Typically, you’ll want to assume that your TV service is more or less reliable, because when you pay for channels, you expect to be able to watch them. But that hasn’t been the case for thousands of Verizon customers in Boston, and after a month of outages, they’re finally getting a refund.
The problems began on December 15, 2025, when a dispute arose between Verizon Fios and Cox Media Group, which provided certain channels to Verizon users. After the contract between the two companies expired, they were unable to reach a new agreement, resulting in access to some Fox and NBC shows being cut off. The result was that Verizon customers missed a lot of programming, including NFL broadcasts, among others.
Affected channels vary by city, but also include WFXT (FOX, Charge!, Laff) in Boston, MA and Providence, RI. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, WPXI (NBC, MeTV, Laff, Pittsburgh Cable News Channel) is not available.
In an extraordinary statement to its users (via Boston.com), Verizon said it had “exhausted all avenues to compel Cox to act fairly on behalf of our customers.” Both sides blame each other: Verizon says Cox is asking for too much money, while Cox says Verizon rejected several of the company’s offers.
That’s why Verizon is offering each user a $10.99 credit “to show affected customers we support them.” Boston.com reports that this is intended to “cover the costs of other platforms and services where content from banned channels is available.” If you’re eligible for the rebate, Verizon will contact you this week to let you know how to take advantage of the offer.
There is no solution in sight
There’s no doubt this is a painful decision for Verizon. Not only does it have to extend credit to a large number of affected customers, but it still cannot resolve the dispute at the heart of this ongoing case. This is a bad idea for any television provider.
But the situation is even more painful for Boston-based Verizon customers, who have missed some key TV moments since the blackout went into effect, including the New England Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl.
That game is scheduled for February 8 and the team’s home fans are hoping Verizon can resolve the dispute by then. Otherwise, they will have to find other ways to watch the game.
With no solution in sight, it’s unclear how long Bostonians will remain locked out of the affected television networks. If you are worried and want to know how to attend the Super Bowl, our guide is for you.
