chosen the $0.99/month option with the $0.01/minute on incoming calls) along with the $1.50 911 Access options means I pretty much only spend about $4-5/month total.

This is a VOIP setup, so you obviously need to have Internet access / ATA (Voip terminal).



If you are NOT currently on contract (or coming close to the end), call and threaten to cancel, you most likely could get a $20 credit applied for 12 months (no contract).



When I threatened to cancel my internet.. They were able to switch my Internet Performance (reg $44.95 + $3.95 Modem Lease fee) to the Fibe 7 service (same 7mbps speed..60GB cap) for the price of $34.90. I believe with the Fibe service, you don't get charged the $3.95 Modem LEase fee, but they did have to apply a $50 Modem charge to the account, but as part of the retention offer, she applied a $25 credit on the Internet and $25 on the TV to make up for this one time charge. So now all I expect to pay is $34.90 (for the next 12 months) with no additional charges. And I will no longer see a Modem Lease charge on my bill (forever).

If you decide to go VOIP, they will have to convert your Internet to Dry loop (but there is no additional charge).

djino
"Some options to explore"

[djino]

i currently have bell home phone only. I'm thinking of switching to Bell TV from Videotron. Does the 20$ retention credit given depend on how many services you have with them?

No, having Just Bell TV should be fine. Just tell them you feel you are paying too much and you are able to get a good deal from competitor.

djino
"Goodluck"

[ipoddave]

No, having Just Bell TV should be fine. Just tell them you feel you are paying too much and you are able to get a good deal from competitor.

djino
"Goodluck"

I just called and only able to get either $10 off or 10% off. I previously have 20% discount. I have pretty much essential + chinese combo + 4hd theme pack like above. I pushed for more but no luck. I am really thinking about switching to Telus Optik TV now since they are only $15/month for a year for essential. With the same stuff it will be $15 essential + $10 (chinese) + $7 for hd theme.

How did anyone get the $20 off?

This $10 off or 10% off is like the lowest I've seen on this forum.

[inhaliburton]

Sounds like Bell is getting cheaper. I got 20% off and free pvr 6 weeks ago.

[theguyz]

I was given 3 options:

* 20% off packaging and anything taken in next year packages with no contract
* buy hdpvr @ full price and get 50% back in 2 months on bill credit and sign 1 year contract
* free rental of hdpvr for 1 year, but sign 2 year contract

Took option 1 as i can always cancel or try again.

[fredsmith]

I HAD a $10 discount and a 20% discount on top of that.

This time they offered me the $10 discount (it was contractual), but only a 10% discount instead of the 20% . . . .

I countered by asking for a cash credit equivalent to one year of the discount I'd lost up front - and they agreed. I got an e-mail confirmation of the credit a half hour later.

Now that's just plain dumb, because they lost the use of the money for a year and I get to sort-of pay it back over 12 months at the 'higher rate'. They should have just agreed to extend the deal as it was.

Oh well.

[HeartofDarius]

I just called, and was offered $20/month off my bill for a year. No contractual obligation. It's not too much, but it's something. And they offered it immediately. But I have been a customer since 1999.

[Hugh Jass]

I just called, and was offered $20/month off my bill for a year. No contractual obligation. It's not too much, but it's something. And they offered it immediately. But I have been a customer since 1999.

Did you call to 'cancel' or just asked them for a deal?

Same question applies to other posters btw.

Thanks

[theguyz]

Did you call to 'cancel' or just asked them for a deal?

Same question applies to other posters btw.

Thanks

I called to cancel, had shaw here same day and there pricing beat bell by $10, gave me free pvr + had to buy 2 other receivers.


I'm gonan call back once my % is applied on next bill and try and get the pvr rental free as well. Whats worse they say is no, and i cancel.

[HeartofDarius]

Did you call to 'cancel' or just asked them for a deal?

Same question applies to other posters btw.

Thanks

I called to cancel. No deals. They just transferred me to retention where the guy (Derrick lol) said we want to keep you, what can we do? I asked for 30% off for a year and free HD. He said that their absolute best deal is $20/month.

[is350ty]

I called in to cancel my bell TV because my discount of one year is expiring. Since they could only offer me the $20 off for one year, I decided to cancel. Cancel went through, and I get a call from loyalty department 2 days later. They offered me an additional $15 off of one of my theme packs, and they told me the next bill will be around $43 + tax. I accepted the offer, and keep in mind this is not a contract deal.

Anyways, fast forward 3 weeks later, i get a bill from bell for $82. Surprise surprise, I call in to get it corrected, and they said it will take one billing cycle for the discounts to show up. WTF??? I only accepted the offer because it would be a discounted rate, and they had plenty of time (three weeks) to correct the billling.

Is this standard procedure? I want to call in to cancel the god damn thing. $82 for basic channel + chinese theme pack is ridiculous.

[Timbits93]

Well we've been a Bell customer since the late 90s/early 00s and currently have this

Digital Standard + 1 Theme - $44
Chinese Combo - $20
Premium Channel - $2.50
US Time Shifting - $1.00
DSF Charge - $3.00
Discounts - $10 [Expires in the Spring]
$60.50 before HST

We own our receivers [1 HD, 2 SD] so we don't need anymore :lol:

However we still need to upgrade the switch on the Satellite to be able to feed 4 receivers as we have an old switch which can only feed 2.

What do you think we'll be able to pull off? Call and ask to cancel or can the normal reps offer this? I do also realize that since the account holder is my father, he'd probably have to speak to a chinese rep who i'd assume would have the same powers as a cancellation rep.

We might add an additional theme pack or premium movies again as long as the price doesn't go up. Course it's nice if the price is lower :)

Thanks in advance :lol:

[james-007]

I called in to cancel my bell TV because my discount of one year is expiring. Since they could only offer me the $20 off for one year, I decided to cancel. Cancel went through, and I get a call from loyalty department 2 days later. They offered me an additional $15 off of one of my theme packs, and they told me the next bill will be around $43 + tax. I accepted the offer, and keep in mind this is not a contract deal.

Anyways, fast forward 3 weeks later, i get a bill from bell for $82. Surprise surprise, I call in to get it corrected, and they said it will take one billing cycle for the discounts to show up. WTF??? I only accepted the offer because it would be a discounted rate, and they had plenty of time (three weeks) to correct the billing.

Is this standard procedure? I want to call in to cancel the god damn thing. $82 for basic channel + chinese theme pack is ridiculous.

They been trying to pull the same **** on me for last 3 months. I told that the discount started the day we agreed and I won't settle for anything else. 3 months there was no discount. When I called they wanted me to pay the full amount. I don't think so!!!! So cs applied $25 credit each time.
Now it was to be 20% discount, after all that they applied $20 a month credit. I called back and asked them how is that 20%, the answer I was given is that their system won't do 20% anymore. Well how is that my fault? CS gave me one time $60 off, which made it 20%. I tell you, Bell is really annoying, that they can't even get their billing right.

[Fife]

Well we've been a Bell customer since the late 90s/early 00s and currently have this

Digital Standard + 1 Theme - $44
Chinese Combo - $20
Premium Channel - $2.50
US Time Shifting - $1.00
DSF Charge - $3.00
Discounts - $10 [Expires in the Spring]
$60.50 before HST

We own our receivers [1 HD, 2 SD] so we don't need anymore :lol:

However we still need to upgrade the switch on the Satellite to be able to feed 4 receivers as we have an old switch which can only feed 2.

What do you think we'll be able to pull off? Call and ask to cancel or can the normal reps offer this? I do also realize that since the account holder is my father, he'd probably have to speak to a chinese rep who i'd assume would have the same powers as a cancellation rep.

We might add an additional theme pack or premium movies again as long as the price doesn't go up. Course it's nice if the price is lower :)

Thanks in advance :lol:

You should be able to get $20 off per month.

Chinese combo can also be lowered to $10/month

[Crowbarfoot]

It's pretty standard. It most likely will not be fixed next month either and the rep will tell you it takes 1-2 months to be applied and to check back next month.

And so on.. and so on..

Bell's customer service and billing is absolutely terrible.




I called in to cancel my bell TV because my discount of one year is expiring. Since they could only offer me the $20 off for one year, I decided to cancel. Cancel went through, and I get a call from loyalty department 2 days later. They offered me an additional $15 off of one of my theme packs, and they told me the next bill will be around $43 + tax. I accepted the offer, and keep in mind this is not a contract deal.

Anyways, fast forward 3 weeks later, i get a bill from bell for $82. Surprise surprise, I call in to get it corrected, and they said it will take one billing cycle for the discounts to show up. WTF??? I only accepted the offer because it would be a discounted rate, and they had plenty of time (three weeks) to correct the billling.

Is this standard procedure? I want to call in to cancel the god damn thing. $82 for basic channel + chinese theme pack is ridiculous.

[worldjerseys]

It's pretty standard. It most likely will not be fixed next month either and the rep will tell you it takes 1-2 months to be applied and to check back next month.

And so on.. and so on..

Bell's customer service and billing is absolutely terrible.

+ 1 Billion :mad:

[Timbits93]

You should be able to get $20 off per month.

Chinese combo can also be lowered to $10/month

Called today, told us to call back in March because she can't "see" any offers or discounts in the system... :facepalm:

[Canadianpsycho]

Longtime susbcriber (6-7 years+) with an $80-100 monthly Bill and NFL Sunday Ticket. Got the standard $20 off per month for one year no contract.

[MAVERICK13]

I am on an old package that no longer exists, last year I upgraded to HD and was given an HD pvr and all HD channels for free for a year. They are eliminating my
package as of April 1st and want me to choose a new package. In order to get the same channels I have now, I have to go to the digital max for $100/mth plus the $20/mth pvr rental.
They wouldn't offer me any discount at all to renew my service and I've been with Bell for 13 years now!

Here is my existing package.
Monthly Services (Jan 23 to Feb 22)
1 HD/ PVR Flag 0.00
1 Superstations 4.95 Less SUPERSTATIONS DISCOUNT 1.00cr
1 Deluxe (Savings of $12.60 per mo) 54.45
1 System Charge 5.99
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 64.39
Adjustments 32.35cr
Jan 04 rental discount 20.00cr
Jan 04 Save Offer - 20% Off for 12 months 12.28cr
Jan 05 Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.07cr
Total Adjustments (before taxes) 32.35cr
Other Charges or Credits 20.79
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.79
RENTAL HDPVR 20.00
Total Other Charges or Credits (before taxes) 20.79
Monthly Charges 64.39
Adjustments 32.35cr
Other Charges or Credits 20.79
Total (before taxes) 52.83

I can't believe that the girl wouldn't offer me any discount at all!! Looks like Rogers for me!

[xnaron]

I am on an old package that no longer exists, last year I upgraded to HD and was given an HD pvr and all HD channels for free for a year. They are eliminating my
package as of April 1st and want me to choose a new package. In order to get the same channels I have now, I have to go to the digital max for $100/mth plus the $20/mth pvr rental.
They wouldn't offer me any discount at all to renew my service and I've been with Bell for 13 years now!

Here is my existing package.
Monthly Services (Jan 23 to Feb 22)
1 HD/ PVR Flag 0.00
1 Superstations 4.95 Less SUPERSTATIONS DISCOUNT 1.00cr
1 Deluxe (Savings of $12.60 per mo) 54.45
1 System Charge 5.99
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 64.39
Adjustments 32.35cr
Jan 04 rental discount 20.00cr
Jan 04 Save Offer - 20% Off for 12 months 12.28cr
Jan 05 Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.07cr
Total Adjustments (before taxes) 32.35cr
Other Charges or Credits 20.79
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.79
RENTAL HDPVR 20.00
Total Other Charges or Credits (before taxes) 20.79
Monthly Charges 64.39
Adjustments 32.35cr
Other Charges or Credits 20.79
Total (before taxes) 52.83

I can't believe that the girl wouldn't offer me any discount at all!! Looks like Rogers for me!


Yeah I am in the same position and will be ready to jump ship...Why would I want to pay more for the same thing?

[SP2010]

+ 1 Billion :mad:

Ditto, took me 6 months to get my $80 credit they owed me one time ... drives a person mental to have to phone over and over .. no argument ever, "yup I see it, we owe you, but it takes a while, that's how things are around here." -- awesome!! It will take me till I hate all the major players as much as Bell to ever buy anything from their product family again!!

[MAVERICK13]

I talked to Rogers on the phone and TV would cost me 92.43 and I get an HD pvr/sd pvr and an sd box included vip package

They guy on the phone said if I wanted to buy the sd box or sd pvr, I would be better off looking for them to go on sale at
FS or BB rather than buying from them.

Also looking at $20/mth cheaper home phone, $30/mth less for wireless for 2 phones and $12/mth less for internet service.

They only thing I will have trouble with is the buyout for the 1year plus left on the mobile plans.

[beripari]

Not only can't they get the billing right .... yes, I call EVERY month ... told them I'll start charging THEM soon since I seem to be a "part time" employee! BUT, every time you speak to someone, you get a totally different story! The last guy sent an emal re my "complaint" to a non-existent dept! Anyways, we're hanging in for the time being & keep getting those "customer goodwill credits" every month when the statement arrives & of course (!), necessitates yet another call!

Anyone considering BUYING their PVR vs renting, they're on sale at The Source right now -- we bought ours outright last year - 2 of them! Says $249 after $250 subscriber credits. This was the same deal when we bought - its NOT just for new subscribers - they credited our Bell account with the $250. But still best to check considering what company we're dealing with here!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1956&language=en-CA&product=1528204

[worldjerseys]

Not only can't they get the billing right .... yes, I call EVERY month ... told them I'll start charging THEM soon since I seem to be a "part time" employee! BUT, every time you speak to someone, you get a totally different story! The last guy sent an emal re my "complaint" to a non-existent dept! Anyways, we're hanging in for the time being & keep getting those "customer goodwill credits" every month when the statement arrives & of course (!), necessitates yet another call!

Anyone considering BUYING their PVR vs renting, they're on sale at The Source right now -- we bought ours outright last year - 2 of them! Says $249 after $250 subscriber credits. This was the same deal when we bought - its NOT just for new subscribers - they credited our Bell account with the $250. But still best to check considering what company we're dealing with here!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1956&language=en-CA&product=1528204

It does state "Available to new residential customers...". Still renting. Just can't commit to Bell.

[beripari]

It does state "Available to new residential customers...". Still renting. Just can't commit to Bell.
It said the exact same thing last year when we bought two of them; we received the credits. Anyone interested should check it out -- call Bell & make sure you get the person's name; ask them to confirm it in an email if you decided to go this route! For anyone who's had their home re-wired & plans to stay with Bell for even a "little" while may still be worthwhile.

[bungaboy]

Not only can't they get the billing right .... yes, I call EVERY month ... told them I'll start charging THEM soon since I seem to be a "part time" employee! BUT, every time you speak to someone, you get a totally different story! The last guy sent an emal re my "complaint" to a non-existent dept! Anyways, we're hanging in for the time being & keep getting those "customer goodwill credits" every month when the statement arrives & of course (!), necessitates yet another call!

Anyone considering BUYING their PVR vs renting, they're on sale at The Source right now -- we bought ours outright last year - 2 of them! Says $249 after $250 subscriber credits. This was the same deal when we bought - its NOT just for new subscribers - they credited our Bell account with the $250. But still best to check considering what company we're dealing with here!

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/product.aspx?ref=1956&language=en-CA&product=1528204

I am with Bell now and I have to fight every month for my deals they promised. I am not sure I could bare adding more frustration considering they make it very clear it is for new customers. I am happy you got the deal.


Net price after $250 new subscriber credit. Purchase price is $499.99. One primary credit per account. Available to new residential customers, where access and line of sight permit. A fee in an amount not to exceed 1.5% of your monthly Bell TV charges shall apply to fund Bell's contribution to the CRTC's Local Programming Improvement Fund. See Bell.ca/LPIF. Early termination fees apply. Subject to change without notice; not combinable with other offers Taxes extra. Other conditions apply. Customer must purchase receiver(s) between Feb 10 – Mar 2, 2011, book installation by Mar 6, 2011 and activate receiver(s) within 60 days. Pricing may vary by province.
WEB ID: 1528204

[worldjerseys]

I am with Bell now and I have to fight every month for my deals they promised. I am not sure I could bare adding more frustration considering they make it very clear it is for new customers. I am happy you got the deal.

Agreed. Having to call weekly to get your "credit" isn't worth it to me either.

[macquanski]

For those Bell customers who are about to have a stroke after calling Bell multiple times to have an issue redressed without satisfaction, try sending an email to: executive.office@bell.ca

Rationally and calmy (if you can) detail the dates, the offers not delivered, etc., and what you expect Bell to do to keep you as a satisfied customer. I used this approach maybe 3 times in the last 10 years - most recently after changing my services on Bell TV, Internet, and Home Phone last Nov/2010, and they've largely come through and made me whole. Of course it shouldn't have to come to this, but this does work (at least for me).

I do try and follow protocol by calling CSR first, and then escalate to a manager/supervisor, but since at times, they are not empowered to make me happy, I stop banging my head against the wall, take a deep breath and send my tale of woe to the executive office.

good luck.

[nufan]

I've never had a problem with Bell delivering on deals. Mind you I never call the normal customer service line as you just get someone overseas who doesn't know what's going on. I always call through to retentions and have been lucky enough to get someone reasonable.

[Matrixvibe]

We've been customers with bell expressvu since early 2000's and even earlier for mobility, home phone and sympatico. Recently just noticed how much we've been actually paying...lol

Right now it looks like:
5 SD Recievers (2700, 3100, 4100), 1 HD (9200) *all bought, not rented* all hooked up to one dish :razz:
Digital Basic + 1 Theme pack -$44.00
HD VALPK OLD (includes HD prem. and basic)- $10.00
Cantonese (Fairchild) -$15.00
DSF Charge -$3.00
Total Monthly Charges: $72.00

What kind of discounts or offers can retentions give? Are current bell tv plans cheaper?

Gonna start reading through this thread...

Thanks!

[dealCker]

We've been customers with bell expressvu since early 2000's and even earlier for mobility, home phone and sympatico. Recently just noticed how much we've been actually paying...lol

Right now it looks like:
5 SD Recievers (2700, 3100, 4100), 1 HD (9200) *all bought, not rented* all hooked up to one dish :razz:
Digital Basic + 1 Theme pack -$44.00
HD VALPK OLD (includes HD prem. and basic)- $10.00
Cantonese (Fairchild) -$15.00
DSF Charge -$3.00
Total Monthly Charges: $72.00

What kind of discounts or offers can retentions give? Are current bell tv plans cheaper?

Gonna start reading through this thread...

Thanks!

I only got 20% and 20 bucks offered..
quite lame, got a flyer from Telus offering much better deals with their value pack..
may have to call back and complain

[gates59]

Can you guys tell me if I got an ok deal. I am a new bell customer. They are supposed to come on Monday for install. I ordered my home phone with 2 extra features, basic tv with one pvr and a standard reciever and performance internet for $90.32 a month plus tax. I need to know if I should cancel this before they come over. The reason for switching is I was with eastlink and been having lots of problems with there home phone.

[Hugh Jass]

Can you guys tell me if I got an ok deal. I am a new bell customer. They are supposed to come on Monday for install. I ordered my home phone with 2 extra features, basic tv with one pvr and a standard reciever and performance internet for $90.32 a month plus tax. I need to know if I should cancel this before they come over. The reason for switching is I was with eastlink and been having lots of problems with there home phone.

Fairly standard 'deal'.

It's value is completely in your eyes. If you were having probs with another provider and Bell can improve on this service, then there's a lot of value in that alone. I'm presuming there isn't as much competition where you are compared to major cities so you may have less bargaining power when it comes to getting a better deal.

[gates59]

Fairly standard 'deal'.

It's value is completely in your eyes. If you were having probs with another provider and Bell can improve on this service, then there's a lot of value in that alone. I'm presuming there isn't as much competition where you are compared to major cities so you may have less bargaining power when it comes to getting a better deal.

Thanks for the reply. Yes it is true. There is not much to chose from here. I should have negotiated the 25 gig cap though.

[Sloan55]

This is not a retention deal, but wanted to share with you my most recent horrible experience with Bell.

Ordered a 9241 receiver through Bell for $249 (promotion price). Lady tells me that they will waive the $75 hook up fee if I get some HD channels packs (which I was going to do anyway). Order is all done. Installer comes in and says he can't run the line where I need it without making a mess. He wanted to drill through the hard wood floor. Was very up front saying that he only gets paid $20 for the call and doesn't have the proper tools to fish the coaxial cable. Suggests I get an electrician. So I send him away and nothing gets done for the moment until I can get an electrician in. That was about 4 days ago. I checked my credit card bill online today and see Bell has charged me $769. Shocked, I call them and they tell me they have to charge me $500 for the receive plus $181 for the installation plus HST. They say they will credit $250 for the receiver once it is activated and credit the $181 back as well. Meanwhile I am stuck paying almost $800 for a receiver that I should be paying $249 plus tax for. I hate their business practices so much.

[gates59]

I ended up calling bell to cancel the service I applied for. They were not too happy. I was sure they were going to charge me a fee to cancel early even though they did not install anything yet. I'm happy I did. I realy hate Bell. I very much doubt that I will ever go back unless it is for the home phone service only.

[sushigod]

Thank you to everyone for posting your deals and your experience with Bell. My 2 year contact is just about expired and I have been with Bell for my internet and home phone for well over a decade. I have had ExpressVu for about 5 years in total. All I can say is holy crap have I been overpaying!

Here is what I mean:

Telephone (2 separate lines - different locations)
1 Residence line 23.02
1 911 emergency service access 0.17
1 Touch-Tone service 2.80

1 Home Phone Choice package 39.95
Residence line
Call Forwarding
3 Way Calling
Visual Call Waiting
Call Answer English
25¢ a min feature
1 Non published listing service 2.00
1 911 emergency service access 0.17
1 Touch-Tone service 2.80
Total Telephone 70.89

INTERNET
1 HN Modem Lease 3.95
1 Total Performance 49.95
Total Internet 53.90

TELEVISION (ExpressVu)
1 7 Themes and Premium Movies 55.00
1 Rental HD PVR 20.00
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 US Timeshifting 1.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
Save offer 5.00cr
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.07cr
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 1.62
Total Monthly TV 109.55

Total before tax 234.34
Bundle savings 15.00cr ($5 off each service above)
Total Monthly Bell Bill 247.81
Note: Original offer was 20% off HDTV programming and free HD PVR rental for 2 years but they screwed up the billing and ended up giving me the credits all upfront. I've been patiently waiting for my contract to expire and now that it is about up, can anyone recommend a better deal with Rogers or Telus? I cannot do VOIP as it would put my home security at risk. I was thinking of Rogers only because I already have a voice + data plan for my Blackberry with them for just under $65 (tax incl. for 6GB data)

I figure I can do without the movie package and like the HD channels Rogers includes free with their VIP package. However, I have heard Rogers HDTV channels are not as clear as ExpressVu. Any suggestions anyone can offer is much appreciated. Thx

[gates59]

I don't think you will find a better deal that eastlink. $100 a month and you get everything you need. All phone features and quite a few channels. You can add thew movie channels if you watch lots of movies. You can have movies on demand. Never tried it though and the fastest internet. PVR is an extra $10 a month though.

[inhaliburton]

Sushigod's example of what it costs for telephone, internet and television show us what ridiculous amounts of money Canadians pay Bell and others each month. Obscene! They don't even give us KY-Jel when they tell us to bend over and grab our ankles.

[djino]

Right now I have so many offers available to give - 3 months free home phone, fibe internet and fibe tv, or satellite - or free hdpvr, free secondary receiver, free install etc. There are so many, depending on your situation.

Is this for existing Bell Clients too?

djino

[NewConstruction]

Unfortunately I can't do anything if you are already with Bell, unless you are moving. Your best shot is to call 1-888-sky-dish and speak to retention and quote the rentention deals listed by the others. Sorry.

[bhp]

I called last week to inquire about my expiry of 1 year free PVR and 20% off promo. Retentions was no longer giving 20% off, gave me $20 off per month. I asked about my free PVR rental, she told me they'll extend that for another year. However, they didn't need a tech to come over to swap a new PVR? In the past, they came to my place to swap a new PVR because that was their policy. Has this changed?? I'm hoping I retain the free PVR and $20 off or I'm going to cancel.

Do we get a better deal if we decide to move our services to a new location? Is it considered a new sale without using a different name to sign up?

[djino]

Unfortunately I can't do anything if you are already with Bell, unless you are moving. Your best shot is to call 1-888-sky-dish and speak to retention and quote the rentention deals listed by the others. Sorry.

I just purchased a house (and as mentioned, I'm already with Bell) that I will be moving into April 30th. Is there something you can do for me regarding this?

djino

[thatguy911]

For what it's worth, I just got 20%, by asking to be sent to retentions (my contract is up in July).

Customer since 2004.

Didn't even have to argue - was pleasantly surprised. :lol:

[U4IA]

I called a few weeks ago and was offered $5 off a month. I asked if that was the best they could do and was told thats all they can do now...blah blah blah

I suppose I could have tried a different CSR but I'm tired of supporting bell...

[dynasty8]

Hi,
I am a new Bell TV customer but have had Bell Mobility, Home Phone and Internet with them for over 6 years. I called to inquire about what I can get and this is what the CSR told me:
-$20 off due to Bell Bundle (Bell Basic + a la carte 30 + The Favorites)=$30.00/month+$3.00 Network fee
-Free HD PVR + 2 standard receivers for 1 year under 2 year term

I am wondering if there is anything better (1 year instead of 2 year term so can renegotiate plan) than that available for new Bell TV customers. Thanks in advance.

[Anonymouse]

I called in after my 30% discount expired, and was only able to get $10 off. Can I do better if I go through with a cancellation and hope for a phone call from a more friendly rep? I do not have any other Bell services; my phone is with Teksavvy.


Monthly Services (Mar 19 to Apr 18)
1 HD/ PVR Flag 0.00
1 HD Variety 5.00
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
1 6 Themes 30.00
Total Monthly Charges (before taxes) 72.00
Adjustments
Date applied Description Amount
Mar 02 Save offer 10.00cr
Total Adjustments (before taxes) 10.00cr
Other Charges or Credits
Contribution Fee to CRTC's LPIF 0.93
Total Other Charges or Credits (before taxes) 0.93
Total Television Services (before taxes) 62.93
Taxes
Amount
HST 8.18
Total Taxes 8.18
Total (after taxes) 71.11

[csnarpy]

Well i just renewed my package and got 20% off with no problem although last year I had free HD PVR and 30% off.

The funny thing is, my old deal expired last month so i wasn't getting the % off BUT they ended up charging me $4 for a standard receiver instead of the $20(??) for the PVR. So while talking to the rep, I took a chance and told her that all my receivers are HD, so I don't know why they were charging me for a standard receiver (which is true). She agreed and took the charge off, credited my account and apologized.

I think i just got a free PVR... http://forum.calgarypuck.com/images/calpuck/smilies/whistle.gif

[timex15]

someone should keep track of the price increases with bell. I havent changed my programming for a long time and my bill keeps getting higher. The discounts are good but not as much when the prices keep going higher.

[schuey99]

I have been w/phone forever.

I just signed up for internet.

I have been with satellite for 10yrs or so (but using a standard receiver and very basic programming). I'm under no term.

So I just got the $67 rebate cheque from Bell and so did my in-laws. But on THEIR letter there is offer for satellite, 2yrs, free HD PVR.

I called Bell and said I want to upgrade from $30 package to $85 (7pack + 1Moviepack) ...BUT... I want a free 2yr HD PVR receiver.

They will not give me the free HD PVR.

Do I call their bluff and say I'm leaving for Rogers (under their return a Bell receiver and they give a pretty good package) unless they give me something.

Generally - what SHOULD I be asking for.

Current Bill
---Home Phone Basic (Residence Line) (Visual Call Waiting) $34.95
---Canada & US Block of Time $ 9.95
---Network Charge $ 6.95
---911 $ 0.17
---Touch Tone $ 2.80
TOTAL (incl tax) $60

Current Satellite
---Digital Standard $34.00
---US Timeshifting $ 1.00
---Digital Fee $ 3.00
TOTAL (incl tax) $45

Current Satellite
---Fibe 6 $29.99

So my total bill is something like $135 for all 3 services.

[Timbits93]

Called Bell today since our $10 discount expired.

Took only 5-10 minutes and we came out with a renewal for the $10 discount plus a reduction on the Chinese Combo from $20 to $10 (effective next billing cycle).

Extra $10 off seems nice. Though we probably could have shot for a $20 discount instead but eh, paying less than the past 12 months :lol:

[oahu]

I have been w/phone forever.

Generally - what SHOULD I be asking for.

Current Bill
---Home Phone Basic (Residence Line) (Visual Call Waiting) $34.95
---Canada & US Block of Time $ 9.95
---Network Charge $ 6.95
---911 $ 0.17
---Touch Tone $ 2.80
TOTAL (incl tax) $60

Current Satellite
---Digital Standard $34.00
---US Timeshifting $ 1.00
---Digital Fee $ 3.00
TOTAL (incl tax) $45

Current Satellite
---Fibe 6 $29.99

So my total bill is something like $135 for all 3 services.

Without calling them, you should have signed up to bundle saving and have $5 off each service. So, it's only a deal if they give you anything more than the bundle saving.
After you get a deal from them, if acceptable to you, drop the Bell long distance, you will save the rip-off $6.95 network charge. Use long distance service from somewhere else, like Startec, or better freephoneline.ca. There are plenty of posts on cheaper long distance.

[schuey99]

The offer I get is 2yr contract ... w/1yr free rental on the HD PVR ... works out to be $20/month

I am currently on basic $30package but going up to $85 Digital Extra

I wanted 2yr free rental as I am currently no contract and going up in package AND just signed up for internet.

M'eh.

[indca]

I have been w/phone forever.

I just signed up for internet.

I have been with satellite for 10yrs or so (but using a standard receiver and very basic programming). I'm under no term.

So I just got the $67 rebate cheque from Bell and so did my in-laws. But on THEIR letter there is offer for satellite, 2yrs, free HD PVR.

I called Bell and said I want to upgrade from $30 package to $85 (7pack + 1Moviepack) ...BUT... I want a free 2yr HD PVR receiver.

They will not give me the free HD PVR.

Do I call their bluff and say I'm leaving for Rogers (under their return a Bell receiver and they give a pretty good package) unless they give me something.

Generally - what SHOULD I be asking for.

Current Bill
---Home Phone Basic (Residence Line) (Visual Call Waiting) $34.95
---Canada & US Block of Time $ 9.95
---Network Charge $ 6.95
---911 $ 0.17
---Touch Tone $ 2.80
TOTAL (incl tax) $60

Current Satellite
---Digital Standard $34.00
---US Timeshifting $ 1.00
---Digital Fee $ 3.00
TOTAL (incl tax) $45

Current Satellite
---Fibe 6 $29.99

So my total bill is something like $135 for all 3 services.


Right Now As a new customer I got this deal;

2 SD box to Own
1HD PVR - $150
1 Year 10$ discount on South Asian Package;

So, I'm gonna be paying lower amount with all Equipmemt Purchased and as a new customer.

I also gotta phone service with $10 discount so I'll be paying $20 fior the next 24 months with 2 extra features included;

I left Rogers for Bell because I was getting bad deal from Rogers, You can do the same, don't stay on layalties they don't give a crap about how long you stay with them..

I also Got fibe25 with dell trial for free so in total I'll be paying around $60 for some time nowfor all three services, and I am happy to be on Bell camp as a new Customer I will switch again to Rogers as a new customer when bell contract ends, its a swet deal and very cheap monthly rate..

[alamshahid]

To get the 1 yr free pvr do I need to sign a contract for bell expressvu? I'm looking at the bundle that is approx $65 a month. I'm interested in just renting it.

I tried calling them but the wait time is brutal...

[schuey99]

It's a 2yr contract and it is a rental PVR

[CurtisD]

I never watch SD channels, and am tired of paying for them....if I call Bell, is there any way I can retain all the HD sports I watch while cancelling the SD channels? 99% of my viewing is TSN, TSN2, and Sportsnet (all in HD).

Current bill:

4 HD Themes + HD US Time Shifting - $10.00
3 Themes - $20.00
Digital Standard - $34.00
US Timeshifting - $1.00
Digital Service Fee - $3.00

Total Monthly Charges (before taxes) - $68.00

Seems like a lot for TSN and Sportsnet. Anyway can I cut out the "3 themes" that I am paying $20 for? Currently these are Sports 1, Sports 2, and some other one I can't remember.

[sushigod]

I never watch SD channels, and am tired of paying for them....if I call Bell, is there any way I can retain all the HD sports I watch while cancelling the SD channels? 99% of my viewing is TSN, TSN2, and Sportsnet (all in HD).

Current bill:

4 HD Themes + HD US Time Shifting - $10.00
3 Themes - $20.00
Digital Standard - $34.00
US Timeshifting - $1.00
Digital Service Fee - $3.00

Total Monthly Charges (before taxes) - $68.00

Seems like a lot for TSN and Sportsnet. Anyway can I cut out the "3 themes" that I am paying $20 for? Currently these are Sports 1, Sports 2, and some other one I can't remember.

You might want to consider signing up with Shaw Direct as I just did today. I was paying almost $124 a month with Bell for the Digital Basic + 7 themes + premium movies package. Why so high? Long story short, Bell screwed up my billing so my free PVR credit and programming discount (30% off first year) was applied upfront as a lumpsum.

I called Bell to cancel and the best offer from retentions was $25 in credits and I would have to give up the movies and 2 theme packs to get to $65 before tax. BTW - that US Time shifting fee is supposed to be OPTIONAL. After being told over the past 2 years everyone has to pay it, retentions said they could remove that option if I did not want to pay the $1 monthly fee. When I mentioned the channels Shaw Direct is offering for much less than Bell, the rep gave up trying to retain me.

Thanks to a referral and feedback from fellow RFD members, I decided to go with Shaw Direct instead. Now I will get all the channels that you essentially see on Shaw's website (Digital Favourites) but for less than the advertised price. My monthly tv bill will now be less than $69 (taxes & fees incl). Although I had to purchase the HDPVR ($199) and second receiver ($99), the dish and installation is free. Now I get MORE CHANNELS, many of which you'd have to pay a premium for with Bell. So definitely a no-brainer on this decision. I can hardly wait for the installation to be done later this month. I was pleasantly surprised to hear the installer for my area works weekends! While I was cancelling my ExpressVU, I did the same for my internet (and both my phone lines soon) because Bell is not competitive anymore but that's a whole different discussion I will not get into here.

[Hugh Jass]

Just got off the phone with Bell. Called in to cancel phone/internet/TV.

Decided to keep phone coz they offered a basic line for $17.95 a month ( 1yr contract), instead of the $42 a month I was paying ( incl bells and whistles that we never use).

Got $10 a month off internet on a one year contract.

Got free HDPVR rental ( $20) and $10 programming credit. So TV bill was $105 before tax, now $75. Good for 12 months, but not locked in.

Total saving of $64 + tax off my monthly bill. Plus he gave me a one-time credit of $20 for good measure.

CSR was very friendly and professional.

Not bad IMO.

[CurtisD]

You might want to consider signing up with Shaw Direct as I just did today. I was paying almost $124 a month with Bell for the Digital Basic + 7 themes + premium movies package. Why so high? Long story short, Bell screwed up my billing so my free PVR credit and programming discount (30% off first year) was applied upfront as a lumpsum.

I called Bell to cancel and the best offer from retentions was $25 in credits and I would have to give up the movies and 2 theme packs to get to $65 before tax. BTW - that US Time shifting fee is supposed to be OPTIONAL. After being told over the past 2 years everyone has to pay it, retentions said they could remove that option if I did not want to pay the $1 monthly fee. When I mentioned the channels Shaw Direct is offering for much less than Bell, the rep gave up trying to retain me.

Thanks to a referral and feedback from fellow RFD members, I decided to go with Shaw Direct instead. Now I will get all the channels that you essentially see on Shaw's website (Digital Favourites) but for less than the advertised price. My monthly tv bill will now be less than $69 (taxes & fees incl). Although I had to purchase the HDPVR ($199) and second receiver ($99), the dish and installation is free. Now I get MORE CHANNELS, many of which you'd have to pay a premium for with Bell. So definitely a no-brainer on this decision. I can hardly wait for the installation to be done later this month. I was pleasantly surprised to hear the installer for my area works weekends! While I was cancelling my ExpressVU, I did the same for my internet (and both my phone lines soon) because Bell is not competitive anymore but that's a whole different discussion I will not get into here.

Unfortunately Shaw is not an option in New Brunswick. Sounds like you got a great deal, though!

[sushigod]

Unfortunately Shaw is not an option in New Brunswick. Sounds like you got a great deal, though!

Too bad Shaw doesn't service your area at this time. Yes, I feel fortunate to have found this deal via a RFD forum even though Bell offered to slash my total bill for phone/internet/tv by $82 month from $248 to $166, taxes all in. It was a no brainer on the TV given the value package they offered (through customer referral) is $40.98 which is comparable to Bell Digital Essentials package that is $65 a month. Add on an HD package for $10.99 and the channel lineup is essentially the same as the Digital Favourites package currently offered on Shaw's website for $58.99. This includes HD channels like HBO, Movie Network, TSN, TSN 2, Super Channel 1 & 2, etc. Bell clearly cannot match the price and offer the same channel line up as what Shaw offers. Although I had to buy the equipment, the monthly savings of $50 from my old package more than offsets the cost of the HD PVR and additional receiver after 6 to 7 months. Glad I never bought the HD PVR from Bell.

For the internet, Bell's new Fibe packages does offer better speeds but I am only getting approx. 3.4 Mbps right now for downloads though I am supposed to get "up to" 5 Mbps. Having more bandwith is more important to me than a promise to boost the download speed up to 6 Mbps and I refused to pay more to get additional bandwidth. So, TekSavvy here we come - $31.95 for 300GB trumps Bell's best offer of $38.90 a month for 65 GB. Others may prefer Bell if they don't use their bandwidth and want higher speeds.

For the phone, I was very disappointed Bell would not offer me any bigger discount given I pay for two phone lines. They could not offer a second line discount because the lines are at two different locations. Given I cancelled my internet and TV, they would only offer a $5 credit each month. With TekSavvy I will now save about $17 a month than if I stayed with Bell.

In short, why should customers have to call Bell retentions more than once to see if a different rep will offer something better than the previous rep? If they can't offer something better the first time, then why waste time. Go with a competitor. It's the only way to send a message that you really don't agree with their pricing/operating model.

Update: Last Friday, April 8th, Bell Retentions called back - not for TV/phone but just internet and tried to make a better offer. Well, too little too late. It really irks me that only after having cancelled they are trying to make a better offer at $35.90 for 105GB and speeds up to 6 Mbps) for a 1 year contract. If I were so valued, why didn't they make this offer two weeks ago?

btw - if anyone is looking for the unadvertised Shaw Direct satellite tv package, let me know and I'd be happy refer you.

[Spidey]

Recently got a mail-out for Telus Satellite TV. They use Bells feed, theme packs, etc. But had a good deal with a Free PVR for 3 years (on a contract) etc.

The package deals weren't much better than Bell, so I called them saying I can get a free PVR with them (right now I'm paying for mine, although I did get it free for 2 years)

So with that I now get the PVR free for another year. Saves me $20 a month and brings my bill down to $32 a month again (we have the lowest package)

Wierd this was all it took, Ive been calling them off and on the last year to get the PVR for free. They must know when other companies have promotions, because he was defintly aware of the Telus deal. Might of helped as well being a customer since 1997

[PCDawg]

I called today to inquire about my expired deal i had. Free HD PVR and 30% off.

They told me changes were made and I can take either a free HD PVR rental or 20% off. Not both at the same time. Is that new that they cant combine to two deals?

[fredsmith]

There are limits to what a CSR can do - however supervisors (and retention) can push stuff through if they arer so inclned.

Be pleasant. Be persistent. Be prepared to cancel and go to another provider.

[bhp]

I called today to inquire about my expired deal i had. Free HD PVR and 30% off.

They told me changes were made and I can take either a free HD PVR rental or 20% off. Not both at the same time. Is that new that they cant combine to two deals?

i was promised free hd pvr plus $20 off my bill when i called last month. got my bill for April and they only gave me $20. the retention rep says they can only honor 1 promo, not both. I told them to check the recordings with the previous rep. i was so pissed, i told them to cancel immediately, 5 mins on hold and the supervisor approved the free PVR with no contract, in addition to the $20 monthly discount.

These guys are really getting cheap, I used to have 30% off with free PVR. If it wasn't for the NHL playoffs, i'm going to cancel the additional stuff and stick with the cheapest basic package.

[ipoddave]

i was promised free hd pvr plus $20 off my bill when i called last month. got my bill for April and they only gave me $20. the retention rep says they can only honor 1 promo, not both. I told them to check the recordings with the previous rep. i was so pissed, i told them to cancel immediately, 5 mins on hold and the supervisor approved the free PVR with no contract, in addition to the $20 monthly discount.

These guys are really getting cheap, I used to have 30% off with free PVR. If it wasn't for the NHL playoffs, i'm going to cancel the additional stuff and stick with the cheapest basic package.

They are getting cheap. They gave me 10% or $10 off only where I used to have 20% a year ago and 30% 2-3 years ago. It's time to look for another providers like Telus who is offering tonnes of discount and promo in my mail lately. Also, their equipment and technology is newer as compare to the Bell setup.

[sushigod]

Too bad Shaw doesn't service your area at this time. Yes, I feel fortunate to have found this deal via a RFD forum even though Bell offered to slash my total bill for phone/internet/tv by $82 month from $248 to $166, taxes all in. It was a no brainer on the TV given the value package they offered (through customer referral) is $40.98 which is comparable to Bell Digital Essentials package that is $65 a month. Add on an HD package for $10.99 and the channel lineup is essentially the same as the Digital Favourites package currently offered on Shaw's website for $58.99. This includes HD channels like HBO, Movie Network, TSN, TSN 2, Super Channel 1 & 2, etc. Bell clearly cannot match the price and offer the same channel line up as what Shaw offers. Although I had to buy the equipment, the monthly savings of $50 from my old package more than offsets the cost of the HD PVR and additional receiver after 6 to 7 months. Glad I never bought the HD PVR from Bell.

For the internet, Bell's new Fibe packages does offer better speeds but I am only getting approx. 3.4 Mbps right now for downloads though I am supposed to get "up to" 5 Mbps. Having more bandwith is more important to me than a promise to boost the download speed up to 6 Mbps and I refused to pay more to get additional bandwidth. So, TekSavvy here we come - $31.95 for 300GB trumps Bell's best offer of $38.90 a month for 65 GB. Others may prefer Bell if they don't use their bandwidth and want higher speeds.

For the phone, I was very disappointed Bell would not offer me any bigger discount given I pay for two phone lines. They could not offer a second line discount because the lines are at two different locations. Given I cancelled my internet and TV, they would only offer a $5 credit each month. With TekSavvy I will now save about $17 a month than if I stayed with Bell.

In short, why should customers have to call Bell retentions more than once to see if a different rep will offer something better than the previous rep? If they can't offer something better the first time, then why waste time. Go with a competitor. It's the only way to send a message that you really don't agree with their pricing/operating model.

Update: Last Friday, April 8th, Bell Retentions called back - not for TV/phone but just internet and tried to make a better offer. Well, too little too late. It really irks me that only after having cancelled they are trying to make a better offer at $35.90 for 105GB and speeds up to 6 Mbps) for a 1 year contract. If I were so valued, why didn't they make this offer two weeks ago?

btw - if anyone is looking for the unadvertised Shaw Direct satellite tv package, let me know and I'd be happy refer you.


We were up and running with Shaw Direct as of Good Friday. The installers came one day earlier than expected. Wow! The picture and sound definitely rivals Bell ExpressVu although the PVR functionality (user interface) is not as good as Bell. As well, we did not get the movie channels in HD included with the Value Package as it does not include the SD channel versions of HBO, Movie Channel, SuperChannels. Those are extra. In any case, my wife agrees we aren't missing much as we only watched the odd one here and there when we had these channels with Bell. Most of the movies playing are not the "must see" titles. With all the extra channels we now get in HD like TSN, Sportsnet, HD Net, Discovery, and National Geographic (which you would need to pay extra to get with Bell), we are very happy and have no regrets switching from Bell. Never again shall we pay the big conglomerates like Bell outrageous monthly fees!!!

[Alisa1964]

My Bell TV bill is insanely high - I just don't know what to ask them for.

This is my billL
12 Themes and Premium Movies - $70.00
5 HD Themes and HD US Time shifting - $15.00
1 HD PVR Receiver - $20
1 Digital Standard - $34.00
1 US Timeshifting - $1.00
1 Digital Service Fee - $3.00
Total before taxes - $143.00

I also have a land line with Bell that we barely use
1 residence line - $23.02
1 Flex 6 bundle - $31.95
Total before Taxes - $58.34

Can I ask Bell to decrease my TV bill? I find that I am spending far too much on these services, but I think my teenagers wouldn't be happy if I reduced the programming...

Thanks for reading, and for any assistance you can offer :)

[Hugh Jass]

My Bell TV bill is insanely high - I just don't know what to ask them for.

This is my billL
Total before taxes - $143.00

I also have a land line with Bell that we barely use
Total before Taxes - $58.34

Can I ask Bell to decrease my TV bill? I find that I am spending far too much on these services, but I think my teenagers wouldn't be happy if I reduced the programming...

:)

Ouch !!!

Check out Shaw/other competitor for their pricing, see if they're cheaper for a start. You have a lot of programming going on there.

Call them and tell them you're cancelling , coz you're spending way too much on just TV. They should give you the 'let's see what we can do' line. You should be trying to get the TV down under $100.

As for your phone, we were in the same boat and they offered us basic phone for $17.95 a month. There's so much competition now, from cable companies and VOIPs, that Bell has to be able to offer something. Again, tell them you're calling to cancel NOT to see if you can score a better price.

[jmgk]

So I just finalized my mother's Bell TV stuff and here's what I got.

Free HD PVR (9241) rental until Sept 1st. After Sept 1st she owns the receiver. (New promotion that started on April 27th)
$10 off TV service for 12 months
Free HD installation
Because I upgraded to HD I could bundle phone and TV so $5 off each.
Because they screwed up the initial ticket I also got 30% off the premium movie channel for 3 months.

2 Year contract required for the receiver. But since there is no competition out here I'm not too broken up about it.

Considering I also dropped the rental on 3 receivers that my mother didn't need anymore which saved $12 a month... Not a bad day.

[PANACHE70]

What's this new promotion about owning the receiver after 5 months??
Were you renting it prior to now?

[Alisa1964]

Thank you Hugh, and everyone else on this thread. I called Bell, told them I had much lower rates proposed by Videotron (I am in Quebec, so no Shaw here) and asked what they could do. They are taking the $20 rental charge off, replacing my dual PVR receiver with the newest model for free (with a 6 month rent to own that will appear as a charge and then credit - so effectively free) and taking $30 off my monthly bill. S0 from $143 plus tax per month to 93!!!!!

I am now on the phone with them reducing the ridiculous services on my phone line - so more savings to come!

:) Thanks!!

[jmgk]

What's this new promotion about owning the receiver after 5 months??
Were you renting it prior to now?

It was a brand new HD PVR from bell. They charge you $20 a month on your bill and immediately give you $20 credit on the same bill. Basically called yesterday and they brought it here today to install. Bell says that we would own the HD PVR by Sept 1st.

[Hugh Jass]

It was a brand new HD PVR from bell. They charge you $20 a month on your bill and immediately give you $20 credit on the same bill. Basically called yesterday and they brought it here today to install. Bell says that we would own the HD PVR by Sept 1st.

In the four years we've had a HDPVR from Bell, we've had to send two back for repair. It looks like they're trying to get away from this. I'll take a $20 a month credit for rental and they keep ownership of the unit. Anytime it breaks or I feel like the latest model, I just do a swap.

[movieking]

My Bell TV bill is insanely high - I just don't know what to ask them for.

This is my billL
12 Themes and Premium Movies - $70.00
5 HD Themes and HD US Time shifting - $15.00
1 HD PVR Receiver - $20
1 Digital Standard - $34.00
1 US Timeshifting - $1.00
1 Digital Service Fee - $3.00
Total before taxes - $143.00



This is similar to my bill now. My Bell bill has been slowly escalating over the years, with the charges getting added after I had the HD PVR free for a year, the 20% discount on all programming, plus a $200 or $300 credit broken out over 16 or 18 months. After paying about $80 a month for a while, it is up to $135 now, and I'll be calling in to make some changes.

1 7 Themes and Premium Movies 55.00
1 Rental HD PVR 20.00
1 Rental 4100 Receiver 4.00
1 Rental 4100 Receiver 4.00
1 4 HD Themes + HD US Time Shifting 10.00
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00

Depending on what I can get, I'll still look at cutting some themes (which only saves a couple of bucks per theme, depending on the package), and getting rid of the Premium movies channels (goodbye HBO, AMC, etc).

[Bwadd]

2 year Bell customer with 2 services internet and TV.

TV:

4HD Themes + HD US Time shifting
US Time Shifting
Digital Service Fee
Degital Standard and 1 Theme

Total - $56

- $10 credit for 12 months

+

HDPVR rental
HD Rental

Total - $91.76

Just called to "fake" cancel.... LOL

Got a $60 credit off my bill, and my HDPVR is paid and mine. Plus $5 bundle credit and another $5credit from sympatico...

New bill is $65 tax in as I also took off leafs tv.. LOL

So combined its $65 + $45 for Internet (Fibe6)

$110 total for a bill that used to be $160 a month ago...

Happy for now!

[maritimer555]

Hi Folks
I’m new to bell TV. I’m a cable bundle customer. However my GF just assumed a separate bell satellite deal, with a separate internet, home phone. cell deal. I think she is paying way too much for sub par service. Hence my posting here to confirm my suspicions
I happen to have the tv bill, but not the phone, internet. So my details are sketchy.
Even with the tv bill, not knowing their service and even with spending some time on their site I’m unsure whether it’s a good deal or not. Here is what she is getting;

4 hd themes & us time shift- $10
2 standard receivers $8
1 HD receiver $10
Digital standard $34
6 themes $30
Crtc $1.43
Taxes $14.46
Total $110.89

With home phone, poor internet (less than 5mbps at noon time, worse in the evenings), and a cell phone it’s close to $289. She is not under contract anymore on the TV.
I think she is getting robbed. My question is- should I be able to get the TV deal down considerably and also add things like pvr?
My cable bundle, which includes extra HD channels and a PVR (w/ phone and good internet), is about $135 tax in.
I’m strongly considering moving her to Eastlink (leaving the cell)

[karmanwalia]

My 1 year term with expressvu ends in a couple of days. So I called them somedays back and they would offer only $20 off the bill, nothing else. Called in today with numbers from Telus Optik TV and asked the Loyalty dept to cancel my service. This is what I got:
* $20 off for 12 months.
* $6 off for 12 months to cover the previous 30% off(lumpsum $72 deducted from my April bill)
* 1 HDPVR to own(no 6 months rental to own)
* 1 theme pack for free for 12 months

So, its almost the same as the previou year, a bit cheaper maybe.

Another one year with Bell expressvu. :)

[farhan0001]

how does the rent to own HDPVR work. Are you under a contract and if so how long?

[karmanwalia]

how does the rent to own HDPVR work. Are you under a contract and if so how long?

For me, I am not paying any rent for the receiver to own. It will come as a charge on the bill with a corresponding credit till September and then disappear from the bill. I had them record all the offers before I said yes to the next 1 year term on the phone.

[randyh66]

Cancelled bell today

2nd time talking to retentions

rental reciever credit and thats it. No budging. bye bye bell


On telus tv now and sure wish we still had bell.

Equipment may be new but it is not a solid as bell... one example:
recording starts automatically and flips to the channel. If you are paused or behind live tv, gone. That one has got me a few times!!

The real kicker is we can only watch or record one HD channel at a time. Never watched SD with bell, with Telus is it watch SD or cancel recording... SIGH... LEAP backwards.

[jmgk]

how does the rent to own HDPVR work. Are you under a contract and if so how long?

They required a two year extension I believe.

[DOC SB]

I have updated the original post:

Call 1-888-673-3788

Follow these options.

Step #1 -> Press #1 for English
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> other options is now #6
Step #4 -> Press #3 to cancel subscription

[molebdynum]

I just called to inquire about my contract ending. CSR gave me two options 1. Ownership of the HD PVR, I have currently ( new 2 yr contact) - effectively $ 20 rental free from my bill or 2. $20/month discount for 1 year while still renting PVR -renting my current HD PVR for free for the next year. I also was given a one time $50.00 credit. I took Option 2 because, there is no contract involved, and the HD PVR is still owned by BELL so if there is a hardware failure, it's their problem not mine. I'll take a discount of $290, over the next year. After the year, I will re-negotiate again.

[DaveH]

Hi, I just called retentions to cancell/get a better deal and was very suprised. My bill is/was $141.00/mth including $20 for PVR. I said cable pkg was cheaper and gave her the $ amount, the CSR (very cheery lady, looks up account, says i have pretty much everything), promptly says Bell will cover the pvr (9242) rental til Sept.2011, at which time I will own it and gives me $20 off programming for 12 months. My bill will now be $101.00 mth, which is right in line with the cable company. I'm pretty pleased with that , took maybe 5 minutes. I had to agree to a 2 yr contract (wasn't wild about that but there is nothing vastly cheaper out there, cancel within first 12 mo. $200.00, second year $100.00) and agree to paying any programming increases Bell charges. I asked if that would be a concern (ie. they're planning on charging gasoline type prices) and she said no. You never know, but I'm happy and I don't have to go through the hassle of switching providers.
Hope this helps you

Dave

[Hugh Jass]

So, after making the 'cancellation' call to Bell about 6 weeks ago, today I can check out my first revised bill with the new discounts. So I log in and find that everything they promised is there. Wtf? ;)

[Habeas]

So I've been with Bell for almost 10 years now. I have the main four services with them. My TV, home phone and tv contracts have all expired and my wife and I are one year in on 3 year terms for our cell phones.

I called about a week ago to see if they could lower my monthly payment, ($190 or so for home phone, tv and internet) and they said that the home phone was the best deal I could get and couldn't lower it. The tv deal was the same as I've seen in this thread...6 months free HD pvr rental, then it's mine to keep with a 2 year contract. And the kicker, the internet couldn't be lowered, in fact, due to a "FCC ruling, the cost of the internet will go up $3 a month". I pretty sure this is BS because my sister works for Rogers and she told me that she isn't aware of any new FCC rulings in this regard.

I'm pretty agitated by this as I'm trying to lower some costs here and the best they can do is up my internet bill by 3 bucks a month?

I've had no issues with any of my services and I really don't want to go through the hassle of cancelling and signing up with other companies....but if this is the best they can do I might just go for it.

My wife was wondering if it would be possible to call in to "cancel" and use some leverage to get an early hardware upgrade on the iPhone she has. I know it's really early in the contract, but do you think it would be possible to get an early HUG if we stay with our 3 other services?

Any thoughts would be appreciated,

Thanks...

[ghost]

Does any one have any insight on these deals about free receiver rentals until September 2011 and then you own it? So basically they are giving you a free HD PVR. It just seems like an odd thing for Bell to do.

Doens't Bell have an obligation to CRTC to upgrade their local channels to digital or HD or something in August. And as a result they need to swap out existing HD receivers? Putting out all these free receivers means more for them to swap.

I need to replace a HD PVR but I am afraid of what Bell is not telling us. I don't want a free rental and then get charged because they are upgrading me to a new and improved model.

Anyone know what's going on?

[Habeas]

Does any one have any insight on these deals about free receiver rentals until September 2011 and then you own it? So basically they are giving you a free HD PVR. It just seems like an odd thing for Bell to do.

Doens't Bell have an obligation to CRTC to upgrade their local channels to digital or HD or something in August. And as a result they need to swap out existing HD receivers? Putting out all these free receivers means more for them to swap.

I need to replace a HD PVR but I am afraid of what Bell is not telling us. I don't want a free rental and then get charged because they are upgrading me to a new and improved model.

Anyone know what's going on?

The CRTC has mandated to turn off analog signals and move to digital. This is not HD...basically, you can't use an old school antenna to pick up analog tv signals any more.

I think what Bell is not telling you with the free HDPVR is that once you own it and it breaks, you're effed. You'd either have to buy or rent a new unit, or pay for a repair. I think Bell just wants these units out of their hands for these extra costs.

Hope that helps.

[hill90]

i cancelled bell but they are charging me 30 days in advance. So they will charge me a extra month. Is there a way i can avoid this? i dont see why im being charged 30 days advancement when i call them telling them im cancelling now.

[Hugh Jass]

i cancelled bell but they are charging me 30 days in advance. So they will charge me a extra month. Is there a way i can avoid this? i dont see why im being charged 30 days advancement when i call them telling them im cancelling now.

You have to give 30 days notice.

[movieking]

My bill is/was $141.00/mth including $20 for PVR. I said cable pkg was cheaper and gave her the $ amount, the CSR (very cheery lady, looks up account, says i have pretty much everything), promptly says Bell will cover the pvr (9242) rental til Sept.2011, at which time I will own it and gives me $20 off programming for 12 months. My bill will now be $101.00 mth, which is right in line with the cable company. I had to agree to a 2 yr contract (wasn't wild about that but there is nothing vastly cheaper out there, cancel within first 12 mo. $200.00, second year $100.00) and agree to paying any programming increases Bell charges.
Dave

This is exactly the same thing that happened to me. My bill was $135 and got the following:


They pay for the PVR until Sept, then I own it
$20 off for 12 months (or 20%)
Agree to 24 month contract
$200 if I cancel within 1 year, $100 if I cancel within 12-24 months
Agree to Bell increase charges

[bubble.tea]

GUESS WHAT
I called and didn't even have to throw a tantrum
...Where's the deal? What price are you paying for the channels??? Movie? Discount? Retail???

[gill1234]

I think bell may be clearing out the old PVR's because a new one is about to release. The new ones the 9252, dishnetwork currently uses it in the USA. It also has a slingbox feature! :lol:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACaG3fwiYEQ

More info on the 9252 http://digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=123529

[Hugh Jass]

I think bell may be clearing out the old PVR's because a new one is about to release. The new ones the 9252, dishnetwork currently uses it in the USA. It also has a slingbox feature! :lol:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACaG3fwiYEQ

More info on the 9252 http://digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=123529

Looks sweet.

[Spidey]

So I called yesterday. Ever since this thread started I have been doing well. 30% off and a free PVR rental for a year, then 30% off again, and just 2 months ago got them to give me the PVR free again because of a recent Telus deal.

But now I lost my 30% I was getting since It was a year ago I called to get that deal.

Anyway called yesterday to det that 20% off, but he threw me something else.

I just get the PVR for nothing, no more monthly fee (although Im getting it waived right now) and it will be mine. In the last 3 years I have maybe paid a 15 months worth of actual charges.

Now is this because of the new model coming out. The reason I went rental is if it screws up, just call them and get it replaced or fixed. If I bouht it after the warranty is done, Im hooped.

So would this be worthwhile? We do use the PVR alot, although now if it does break I wouldnt be able to get it fixed for free.

When something like this is offered, its never for the good of the customer. There must be a reason hes doing it, and Im just missing out on why

Oh I forgot to mention, wants me to sign up for a 2 year contract. Guess thats the catch. Been contract free for many years now. Still think Im going to push that Ive been a 14 year customer, and that Telus Satellite has better deals

[farhan0001]

I received the same deal yesterday free PVR if I sign a 2 year contract with them.
2 months prior I called wanted to cancel because of the Shaw OVP deal that was being offered. The rep gave me $20 off for the next 12 months.
It’s been a pretty good few months I’ve managed to lower my bill significantly

[Spidey]

I received the same deal yesterday free PVR if I sign a 2 year contract with them.
2 months prior I called wanted to cancel because of the Shaw OVP deal that was being offered. The rep gave me $20 off for the next 12 months.
It’s been a pretty good few months I’ve managed to lower my bill significantly

I called and they wouldnt budge on the programming. Since Im already savng $20 with the free rental pretty hard to get both, unlike when the thread first came out, you could do both

She gave me a one time $60 off, and my $20 free rental will continue for the next 9 months.

Better than nothing. We have the lowest programming so pretty hard to negotiate that.

Still cost almost $40 just for the basic.

[farhan0001]

I called and they wouldnt budge on the programming. Since Im already savng $20 with the free rental pretty hard to get both, unlike when the thread first came out, you could do both

She gave me a one time $60 off, and my $20 free rental will continue for the next 9 months.

Better than nothing. We have the lowest programming so pretty hard to negotiate that.

Still cost almost $40 just for the basic.

No harm in trying to call back again in a few months.

Personally i would try and get a credit on your monthly bill first since that does not require a contract but then again who knows if the free PVR offer will still be available then


Btw they also offered me 5 HD theme packs free for 6 months but they wanted me to keep atleast one of them active for 12 months.

[Spidey]

No harm in trying to call back again in a few months.

Personally i would try and get a credit on your monthly bill first since that does not require a contract but then again who knows if the free PVR offer will still be available then


Btw they also offered me 5 HD theme packs free for 6 months but they wanted me to keep atleast one of them active for 12 months.

I have it marked down to call every 3 months, so will try in the fall again.

The free PVR thing I would go for if it wasnt for the contract.

[indca]

How long do I have to wait before I can take advantage of Retention Deal?

My Two Year basic package Contract Started in February, 2011 and I would like to upgrade my package but I need better pricing so is it possible to negotiate this early? or is it only after contract ends that I can negotiate? and will my HDPVR 9241 receiver work when they lanch new receivers? what about the other SD receiver will they be replaced or everything will work??

[BobDonHim]

I just called Bell as I am moving. They are upgrading my from the HDPVR 9242 to the 9241, free move (installation included), free HDPVR (bye-bye $20/month) plus an additional $20 off a month for 12 months. I had to sign a new 2 year contract which is fine by me. So in the end I get a new HDPVR and save $40/month on my bill!

[mrpoune]

I am so glad I called...

I am getting a new PVR for free (free rental until sept 11, then its mine) + I get 20$ OFF for one year on my programming.

[peano]

They are upgrading my from the HDPVR 9242 to the 9241,

They downgraded you . The 9241 is a piece of Sh1t.

[Juggs88]

I am so glad I called...

I am getting a new PVR for free (free rental until sept 11, then its mine) + I get 20$ OFF for one year on my programming.

Same deal here

[nufan]

I am so glad I called...

I am getting a new PVR for free (free rental until sept 11, then its mine) + I get 20$ OFF for one year on my programming.
Just called over lunch and got the same thing, here's how it worked.

1) Called retentions once, got someone who didn't speak English well, hung up immediately (it's no offense to them, but it just always ends up frustrating when the two of us don't understand each other).
2) Called retentions straight back, got what sounded to be a Canadian girl, very helpful.
3) My latest bill was the last with the 1 year 20% ($15) off retention deal that I got when I called and threatened to cancel 1 year ago. I only have 2 x 6131 receivers in my house which I own, both with HDD's attached. This year I wanted to get the 9241 deal others were getting so I can use it as my main receiver, and move one of the 6131's to my bedroom. Sick of having to record and watch the same channel. Current bill after the the $15 credit and after all taxes and fees is just over $70.
4) I always come at them with a competitors deal, MTS (MB only) offer three free PVR's for a year and similar prices to what I was paying after my credit. She first offered me $10 for a year, I said forget it. She went away and offered me a free 9241, with free installation tomorrow (surprised how quick I got booked in). For whatever reason my CC gets charged $100 and then that $100 comes back as a credit on my Bell bill. In addition to that I will now get $20 off my bill for 12 months ($5 more than I was getting before).
5) I also had them include moving the 6131 I am replacing into the bedroom which will require cable installation. This has a charge of $50 but will also be credited back onto my bill.
6) Until September there will be a $20 receiver renting charge which will be credited on each bill also. In September there will be a charge of $499 for the 9241 which will also be credited on the same bill.
7) Also had to agree to a 2 year commitment, $200 ETF if you cancel months 1-12, $100 for months 13-24
8) Lots of credits to be made on my bill so I'm thinking I'll have to call in a few times going forward, but the girl was good at making notes so hopefully shouldn't be too bad.

At the end of the day I'm getting a free 9241 and $5 extra off my bill than I have been for the same programming so I'm glad I called.

Thanks all

[Tanooki]

The new bell rental contract comes into play this Sunday and will probably be a much better option for everyone. Essentially it works like this, you take the outright cost of any receiver (say 9241, $500) and divide by 36 monthly payments ($13.89) and that is what you pay for 36 months. After this you outright own any receiver. Warranty is covered for 39 months (3 months after you finish paying) and if you happen to cancel before the 36 months then you have to return the receivers.

I only just heard about this so if anything is different I will let you know. What kind of other offers they will give with this I have no idea. All in all I'm kind of happy they are starting something like this.

[nufan]

The new bell rental contract comes into play this Sunday and will probably be a much better option for everyone. Essentially it works like this, you take the outright cost of any receiver (say 9241, $500) and divide by 36 monthly payments ($13.89) and that is what you pay for 36 months. After this you outright own any receiver. Warranty is covered for 39 months (3 months after you finish paying) and if you happen to cancel before the 36 months then you have to return the receivers.

I only just heard about this so if anything is different I will let you know. What kind of other offers they will give with this I have no idea. All in all I'm kind of happy they are starting something like this.
I'm just curious how this is better than getting a 9241 for free? (as per my post above) Or are you talking about new customers?

[Tanooki]

I'm just curious how this is better than getting a 9241 for free? (as per my post above) Or are you talking about new customers?

Mainly for new customers, but that is just the _basic_ costs. At this point the base cost instead of $20 a month is $14 a month and only lasts for 3 years. So depending on whatever other promos they have or what you can swindle is entirely up to you. And obviously you getting your's for free is the most optimal (although I can easily see there being billing problems with something that complicated). But the long run is everyone will be paying cheaper in the beginning just getting discounts on top of that is up to each person and the luck they get.

[DrXenon]

I just got a 1-time "satisfaction credit" of $120 and $20 off my $72 bill for 12 months. No contract. Customer since 2001, I own my HD PVR.

[gman99]

1 month credit.....$20 off per month for 12 months....free 9241 shipped to the door....


All I did was mention the word Shaw and voila.....

[Fife]

Yes good deal but it also depends on your programmming fees & packages.

If you are on just plain ol' basic, you may not get a free HD PVR unless you "temporarily" subrscribe to a few themes packs.


1 month credit.....$20 off per month for 12 months....free 9241 shipped to the door....


All I did was mention the word Shaw and voila.....

[nikkis]

I just called in today and decided to get the 36-month rental plan.
30 minutes later I find out there is a cancellation fee, I feel scammed what do i do?

[gman99]

Yes good deal but it also depends on your programmming fees & packages.

If you are on just plain ol' basic, you may not get a free HD PVR unless you "temporarily" subrscribe to a few themes packs.

My bill is $90 before discounts.....just finished a 20% discount this month and negotiated the new one.

[bkushner]

My bill is $90 before discounts.....just finished a 20% discount this month and negotiated the new one.

Also have a friend with 3 receivers on my account so split the bill with him.....overall my bill is under $25 with a new PVR....

Openly posting fraud or theft is never cool

[Hugh Jass]

Openly posting fraud or theft is never cool

???

Perhaps he shares the house with his friend and they split costs.

[bkushner]

???

Perhaps he shares the house with his friend and they split costs.

I'm sure that's what he is doing (s)

[dirk]

1 month credit.....$20 off per month for 12 months....free 9241 shipped to the door....


All I did was mention the word Shaw and voila.....

I received the very same deal today. My 20% discount, approx $18, was expiring and they gladly offered $20/mth discount and a 9241 at 13.86/mth. However a current promotion reduces that to $0 for 36 months then I own the receiver. If I switch providers at any time I simply return their receiver.

The interesting part of this is that I did it over 2 calls. Originally I did not need any new hardware but since my call for the $20 discount my 9242 has frozen a few times and I have been prompted to reset the receiver (losing all my pvr'd events). The reset did not fix the issue as it has frozen 2 or 3 times since then.

As much as I dislike spending the money every month I was happy with Bell's service this time.

[bf_ns]

They downgraded you . The 9241 is a piece of Sh1t.

+1... I had a 9242 with zero issues for over a year then had to return it when free rental was over. I bought a 9241 and have had 4 of them in the last two years! The last one was out of warranty but they let me buy dishcare @$6/month and replaced the receiver free. If you have a 9241 and warranty is coming up I would suggest buying dishcare.

[Rockabilly]

Called for the first time, said I wanted to cancel and they were ready to cancel the account. But then she asked if she were to give me a deal, would I consider staying. I am still under contract until Sept 10, so she offered me:
- One time $20 credit on my next invoice,
- $10 credit per month for the next 12 months (mind you I have the basic programing),
- and the HD-PVR rental for $6.92 instead of $13.86 for 36 months and then the receiver is mine.

I asked if I could get more credit or a few channels for free, but she didn't budge. I took the deal because it was still cheaper than what I was paying and all this without an agreement, but I still feel that I could have gotten at least the whole receiver rental for free. :(

[binkysmurf]

Just got $20.00 / mth for 1 year and a one time $100.00 credit. No strings or contracts or additional boxes.
Girl was friendly and it was painless.

[JamieO]

I just called Bell to cancel my services (internet and TV) and got offered the following:

Internet (Performance) - $37.95
Digital Basic - $5.00
HD PVR - Free

Total = $42.95
With Taxes = $48.31

This is for 12 months without a contract. Is this on par with what's being offered to others?
I'm also in Quebec and I think prices are a bit different

EDIT: I also got a HD sports theme pack added on for free, but I don't get TSN-HD or TSN2-HD because I don't have it under basic. So I only end up getting WGN-HD and NBATV. I don't understand why I don't get TSN-HD because I don't have normal WGN either but I get WGN-HD. Can someone explain this to me? Thanks

Not sure how good this offer is, but seems good to me

EDIT 2: Actually I just checked my TV and both TSN-HD and TSN2-HD are also available. So the rep was probably just mistaken

[llcooljayce]

Threatened to cancel my service outright due to cost and they provided me with a $20 a month credit. I asked them to sweeten the deal and they tried to provide me with an HRPVR (free for 36 months then I own it) but I didn't want to have a 'commitment' of 3 years. Asked if they could do a one time credit and they provide me with a $50 credit.

Pretty easy negotiation.

[Hugh Jass]

Threatened to cancel my service outright due to cost and they provided me with a $20 a month credit. I asked them to sweeten the deal and they tried to provide me with an HRPVR (free for 36 months then I own it) but I didn't want to have a 'commitment' of 3 years. Asked if they could do a one time credit and they provide me with a $50 credit.

Pretty easy negotiation.

Decent result.

[Crowbarfoot]

Called to cancel today.

I got..

$20 PVR rental waived for 12 months - will own it in 36 months
$20 off my bill for 12 months
One time $50 credit.
No contract


Now to see if it all actually goes through... I expect I'll need 5-10 calls to get it all correct.

[ipse]

Called to cancel today.


$20 PVR rental waived for 12 months - will own it in 36 months
$20 off my bill for 12 months
One time $50 credit.
No contract


Frikkin' Bell...I got this too, minus the 50$ credit...I got disconnected twice while on the call, so I had to bargain with 3 different people. Nice and polite though.
Funny thing was that the greeting said "Bell Customer Care Center is experiencing technical difficulties" ...with the phone system. Maybe they should get service from someone else.

[JamieO]

Called to cancel today.

I got..

$20 PVR rental waived for 12 months - will own it in 36 months
$20 off my bill for 12 months
One time $50 credit.
No contract


Now to see if it all actually goes through... I expect I'll need 5-10 calls to get it all correct.

If you don't mind me asking, what is the total that you pay each month and for what services? Thanks

[worldjerseys]

Called to cancel today.

I got..

$20 PVR rental waived for 12 months - will own it in 36 months
$20 off my bill for 12 months
One time $50 credit.
No contract


Now to see if it all actually goes through... I expect I'll need 5-10 calls to get it all correct.


Did you have to "buy" the PVR first with the promise of the future credit like others have recently?

[mapleleafs89]

For the people opting for a $20 discount for 1 year and own in 36 months

are you locked in for 3 years? meaning after year 1 your paying $20 a month for the HDPVR?

Or in 1 year can you make another deal and then at that time you would own in 24 months.



Last year I got 20% off and free HD PVR for 12 months

[bubba67]

Just called this morning. Without too much trouble got the following:

- $20/month credit x 1 yr
- $50 one time credit
- free HD PVR - "rental" for 36 months then it's mine, can cancel anytime (just send it back).

[Birdman]

Called Bell yesterday and told them about the Telus free hdpvr deal and offer of a free x-box. Said I was going to cancel if they couldn't do something for me. I was immediately transferred to retentions.

The first offer was:
$20 per month reduction
$150 immediate bill credit
Free HDPVR for 36 months, own it at the end of the contract

I countered with $150 wouldn't buy me an X-box and my kids are really excited about that, I had a pvr and was using both feeds off the dish for the dual tuner so I couldn't install a second one, and that I didn't want a contract as I may be moving next year. He put me on hold and came back with:

$20 per month reducton
$200 immediate bill credit
Free HDPVR, 6-way switch, and installation of the second PVR - If I cancel anytime in the first 36 months I send the new PVR back to them, no extra charges, if not I own it

In the end I think I'm still paying a bit more than I would have with Telus, but Telus required a 36 month contract and was going to charge me $10 per month fee for the remainder of the contract if I cancelled early.


Not too bad.

[Hugh Jass]

I countered with $150 wouldn't buy me an X-box and my kids are really excited about that, I had a pvr and was using both feeds off the dish for the dual tuner so I couldn't install a second one, and that I didn't want a contract as I may be moving next year. He put me on hold and came back with:

$20 per month reducton
$200 immediate bill credit
Free HDPVR, 6-way switch, and installation of the second PVR - If I cancel anytime in the first 36 months I send the new PVR back to them, no extra charges, if not I own it



Not too bad.

Not bad indeed. Good negotiating.

I think once they know there's a real competitors offer on the table, they dance, as opposed to "I think I'm paying too much for TV".

[mapleleafs89]

Called Bell yesterday and told them about the Telus free hdpvr deal and offer of a free x-box. Said I was going to cancel if they couldn't do something for me. I was immediately transferred to retentions.

The first offer was:
$20 per month reduction
$150 immediate bill credit
Free HDPVR for 36 months, own it at the end of the contract

I countered with $150 wouldn't buy me an X-box and my kids are really excited about that, I had a pvr and was using both feeds off the dish for the dual tuner so I couldn't install a second one, and that I didn't want a contract as I may be moving next year. He put me on hold and came back with:

$20 per month reducton
$200 immediate bill credit
Free HDPVR, 6-way switch, and installation of the second PVR - If I cancel anytime in the first 36 months I send the new PVR back to them, no extra charges, if not I own it

In the end I think I'm still paying a bit more than I would have with Telus, but Telus required a 36 month contract and was going to charge me $10 per month fee for the remainder of the contract if I cancelled early.


Not too bad.

Can you call back in 1 year and get the $20 per month reduction again?

Currently I have

20% Off monthly bill
Free HDPVR with free install
no contract

its ending this month.

Would it be too much to ask for the same and a second HD Receiver (not pvr). I suppose since I live in Ontario and telus optik tv isnt here I wouldnt be able to get a $150 credit since rogers is not offering any kind of promotion like this.

[Steelerfan]

Just got off the phone with Bell, after some tap dancing this is what I received :

Free HD PVR and the $20 proramming credit everyone else is getting. They are also reducing the charge of my current non-HD PVR from $10/mo to $2.75/mo, after three years I own it.

He initially offered the free HD PVR and the discount on the other PVR with a $10 credit. I asked him if he could do a $20 credit and
gave him the "I spend a lot of money on bell, long time customer, blah blah blah" spiel and after some hesitation he caved.

It seems Bell isn't doing TV contracts anymore, which is nice, I can walk anytime I want but the PVR's have to go back if I leave within the three years.

Pretty painless, the retention rep was a nice guy who knew his stuff and reviewed everything with me.

[james-007]

That was all they offered me free HD PVR and $20 off per month. I was not impressed and will call back. I still have 4 months left on the existing 25% discount.

[bmm34]

Just got off the phone with Bell, after some tap dancing this is what I received :

Free HD PVR and the $20 proramming credit everyone else is getting. They are also reducing the charge of my current non-HD PVR from $10/mo to $2.75/mo, after three years I own it.

He initially offered the free HD PVR and the discount on the other PVR with a $10 credit. I asked him if he could do a $20 credit and
gave him the "I spend a lot of money on bell, long time customer, blah blah blah" spiel and after some hesitation he caved.

It seems Bell isn't doing TV contracts anymore, which is nice, I can walk anytime I want but the PVR's have to go back if I leave within the three years.

Pretty painless, the retention rep was a nice guy who knew his stuff and reviewed everything with me.


I got the same deal for my dad plus a one time $50 credit...was very easy and I only had to ask once.

[Steelerfan]

I got the same deal for my dad plus a one time $50 credit...was very easy and I only had to ask once.

LOL

I just came back to update my post and read yours.

Earlier today I started thinking I should call back and ask for a credit, what could it hurt? They gave me $50 without a hassle. :)

I'm satisfied now.

I know we love to complain about Bell (I'm one of the biggest whiners), but they've treated me pretty well this past year.

[SAVINGSTAR]

I recently got $20 off a month from my existing bill of $56 a month without any problems. I was pretty happy with that, I will take 35% off anytime.

[mapleleafs89]

anyone know where the bell internet retention thread is? cant find anywhere

[mapleleafs89]

rep would only give $20 credit and a $13 credit towards PVR rental...

he said the free pvr promo ended july 13th, obviously a lie.



been with bell since 2003 :@ guess Ill try another rep


edit:

called back and talked to some nice chick,

she offered the

-$20 off programming
-free hd pvr
-one time credit (I have no idea how much it was I just asked for the credit after she gave me the above, she said why? I said so I dont cancel Bell, she said cool she just needed a reason to enter into the form) - it ended up being $30, not as much as the people above but Im happy with any credit.

i was calling in for my dad whos in his mid 50's and Im in my 20's, she was one of the nice ones so she kept asking about my job and stuff like that which made it kind of weird. lol



edit: Also where is the internet retention deals thread??

edit: called internet retention, didnt bother looking for deals and they offered me
-Fibe 12 for 46.90 (-$5 for TV bundle, -$5 for Internet Bundle with other services and - modem fee)
-Total: $36.90 + HST for fibe 12.
-1 Month Free internet!

All I did was quote teksavvy 15 mbps plan for $42.95

1 Year commitment

[psuppal]

Got a free HDPVR 9241 & $20 off per month for one year. It was pretty smooth, I thought it would be diffuclt. Thanks everyone.

[jayoldschool]

My retentions deal expired a few months ago. It was my third deal (previous deals were 50%, 40%, 30% plus 9241). Called today, and they offered me the standard $20/month. Asked for $30, they put me on hold, and then agreed.

[Mecne]

I also called today . Have been off my last retention deal of 40% off for 12 months for the past 3 months. just hadn't gotten around to calling.

The highest they would go was $20 per month off and offered the free HDPVR which I refused as I have 5 receivers already and don't have the need for another PVR.
I asked for a one time credit instead but she could not doing anything.

Then asked if they had any deals on the Premium movies and was offered a $42.00 one time credit if I added the movies . so basically free for 2 months.

Seems on par with what most are getting.

M

[MacGyver]

I called today because I was annoyed about them moving A&E HD from HD Variety to SD Variety 1, which I don't subscribe to and don't want to. I mean, who wants to watch SD anymore? Even my young kids would rather watch HD!
The first agent I spoke to simply jerked me around, told me that I was now getting WGN HD instead of A&E HD. Except, I've always had WGN SD and HD! So that made me even more annoyed, then he transferred me to retentions. :)

According to the retentions agent I spoke to today, there are many people calling and complaining about losing A&E HD. The retentions agent did not hesitate in covering off the balance of my PVR rental and gave a programming credit to cover the cost of SD Variety 1. But for the first time I can remember as a Bell TV/ExpressVu customer, a programming package I subscribed to was not grandfathered when it was changed.

I told the agent to tell her manager that if Bell does this again, I'm switching to OTA.

[wirebound]

So I started an initial call with Bell (not with retentions) and they told me that they need to send a guy to install a new dish to enable HD and it would cost me $150. Currently we don't have HD though... is there any truth to what they're saying? We have an existing dish from Bell that is about 5 years old. I thought we just needed the HD PVR rather than a whole new dish.

Next step is retentions anyways but I want to know if the new dish to move from standard programming up to HD is required. Does a technician even need to show up?

Thanks guys...

[mapleleafs89]

So I started an initial call with Bell (not with retentions) and they told me that they need to send a guy to install a new dish to enable HD and it would cost me $150. Currently we don't have HD though... is there any truth to what they're saying? We have an existing dish from Bell that is about 5 years old. I thought we just needed the HD PVR rather than a whole new dish.

Next step is retentions anyways but I want to know if the new dish to move from standard programming up to HD is required. Does a technician even need to show up?

Thanks guys...

you need to call retentions, they just install another arm on your existing dish (unless you have a lot of tvs you may need a second dish). They will install for free and give you an HD pvr for a year and 20$ programming credit

[bungaboy]

So I started an initial call with Bell (not with retentions) and they told me that they need to send a guy to install a new dish to enable HD and it would cost me $150. Currently we don't have HD though... is there any truth to what they're saying? We have an existing dish from Bell that is about 5 years old. I thought we just needed the HD PVR rather than a whole new dish.

Next step is retentions anyways but I want to know if the new dish to move from standard programming up to HD is required. Does a technician even need to show up?

Thanks guys...

They will have to either add a second LNB to your existying dish, if compatible, and repoint the dish or install a new dish. A switch will also have to be installed. The type of dish depending on how many and what kind of receivers you want.

You can do this yourself.

http://toronto.lowprice.ca/_images/toronto/846494_s.jpg

[2kSiR]

On the phone with Bell right now... What a deal

$20 off per month for 12 months
FREE HD PVR rental for 36 months (after 36 months you own it)
and

$50 one time credit to account

Love this thread!!!!! I always check to see what other people are getting before I call and it paid off. I told the CSR I had been looking at what other people had gotten and after she offered me the $ and PVR I said "is there anything you can offer me as a one time credit" She replied "Wow, you really have done your research" and then offered me a one time credit of $50 to my account!

Happy with the deal.

then she offered to transfer me to Internet retention and I got the following:

Fibe 12
$46.95 including $5 extra download to bring total to 90GB per month, I asked if they could waive the $5 per month on the extra data so he threw in a $60 one time credit to cover the cost.

Also, got him to send a new modem as the one I have is over 3 years old. Not only are they sending me a new modem but they are waiving the buyout fee and I will not have any modem lease charge anymore.

It seems as though Bell finally is looking to treat their longtime customers right. The expressvu CSR even encouraged me to tell my friends about the offer and when they call Bell ask for the loyalty department.

Needless to say I am :D:D:D:D:D:D

Great thread!!

[mapleleafs89]

On the phone with Bell right now... What a deal

$20 off per month for 12 months
FREE HD PVR rental for 36 months (after 36 months you own it)
and

$50 one time credit to account

Love this thread!!!!! I always check to see what other people are getting before I call and it paid off. I told the CSR I had been looking at what other people had gotten and after she offered me the $ and PVR I said "is there anything you can offer me as a one time credit" She replied "Wow, you really have done your research" and then offered me a one time credit of $50 to my account!

Happy with the deal.

then she offered to transfer me to Internet retention and I got the following:

Fibe 12
$46.95 including $5 extra download to bring total to 90GB per month, I asked if they could waive the $5 per month on the extra data so he threw in a $60 one time credit to cover the cost.

Also, got him to send a new modem as the one I have is over 3 years old. Not only are they sending me a new modem but they are waiving the buyout fee and I will not have any modem lease charge anymore.

It seems as though Bell finally is looking to treat their longtime customers right. The expressvu CSR even encouraged me to tell my friends about the offer and when they call Bell ask for the loyalty department.

Needless to say I am :D:D:D:D:D:D

Great thread!!

I got a similar internet deal, mine was 46.95 also and no modem fee, 1 month free except yours includes extra bandwidth. I have unlimited so I dont need that. Your $60 credit out does my $50 credit though so you got a great deal.

One thing Im wondering is, this is my second year with the free HD PVR. No rep mentioned anything about a 36 month you own it, so after 36 months will I own mine too or is it only if they include it into an offer.

[McFlurrie]

I found it most efficient to talk to the "bundles" agents in the loyalty department (if you have multiple services).

In my case the television side offered:

-9142 HDPVR (ownership after 36months, 39month warranty, no rental fee, no contract)
-Free call display and call waiting for 1 year (1 year contract renewal)
-$20 off @12 months
-Additional $10 bundles savings

But she couldn't do the bundles discount from the TV side so I had to talk to the bundles dept and it turns out it was really additional $5 off for TV, and additional $5 off for internet (even though she works in TV?!).

So either she really did thought it was $10 TV bundle discount or that they can see and offer discounts for other services (but it doesn't mean that they can process the offer).

Thanks to those to posted their info; it really helped to prepare these negotiations.

[movieking]

A bit of an aside, but I've gotten a couple of calls from Bell trying to upsell me to the new HD PVR. Does anyone have one of these yet? What are the specs? Went to their website, but I don't see anything new under receivers.

[jrees]

I got a similar internet deal, mine was 46.95 also and no modem fee, 1 month free except yours includes extra bandwidth. I have unlimited so I dont need that. Your $60 credit out does my $50 credit though so you got a great deal.

One thing Im wondering is, this is my second year with the free HD PVR. No rep mentioned anything about a 36 month you own it, so after 36 months will I own mine too or is it only if they include it into an offer.

You have unlimited?

I used to have it, but was told I had to give it up to jump to the Fibe package. Please tell me you don't have unlimited with Fibe.....I would much rather have my unlimited back than the fibe speeds. :(

[Tanooki]

I got a similar internet deal, mine was 46.95 also and no modem fee, 1 month free except yours includes extra bandwidth. I have unlimited so I dont need that. Your $60 credit out does my $50 credit though so you got a great deal.

One thing Im wondering is, this is my second year with the free HD PVR. No rep mentioned anything about a 36 month you own it, so after 36 months will I own mine too or is it only if they include it into an offer.

The 36 months deal is call RCP (rental choice plan) and was only introduced in August/Late July. So no, you would have to get another deal from loyalty or somewhere to get started on that plan. Although it's not to say they wont say you would own it in 12 months, just don't expect them do it without you calling in.



A bit of an aside, but I've gotten a couple of calls from Bell trying to upsell me to the new HD PVR. Does anyone have one of these yet? What are the specs? Went to their website, but I don't see anything new under receivers.

9241 is the "newest" receiver they have.

[RedBargainz]

For those who got the free PVR...do they just send you one or do they insist on sending someone to install it?

[mapleleafs89]

For those who got the free PVR...do they just send you one or do they insist on sending someone to install it?

send someone, but it should be a free install.

[Hugh Jass]

For those who got the free PVR...do they just send you one or do they insist on sending someone to install it?

If you're just upgrading a reciever, an install basically means unplugging previous unit and plugging in PVR.

Unless you're upgrading to HD, they'll just mail you the box.

[winson82]

Just called because my old retention deal is up in October. Without, me asking for anything they very quickly offered me $20 credit for 12 months + the free HD PVR for 36 months, yours to own for free after with no terms as well. Warranty on the PVR is 39 months. Looks like this is the standard deal going on right now. To be honest the free PVR alone made me happy and the $20 was just icing on the cake.

[skyrink]

Hi, Im currently in the process of switching my Rogers services to Bell and this is what Bell offered me, can I do better?

Home phone
basic + 2 calling features, waiting and ID + 500 North American LD minutes

Cable TV (satellite digital)
1 HD pvr (keep after 36 months) + 3 digital adapters for the TVs and select 6 theme packs

Internet
currently on grab and go kit for 4 months, but am going to teksaavy afterwards

$88.52 subtotal 1st year ($83 while on bell internet)
$112.70 subtotal 2nd year

[Rockabilly]

I see that everybody gets $20 off their monthly plan and free HD-PVR rental. I want to know how much do you pay for tv services? I only have the $28 basic French plan (+$3.00 digital fee)... is this the reason I only got $10 off my monthly bill and $6.94 for HD-PVR rental fee, or should I just call back?

[Birdman]

I recently got a retention package from Bell that included the HD-PVR. The first bill came this week, and they had charged me for two months rental, but only credited me for one.

Called in and they applied the second months credit no problem.

Keep an eye on your bill people, this is not the first time they screwed up a credit on me.

[mapleleafs89]

I see that everybody gets $20 off their monthly plan and free HD-PVR rental. I want to know how much do you pay for tv services? I only have the $28 basic French plan (+$3.00 digital fee)... is this the reason I only got $10 off my monthly bill and $6.94 for HD-PVR rental fee, or should I just call back?

You dont think they would give you $20 off on $28 do you? Yea thats why. You got a good deal considering your package.

[kevinlo2]

Just make a phone call to Bell retention. My $20 will end in a month. After more than 30 mins talk, I extend the $20 credit for one year, get $84 one time credit and a free HD-PVR (own it after 3 years). I own one 9242 and two 6141 already, no harm to replace a 6141 by a free HD-PVR.

Not sure if it is a good deal, just don't want the hassle to switch the boxes and setup new installation. I am happy with Bell's HD channels. The Oasis, EQHD, GEOHD are good.

I tell the CS that I like the Optik TV sharing the HD-PVR. The CS says Bell will have the fibre TV in BC in the future. Hope it will have good promotion at that time.

[psuppal]

Just make a phone call to Bell retention. My $20 will end in a month. After more than 30 mins talk, I extend the $20 credit for one year, get $84 one time credit and a free HD-PVR (own it after 3 years). I own one 9242 and two 6141 already, no harm to replace a 6141 by a free HD-PVR.

Not sure if it is a good deal, just don't want the hassle to switch the boxes and setup new installation. I am happy with Bell's HD channels. The Oasis, EQHD, GEOHD are good.

I tell the CS that I like the Optik TV sharing the HD-PVR. The CS says Bell will have the fibre TV in BC in the future. Hope it will have good promotion at that time.

Does anyone know if fibre TV is coming Albera (in th Calgary market)?

[gdesbiens]

I just called Bell yesterday and here's what I got:

20$/month for 12 month credit on Expressvu programming
5$/month for 12 month credit on Performance Internet (7 Mbps)
New wireless modem with no rental fees
Free HD PVR for 36 month that will be mine at the end of the 36 month period
Free installation of the new PVR by a technician.

I also mentionned that their bandwidth limit is really low compared to Cogeco cable: you can get 80 Gb/month of bandwidth for roughly 40$ a month. Thus she gave me 100 Gb/month internet bandwidth limit at no extra cost! Just complain about their bandwith and you will get it. Mention that you rent HD movies on your PS3 or that you are using Netflix and it does matter for you!

I think this is a a good deal, I missed the 50$ credit on the forum, but hey, it still isn't bad at all!

Go get your deals!

[mapleleafs89]

Checked my bill today, they charged me for my rental.. They did the same thing last year, friggin turds

[mjl]

.I had the same problem. I was on the phone for close to an hour before I could get them to fix it. In the end they gave me the 36 month pvr and waved my 2 year renewal for the inconvenience. I did get them to send me an email with the complete agreement. I will be doing this for now on.

[pancakemeow]

hi guys,

I'm on contract with my HD receiver (not a pvr) for another 10 months (it was a 2 yr contract) and i'm getting it for free ($10 off). has anybody been successful in getting a free hd pvr while on contract for another receiver???? I only have one tv so i've asked them if i can transfer the contract from the hd to hd pvr and return the original hd one. no dice. Seems like everyone has a free pvr these days and i want one too :cry:
Originally i was told it was going to be a pvr receiver, but i had just moved to the city and had a lot going on...buying all new furniture, getting internet/cable installed etc. So when the plain old hd receiver got installed, i didn't complain at the time...now i wish i did >:(

Also i feel like it makes customers like me want to switch companies the second my contract is up..why wouldn't i go to rogers after it's over and get free pvr, free this free that? if they just gave me one now i wouldn't do that! Plus i offered to give the other one back :confused:

anyone???

[theguyz]

Staples Button "That was EASY!"

Called said i had Shaw here and offered me same packages cheaper and free pvr for 1 year. Rep sure i can help, hows $20 off for 1 year and free PVR for 3 years, return if you cancel or keep after 3 years.

On/Off phone in less the 4 minutes.

[Diploneis]

Nevermind. Seems I've been living on the moon...

[values99club]

Thanks OP!

:cheesygri:cheesygri:cheesygri

I was going to cancel my Bell Expressvue and internet and pick up the Rogers $10.14 basic cable with free sd receiver deal and Canada Computers Teksavvy pkg deal...

Ended up staying with Bell on no contract deal, and renewable every year. Cancel anytime without penalties!

Bell Expressvue with free rental on new HD PVR, free to keep after 3 years, Keep free existing HD receiver, pay $2.75/month rental for sd receivers and free to keep after 3 years, a theme pkg and upgraded to performance internet 7/1 with 105GB monthly bandwidth, no more modem rental fees.

All inclusive pricing to $56.60 plus HST!

Thanked!

[theguyz]

Staples Button "That was EASY!"

Called said i had Shaw here and offered me same packages cheaper and free pvr for 1 year. Rep sure i can help, hows $20 off for 1 year and free PVR for 3 years, return if you cancel or keep after 3 years.

On/Off phone in less the 4 minutes.

Update!!!!

Without anything in past week, I called back they said they didn't know what happened and sent a installer to my house yesterday within 3 hours of me calling and contemplating leaving to competition, as its been a week since offered and nothing arrived yet or no contact by installer. Boom $50 credit applies as well.

And now today Purolator shows up with original offered HD PVR.... what todo what todo ????????? And shipping date was yesterday ....

Maybe it wasn't as easy as i mentioned before......

[michal20]

Thanks :)

[chillz911]

This is what i Have

with Bell,internet,phone and cable

My last bill was 180$. Not sure if there is better deals out there

-Telephone- 66.82$
Home basic
Unlimited Provincial LD plan

-Internet- 37.50$
Essential Plus-2Gb download

-Televisions- 78$
PVR rental
3pack channel
Digital Standard



Any better deals or suggestions out there

I am on contract till April for the satelite tv

[fredsmith]

This is what i Have

with Bell,internet,phone and cable

My last bill was 180$. Not sure if there is better deals out there

-Telephone- 66.82$
Home basic
Unlimited Provincial LD plan

-Internet- 37.50$
Essential Plus-2Gb download

-Televisions- 78$
PVR rental
3pack channel
Digital Standard



Any better deals or suggestions out there

I am on contract till April for the satelite tv

Do you really need the province-wide calling? Seems to add about $30/month, which will cover a lot of LD (I pay about 3 cents a minute and no access fees or numbers to dial). A truly basic phone line can be had in QC and ON for less than $22/month. I would hang on the the conventional telephone service for reasons related to reliability and the fact that it costs very little (considering that if you dropped it and stayed on DSL you'd pay $8-$27/month for a dry loop).

Head over to Acanac and take advantage of the $29/month promo rate for the first year - UNLIMITED Internet, 5 meg DSL and they toss in a VoIP line with Canadian LD for the first year for free. Plus they have a real kick-a** referral program. Plus, you can use the VoIP ine to make your province-wide calls and save the 3 cents per minute.

For your TV - I have BellTV with their HD package with a half dozen theme packs, but no movie channels. My bill is under $62 including taxes - I own my 4 HD receivers, though they rebated me almost 100% of their cost - I may shoot for the free PVR deal next.

[mapleleafs89]

This is what i Have

with Bell,internet,phone and cable

My last bill was 180$. Not sure if there is better deals out there

-Telephone- 66.82$
Home basic
Unlimited Provincial LD plan

-Internet- 37.50$
Essential Plus-2Gb download

-Televisions- 78$
PVR rental
3pack channel
Digital Standard



Any better deals or suggestions out there

I am on contract till April for the satelite tv

Thats a lot...

We used to pay $190

After I got done with retentions on all 3 services we pay about $140.

Fibe 12
5 theme pack + HD Pack + hdpvr
unlimited local calling + 5 features

[Super_Coo]

I called last night and got the $20/mo off for 12 months deal.
It was a very simple 5 minute phone call and they seemed very happy to do it.

[mikeeymike]

I too called this morning the CSR was very willing and able to give me the $20/mth discount... easiest call so far to Bell Retentions.

[Timbits93]

Seems like the loyalty department is calling around to give out the HD PVR for 36 Months @ $0.

Back when we renewed our $10 credit in March, the rep was unwilling to do more other than change the Chinese combo from $20 to $10. Still not as good as $20 monthly discount you guys are getting but least its equivalant for the time being.

So basically getting HD PVR and the 4-Receiver Multi-switch (finally) this Sunday free of charge :D

[mtlguyca]

Hey guys, I used to have the credits, they are now expired, do you think if I call in again, they can do something? what do I say? I am in Montreal too..

Thanks!

[mikeeymike]

Hey guys, I used to have the credits, they are now expired, do you think if I call in again, they can do something? what do I say? I am in Montreal too..

Thanks!

Absolutely, I would. Let us know, how you make out.

[Nexstar3]

I called Retentions earlier this week, after 15mins on the phone (10mins of that on hold) I came away with:

12 months of $20 off my bill
Free HD receiver (after 36months) they pay the rental fee.
12months free of HD theme packs.

:D

[swatthatfly]

I only had the basic package and I was with bell for 1 year. I got the free rent to own 36month pvr deal and $10 off monthly for 1 year. Pretty sweet, but you must ask for each rebate, as they will not just blurt it out automatically to you. Thank op.

[kevv]

looked thru the threads, would lik a clarification ,can you get bell to send thr pvr receiver or do they have to come to your house and install it themselves ,, i have installed all my own receivers so far but i did buy them

[farhan0001]

looked thru the threads, would lik a clarification ,can you get bell to send thr pvr receiver or do they have to come to your house and install it themselves ,, i have installed all my own receivers so far but i did buy them

When I received my PVR bell sent in a technician to my place. They mentioned that they needed to switch the LNB for the PVR to work correctly. It was a free install and they came out to my place in 2 days

[movieking]

Anyone else notice the Scream 4 ad at the bottom of the TV guide a day or two? I was looking for a way to complain, but then it disappeared.

[mapleleafs89]

Anyone else notice the Scream 4 ad at the bottom of the TV guide a day or two? I was looking for a way to complain, but then it disappeared.

I've got some freaking ad's now on mine at the bottom. It takes up one of the spots that were used to display programming and is annoying as !@#$. Its unbelievable that they would do that.

[fredsmith]

I've got some freaking ad's now on mine at the bottom. It takes up one of the spots that were used to display programming and is annoying as !@#$. Its unbelievable that they would do that.
Call customer service and lodge a complaint - we pay for the service and the guide is supposed to show a certain number of entries . . . . at the very least they should allow people to opt out.

[Intense]

If you press the GUIDE button twice the ad will disappear until the next time you view the guide.

[loudi94]

After some rather lengthy discussion I was able to get the free HDPVR deal, $20 off for a year and a one-time $50 reduction.

The whole time the guy was trying to get me to remove programming to "get in line" with what Shaw was offering and offering the HDPVR for $10 a month. It was like pulling teeth. I didn't even need the HDPVR, I was just getting a little choked so I pushed for it. By the end I really was ready to cancel for real.

[deal_king]

Can someone PLEASE explain to me why everyone is making such a big fuss about this silly deal?

This is what I just negotiated for $78/month:

FibeTV with Basic package + TMN channel
Free HD PVR for 3 years
Fibe7 Internet 7mb/1mb with 60gb bandwidth
Phone Choice with 5 features
Free installation for all the above.

Keep in mind that I'm a professional negotiator, so if you get anything near this, you should be proud of yourself. I just find it crazy that people pay twice as much as me for half the services.

[mapleleafs89]

If you press the GUIDE button twice the ad will disappear until the next time you view the guide.

Go to menu -> preferences -> favourites -> banner -> off

[shuang1]

Please comment to my bundles

Bell TV

Basic + 4 Themes + Two International Programs
NBA Canada HD for Free, HDPVR free for 36 months

Internet Fibe 12 with 90 Gib/ Month

Total is 84 Dollars - 10 dollars bundle saving = 74 dollars plus HST

I really want to negotitate for more savings...

[frank2162]

My father in law has been with Bell TV for years and wishes to buy a new 6131 or 9241.
Is there a way to ask Retentions for a better price on these when buying them outright ? (No limited time 1 or 2 year rentals)
EDIT: unless the unit becomes his after the period

[mcaj2]

I just got Fibe 16, but no TV. Can I still call retentions and ask for TV with $20/month discount? Will retentions even entertain me given that I don't have Bell TV to begin with?

[fredsmith]

I just got Fibe 16, but no TV. Can I still call retentions and ask for TV with $20/month discount? Will retentions even entertain me given that I don't have Bell TV to begin with?
No

You have no access to retentions if you have no account - sign up for TV service in order to start the process. You might be able to negotiate a $20 discount by telling them you are moving over from cable (good for a $10 discount) AND you have another Bell service (DSL probably would qualify) and you could get $5 off from each service through bundling.

[nounou23]

I recently called to have my dish moved from on my roof to another location on the roof because where it was originally installed snow would easily cover it up. I was pointing up toward the roof so every time we had a bad snow storm I would have to go up to remove the snow.

Anyway.. my 2 year contract was almost up this month and I had called last winter about the dish and they told me to call back in the summer/fall.

I already been receiving 20% off my bill since the start but they offered me 20$ off instead (20% was like 15$ so now I get 20$) and they gave me a free rental of a dual HD PVR for 3 years and I get to keep it. They came yesterday to install it. When I built my house 2 years ago I ran coax to all the room inside. And the day before the install of this dual PVR I ran another coax to the location I wanted It. The tech was happy. took him 10 min and was gone :) he was so nice that he gave me another switch to install more receivers in the future haha :)

So I got 20$ off + Free dual PVR (9241)

I see some people got the free HD. I should call and see if I can get it :)

[theguyz]

My father in law has been with Bell TV for years and wishes to buy a new 6131 or 9241.
Is there a way to ask Retentions for a better price on these when buying them outright ? (No limited time 1 or 2 year rentals)
EDIT: unless the unit becomes his after the period


Why buy....

expressvu is running month-month with no contracts now...

Call retentions get $20 off month and get free 9241 for 3 years, if he leaves returns receiver, on 36th month if still with them he gets it for free.

Why on earth would you want to buy @ $200-500...its RFD and its a killer deal....unless cancel and use pvr to re-watch all old programs.

[frank2162]

3 years then it's yours sound great, that's exactly what he would want.
Thanks !

[boathouse]

I'm 3 months into a new contract with Bell Expressvu. How long do you think I need to wait before I can call in and get $20 off like everyone else?

[aw124]

Tried to get the FREE PVR (36 months free rental) but Bell wants $150 installation fee because I am already a HD customer!

[Biff88]

Called in to Bell TV retentions for my dad and got the free HD PVR rental for 3 yrs(free install/own it after 36mths), the $20 credit for $12 months and a $75 one time credit. Also signed up for the new rent to own plan for a HD box(non PVR) for $5.xx a month.

Again it's true, Bell TV no longer does contracts which is great...you can send all the boxes back and terminate service anytime(within 30 days notice), but who would want to quit anyway after getting these nice freebees :)

[deal_king]

Called in to Bell TV retentions for my dad and got the free HD PVR rental for 3 yrs(free install/own it after 36mths), the $20 credit for $12 months and a $75 one time credit. Also signed up for the new rent to own plan for a HD box(non PVR) for $5.xx a month.

Again it's true, Bell TV no longer does contracts which is great...you can send all the boxes back and terminate service anytime(within 30 days notice), but who would want to quit anyway after getting these nice freebees :)

What HD box are you talking about and why in the world would you rent to own it? You can get it for free for 3 years anyways!

[frank2162]

Father in law called, didn't work, was only offered a rent to own of 13.86/month for a 9241.
Was told he needed to have all other services with Bell like TV, Internet, phone.
Problem is he cannot get Bell phone and Internet service in his area anyways...
Should he just be more aggressive on the cancel request and go through with it ?
He's leaving for Florida in 2 weeks, it would need to be sorted out by then.

End Goal would be to get a 9241, no other rebates.
EDIT: he already has a 9200 and a 2700 but would ditch the 2700 after getting a 9241.

[Mecne]

Father in law called, didn't work, was only offered a rent to own of 13.86/month for a 9241.
Was told he needed to have all other services with Bell like TV, Internet, phone.
Problem is he cannot get Bell phone and Internet service in his area anyways...
Should he just be more aggressive on the cancel request and go through with it ?
He's leaving for Florida in 2 weeks, it would need to be sorted out by then.

End Goal would be to get a 9241, no other rebates.
EDIT: he already has a 9200 and a 2700 but would ditch the 2700 after getting a 9241.

Just called this morning for my parents , and had kinda the same results ..
Free install to go HD but wanted the 13.86/month for the hd pvr .
Pushed and got a $10.00 month credit ..

Being a little more tight these days it seems.

I called a month ago and got the free HD PVR and $20.00 month credit right off the bat.

The Loyalty CR was telling about a new area called 'Outbound Customer Loyalty' who are calling customers to over 'special deals' .
Maybe this is when they are being tight ..

M

[frank2162]

My father in law treid again and again and was successful, he will get the 9241 for 3 years then it's his, and get a free install, which i am guessing will include a new additional 4x4 switch to add to his dish to bring his number of coax lines to 5. Thanks a lot guys, this thread is priceless.

[aaron2003]

Right now I have Bell Sat TV and I have basic channels for 20$/month + Asian Package for 10$/Month, and I have a credit of 10$/month for 1 Year. I only have it for 5 months. My question if, can I call retention and negociate for my free channels " like Food network , Discovery channel and CNN ??? I don't want to pay 15$/month extra for 10 more channels.

can some people tell me
thx in avance

[Hugh Jass]

Right now I have Bell Sat TV and I have basic channels for 20$/month + Asian Package for 10$/Month, and I have a credit of 10$/month for 1 Year. I only have it for 5 months. My question if, can I call retention and negociate for my free channels " like Food network , Discovery channel and CNN ??? I don't want to pay 15$/month extra for 10 more channels.

can some people tell me
thx in avance

My guess is you're not going to get anything further, as you're not paying that much to start with. But try anyway.

[preshans]

Hey guys, do you guys know if we have the option to order movie packages through TV?

[Hugh Jass]

Hey guys, do you guys know if we have the option to order movie packages through TV?

Don't think so. I believe you can order through the website.

[mapleleafs89]

Father in law called, didn't work, was only offered a rent to own of 13.86/month for a 9241.
Was told he needed to have all other services with Bell like TV, Internet, phone.
Problem is he cannot get Bell phone and Internet service in his area anyways...
Should he just be more aggressive on the cancel request and go through with it ?
He's leaving for Florida in 2 weeks, it would need to be sorted out by then.

End Goal would be to get a 9241, no other rebates.
EDIT: he already has a 9200 and a 2700 but would ditch the 2700 after getting a 9241.

Not sure, but I would just call again. Different reps have different levels of knowledge. One offered me jack crap, the next offered me the $20 + free 9241 or whatever (the dual stream HDPVR). Might work, might not.

[theguyz]

I'm 3 months into a new contract with Bell Expressvu. How long do you think I need to wait before I can call in and get $20 off like everyone else?
I was 1 month in when i called last year and got 20% then, so you can call anytime.



Tried to get the FREE PVR (36 months free rental) but Bell wants $150 installation fee because I am already a HD customer!

Are you sure you where speaking with retentions( as free pvr is also a new customer promo )?????? Sounds like store and install.



Hey guys, do you guys know if we have the option to order movie packages through TV?

They did before and i know you can order playboy but you must have you phone line connected to receiver. Check the interactive channel out.

[Leeboy]

I got the same $20 of for a year plus $50 off the NHL package and they offered a free rental of the HD PVR but we have 2 of them .

[fredsmith]

I got the same $20 of for a year plus $50 off the NHL package and they offered a free rental of the HD PVR but we have 2 of them .
Having a third PVR for free provides a warranted backup unit - a true RFDer would take it no matter how many he had. :cheesygri

[boathouse]

Only 3 months in to service with Bell and managed to get $20 off a month and a $60 one time credit. Tried to get my HD box rental for free but they weren't budging and I was happy enough with what they have already offered me.

[sunkids]

After 30 minutes talk over the phone. This is what I took.

$20/monthly off for 12 month. $50 one time credit.

CSR also offered $6.92/month for 36 month to own a 9241, but I didn't take right away. It seems like a lot people getting that for free. Shall i call them again ask for the free PVR?

[archer_310]

Just called - very helpful CS rep. Got the free pvr. Initially told me he was authorized to give me $10 off per month, but when I sounded somewhat unhappy he went away for a minute and came back saying he could give me the $20. Also got the more movies package free for 3 months when I expressed interest in it since it was on free preview this October. Can't complain other than the install date is almost 2 weeks away.

[jayace]

Just called and got the $20 off my monthly package and no longer paying $20/month to rent the 9241. Pretty consistent with what everyone else is getting.

[stevehume]

i just got a call from outbound customer loyalty... offered me the PVR for 3 years and keep it if im still with bell

question: i have a dish now with a HD receiver and a SD receiver... doesnt a PVR need both connections to work? what will they do then? disconnect my SD?

[archer_310]

i just got a call from outbound customer loyalty... offered me the PVR for 3 years and keep it if im still with bell

question: i have a dish now with a HD receiver and a SD receiver... doesnt a PVR need both connections to work? what will they do then? disconnect my SD?

They'll add a 4x4 switch to allow for extra receivers.

[Whirlwind]

Nice. Got the outbound call too. Free HD PVR rental for 36 months. Free install. Get to keep it after the 36 months. No cancellation. I asked if I could get 3 but they said no...lol.

[Tanooki]

How do most people start off the conversation? Just by saying that you are thinking of cancelling because company xyz is offering zyx?

[drastic]

stevehume, same thing here...got the call and they come on the weekend with a FREE HD PVR eventhough I have the SD programing. I asked the CSR who called me. She assured me all they need to do is dis-connect old and re-connect the new..Now I wait and see...

[drastic]

my original call to retention was; "My spouse thinks were paying way too much and I now need to cancel. I will go with XYZ as they appear to be cheaper...." Then the fun begins. I must say (even though I really have a bad taste) the CSR was very polite and helpful.

[Tanooki]

stevehume, same thing here...got the call and they come on the weekend with a FREE HD PVR eventhough I have the SD programing. I asked the CSR who called me. She assured me all they need to do is dis-connect old and re-connect the new..Now I wait and see...

Assuming you don't have more than 2 SD receivers on 1 dish they won't have to run any lines. If the dish is a single lnb dish it will have to get replaced (free) with a new one.

I'll try my luck with Retentions when I get home tonight just looking for a free pvr and some credits off. Then I'll switch over the old rentals for the new rent to own plans

[drastic]

and the credits the CSR said she would apply actually were applied on the very next bill...

[stevehume]

Assuming you don't have more than 2 SD receivers on 1 dish they won't have to run any lines. If the dish is a single lnb dish it will have to get replaced (free) with a new one.

I'll try my luck with Retentions when I get home tonight just looking for a free pvr and some credits off. Then I'll switch over the old rentals for the new rent to own plans


yes I will have 1 PVR and 1 SD box... It is a dual LNB dish so I think I should be ok as far as I have researched!

[drastic]

Bell Guy in and hooked up the FREE pvr... I had to sign his paper work indicating $75 installation fee even though I have the email confirmation from bell that it is free...I guess I call them back

[theguyz]

yes I will have 1 PVR and 1 SD box... It is a dual LNB dish so I think I should be ok as far as I have researched!

They will install a new sw44 and a new cable run, the PVR requires 2 feeds, your current dish will only allow 2 cable runs( each lnbf had 2 ouputs, one for 91 sat and one for 82 sat = 2 feeds one each satellite ), the sw44 will allow 4 - 2 to HD PVR and one to SD unit.

Installed came and did mine and didn't get charged installation ( switch and cable run ) and has not show up on past 2 bills. Paper i signed said $0....and isntaller confirmed it was FREE install with upgrade to HDPVR.

[Tanooki]

They will install a new sw44 and a new cable run, the PVR requires 2 feeds, your current dish will only allow 2 cable runs( each lnbf had 2 ouputs, one for 91 sat and one for 82 sat = 2 feeds one each satellite ), the sw44 will allow 4 - 2 to HD PVR and one to SD unit.

Installed came and did mine and didn't get charged installation ( switch and cable run ) and has not show up on past 2 bills. Paper i signed said $0....and isntaller confirmed it was FREE install with upgrade to HDPVR.

There only needs to be 1 line run with the DPP system to every receiver regardless if it's a pvr or not (so long as all the receivers you have are DPP capable). So if he has 2 line from the dish 1 to each location then he just needs to switch the LnB.

[theguyz]

There only needs to be 1 line run with the DPP system to every receiver regardless if it's a pvr or not (so long as all the receivers you have are DPP capable). So if he has 2 line from the dish 1 to each location then he just needs to switch the LnB.

Considering DPP is not used on old installs, many new installs/upgrades still use old lnbf's with sw21/44/64's. I have seen only a few DPP's and these on new activations/installs in past year, and as many who are doing retentions are true retentionairs with 3 years plus service so older lnbf scenario.

Yes, I'll agree DPP is better then the sw's, but its all the installers choice in upgrading which gets them the most commission/prophit from bell for doing the install.

The HD PVR( 9241 ) offered by retentions is a dual tuner and requires 2 inputs, so you can watch 1 channel and record another at same time. Although you could use 1 cable and not use the dual tuner functionality. But trust me, its very very handy.

I'll give benefit of the doubt if SD PVR( 5100, 5900, ??? ) then yes 1 line required, but retention will give you a hdpvr for free

[Tanooki]

Considering DPP is not used on old installs, many new installs/upgrades still use old lnbf's with sw21/44/64's. I have seen only a few DPP's and these on new activations/installs in past year, and as many who are doing retentions are true retentionairs with 3 years plus service so older lnbf scenario.

Yes, I'll agree DPP is better then the sw's, but its all the installers choice in upgrading which gets them the most commission/prophit from bell for doing the install.

The HD PVR( 9241 ) offered by retentions is a dual tuner and requires 2 inputs, so you can watch 1 channel and record another at same time. Although you could use 1 cable and not use the dual tuner functionality. But trust me, its very very handy.

I'll give benefit of the doubt if SD PVR( 5100, 5900, ??? ) then yes 1 line required, but retention will give you a hdpvr for free

You get paid the same for running 1 line using the DPP lnb's or 2 lines for the Legacy system, so there is no reason for any tech to not use it unless the customer has a receiver which is not compatible with DPP system. And if any customer is upgrading the tech will be installing the new DPP system if makes sense (like the persons senario of having 2 lines and the tech would have to run a 3rd if he didn't use the DPP). Bell wants to migrate away from the Legacy stuff and any new install will always use DPP if there is an HD receiver in the order.

[IntrepidRT]

So I have about 5 months remaining in my 2 year Bell contract. I have 2 x 6131's which I purchased but I want another box installed in the basement. Can I call retentions this early to renew? I think I called before and they told me it'd be $150 for install but free PVR after 36 months, should the install be free? Any advice?

[crashxxx]

Called in to Bell TV retentions for my dad and got the free HD PVR rental for 3 yrs(free install/own it after 36mths), the $20 credit for $12 months and a $75 one time credit. Also signed up for the new rent to own plan for a HD box(non PVR) for $5.xx a month.

Again it's true, Bell TV no longer does contracts which is great...you can send all the boxes back and terminate service anytime(within 30 days notice), but who would want to quit anyway after getting these nice freebees :)

just off a 1hr 25min call with a great csr in new brunswick named kevin.

I was offered the same deal as above. BUT I confirmed even though there is 'no contract' per say for the 36mths, they do recoup the costs of what you would have paid for install if taking a term less than 36mths. meaning, on the 36mths free deal mentioned above.. if I decide that I want out... if you cancel and send the boxes back in the first year they charge a $200 fee, if in the 2nd year they charge a $100 fee .. probably $50 in the last year of the 3 year deal

was trying to get a 9242 box but he said they are being dropped in lieu of the 9241. so he couldn't sell one. said try a bell store and tell them the deal i'm offered on the 9241 and ask them to match it. least that way I can have pvr control from two rooms as fibe tv is not yet available where i live to squire the whole home pvr thing. meh.. tv can wait for now, we'll see what the xmas deals are like

[TheRonald]

Finally got off my butt and called to see what I could get after being with them 12 years +.Got the usual $20 off per month for 1 year and after a very small bit of negotiation received the PVR for no charge after the 3 year period.No extra credits.Good thing winter is coming because the billing errors should begin next month.Let the billing games begin.
Thanks op.

[mikeeymike]

About a week ago, I called in and got $20 off per month for 12 months. Today, I called in and they gave me a dual HD PVR 9241 for 36 Months @ $0 rental and free installation. Not much of an installation needed as I am going to retire an old dual tuner 9200 but I had no choice, they are sending someone anyways. It would just be unplugging the electrical cord and the hdmi cable and hookup the new 9241.

[Mike71]

If anyone has a 9200 or 6100 model receiver call Bell right away and they will send you out a new equivelent receiver for free as long as it is currently activated on your account. Bell is de-activating these 2 receivers because they are not compatible with the MPEG-4 format that they are switching to in the near future. If you have a 9200 and you call in they will send you out a 9242 model while supplies last which is also a dual-room, dual tuner model. This offer is valid whether you own or rent the receiver and you don't even need to send the old one back apparently. I have 2 9200's but only one was activated on my account so I can only get one 9242 for a replacement. The other one is a new paper weight I guess. Not sure if this was posted or everyone knew about it but I thought I would give a heads up.

[crashxxx]

If anyone has a 9200 or 6100 model receiver call Bell right away and they will send you out a new equivelent receiver for free as long as it is currently activated on your account. Bell is de-activating these 2 receivers because they are not compatible with the MPEG-4 format that they are switching to in the near future. If you have a 9200 and you call in they will send you out a 9242 model while supplies last which is also a dual-room, dual tuner model. This offer is valid whether you own or rent the receiver and you don't even need to send the old one back apparently. I have 2 9200's but only one was activated on my account so I can only get one 9242 for a replacement. The other one is a new paper weight I guess. Not sure if this was posted or everyone knew about it but I thought I would give a heads up.

nice. so they have 9242's but won't provide them to customers unless the customer already has a 9200? buggers.

as mentioned, when I said I would consider setting up bell tv if I could have a 9242 instead of the 9241 the csr said they were not authorized to provide them any longer (they were being dropped) that I try my luck at a bell store >:(

[jmalias]

just made my yearly call, no arguing, just asked and reciever'd.
9 minutes 53 seconds
Called, used option 1, (10 digit number), 6, then 3 (note: 3 is not to cancel, it is for all other inquires, 2 is to cancel)
Hold for >3minutes
Asked first person "I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month."
Hold > 2minutes (while first person spoke to retentions)
second person "retentions".
Yes, I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month.
Pause.... hold on sir while I apply that to your account, when can a tech come to install....
Received confirmation email while still on the phone.
Took about 3-4 minutes while retentions changed things.
Best Bell service ever experienced. Something I never thought I would ever say .
Ma Bell has turned a new page??? :)

[FrankRH]

What if someone like myself is already renting a 9241 which at one time was getting free but have been paying $20 since February after the one year offer ran out.
Can I expect them to reinstate the free PVR and also give me $20 off (or some percentage of my bill)?

[bhp]

Just got my bill in the mail, monthly fee will increase by $3 starting 2012. Argh!!

[Sheed30]

Just got my bill in the mail, monthly fee will increase by $3 starting 2012. Argh!!

I saw this yesterday as well and I'm not really surprised.. The thieves @ Bell have been increasing the price every year by $3 or so for the past 5-6 years it seems like. Looks like it might be time to call and either scale back my programming or cancel my sub for a retention deal since this service is getting quite costly now.. And to think that when I started will Bell TV the basic programming package was $10.95 but in Jan 2012 it'll be $41.62 + $3 digital service fee + HST so a little over $50.. Ridiculous. :evil:

[lord.vader]

Just got my bill in the mail, monthly fee will increase by $3 starting 2012. Argh!!

I feel like everytime I ask for a lousy credit from them, they increase the price in a month or two to basically offset whatever additional savings I thought I was getting. Internet is going up by $4 btw.

[aerohead888]

Thanks OP.

Called to cancel and got my requisite $20 off per month plus free dual tuner. It's nice not having to switch between my single tuner boxes when a show starts recording.

[james-007]

Easy as pie called and got one time $50 off plus $20 off per month.

[csnarpy]

Just finished my retentions deal: Free HD PVR, $20 off monthly and $120 one time credit. Took 5 mins.

[roguetomato]

So how would the RFD guru's handle this situation....?

My in-laws are off the "grid" in the middle of nowhere and have their Bell TV billed to a P.O. box. 1 new HD receiver is there, while the other older silver 6100 HD receiver is at my home so they have TV when they visit (and we get free tv :)). Since the 6100 is on the way out, how would you approach Bell retentions to get them to switch out the 6100 for the new HD PVR, or regular HD receiver before the 6100 are out?

Since they have no official "address", how would a Bell rep. go about changing out the receiver? It's somewhat inconvenient to go to their current home, which is a camp with no road access. You must quad/boat/snowmachine it out there. Any suggestions would be great, thx ;)

[theguyz]

So how would the RFD guru's handle this situation....?

My in-laws are off the "grid" in the middle of nowhere and have their Bell TV billed to a P.O. box. 1 new HD receiver is there, while the other older silver 6100 HD receiver is at my home so they have TV when they visit (and we get free tv :)). Since the 6100 is on the way out, how would you approach Bell retentions to get them to switch out the 6100 for the new HD PVR, or regular HD receiver before the 6100 are out?

Since they have no official "address", how would a Bell rep. go about changing out the receiver? It's somewhat inconvenient to go to their current home, which is a camp with no road access. You must quad/boat/snowmachine it out there. Any suggestions would be great, thx ;)


Your parents must have a physical address even for taxes on property, concession lot etc... I know lots off the grid( one even on a private small island ) and they have physical addressing, but no street name, etc...

Remote locations can be shipped.

[roguetomato]

Hi THEGUYZ,

Thanks for the tip. I'll have to check with them about the "physical address" thing... Funny you should mention small private islands, because that's exactly where they live atm. Hopefully Bell will be able to ship to their physical address. If not, I wonder if my address can be used as an alternate? Probably not, but it would be nice.

[peano]

You can use your address as billing or service or both. Bell won't care. They will be sending a new 6131 to replace your 6100 under the MPEG4 swap program..

[swatthatfly]

Stupid turds :mad:. I got a "free" PVR from retention. Yesterday I looked at my bill and they charged me rental for it, for the past 2 months. I asked retention on the phone, the day I got the deal, to make sure I will not be charged because I got burned before. Guess what? They still charged me. I think there is a policy in place to charge everyone unless they call back again and complain at which point they wave the charge. They really make you work for it. Stupid turds :mad:

[daveymo79]

I just got my last bill and noticed that my 20% discount from last year had ended. So I called in to see if I could get a better deal. They offered me the $20 off, to which I asked for my 30% discount which I had 2 years ago. They said they couldn't do that and that $20 was the best they could do for me. I asked if there was anything else they could do for me as my bill is regularly $138 including tax and I have a Bell turbo stick on my account and I've been a loyal Bell customer for a long time now. They said there was nothing else they could offer. I threatened to cancel, she put me on hold and they offered to up the $20 off to 20% off, which was a bit more and I said, is there anything else at all you could do, like a one time credit. The CSR said no, I threatened to cancel and she went ahead and cancelled my account.

I guess I'll switch to Rogers ...

[peano]

I think there is a policy in place to charge everyone unless they call back again and complain at which point they wave the charge.

I am positive this is the case with Bell. They count on 95% of the sheep never checking their bill and they are right. They make MILLIONS off of their customers' apathy.

Recently they changed thousands of owned receivers into rentals on their billing software. People who bought their receivers outright were being charged $20 a month rental. Bell knew it and did not reverse the charges unless the customer caught it.

How does their biiling software one day decide to turn thousands of owned receivers into rentals?? Only one way. Human intervention. Bell are crooks, plain and simple. I bet there are still hundreds of sheep paying the extra $20 a month rental fee because they are too lazy or stupid to check their bills.

[SirloinofBeef]

If anyone has a 9200 or 6100 model receiver call Bell right away and they will send you out a new equivelent receiver for free as long as it is currently activated on your account. Bell is de-activating these 2 receivers because they are not compatible with the MPEG-4 format that they are switching to in the near future. If you have a 9200 and you call in they will send you out a 9242 model while supplies last which is also a dual-room, dual tuner model. This offer is valid whether you own or rent the receiver and you don't even need to send the old one back apparently. I have 2 9200's but only one was activated on my account so I can only get one 9242 for a replacement. The other one is a new paper weight I guess. Not sure if this was posted or everyone knew about it but I thought I would give a heads up.

Thanks for the heads up. I did this over chat and it was quite painless. Hope they don't screw it up and give me a 9241. Should be in my hands in 5-7 bus. days.

The key things to say are: that you have 2 tvs currently hooked up to the 9200 and that you "received" the swap letter.

From what I read, there are very limited supplies for the 9242.

[mt99808]

Without reading through this whole thread is there a minimum amount of time you should be a subscriber before attempting to get a retentions deal? I'm a TV only subscriber for a year and a half but a pretty hefty spender on sports premium packages which have a more than 100% price premium compared to Rogers/Cogeco but I prefer Bell's superior HD lineup. My regular bill before Sports Premium packages is $81 and then I subscribe to NHL Centre Ice, NLF Sunday Ticket, and MLB Extra Innings which are each around $200 a piece and then the NCAA package which i think is $120. This would make my bills on average $141 a month. I own all my recievers and am not locked into any contracts. Is it reasonable for me to seek a retentions deal at < 2 years? If so what type of deal could I expect?

[farhan0001]

At the bare minimum you should be able to get $20 off per month.

My girlfriend called in back in Oct when she only had service with Bell TV for 6 months and received $20 off for 12 months and a free HD PVR.

Hope this helps

[x1sst]

Thanks for the heads up. I did this over chat and it was quite painless. Hope they don't screw it up and give me a 9241. Should be in my hands in 5-7 bus. days.

The key things to say are: that you have 2 tvs currently hooked up to the 9200 and that you "received" the swap letter.

From what I read, there are very limited supplies for the 9242.

They told me it would take up to 10 business days to deliver my replacement 9242 but it arrived the next day :D

[IntrepidRT]

Called tonight, got a strange offer.

5 months left in my 2 year contract.............
1/2 price PVR rental for 3 years ($6.50ish per month), free installation (YAY!), and $20 off per month for a year.

My package is about $50 per month (Basic + 1 theme pack + Sportsnet HD).

Free install was important to me as I already have 2 HD receivers on my dish and will probably require an expensive splitter. Kindof upset they didn't offer the PVR for free, but happy about no installation charge.

[chucker1]

Hi all this is my first post any help would be greatly appareciated. After reading this thread i'm convinced i'm getting hosed. I have a land line home phone, fibe 12 internet and sattelite. My phone is 42.92 a month, internet is $55 plus $5 amonth for modem and my sat is $104 amonth. I recieve a $20 a month bundle savings for a total after savings and before tax of $228 a month. Thoughts on what i should ask for, i own my sat recievers. Thanks alot.

Monthly Services (Nov 03 to Dec 02)
1 6 Themes and Premium Movies 51.00
1 HPI 1,2 5.00
1 4 HD Themes + HD US Time Shifting 10.00
1 Digital Standard 34.00
1 US Timeshifting 1.00
1 Digital Service Fee 3.00
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 104.00

Monthly Services (Nov 04 to Dec 03)
1 HN Modem Lease 4.95
1 Internet FIBE 12 54.95
1 Security Advanced Service 0.00
Total Monthly Charges (before taxes) 59.90

Monthly Services (Nov 10 to Dec 09)
1 Home Phone Choice package 39.95
Residence line
Call Forwarding
3 Way Calling
Visual Call Waiting
Call Answer English
25¢ a min feature
1 Service Area Charge 0.00
1 911 emergency service access 0.17
1 Touch-Tone service 2.80
Total Monthly charges (before taxes) 42.92

[peety6]

Chucker1, welcome to the forum.

I'd definitely call into Bell to get a better discount.

Internet is going for 50% off (35-36$ before taxes and waived modem feed for fibe25)
TV is going for at least a Free HDPVR and $20 off monthly bill. You might be able to get more since you have one of the more expensive packages
Landline you should be able to get at least $10 off. Not sure if there is a promotion now, but Bell should offer you something better than regular price.

I'd suggest calling the retention line for all 3 services individually and ask for a better deal.

[daveymo79]

So, after my post on the previous page about cancelling Bell....sure enough a week after they offered me the $20 off per month & then 20% and not offering any one time credits and just accepting my cancellation request for my account ... they sure enough called me back to try and keep me on as a customer.

If you call and they offer you the 20% ... go through with cancellation!! Your account is still active for 30 days after the cancellation request is put in, so you have time to call back and get the 20% ... but they'll call you back to try and keep you again even after the cancellation was confirmed.

Here is what they offered me ... 30% off all my programming including specialty sports packages for 1 year, plus a $75 credit applied to my account immediately. I'm back on Bell for another year!

[mt99808]

So, after my post on the previous page about cancelling Bell....sure enough a week after they offered me the $20 off per month & then 20% and not offering any one time credits and just accepting my cancellation request for my account ... they sure enough called me back to try and keep me on as a customer.

If you call and they offer you the 20% ... go through with cancellation!! Your account is still active for 30 days after the cancellation request is put in, so you have time to call back and get the 20% ... but they'll call you back to try and keep you again even after the cancellation was confirmed.

Here is what they offered me ... 30% off all my programming including specialty sports packages for 1 year, plus a $75 credit applied to my account immediately. I'm back on Bell for another year!

What premium sports packages do you have? I want to call but I'm thinking I should wait because I'm currently subscribed to NFL, NHL and NCAA and they're all either prepaid or front loaded. I was thinking I should wait until March when hockey is nearly over and baseball is about to begin.

[chucker1]

My bill was $ 235 a month after taxes, just off the phone now $150.74 after taxes. And got them to throw in a free hd pvr, they wanted to give a non pvr because i already have 5 recievers and a pvr counts as 2 so at that point i said forget it and go ahead with the cancellation. Well he came back and said they would install another sat dish for free. I feel good just saved $85 a month and getting another dish and hd pvr. Thanks peety and all who post this stuff on red flag, nice to see that people are trying help each other save money.

Merry Christms.
Chucker1

[djino]

****in' Bell.

Had to call them yesterday as I've received 2 bills since my free 3-year HD PVR Loyalty offer and they've yet to actually apply it to my account. This rep said he was able to add it (great, and why weren't the others able to add it before) and had applied a $40 credit to the account to fix the last 2 months.

Now since my 1pm Call to Bell yesterday, I am getting repeated calls every hour from 866-585-1887 which shows as Bell on my caller ID. I pick up the phone, and I get a busy signal. Happens every hour up until 8pm yesterday then resumed this morning at 9am.

I believe the number is from their Customer Service Survey Line to rate the service I had from Bell. I call the number and go through the survey to complete it and I still get the damn calls coming in every hour. I called back Bell TV and they say there is nothing they can do (I even hung up and called another rep who gave me the same song and dance). WTF Bell, why can't you fix your ****!!! The second time I called I asked to speak to a supervisor, which I waited on hold for, but then the original rep came back and said they added me to their do not call list.

I also created a 866-585-1887 filter on my voip.ms service for it to say this number is not in service whenever they try to call again which I should have done yesterday, but I thought I'd give Bell a chance to correct it, silly me! :S

djino

[daveymo79]

What premium sports packages do you have? I want to call but I'm thinking I should wait because I'm currently subscribed to NFL, NHL and NCAA and they're all either prepaid or front loaded. I was thinking I should wait until March when hockey is nearly over and baseball is about to begin.

I have the NFL sunday ticket package as of right now. I had already purchased it in September, but they allowed me to get the 30% off of it for the remainder anyhow. She also said that if I added anymore premium sports packages this year, just to tell whoever I order it through that I get 30% off all programming including sports packages and she said they'd give any future sports packages in the next year the same 30% discount.

Good luck! Might as well do it now, it'll count for next years baseball package as well as count towards the rest of your hockey package. Just push as hard as you can when calling in because they'll do it ... it may take actually getting within a couple weeks of your account being cancelled completely, but they'll do it.

[TheSenior1]

****in' Bell.

Had to call them yesterday as I've received 2 bills since my free 3-year HD PVR Loyalty offer and they've yet to actually apply it to my account. This rep said he was able to add it (great, and why weren't the others able to add it before) and had applied a $40 credit to the account to fix the last 2 months.

Now since my 1pm Call to Bell yesterday, I am getting repeated calls every hour from 866-585-1887 which shows as Bell on my caller ID. I pick up the phone, and I get a busy signal. Happens every hour up until 8pm yesterday then resumed this morning at 9am.

I believe the number is from their Customer Service Survey Line to rate the service I had from Bell. I call the number and go through the survey to complete it and I still get the damn calls coming in every hour. I called back Bell TV and they say there is nothing they can do (I even hung up and called another rep who gave me the same song and dance). WTF Bell, why can't you fix your ****!!! The second time I called I asked to speak to a supervisor, which I waited on hold for, but then the original rep came back and said they added me to their do not call list.

I also created a 866-585-1887 filter on my voip.ms service for it to say this number is not in service whenever they try to call again which I should have done yesterday, but I thought I'd give Bell a chance to correct it, silly me! :S

djino

As I also received the standard so-called FREE PVR and $20 off per month;I am now getting myself ready for my first bill and being on the phone for hours .I've been watching the forum to see when the Bell garbage was going to start.My Panasonic phone has call blocking fortunately.

[mt99808]

People getting the free PVR .... is it based on locking into a contract for 2 years? Is it a free rental? I can't see them just giving you a pvr and then you can walk away in 3 months. Also is it a dual tuner PVR? I currently have non PVR HD receivers (6131 I think) where you just plug in a HD but to be honest its a pain in the @$#.

[djino]

People getting the free PVR .... is it based on locking into a contract for 2 years? Is it a free rental? I can't see them just giving you a pvr and then you can walk away in 3 months. Also is it a dual tuner PVR? I currently have non PVR HD receivers (6131 I think) where you just plug in a HD but to be honest its a pain in the @$#.

This depends on if you are asking for a new HD PVR or having the deal be placed on an existing HD PVR rental.

If asking for a new HD PVR, then I believe there is an implied rental contract (which you will sign when the installer finishes installing the HD PVR) which can be 12 or 24 months. So even though the PVR will be yours if you stay with bell for 36 months, if you leave before the contract period is up, you have to send Bell back the PVR as well as pay the cancellation fee for the rental contract (if still under the rental contract).

If you are getting the deal on your existing HD PVR, then there is no contract or your existing contract stays valid (if you have one). If you cancel 3 months later and you are under no contract, then you simply return the HD PVR with no cancellation fee.

In both cases above, if you stay the 36 month period and cancel after, then the PVR is yours to keep and you will NOT be charged any cancellation fee.

djino
"Oh, and this is on the 9241 HD PVR"

[longo]

Awesome!

Pretty much had the same package, although my 2 years is up and got the same thing as IntrepidRT

Called tonight, got a strange offer.

5 months left in my 2 year contract.............
1/2 price PVR rental for 3 years ($6.50ish per month), free installation (YAY!), and $20 off per month for a year.

My package is about $50 per month (Basic + 1 theme pack + Sportsnet HD).

Free install was important to me as I already have 2 HD receivers on my dish and will probably require an expensive splitter. Kindof upset they didn't offer the PVR for free, but happy about no installation charge.

By doing exactly this:

just made my yearly call, no arguing, just asked and reciever'd.
9 minutes 53 seconds
Called, used option 1, (10 digit number), 6, then 3 (note: 3 is not to cancel, it is for all other inquires, 2 is to cancel)
Hold for >3minutes
Asked first person "I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month."
Hold > 2minutes (while first person spoke to retentions)
second person "retentions".
Yes, I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month.
Pause.... hold on sir while I apply that to your account, when can a tech come to install....
Received confirmation email while still on the phone.
Took about 3-4 minutes while retentions changed things.
Best Bell service ever experienced. Something I never thought I would ever say .
Ma Bell has turned a new page??? :)

[filly100]

:cry:Tried this last week. Called in and cancelled. No call back yet, nor any offers at all. Been a customer since Bell first started satellite. Own all my own equipment with no contract.

[Steve19]

just made my yearly call, no arguing, just asked and reciever'd.
9 minutes 53 seconds
Called, used option 1, (10 digit number), 6, then 3 (note: 3 is not to cancel, it is for all other inquires, 2 is to cancel)
Hold for >3minutes
Asked first person "I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month."
Hold > 2minutes (while first person spoke to retentions)
second person "retentions".
Yes, I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month.
Pause.... hold on sir while I apply that to your account, when can a tech come to install....
Received confirmation email while still on the phone.
Took about 3-4 minutes while retentions changed things.
Best Bell service ever experienced. Something I never thought I would ever say .
Ma Bell has turned a new page??? :)

I followed these instructions and I was offered two options. 1) 36 month free PVR and free install or 2) I buy the PVR, Bell Reimburses me 50% of the cost, and $20 off per month x 1 year, plus free install. I spoke to 3 different CSR and explained that others were receiving the deal above (in the quote), but "due to my geographical location", I was not entitled to that deal.
Both deals pretty much come to the same thing in the end. Option 2 did not require a contract. Option 1 did. I chose option 2 as I hope next year when I call in for my yearly retention I will be offered money off per month, otherwise, if I chose option 1, they may not offer anything because they know i'm locked in for 36 months.

We'll see what happens.

[filly100]

Finally got my call back yesterday. Free 9241 and 30percent off my sub. Sweet!;)

[bungaboy]

Finally got my call back yesterday. Free 9241 and 30percent off my sub. Sweet!;)

You did good to get 30%. I used to have 40% then 30% for last two years. Now they say only $20/month.

I too am long time since 1996 I think and I own all the gear, dishes and switches included.

I will call back in March when $20 deal starts and quit. LoL

[fredsmith]

I got the free PVR rental (had to call in to get the installation charge credited) and they just sent me notice that my contract expires in February.

With the January iuncrease coming, my intention is to call in 30 days before end of contract and try to simply get back to what I was paying before - otherwise I'll either econtent the subscription or move to either Shaw or Videotron, though neither is a panacea.

[loonieryan]

They took the 20% discount off my bill again after 12 months. Just calling retentions now and all they can offer me is $20 off every month, which sucks.

I might go ahead with the cancellation and see if Bell calls me back to offer me 20% or 30%.

[Bushaway]

I just completed my 1st year of "1 time credit of $20.00 and $20.00 credit per month for 12 months". Called Bell and was told I was not eligible for any type of credit. I informed the CSR that I would like to cancel. I was put through to another CSR, who offered me the same deal I had just completed. I accepted the deal. She also signed me up for the "Rental Choice" program. Keeping my fingers crossed.

[goldeneyed]

How many services with Bell did you have or need to get the 20$ or 20% off? Would it work for someone who only has TV service with them?

[aerohead888]

How many services with Bell did you have or need to get the 20$ or 20% off? Would it work for someone who only has TV service with them?

I got $20 off my BEV service with only that product from Bell... I then told them that I also have Internet and got another $5 off each service by bundling... Bottom line, you can get the discount with only BEV.

[RJones89]

Called in yesterday and the rep only wanted a free PVR. Told her I need the monthly price to drop and she tried $10 off. Pushed for more and was offered $20 off. Took that offer.

Then I called Internet/Phone retentions and was offered 6mb service for $24.97 a month, less $5 for the bundle discount so $19.97 per month. Also got $10 off phone and an extra $10 off TV from that department bringing my total TV discount to $30 off per month.

[goldeneyed]

Thanks. So by bundling, you mean putting it all on one bill? I originally had home phone with Bell with a 5$ retention discount, and I know signed up for Bell TV, and they told me I'll get what you just mentionned, an additional 5$ for each of the two services. And in 3 months I'll call in to get the 20$.

[joel_79]

just made my yearly call, no arguing, just asked and reciever'd.
9 minutes 53 seconds
Called, used option 1, (10 digit number), 6, then 3 (note: 3 is not to cancel, it is for all other inquires, 2 is to cancel)
Hold for >3minutes
Asked first person "I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month."
Hold > 2minutes (while first person spoke to retentions)
second person "retentions".
Yes, I am calling about the retention offer for free HD PVR and $20 off per month.
Pause.... hold on sir while I apply that to your account, when can a tech come to install....
Received confirmation email while still on the phone.
Took about 3-4 minutes while retentions changed things.
Best Bell service ever experienced. Something I never thought I would ever say .
Ma Bell has turned a new page??? :)

I just called and got the same thing. The only thing is that we didn't schedule a date yet for my free installation. I wanted to install it myself (replace an old 3100 SD model) so I asked that I didn't need installation, but they require that it is a tech that does the installation. I just dont want that ... Is there another solution???

[Pest64]

Hey everyone,

I am brand new to the forums! I am looking to get TV for my apartment. I live in a rural area and the only 2 options are shaw direct or bell. Bell seems to be the better thing due to decent channel packages. Was looking at:

Digital Basic Plus
Maybe HD packs?
HD receiver
and I live in a northern community so it is unlikely they have a tech in my town.

What kind of deal can I expect to get with Bell?\

From my understanding, TV is going for free HD receiver and 20$ off per month? Does this hold true for newcomers? Should I enter the 2 year contract?

Thanks for any help and Merry Christmas! =)

[TheSenior1]

Waited anxiously for first bill after receiving promo; getting ready for the telephone marathon. Too my pleasant surprise my bill was dead on with the exception of being charged 1 extra month for PVR rental which CSR said would be credited on next bill.First time in many,many years and promos that Bell got it right.Have they finally turned the corner and started great customer service or will we see a surprise in future.Hope not.

[Sergio]

Guys what number are you calling?
Is Bell Customer Service taking calls on the 24th?
I'm due for my annual call.
Sergio

[Sergio]

Ok, I called, and here are some guidelines:

Called 888-759-3474, and selected option to cancel
Rep asked why, and i explained that I received a better offer
Rep explained that loyality dept can provide excellent promos, so he transferred call
Loyality department brought my total bill from 112$ before tax to 75$ before tax for all 3 services (TV, Tel, Internet)
Internet is 37, Tel is 9.95, and TV is 29 before tax
Promos received, Less 20$ on TV, and free PVR receiver 9241 for 1 year, and price reduction on Phone, and price reduction on Internet


Good luck to all!
Sergio


Guys what number are you calling?
Is Bell Customer Service taking calls on the 24th?
I'm due for my annual call.
Sergio

[audiohs]

I just called. Said that I was switching over to Rogers. They offered me the standard $20/month off right off the bat. Then they offered me a free HD PVR rental for 12 months but I didn't want it. Was placed on hold and then they came back with a $60 one-time credit. I probably could have pushed for more but I am content with this for another year. Now to set a calendar reminder to call again in a year's time. :)

[values99club]

Thanks again OP!

BTW, does anyone know what the maximum GB and recommended brand external hard drive would be for this Bell HD PVR?

I was thinking on the lines of 2 or 3GB?

Any brands recomended/to avoid?

Alot of Boxing Day sales, but I was not sure on the compatibility.

Thanks in advance.

[james-007]

Thanks again OP!

BTW, does anyone know what the maximum GB and recommended brand external hard drive would be for this Bell HD PVR?

I was thinking on the lines of 2 or 3GB?

Any brands recomended/to avoid?

Alot of Boxing Day sales, but I was not sure on the compatibility.

Thanks in advance.

Bell will tell you 1Tb 7200 rpm. I have 1.5 Tb 5400 rpm hooked up to mine and it's been working without any issues.

[x1sst]

Called today to get a better deal for my rental pvr (now a 9242 since Bell replaced my 9200 for free) & 2 x SD 3100.
I have been paying $28 per month for these for 5 years:o


Called 888-759-3474, selected option to cancel, selected option for other & asked for a better deal on my rental receivers
Rep offered to reduce the rates to match their rental choice rates
I said Not good enough - rcvrs are 5yrs old & you give PVRs free to new & existing customers
Rep said it was the best she could do & transferred me to loyalty
Loyalty rep offered; keep 9242 for free, pay $2.75 per month for each 3100
I asked why would I pay $2.75 for 5yr old 3100s plus asked about getting an extra HD receiver
After a couple of minutes on hold loyalty rep came back with;

keep 9242 for free
get 2 x new SD rcvrs + new HD rcvr for current rental choice rates - mine to keep after 3yrs
$20 per month off bill for 1yr
$100 instant credit to cover installation cost for new receivers
No contract

After a suitable pause I accepted & installation was scheduled for 2nd Jan which was great coz that's a holiday for me.
Received emails confirming free PVR & $100 credit before the call ended


So for a 15min call I am paying $37 less per month, have an extra HD rcvr and got my 5yr old SD rvcrs replaced with new ones :D

[Hugh Jass]

So for a 15min call I am paying $37 less per month, have an extra HD rcvr and got my 5yr old SD rvcrs replaced with new ones :D

Great result. Thanks for the details.

[SuzyGreenberg]

Thanks for those who replied recently that allowed this post to catch my eye. I just called Bell and after doing some research on what Cogeco is offering, I am now saving $34 a month on my TV and Internet and getting more bandwidth (65gb instead of 25gb originally). It's nice to not have to religiously monitor my internet usage and not feel so guilty on spending over a hundred dollars a month on internet and TV for myself alone.

I'm keeping my eye on this forum more often, thank you all :)

[fredsmith]

Hmmmmmmm . . . .

Not sure what I should be doing next.

My 2 year contract expires Feb 3 . . . I received a letter stating we'd continue month-to-month so, being 30 days until the end I called to discuss signing a new contract. I already have the 'free PVR' and was getting discounts that took my bill to $61.xx per month (Satellite only). Supposedly I received $25 in discounts to arrive at the price.

The rep offered me a $10 discount, saying my bill would go down, but I pointed out that it would go UP by about $25 and asked what she could do to to keep it where it was. She said . . . nothing.

I told her that if it was all she could do that she should cancel the service effective 30 days and she said she'll ship a box to facilitate the return of the PVR.

So, will they call and try to recover my business? Or should I be buying a couple of Shaw or videotron receivers and subscribing to one of those?

Edit: It seems that they screwed up - the notice I received had the recovery box for their free PVR going to my buiilding number at 'rue' - no street name. So I called up to have that fixed and the CSR suggested I take another run at trying to get my price . . . they took it to $20 off - for comparable programming Shaw wants $63.56/month tax included with free everything and Bell would be $67.59 - ~$4/month more for one year (call back to renew). It's pretty close and I do have 27 days to make up my mind . . . . . or for Bell to match.

[haliboy]

Greetings all - and thank you. I am an infrequent contributer but a frequent reader of the forums. The Bell ones are amongst my favourites. RFD has saved me and cost me lots of money over the years - buying stuff I may not have normally bought.
Have been a long time Bell customer - phone, internet, satellite. Re the satellite, I have gone thru all the various deals - started with the RFD 40% off when I firts got my HD TV, then 30%, free PVR, 20% - finally last Feb the best I could get was free PVR for a year and free installation (had returned the previous free PVR as they would not renew the deal). They screwed up the billing so badly - were giving me the $20 rental credit for the 1st 4 months, then back charged me $80 for the credits - took a long time to sort out with the various CSRs - finally got that settled in July/11. I though that the $20 credit re the PVR rental deal would then continue only until Feb/12, so I called today to start negotiating a new deal as per the comments in this thread. When I finally got thru to 'Loyalty', the offer was to reduce the PVR rental to the 'rental choice" rate of $13.86/mo, with an equal credit + the $20/mo credit would continue until July/12 - CSR said could not extend that past July as "it was already in the system" (a likely story indeed) - I would have to call back in July re the current promotions at that time. Also, the $13.86 rate and credit back would continue for 3 years, after which time I would get a letter saying I could keep the PVR at no additional cost to me, or return it. It will probably have self destructed by then anyway.
I asked for an e-mail to confirm the deal.

Again, thanks again all you contributors.

[x1sst]

Called today to get a better deal for my rental pvr (now a 9242 since Bell replaced my 9200 for free) & 2 x SD 3100.
I have been paying $28 per month for these for 5 years:o


Called 888-759-3474, selected option to cancel, selected option for other & asked for a better deal on my rental receivers
Rep offered to reduce the rates to match their rental choice rates
I said Not good enough - rcvrs are 5yrs old & you give PVRs free to new & existing customers
Rep said it was the best she could do & transferred me to loyalty
Loyalty rep offered; keep 9242 for free, pay $2.75 per month for each 3100
I asked why would I pay $2.75 for 5yr old 3100s plus asked about getting an extra HD receiver
After a couple of minutes on hold loyalty rep came back with;

keep 9242 for free
get 2 x new SD rcvrs + new HD rcvr for current rental choice rates - mine to keep after 3yrs
$20 per month off bill for 1yr
$100 instant credit to cover installation cost for new receivers
No contract

After a suitable pause I accepted & installation was scheduled for 2nd Jan which was great coz that's a holiday for me.
Received emails confirming free PVR & $100 credit before the call ended


So for a 15min call I am paying $37 less per month, have an extra HD rcvr and got my 5yr old SD rvcrs replaced with new ones :D

My new receivers were installed as scheduled and I've turned the new HD receiver into a pvr by using the disk from my old 9200 pvr and installing it in an external case I got from newegg for $28 shipped.

I never thought I'd say this after previous bad experiences, but "Thank you Bell" :D

[lacyadrienne]

I have had a bell bundle (tv, home phone and internet) for almost 2 years. The first year I got the hd pvr for free. I like a lot of movie programming etc. And after the first year I was paying 192.42 plus tax. I paid that for almost a year and then was fed up. Cogego offered me similar services (I just called them up) for about 135 a month. So I called Bell to "cancel". I really didn't want to. I just said I needed to know what kind of notice I needed to give them and that I would have to set up the new company for that date.

A man in the retention dept was able to reduce my bill by almost 60 dollars a month! He gave me 50% off internet (was paying 49.90), 14.97 credit off my home phone (was paying 37.92), and a 20.00 credit on bell tv. I think he is also giving me an additional 5 dollars off for bundling.. I already have 15 dollars in bundling credits. I will just have to see when the bill comes.

I just wish I had called earlier!

Definitely worth calling. I have never posted on here, but glad I found this place to get the tips :)

[BCguy2]

I just called in, I am planning to ditch my 9242 rental PVR and purchase a 6131. They are offering a new rental agreement on the 9242, presently $20/month indefinitely.

Now $13.89 for 3 years, after which it is yours to keep.

I would like to purchase my 9242, but they will not sell it to me?

[BCguy2]

Well...when in doubt, try again.

I just called back and got the RCP (rental choice plan?) I get the 9242 for free (no more $20/month) and after 36 months it is mine to keep.

Plus, the warranty was extended for 39 months, 3 months after the RCP ends.

[abcsense]

Is there any new promo for new customer? I'm currently with Shaw and looking around for promos.



My new receivers were installed as scheduled and I've turned the new HD receiver into a pvr by using the disk from my old 9200 pvr and installing it in an external case I got from newegg for $28 shipped.

I never thought I'd say this after previous bad experiences, but "Thank you Bell" :D

[mapleleafs89]

Got my retention deal in August, still to this date I have not received one correct bill with the offer I was promised and have been calling in regularly to get it adjusted every month.

[krobin]

Got my retention deal in August, still to this date I have not received one correct bill with the offer I was promised and have been calling in regularly to get it adjusted every month. same here first no $20 credit then PVR was refurb was had to be switched out and I was billed for the service call, and they also started charging me for the free rental and forgot the $20 credit. I had to get the service call, new rental charges and the $20 all credited and the late charges Six months later I had my first correct bill. My mother, father in law and brother in law all had the same erred billing issues. Very annoying.....

[Thalarctos]

I called in and got rent reduced on my receivers (and now I'm on the plan where I own them in 3 years) and a 25% reduction in programming costs for a total of $32 off per month. Sweeeeet. Thanks all!

[WalmartMartyr]

Just called in, was getting basic programming, plus $10 for HD channels and Multiple receivers plus Lifestyles themepack. All was 57 plus tax.

After the call Im getting a free month, plus $15 discount a month plus two free themes, News and Learning AND kids for 12 months. im happy.

[luck11]

Called in and got my $38 phone down to $20, plus got $111 TV knocked down to $96. Good start, but I'm not done yet.:)

[JohnCollins]

I have only TV with Bell. I just called and told them I want to cancel and they didn't offer me absolutely anything. Is it possible that they didn't offer any discounts because I still have 6 months left on my contract with them?

[farhan0001]

I have only TV with Bell. I just called and told them I want to cancel and they didn't offer me absolutely anything. Is it possible that they didn't offer any discounts because I still have 6 months left on my contract with them?

When you called in did you select the cancelation option or if you called customer service did they transfer you over.

Last month I called and still had 11 months remaining and my $10 credit was expiring. I selected the cancelation option and was on the phone for maybe 10 min and they gave me a $20 credit for 1 year

[Whoamelly1]

For 3 years in a row, I was able to get 30%, 20%, and 20% off my monthly Expressvu bill. Last week, I called the retention dept to get another 1-year of 20% off, but they said they didn't have that discount anymore. They said occasionally, they can offer $10 or $15 but last week, he was only able to give $5 max. I insisted on more, so he suggested calling back every week since they get new mandates on their maximums they allowed to give to retain customers.

[HeartofDarius]

I called on February 27th, and cancelled, and was forwarded to Retention.

They could only offer bundling, which was lame, so I cancelled.

I was going to wait until Thursday, and then call back and try to re-negotiate, but they beat me to the punch, calling me honestly 5 minutes before I was going to call them.

So, on a no-contract basis. I got 30% off for the year, a free HD PVR plus free installation, and reduced movie package ($11/month for six months). It's not great, but it's okay.

[goldeneyed]

I called retention s and they only offered a 5$/month credit for 12 months. Has anyone else from Quebec managed to get the 20$ off each month? They also offered me the Home Phone Basic promotion with Call Display including all fees for 24.95$ as well.

[abirdd]

I called retention s and they only offered a 5$/month credit for 12 months. Has anyone else from Quebec managed to get the 20$ off each month? They also offered me the Home Phone Basic promotion with Call Display including all fees for 24.95$ as well.

I called feb 22 and they gave me $20 a month. got my bill and it was not on it, called billing who then transferred me to a rude b*tch who told me that the $20 offer that I was given was not allowed and they declined it. So now she said the best she can do is $5 . Being transferred to retention now, but what I paid, for them to offer you one thing, then a month later charge you.

Even better is that the note on my file was to "inform the client" yet no one called me, she said "they do not call customers" .... so I guess inform was in case I called back complaining.

Why does it have to be so hard to deal with bell some times -sigh-

[archer_310]

I've got a friend who's interested in the free PVR rental for 3 years. He's a current Bell subscriber. Is it still being offered? I haven't seen many posts lately on this, so I wasn't sure if it still was. He has no problem calling into retentions.

[Spidey]

Ive been basically getting $20 of a month now for 3 years because of this thread,

But they recently mailed me something with a twist. Rent the for $6.92 a month and its rent to own. It used to be $20, but the $20 rebate got it for free more or less.

I still get the $20 off a month, since it wasnt off the rental, just off the package I have.

Im the type that wonders why would a company offer something good like this, likes its to good to be true.

Is it because they have new models that I could get. Ive had no issues with my PVR for the last 4.5 years.

What are the advantages to the new ones.

Also, who else got this letter in the mail

[Canadianpsycho]

So I was told the DVR 20 dollar rental/credit is done.

I was given a rental of 13.86 with a credit of 13.86 (so my bill is the same after credit) and I own the DVR after 36 months.

6 of one, half dozen of the other.

I was not offered any other discounts :(

[archer_310]

So I was told the DVR 20 dollar rental/credit is done.

I was given a rental of 13.86 with a credit of 13.86 (so my bill is the same after credit) and I own the DVR after 36 months.

6 of one, half dozen of the other.

I was not offered any other discounts :(

Not sure what the DVR 20 dollar thing is. The free PVR is 13.86, so I assume then that you're saying it's still being offered?

[goldeneyed]

I called feb 22 and they gave me $20 a month. got my bill and it was not on it, called billing who then transferred me to a rude b*tch who told me that the $20 offer that I was given was not allowed and they declined it. So now she said the best she can do is $5 . Being transferred to retention now, but what I paid, for them to offer you one thing, then a month later charge you.

Even better is that the note on my file was to "inform the client" yet no one called me, she said "they do not call customers" .... so I guess inform was in case I called back complaining.

Why does it have to be so hard to deal with bell some times -sigh-

I called for a friend's account, and they only gave me 5$ off for his account too. Maybe the 20$ credit really is discontinued.

[MacGyver]

Rent the for $6.92 a month and its rent to own. It used to be $20, but the $20 rebate got it for free more or less.

I still get the $20 off a month, since it wasnt off the rental, just off the package I have.

Im the type that wonders why would a company offer something good like this, likes its to good to be true.

Is it because they have new models that I could get. Ive had no issues with my PVR for the last 4.5 years.

What are the advantages to the new ones.

Perhaps for some accounting or tax advantage, like writing off assets? Or it's cheaper in the long run for Bell to rid itself of the hardware instead of being stuck with a warehouse of worthless electronic junk?

Dish Network in US uses the same Echostar hardware that Bell does, and Dish just released a whole-home PVR solution. Bell might elect to do the same, especially since Rogers just released their own whole-home PVR, too.

[deal_king]

In Montreal here. I just negotiated the following with the direct marketing department to switch from Videotron to Bell. Any feedback?

Home Phone Choice (5 features) with Quebec-wide calling
Fibe 7, 60gb limit
FibeTV: Basic English, 15 a la carte, Favorites, and The Movie Network
2 receivers + HD PVR
No installation or activation fees.

$109.27 for 6 months, $121.64 for the next 6 months, 146.64 after.

Of course, no one ever pays the $146.64 because they just call Retentions and negotiate another discount...

Is this good?

[bubble.tea]

Credit for free HDPVR on the RCP applied for month 1, then fell off the next month, so I had to call in. Next rep, proactively, removed and reapplied the promo themself so they'd know it was done right, Assured me it should be good now. Also, applied the $20 (+tax??) credit to cover it not having been properly credited this month.

Now to remember to follow up in 1-2 months if the bill doesn't sort out.

Happy'ish now I guess.

Would've liked a SECOND hdpvr free offer+RCP but couldn't swing it, only offered it at 13.86 price. Should I try again?

[ipoddave]

I noticed that Bell changed the Channel Package again. It is now Good, Better, and Best.

I am currently using the old package Essential with 4 HD theme packs. If I change to the Good or Better package, will I lose my $20 loyalty credit?

Also, there doesn't seem to be a way to add individual HD theme packs any more in the current system. Is there a way to just add National Geographic HD and Discovery HD to the Good package without paying $70 for the Better package?

[bubble.tea]

NO deal TO REPORT here...just a technical one.


I have x1 SD pvr and x1 HD pvr.

If I connect a 2nd HD receiver/PVR in place of the SD...will I get HD feed??? or must I pay for a 2nd HD feed? am I pathetic slimeball n00b for asking this question? :lol:

[fredsmith]

NO deal TO REPORT here...just a technical one.


I have x1 SD pvr and x1 HD pvr.

If I connect a 2nd HD receiver/PVR in place of the SD...will I get HD feed??? or must I pay for a 2nd HD feed? am I pathetic slimeball n00b for asking this question? :lol:

Yes. 'basic HD' is part of almost all subscriptions - if you can tune in any channels in the 1000+ range, they will be delivered in HD (and all non HD content will be upconverted before being delivered to the HD (HDMI and Component) outputs. Similarly, all out put will be delivered in SD to the composite output.

Note that the broadcast channels are delivered in a compressed 720p, so having 1080i isn't going to help and you will find that OTA broadcasts look better than ones coming off the satellite.

You may be a pathetic slimeball, but not for having asked a simple question.

[bubble.tea]

....You may be a pathetic slimeball, but not for having asked a simple question.

ouch!

thanks!

[ccresswe]

Hi All, just called Bell loyalty ,on all my services, (Internet-6 mbs, 20gig, Bell tv- HD, timeshifting, Movies and 12 theme packs, Home Phone- basic +unlimited North America)
Total Bill 220/mos
I own 3-3100's, 1 6100,1 4100 and 1 6141
Told them rogers could give me whole home HD PVR with 4 H receievers and 18MBS internet (60Gig) and Home Phone at a wash for (197.00 all in)


Was able to get:
Internet- 60 Gig same 6mbs (waived my modem rental as well)
TV- Free HD PVR (3 year rental for free)+ free install and free repair for an issue I am having
Home Phone- same service
Total 179.00/mos

Thinking Bell might be afraid of the Rogers whole home PVR concept in areas where FIBE TV not available.

[the_game151]

Hi All, just called Bell loyalty ,on all my services, (Internet-6 mbs, 20gig, Bell tv- HD, timeshifting, Movies and 12 theme packs, Home Phone- basic +unlimited North America)
Total Bill 220/mos
I own 3-3100's, 1 6100,1 4100 and 1 6141
Told them rogers could give me whole home HD PVR with 4 H receievers and 18MBS internet (60Gig) and Home Phone at a wash for (197.00 all in)


Was able to get:
Internet- 60 Gig same 6mbs (waived my modem rental as well)
TV- Free HD PVR (3 year rental for free)+ free install and free repair for an issue I am having
Home Phone- same service
Total 179.00/mos

Thinking Bell might be afraid of the Rogers whole home PVR concept in areas where FIBE TV not available.

12 Theme packs? Maybe there is room for saving if you take 6 theme packs and pay for individual channels or theme packs (if you can do this) and you tend not to watch all of those channels?

Your internet speed can probably be brought up or you should switch to a re-seller like acanac or teksavvy but I'm glad to hear you got 60 gb from 20!
I checked the rates for Teksavvy in Ontario and they would be $30 for a no contract plan that has 6 mbps with a 75 gb cap. You can buy a used modem for as low as $20 rather than renting it.

If anything, asking bell to match that can help you save more money.

Also, just gonna make a note of this but a lot of people that use redflagdeals have this device called magicjack or use a service called freephoneline. Magicjack has monthly fees while freephoneline has only an upfront fee. It's exponentially cheaper to use this over Bell and apparently it's really hard for people to detect that you're not using plain old telephone service.

Here is the magicjack website:
http://www.magicjack.com/plus-v05/

You can create a new number or keep your old one.

[capitainefritz]

Just got $15 off monthly and a free third hd receiver

Was $126 all in and it's now $110 all in for 7mbps Internet, basic phone, 15 channels HD + Movie Network, HDPVR + 2 HD receivers

Savings of $25-26 in total

[MacGyver]

The retention offers really seem to have dried up. Bundling to get a discount isn't really anything new, so those "retention offers" are lame.

It's getting too expensive for only a few decent channels we liked, so we cancelled. Bell made no attempt to retain our business and politely put the cancellation order through.

[snowy0]

I am a 10 year old subscriber of Bell TV.

I had 3 receivers:

9241 PVR
5100 PVR
3100 standard

they gave me a free 9242 for 3 years for my second HD TV.

That makes me very happy!

Call 1-888-673-3788
Step #1 -> Press #1 for French
Step #2 -> Enter 10 digit phone number
Step #3 -> other options is now #6
Step #4 -> Press #2 to cancel subscription