Accessing the Internet from home has never been more essential for consumers. Nothing made this as clear as the COVID-19 pandemic, when people across the country turned to broadband connections to support their day-to-day lives. We are using more data than ever before, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Fixed and mobile broadband Internet service providers (ISPs) have responded to this increasing demand for more data by offering higher bandwidth plans with faster Internet speeds. These plans allow us to work from home, access medical care, complete homework assignments, and stream our favorite movie more easily. Many ISPs have also imposed limits on the amount of data we use, often referred to as “data caps,” that, when exceeded, may result in higher fees and/or slower speeds.
The FCC has established this Data Caps Experience Form so everyone can share their unique experiences and challenges with data caps. By sharing their data cap stories about their fixed or wireless broadband plans, consumers will help the FCC understand how data caps impact access to broadband for all individuals, including:
- Individuals with disabilities.
- Low-income consumers.
- Historically disadvantaged communities.
- Access to E-911 services, emergency alerts, or other public safety services offered over the Internet.
- Access to online education.
- Access to telehealth.
- Access to remote work.
If you would like to share your experience, please complete this form. In the description field, you can provide specific details about your experience, including the name of the provider, data caps or usage limits associated with your broadband plan, your address, and any other information that describes the benefits or challenges that you have experienced due to data caps.
This Data Caps Experience Form is meant to capture narrative information about the unique circumstances, conditions, and experience of consumers. By submitting your Data Cap Experience, you are NOT filing a consumer complaint, and your submission will not be served on your provider.
Filing a Data Cap Experience Form
To submit a form, please go here.
Note: There is a paper version of the form at the bottom of the page for anyone that is unable to submit the form online.