You may notice a charge on your bill called the "TX USF Charge".  This new charge pays for the Texas Universal Service Fund (USF).  The Texas USF has been established by the State of Texas to help pay for keeping local phone rates affordable for low income customers and to support programs for the deaf and hard of hearing.  The Texas USF encompasses several assistance programs, including one which allows the deaf and hard of hearing to purchase necessary telecommunications equipment.

Traditionally, an annual charge supported some of these programs.  Now all of them will be financed by a monthly charge on your bill.

The current Texas USF rate (as of January 1, 2002) is 3.6% and applies only to your airtime charges.  Other services, such as maintenance plans or voice mails are not subject to this charge.

More information can be obtained from the Public Utility Commission of Texas' website at: http://www.puc.state.tx.us/ocp/telephone/txunivserv.cfm .

If you have questions or comments about this charge or its usage, please contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas at the following location:

                    Public Utility Commission of Texas
                    1701 N. Congress Avenue
                    P.O. Box 13326
                    Austin, Texas 78711-3326
                    (512) 936-7000

                    e-mail:  customer@puc.state.tx.us