What Channel Is ABC Family On Directv?

What's Happening

DirecTV dropped the "ABC Family" name back in 2016 when Freeform took over. That’s why you won’t find it under that old name anymore. Freeform still carries all the shows you remember from ABC Family, and you’ll find it right where it’s always been—on DirecTV channel 311.

Now, if you’re hunting for regular ABC in Illinois, keep in mind ABC isn’t just one channel. Each city gets its own local ABC affiliate. In Chicago, that’s WLS-TV on channel 7. Over in central Illinois (think Champaign, Springfield, Decatur), you’ve got two options: WICS on channel 20 or WICD on channel 15.

Step-by-Step Solution

Finding Freeform on DirecTV (2026)

1. Make sure your DirecTV box is on and locked onto the satellite signal.
2. Grab your remote and open up the Live TV guide.
3. Hit the CH button or scroll with the arrow keys until you land on channel 311.
4. Press OK or Select to jump right in.
5. If channel 311 isn’t showing up, head to Menu > Settings > Channel Info > Reorder Channels and double-check that Freeform is actually in your lineup.

Finding ABC in Chicago (WLS-TV)

1. Pull up your DirecTV guide.
2. Type "WLS" in the search bar or go to Menu > Search > Channel Search.
3. Plug in "7" or just pick WLS-TV from the list.
4. Press OK to start watching.
5. Using an antenna or another service? Then manually set it to VHF channel 7.

Finding ABC in Central Illinois (WICS or WICD)

1. Open your DirecTV guide.
2. Search for either "WICS" or "WICD".
3. WICS usually lands on channel 20; WICD is typically on channel 15.
4. Pick the right one and hit OK.
5. With cable, these might show up as 20.1 or 15.1 in your guide—just depends on your provider.

If This Didn’t Work

Freeform missing from your DirecTV? Here’s what to do:

• Check your package: Freeform is usually included in most DirecTV plans as of 2026, but it’s not guaranteed in every tier. Make sure yours includes the Entertainment package or higher.
• Update your receiver: Go to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update, hit "Check for Updates," and let it reboot if needed.
• Reset your channel lineup: Navigate to Menu > Settings > Channel Info > Reset Channel Lineup—this refreshes your guide without wiping your recordings.

Can’t track down ABC in your area? Try this:

• Check your provider: If you’re not on DirecTV, your cable or streaming service might have it under a different name. Local ABC affiliates change by market, so it’s worth verifying.
• Use a TV listings app: The DirecTV Stream app or TV Guide website lets you type in your ZIP code and see exactly which ABC station serves your area.
• Try an over-the-air antenna: If you’re close enough to Chicago or central Illinois broadcast towers, hook up an HD antenna and run a channel scan via Menu > Settings > Channel Setup > Antenna Setup > Scan for Channels.

Prevention Tips

Want to dodge this headache next time a network rebrands or shuffles channels?

• Bookmark your local affiliates: Save the websites or apps of your go-to stations like WLS-TV or WICS. They usually list channel numbers by provider, so you won’t have to hunt when you need them.
• Update your DirecTV guide monthly: Head to Menu > Settings > Channel Info > Guide Settings > Update Guide Listings at least once a month. That way, you’ll catch any changes from rebranding or market tweaks before they become a problem.
• Use provider-specific tools: The DirecTV Stream app and website actually show you channels by location and provider, including your local ABC feed. No more guessing or scrolling endlessly.
• Know your DMA: Head over to Nielsen’s DMA map to see which local stations serve your area. It’s a lifesaver when you’re troubleshooting missing networks or channels.