The Hidden Costs of Cox Cable

A Cable connection is a must for every home. How else will you be able to watch the latest episodes of your favorite shows?  Sure, streaming is trending right now, but given how expensive and limiting it can be in terms of content, not to forget its dependency on an internet connection to work in the first place, getting a traditional cable connection is a wise way to go. The reason why cable TV is set to remain the king of entertainment for a good while.

However, finding the right package can be difficult. The experience is made even worse by hidden charges that threaten to blow up your monthly budget – because at the time of subscription one is so overwhelmed it is quite natural to not pay attention to all the fine print or ask all the right questions. So, if you are looking for an estimate on how much a Cox plan may actually cost you, you have come to the right place. Read on. Here you will find details of the not so obvious charges you will are likely to incur following your subscription.  

Cox Plans and Promotional Prices  

Before we move forward, let us take a look at Cox plans and the promotional prices they are offered at for the first year of subscription. It is quite common for cable providers to offer a lower introductory price to attract potential customers, but in the second year these prices increase, and if you do not have a clear idea of how much could change, you might be in for a shock when you see a spike in your monthly bill. This awareness is especially important because most Cox plans come with a two-year service agreement. So, let us get to it.  

Cox TV Plans

*Everyday low price. No annual contract.

If you are getting a cable TV subscription, it makes sense to get other services from the same provider. Bundle deals are a sure way to save money. So, while were at it lets also take a look at the internet plans Cox offers.

Cox Internet Plans

*Everyday low price. No annual contract.

Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Cox Bundles

Getting a cable and internet plan separately can be really expensive. If however, you bundle the services with Cox, you can save quite significantly. The table below shows the cost of Double Play deals offered by Cox – this can help you compare how much exactly is the discount when you bundle. Here it is worth noting, TV & internet bundles from Cox are available with a 2-year service agreement, unlike standalone internet plans.

TV Internet Double Play

*Everyday low price. No annual contract.

TV Internet Phone Triple Play

If you go for a triple play, you are sure to triple the fun. Just beware that once the promotional period ends, the triple play prices progressively increase. If however, a triple play covers your needs better it is bound to bring more value for money.

*Everyday low price. No annual contract.

Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges for Cox Plans

The package prices listed above are not inclusive of taxes. You will receive a bill that shows a higher due amount because the total on your bill will be inclusive of taxes, surcharges and all applicable fees. These include charges levied by the federal government, as well as the taxes and fees charged by your state. Moreover, you will have to pay a broadcast fee and a regional sports surcharge. If you are wondering about the exact amount you may have to pay, wed suggest you call Cox Customer Service as these charges vary from state to state, and they will be better able to give you a satisfactory answer.

Cox Installation Fees

Installation is a one-time fee that you will be expected to pay. Depending on the type of plan you have subscribed to, the amount varies. As for the double and triple plays, the discounted or waived off (as part of an ongoing promotion) installation fee can save you considering adding more value to the bundle. And you can also opt for self-installation if you are up for the task. It is not that hard, however, if you follow the instructions, which you can easily find here. So, check this out before you make your final decision.

Cox Equipment Fees

DVRs are an integral part of the cable TV experience. Being able to record your favorite shows and watch whenever you have the time, makes the additional cost quite worth it. Youll needs at least one receiver for your home maybe a couple of mini boxes to set up Cox service on the rest of the TVs. If you already have DVR of your own, just get the cable card. It decrypts Coxs signals, allowing you to enjoy TV on your own device. Here is a cost break up for the equipment: 

Cox TV Equipment Fees

Cox Internet Equipment Fees

To get a good idea of how much a package may end up costing you, here is the price of the internet equipment.

The Panoramic Wi-Fi modem takes care of everything. You get a modem and router combo that delivers high-speed internet to all corners of your home. If you have a larger house that needs Cox Wi-Fi you can simply add extenders and you will be good to go. Panoramic Wi-Fi extenders are, however, not available for lease, you can only purchase a kit which includes 3 for $129.99.

Cox TV Packs

The most popular middle of the road Cox TV plan i.e. Cox Contour TV Essential includes 140 channels and makes for a cost-effective all-round TV experience. However, for families big on TV, Cox offers mini add-ons and premium channels for a subscription that help you customize your TV plan in line with your needs and your pocket. Here is a list of add-on packages, a flavor of included channels, and the price.

If you opt for the Gold double play or triple play, you will have access to all the channels offered in the Paks above, except for the Latino Pak, at no extra cost. You can also get channels like EPIX® as a standalone subscription, but that might end up costing you more. Here is a list of premium channels offered by Cox and price/month.

Cox Premium Channel Fees

For avid TV watchers who love premium content wed recommend you opt for the Cox Gold plans that give access to sought-after premium channels like HBO®, EPIX®, and STARZ® at no additional cost.

Cancellation Fees

Cox plans come with a one or two-year service agreement. Some plans, like the Contour TV Essential standalone, does not require a contract, while standalone internet plans come with a one-year service agreement. With the discounted bundle pricing, however, you will be typically expected to sign a 2-year contract. You may want to confirm with Cox Customer Service about the length of your service agreement. In the first 30 days of service, you can cancel your subscription without incurring an Early Termination Fee but if you wish to cancel the service after the fact, you will be fined up to $120.

Cox Late Fees

Paying a late fee is never fun, and Cox is known to charge around $25 if you miss a payment. On the bright side though, your connection is not cut off before more action is taken to collect the due amount. So do make sure you make your payment on time.

These are the hidden charges you might not have paid attention to when subscribing to your Cox cable plan. Pricing does increase after the promotional period ends, and your monthly expenditure does go up by a hefty amount, so we would recommend you make yourself fully aware of what may come your way before you finalize your decision.

Then again, while the fees may seem huge, these are in fact quite standard in the industry. The point is you must know exactly what you paying and why. If you still have any confusion you can give Cox Customer Service a call and they will help you figure it all out.
For Spanish Customers: +1-844-520-8979 or Cox Servicio al Cliente

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Cox offer a senior discount?

Yes, Cox does offer Seniors a discount to people aged 60 and above who have an annual salary below $24,000. They receive a 30% discount on basic Cox services.

What is Cox Complete Care?

Cox complete Care is a technical support program offered by Cox for all residential services included in your subscription.

Does Cox have streaming TV?

Yes, it does. Cox not only offers you a streaming option in the form of Cox Contour Flex but you can stream your TV favorites anywhere at any time via the Cox Contour TV app. You can access network apps and On-Demand using your Cox credentials and watch TV on your hand-held devices.