What a Richmond Times Dispatch subscription includes

A Richmond Times Dispatch subscription gives you access to news, sports, and opinion coverage from Virginia's largest newspaper. The paper publishes daily in print and maintains a website with breaking news, archives, and subscriber-only content. What you receive depends on which subscription tier you choose — print only, digital only, or a combination of both.

Print subscriptions arrive at your home or business on the days the paper publishes. Digital subscriptions let you read on a computer, tablet, or phone through the Times Dispatch website and mobile app. Most subscribers choose a combination package that includes both, though pricing and availability of each option can change.

Subscriber benefits typically include access to the full archive of past articles, the ability to save and share stories, and ad-free or reduced-ad reading on the website. Some packages include access to the e-edition, which is a digital replica of the printed newspaper as it appears on the day of publication.

Key Takeaways

  • Richmond Times Dispatch offers print subscriptions, digital subscriptions, and combination packages at different price points.
  • Print delivery frequency and digital access vary by subscription type, so confirm what you need before you purchase.
  • You can start, pause, or cancel your subscription through your online account or by contacting customer service directly.
  • The newspaper periodically runs promotional rates for new subscribers, so checking their website or calling may reveal lower introductory pricing.
  • Subscription prices and features change over time, so the terms you see today may differ from what was offered last year.

Print, digital, and combination subscription options

The Richmond Times Dispatch sells three main types of subscriptions. A print-only subscription delivers the newspaper to your address on publication days. A digital-only subscription gives you online access to articles, the e-edition, and the mobile app, but no physical paper. A combination or "all-access" subscription includes both print delivery and full digital access.

Print delivery typically runs seven days a week, though some packages offer weekday delivery only or weekend delivery only. Digital access is usually available every day the paper publishes content, including holidays when print may not deliver. The exact days and features included in each tier vary, so you should confirm the specific terms before purchasing.

Pricing for each option differs and changes periodically. New subscribers sometimes see introductory rates that are lower than the standard price, while existing subscribers may pay a different rate than someone signing up for the first time. The best way to see current pricing is to visit the Times Dispatch website or call their customer service line.

How to start a subscription

You can start a subscription through the Richmond Times Dispatch website or by phone. On the website, look for a "Subscribe" button, usually at the top or bottom of the page. You will be asked to choose your subscription type, enter your delivery address (for print) or email address (for digital), and provide payment information.

If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call the Times Dispatch customer service number. A representative can walk you through the options, confirm pricing, and set up your account over the phone. This route is useful if you have questions about which package fits your needs or if you want to ask about promotional rates.

After you complete the sign-up process, you will receive a confirmation email with your account details and login information for digital access. Print delivery usually begins within a few days, depending on your address and the day you order. Digital access is typically immediate.

Managing your account and making changes

Once you have an active subscription, you can log into your account on the Times Dispatch website to view your billing information, update your payment method, and change your delivery address. Most account changes can be made online without calling customer service.

If you need to pause your subscription temporarily — for example, if you are traveling — you can usually do this through your online account for a limited period. Pausing is different from canceling; it holds your subscription without charging you, and you can resume when you return.

To cancel, you can use your online account or contact customer service. Some subscriptions have cancellation policies or require notice before the next billing cycle, so check your account or ask customer service about the terms that apply to your specific plan.

Payment, billing, and renewal

Subscriptions are billed on a recurring schedule — weekly, monthly, or annually, depending on the plan you choose. Your payment method is charged automatically on the billing date unless you change or cancel your subscription. You will receive an email receipt each time you are charged.

If your payment method fails or expires, the Times Dispatch will attempt to charge an updated method on file. If no valid payment method is available, your subscription may be paused or canceled. You can update your payment information in your online account at any time.

Subscription prices can increase over time. The newspaper will typically notify you by email before a price change takes effect. You have the option to cancel before the new price applies if you do not want to pay the higher rate.

Promotional offers and discounts

The Richmond Times Dispatch regularly offers introductory rates to new subscribers. These promotions might be advertised on the website, in email campaigns, or through direct mail. Introductory rates are usually lower than the standard subscription price and apply for a set period — often the first month or first few months.

After the promotional period ends, your subscription renews at the standard rate unless you cancel. Make a note of when your introductory rate expires so you are not surprised by a price increase on your next billing date.

Current subscribers may also see offers for discounts or free trial periods if they upgrade to a higher tier or add a service. Check your email or log into your account to see if any promotions are available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I read Richmond Times Dispatch articles without a subscription?

The Times Dispatch website allows you to read a limited number of free articles each month before a paywall appears. A subscription removes this limit and gives you full access to all content. Some articles, like breaking news or obituaries, may remain free even without a subscription.

What happens if I move to a different state?

You can continue your digital subscription from anywhere. Print delivery is only available within the Richmond area and surrounding regions, so if you move outside the delivery zone, you will need to switch to digital-only or cancel print. Contact customer service with your new address to update your account.

Is there a student or senior discount?

The Times Dispatch may offer discounts for students, seniors, or military members, though availability and terms vary. Call customer service or check the website to ask about discounts you might be may have access to to based on your status.

Can I gift a subscription to someone else?

Some newspapers offer gift subscriptions, though you should check the Times Dispatch website or call to confirm whether this option is currently available and how it works. Gift subscriptions typically have their own pricing and terms.

What if I do not receive my paper or cannot access my digital account?

Contact Times Dispatch customer service immediately. For print delivery issues, they can investigate whether your paper was delivered and redeliver it if needed. For digital access problems, they can reset your password or troubleshoot login issues.