The Federal Communications Commission regularly receives complaints from consumers on a wide variety of issues. Consumers are encouraged to always try to resolve the problem first with the company whose products, services or billing are at issue. However, if that does not succeed, they may file a complaint with the commission.
There are two types of official complaints -- informal and formal.
Informal Complaints
The first step in the complaint process is filing an “informal complaint.” Even though the process is called “informal”, the commission takes these complaints seriously and they receive substantial attention and consideration. The informal complaint process requires no complicated legal procedures, has no filing charge, and does not require the complaining party to appear before the FCC.
Formal Complaints
Consumers not satisfied with the response to an informal complaint can file a formal complaint. A formal complaint must be filed within six months of the date of the FCC’s response to your informal complaint. The current fee for filing a formal complaint is $200, but it is subject to change.
Formal complaint proceedings are similar to court proceedings. Each party must comply with specific procedural rules, appear before the FCC and file documents that address legal issues. Parties filing formal complaints usually are represented by lawyers or experts in communications law and the FCC’s procedural rules.
Complete information on how to file formal complaints are available through the Enforcement Bureau.
