Rategates´ Telecom Glossary

It's not easy to understand all technical terms which are used in the telecommunication industry. Therefore we created a list which you find below to let you know what some of those acronyms are perhaps what they mean. This list contains a comprehensive overview such these terms and is continuously developing. We would be very grateful if you could contact us if you have any comments or contributions.

Glossary: 0-9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N P R S T U V W X Z

Slam / Slamming
An end user that is PICed (having your long distance carrier switched) without their permission. An RBOC Slam Fee must be paid for each slam.

State and Local Taxes - Aka: Gross Receipts Tax Surcharge, Interstate Tax Surcharge, State Universal Service Fund
State and local governments assess this charge in different ways and at different rates. Proceeds go to the local governing body. It can be imposed on the revenues of local telephone companies, and long-distance companies operating within a state. Although these taxes vary by your location, they are the same for all providers serving that area. For more information about these taxes, please contact your local and state tax offices. You can find their number in the government section of your local telephone directory.

State Universal Service Fund - See State Universal Service Fund.

Subscriber Line Charge - See Federal Subscriber Line Charge.

SLC - See Federal Subscriber Line Charge.

Telecommunication Helpdesk

Get informed about...

10-10 Dial-Around information
Bundled local & l.d. service plans
Wireless local number portability
Prepaid Phone / Calling card scams
Illegal slamming
PIC Information

How to ...

Understand collect call information
Understand your phone bill
Save big on long distance calls
Switch your long distance provider
Solve disputes
Prevent telemarketing
Find links to Free Directory Assistance/ Web

Cheap 24 hour landline rates