Universal Service Fund (USF) Quarterly Rates

What is the Current Universal Service Fund (USF) Rate?

• Q1 2020 – 21.2%
• Q4 2019 – 25.0%
• Q3 2019 – 24.4%
• Q2 2019 – 18.8%
• Q1 2019 – 20.0%
• Q4 2018 – 20.1%
• Q3 2018 – 17.9%
• Q2 2018 – 18.4%

The Universal Service Fund (USF) is a government-administered fund used to support telecommunication services in rural and high-cost areas to low-income consumers, government facilities such as schools and libraries, and to healthcare facilities across the nation.

All telecommunication companies, including conference calling services, collect the Universal Service Fund Fee at the rate provided by the FCC.

100% of the Universal Service Fund collected by Vast Conference is passed on to the Universal Service Administration Corporation, which is responsible for collecting and disbursing of the USF fees collected.

You will see USF fees as a separate line item on your billing invoice or payment receipt. If you have any questions, please contact us.

What does the USF Fee do?

• Assists in providing quality telecommunication services at a reasonable cost for consumers
• Increases the availability of telecommunication services in high-cost rural areas and locations
• Provides telecommunication services to public schools, libraries, and health care facilities located in rural areas.
• Provides affordable rates to low-income consumers for telecommunication services

How much is the Universal Service Fund Fee?

The amount collected is determined by the FCC and changes on a quarterly basis.

Does the USF fee apply to government and non-profit organizations?

Yes. The USF is not a tax but rather a fee, so it applies to all consumers of conference call and telecommunication services.

Does Vast Conference profit from the Universal Service Fund?

No. 100% of the Universal Service Fund collected by Vast Conference is passed on to the Universal Service Administration Corporation, which is responsible for collecting and disbursing of the USF fees collected.