Universal Service is based on the principle that all Americans should have access to a baseline level of voice and broadband internet access service. Landline (voice) services include local usage at no additional charge, 911 emergency access, and toll limitation services to qualifying low-income consumers. Voice and broadband internet services are available from RTC Networks (Reservation Telephone Cooperative) in these areas: Alexander, Arnegard, Beach, Garrison, Keene, Kenmare, Makoti, Medora, New Town, Parshall, Plaza, Stanley, White Sheild, and Watford City.
Effective July 1, 2022, monthly charges for these universal services are:
Basic local residential service: $22.46
(Including extended area service)
Broadband Internet Access starting at $80 (100 x 100 Mbps)
Access to emergency service: No additional charge
(Local government may assess a fee to pay for special equipment)
Toll Blocking: $0
Low-Income Programs
Lifeline (Wireless, Landline or Broadband discount)
12/1/2022
Landline: $5.25
Broadband: $9.25
(Toll blocking to prevent long distance calls from your phone is available at no charge to qualifying low-income consumers)
Tribal Lifeline
Tribal Lifeline provides up to a $34.25 discount on the monthly bill for primary home phone or broadband service for residents of tribal lands.
Tribal Link-Up
Tribal Link Up provides a discount (up to $100) off initial hook up for primary home service. Available to customers who live on Tribal Land.
Fixed Federal, State, and Local Prescribed Charges
Federal Subscriber Line Charge:
Residential & Single Line Business: $6.50
Multi-Line Business: $9.20
Universal Service Contribution Factor: 28.9%
Telecommunications Relay Service: $0.03
E911 Emergency Services: $1 to $2
Access Recovery Charge: $3