FCC Reviews Phone Number Paperwork Burden for Businesses
Published Date: 1/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC is checking in on a paperwork process that businesses must follow to keep phone number use fair and clear. They want your thoughts on how to make this easier, especially for small businesses, before March 23, 2026. This review won’t cost extra but asks about the time it takes—about 33 hours per business—to keep things running smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Mandatory FCC Numbering Audits
If your for-profit business (carriers that use telephone numbering resources) is selected for a random FCC audit under Section 52.15(k), you must respond and spend about 33 hours per response. The notice estimates 10 respondents, a total annual burden of 330 hours, and the obligation to respond is mandatory under 47 U.S.C. 251.
Risk of Penalties and Enforcement
Audited carriers that fail to respond to the FCC’s numbering audits can face penalties, and audit findings may lead to enforcement action based on the final audit report. The audits verify accuracy of FCC Form 502 and monitor compliance with FCC rules.
Request for Comments to Reduce Burden
The FCC is asking for public comments on ways to reduce the paperwork burden, including ways to further reduce burden on small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Comments are due on or before March 23, 2026.
Time Burden But No Direct Monetary Cost
The FCC estimates the collection imposes no direct annual monetary cost but does impose a total annual time burden of 330 hours (33 hours per response for 10 respondents). The notice lists "Total Annual Cost: No cost."
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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