Competitive telephone companies can increase rates only after providing ten days notice to customers and the commission, without commission approval. The company may notice customers by:
- Bill insert
- Bill message
- Printing on the billing envelope
- A separate mailing to all affected customers
- E-mail (if authorized by the customer)
The company must ensure that its customers receive the notice at least ten days before the price increase. No notice is required if the company lowers a rate.
Information on Rates, Terms and Conditions
Competitive telephone companies must provide access to rates, terms, and conditions, via the Internet. Companies must also make available, upon request, copies of its price list, bill, and notice it sends to customers. Since some telephone companies lower rates by offering new calling plans customers must sign-up for, this rule will make it easier for existing customers to stay informed of lower cost plans.