What a Richmond Times-Dispatch subscription gives you
A Richmond Times-Dispatch subscription gives you access to news, sports, and local coverage from Virginia's largest newspaper. The paper offers both print editions delivered to your home and digital access through their website and mobile app. Which option you choose depends on whether you want the physical paper, online reading, or both.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch covers local Richmond and Central Virginia news, Virginia politics, business, sports (including Virginia Tech and University of Virginia coverage), and entertainment. Print subscribers receive the paper daily or on weekends only, depending on the plan. Digital subscribers can read articles on any device with internet access.
Key Takeaways
- The Richmond Times-Dispatch offers print delivery, digital-only access, or a combination of both, with different pricing for each option.
- You can start a subscription directly through the Richmond Times-Dispatch website or by calling their customer service number.
- Print delivery is available seven days a week or weekends only, and digital access works on computers, tablets, and smartphones.
- Subscription prices vary based on how long you commit and which delivery method you choose, so comparing the options before ordering saves money.
How to order a print subscription
To start a print subscription, visit the Richmond Times-Dispatch website and look for the subscription section, usually found at the top or bottom of the homepage. You will select whether you want daily delivery (Monday through Sunday) or weekend-only delivery (Saturday and Sunday). The website will show you the current price for each option and any promotional rates available.
After choosing your delivery option, you enter your home address and payment information. The Richmond Times-Dispatch accepts credit cards and bank account payments. You will also create a username and password so you can manage your account online, pause delivery when you travel, or make changes to your subscription.
If you prefer to order by phone, you can call the Richmond Times-Dispatch customer service line. A representative can walk you through the options and answer questions about delivery dates and pricing in your area, since delivery costs can vary by location.
How to order digital-only access
Digital-only subscriptions let you read the Richmond Times-Dispatch on your computer, phone, or tablet without receiving a print edition. Start by going to the Richmond Times-Dispatch website and selecting the digital subscription option. You will choose a subscription length — typically one month, three months, six months, or one year — and the website will show you the price for each.
After you pay, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions to read the mobile app or log in on the website. Your username and password work on all devices, so you can read on your phone during the day and switch to your computer at home. Digital subscribers can usually read an unlimited number of articles each month and access the full archive of past articles.
Print and digital combination subscriptions
Many readers choose a combination subscription that includes both the print paper and digital access. This option costs more than print alone or digital alone, but gives you the physical paper at home and the ability to read online when you are away. The combination subscription uses the same login for both the website and mobile app.
Combination subscriptions are useful if you like reading the full paper in print but also want to check breaking news on your phone or read articles at work. You pay one price and get both services, rather than paying for a print subscription and a separate digital subscription.
What happens after you order
After you complete your order, you will receive a confirmation email. For print subscriptions, delivery usually begins within three to five business days, though this can vary depending on your address and the day you order. For digital subscriptions, access is usually when ready — you can log in and start reading within minutes.
You can manage your subscription through your online account at any time. This includes pausing delivery temporarily (useful when you travel), changing your delivery days, updating your payment method, or canceling. Most changes take effect within one or two business days.
Pricing and promotional offers
The Richmond Times-Dispatch regularly offers promotional rates for new subscribers, especially for digital subscriptions. These introductory prices are lower than the standard rate but typically last for a limited time — often the first month or first three months. After the promotional period ends, your subscription renews at the regular price unless you cancel.
Prices vary depending on whether you choose daily delivery, weekend-only delivery, digital-only, or a combination. Weekend-only print subscriptions cost less than daily delivery. Digital-only subscriptions typically cost less than print subscriptions. The website shows you the exact price before you complete your order, so you know what you will pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pause my print subscription if I go on vacation?
Yes. Log into your account on the Richmond Times-Dispatch website and select the option to pause delivery for specific dates. You can resume delivery whenever you return. This is faster and easier than canceling and restarting your subscription.
Do I get access to the archives with a digital subscription?
Most digital subscriptions include access to articles published in the past several years. You can search by topic, date, or keyword. The exact length of the archive varies, so check the subscription details on the website to confirm what is included with your plan.
What if I want to cancel my subscription?
You can cancel through your online account or by calling customer service. Cancellations usually take effect at the end of your current billing period. If you cancel mid-month, you will not receive a refund for the unused portion, so timing your cancellation at the end of a billing cycle saves money.
Can I read the Richmond Times-Dispatch on multiple devices?
Yes. Your digital subscription login works on computers, tablets, and smartphones. You can read on as many devices as you want, as long as you are the only person using the account. Sharing your login with others violates the subscription terms.
Is there a student discount?
The Richmond Times-Dispatch sometimes offers discounted rates for students and educators. Check the subscription page or call customer service to ask about current student pricing and what proof of enrollment they require.