It's a four-letter 'f' word no one likes - FEES!
We've heard from dozens of Let ABC15 Know viewers who are fed up with fees, but you can't escape them! Fees are added on to rent, travel packages, and when you buy tickets to events or concerts.
That's why the government is launching a crusade to fight junk fees. This month, they're tackling fees that may fly under many consumers' radar but are tacked on by cable companies and internet services providers.
The Federal Communications Commssion enacted new Broadband Consumer Labels regulation. It requires providers to display clear, easy-to-understand, and accurate information about the cost and performance of broadband services. Major companies have until April 10, 2024 to put the new billing labels into use while providers with 100,000 or fewer subscribers have until October 10, 2024.
An example of the new billing label is below:
If you've looked at your own bill, you may have seen one of the charge descriptions listed below, or a similar variation:
-Installation fee
-Customer service fee
-Administrative fee
-Regulatory fee
-Technology Service Fee
The goal of the new regulation is to get rid of these vague sounding fees which confuse consumers and seemingly keep charges shrouded in secrecy as to what they are actually are.
Labels must also include information about introductory rates, data allowances, broadband speeds, and links to information about network management practices and privacy policies.
The FCC has a glossary, available online, to help consumers understand the information on the label.
Check your next bill. If a provider is not displaying their labels or posting accurate information about fees or service plans, file a complaint with the FCC.
