California Regulators Raise State Universal Service Surcharge
Small monthly fee that funds broadband and phone assistance programs will rise 15 cents per line.
July 2, 2026 – California regulators voted unanimously Thursday to raise a small monthly fee that helps fund phone and broadband assistance programs across the state.
California Public Utilities Commission commissioners voted 3-0 to raise the surcharge added to state residents’ phone bills by 16.6%, from $0.90 to $1.05 per access line, effective September 1, 2026. The fee supports broadband affordability programs, rural telecom infrastructure subsidies, and services for Californians with disabilities.
