that is correct. any new direct tv accounts MUST have a basic programming package in order to get Sunday Ticket. If you've been a customer for several years (i don't know the cut off date) you can just get Sunday Ticket and nothing else, BUT, if you ever try to upgrade, say to a TIVO, you will no longer be able to just get SUnday Ticket. One of Direct TV's managers basically told me, if you want just Sunday Ticket, you should NEVER call us for anything. Just keep letting it auto renew each year. Otherwise, the first time you make any type of change or upgrade, you will HAVE to carry a programming package.