FCC Amends Schedule of Application Fees

On January 7, 2025, the FCC released an Order announcing adjustments to its Schedule of Application Fees, which will become effective 30 days after the Order's publication in the Federal Register. Congress mandates that the FCC make these adjustments every two years, and this year's changes reflect a 17.41% inflationary increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) since the FCC's 2022 adjustment. The updated Fee Schedule affects a broad range of FCC applications, including those for broadcasters, wireless licensees, satellite services, and more.

Commissioner Brendan Carr issued a concurring statement, expressing frustration with the fact that some applications will soon cost hundreds, or in some cases, thousands of dollars more than they did just a few years ago." Commissioner Carr also acknowledged, however, that the FCC has little discretion when making these adjustments.

You can find the full text of the Commission's Order here.

As always, do not hesitate to contact an FHH attorney if you have any questions.