Verizon Eliminates Early Termination Fees For DSL

Verizon Communications is trying to reverse DSL declines by eliminating early-termination fees and simplifying pricing for bundles that include DirecTV service -- although cancellation fees will still apply to the satellite TV operator's piece of the bundle. The telco said the new DSL strategy "represents a changed approach to structuring Verizon's copper-based bundles" rather than a limited-time promotion. The company lost almost 1.5 million digital subscriber line customers in 2010. Previously Verizon charged DSL subscribers early termination fees of $165 per year, prorated at $15 per month. However, customers who add DirecTV services to a Verizon bundle must sign a two-year agreement and early cancellation fees apply.