Local and long distance wireline telephone service to
consumers is a major concern to our Commission. We ensure that everyone
has rapid, efficient, nationwide and worldwide access to these services at
reasonable rates.
Consumers are protected by rules and policies relating
to slamming and cramming, and ensures Truth-in-Billing and
Truth-in-Advertising.
Our most commonly asked questions about wireline
telephones are:
Does the FCC regulate all telephone issues?
No, complaints about your local telephone company or
intrastate issues (within your state) should be directed to your state
Public Utilities Commission.
How do I stop telemarketing calls to my home?
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991
was created in response to consumer concerns about the growing number of
unsolicited telephone marketing calls to their homes and the increasing
use of automated and prerecorded messages. Read our fact sheet on Unwanted
Telephone Marketing Calls.
What is the Subscriber Line Charge and
why do I have to pay this charge?
The Subscriber Line Charge is a fee that you pay to
your local phone company that connects you to the telephone network. Local
telephone companies recover some of the costs of telephone lines connected
to your home or business through this monthly charge on your local
telephone bill. Sometimes called the federal subscriber line charge, this
fee is regulated and capped by the FCC, not by state Public Utility
Commissions. It is not a tax or a fee charged by the government. The money
received from the subscriber line charge goes directly to local telephone
companies. To ensure that all Americans can afford at least a minimal
level of basic telephone service, the FCC will not allow phone companies
to charge more than $6.50 for a single line.
More
information on the Subscriber Line Charge and other charges on your phone
bill.
What is slamming and what can I do about it?
Slamming is the term used to describe the changing of
your local or long distance carrier to another company without your
knowledge or permission. If you believe you have been slammed, you may
file a complaint with the FCC or your state
Public Utilities Commission, depending on the state in which you live.
For consumer information on wireline telephone issues click here.
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