If a Bonchon franchisee authorizes Windstream to change telecommunications carriers, is there a potential fee for switching from the current carrier to Windstream?
Bonchon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Monthly Recurring Charges represented above DO NOT include the taxes or charges that Windstream passes on to governmental entities AND the following Windstream fees and surcharges: Access Recovery Charge of up to $3.00 per line or a maximum of 5 per trunk. Regulatory Assessment Surcharge of up to 8% (or for future increases with prior notice, the then-current tariff rate) applies to Interstate and International charges in the following states MN, NY and PA. An Administrative Service Fee of up to 15% (or for future increases with prior notice, the thencurrent tariff rate) applies to Interstate, Intrastate and Internet services monthly charges in all states except MN, NY and PA.
WIN RESERVES THE RIGHT TO INCREASE OR DECREASE MONTHLY RECURRING CHARGES ("MRCS") ON AT LEAST THIRTY (30) DAYS' NOTICE AND OTHER RATES AT ANY TIME.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–536)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, several fees and surcharges could apply if a franchisee uses Windstream for telecommunications services. These potential charges are in addition to the monthly recurring charges.
Specifically, Windstream may impose an Access Recovery Charge of up to $3.00 per line, with a maximum of 5 per trunk. Additionally, a Regulatory Assessment Surcharge of up to 8% could be applied to Interstate and International charges in Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania. An Administrative Service Fee of up to 15% may also be levied on Interstate, Intrastate, and Internet services monthly charges in all states except Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania.
These fees and surcharges are subject to change, with Windstream reserving the right to increase or decrease monthly recurring charges with at least thirty days' notice. Other rates can be adjusted at any time. It is important for a prospective Bonchon franchisee to factor in these potential additional costs when budgeting for telecommunications services and to review the Windstream Service Terms and Conditions for a comprehensive understanding of all applicable charges.