FCC Broadband Labels: How to Read the 'Broadband Facts' Label Before You Sign Up
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How we wrote this: A plain-English summary of the FCC's Broadband Consumer Labels page, its sample label, and its July 22, 2026 news release on updated label rules, checked October 29, 2026. The provider's own label for the plan you pick is what counts.
Shopping for office or home internet? Every standalone plan now comes with a "Broadband Facts" label, modeled on food nutrition labels. Here's how to read one.
Who has to show a label, and where
The FCC says providers of home (fixed) internet and mobile broadband must have a label for each standalone plan they offer. Look for it at any point of sale, online and in stores. Providers must also make your plan's label available in your online account portal, and give it to existing customers on request.
What's on the label
Using the FCC's sample home-internet label as a guide, check these lines:
| Section | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Monthly price | Whether it's an introductory rate, how long it lasts, and the price after it ends |
| Contract | The length of any contract and a link to its terms |
| Provider monthly fees | Equipment rentals such as a modem or Wi-Fi extender |
| One-time fees | Installation, equipment purchases, and any early termination fee |
| Government taxes | Shown separately from the price |
| Discounts & bundles | A link to bundle pricing and using your own modem or router |
| Speeds | Typical download speed, upload speed and latency |
| Data | Data included with the monthly price and charges for more |
| Policies & support | Links to network management and privacy policies, plus customer support contacts |
Each label also has a unique plan identifier. Write it down or screenshot the label when you sign up; it's your record of what was promised.
How to compare two plans
- Compare the after-intro price, not just the headline price.
- Add up monthly fees for equipment you'll actually rent.
- Compare typical upload speed and latency if you take video calls or upload large files; see our home office Wi-Fi guide.
- Check the data allowance, especially on mobile and some fixed plans.
- Note the early termination fee before you sign a contract.
The July 2026 update
On July 22, 2026, the FCC adopted a Report and Order (FCC 26-48) to simplify the label rules. The FCC says the changes help consumers see the monthly cost more clearly, remove outdated information, let providers discuss the label conversationally over the phone instead of reading it word for word, and let them link to labels with links, QR codes or icons. Labels must still show introductory rates, data allowances and speeds, plus links to network management and privacy policies. Check the FCC's labels page for when the updated rules take effect.
If a label is missing or wrong
The FCC says that if a provider isn't displaying its labels or posts inaccurate fee or plan information, you can file a complaint through the FCC's Consumer Complaint Center. For surprise charges on phone bills, see our guide to cramming and mystery charges.