a tax for this, a tax for that

you won’t believe this!

While you’re having fun enjoying the Olympics on your tv from your favorite cable outfit...I want to challenge you:

Have you ever REALLY looked closely at your monthly cable bill?  I did the other day and even though I’ve spent my life in the broadcasting business I was still surprised at the crummy little taxes your government entity (Federal, State, County and City) have snuck in on you over the years. and these, like all taxes, do not go away.  They only grow more of them as long as the politicians responsible for them growing are not “called to order”.

     little known tax stuff on cable bills (typical)

Regulatory Recovery Fee

These monthly component fees are based on access line, subscriber or usage. They help defray the costs of complying with state regulations (such as telecom relay services for the visually/hearing impaired).

Universal Connectivity Charge (or Federal Universal Service Fund)

This fee is a percentage of interstate and international revenues. It supports a federal fund that ensures the availability of affordable communications services to low income and rural customers (as well as eligible schools, libraries and health care providers).

State and Local 911 Tax

This monthly tax is tallied by access line, telephone number, account, or usage. It helps states and localities fund the 911 and E911 systems, along with other emergency services.

Federal Excise Tax

This 3% tax is imposed by the federal government.

State and Local Sales Tax

This tax is owed to the state or local government by subscribers.

Gross Receipts Taxes; State and Local Utility Taxes

These taxes are levied on service providers; the cost is passed on to subscribers.

State Communications Services Tax

We collect this money on behalf of the state.

Local Communications Services Tax

The rate for this tax varies; we collect it on behalf of the state

   And you know there is one fact about taxes....they only grow more...like an alien takeover in some of those movies you’re paying for.

stanmajor@aol.com