The Federal Universal Service Fund (USF) rate for business customers increased from 15.3% to 17.9%, effective January 1, 2012. The USF surcharge is used to keep local telephone service affordable for all customers. The fund supports the telecommunications needs of consumers living in high-cost service areas, low-income households, schools, libraries and rural healthcare providers. The charge is set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is adjusted on your Layer2 bill quarterly as the costs charged by the fund change.

To learn more, please see FCC Rates.