DirecTV doesn't require any upfront payment unless they deem it necessary for a deposit. I signed up with a 200.00 deposit required. They will give it back to me at the score of 10 bucks a month for 20 months as long as I keep the account in good standing. When I found out about that it almost made me do the 49.95 deal with Dish without a contract. I am happy where I am though here with DirecTV even though I had to give them 200.00 up front. At least a one year contract is required with DirecTV (2 years for advanced equipment like DVR or HD).