DIAL AROUND

Long distance services that require consumers to dial a long-distance provider’s access code (or "10-10" number) before dialing a long-distance number to bypass or "dial around" the consumer’s chosen long-distance carrier in order to get a better rate. 

Directory Assistance

A service that will find a phone number for you.  This is usually a pay service. 

Directory Assistance – Allowed Calls

The number of free directory assistance calls allowed by each state.                       

Directory Assistance Call Completion

A service provided to customers dialing Directory Assistance from a touch-tone telephone allowing the option of having the requested telephone number automatically dialed and completed by the automated Directory Assistance System. Calls can be automatically dialed for an additional charge by pressing a number on the telephone keypad. Depending on the type of call completed, there may be additional charges for local toll or local measured service that are added to the basic call completion charge. 

Emergency 911 Surcharge

A monthly fee that enables a caller to dial 911 to connect to a Public Safety Answering Point for emergency assistance without a charge. 

E-MAIL

Also called electronic mail, refers to messages sent over the Internet. E-mail can be sent and received via newer types of wireless phones, but you generally need to have a specific e-mail account. 

ENHANCED SERVICE PROVIDERS

A for-profit business that offers to transmit voice and data messages and simultaneously adds value to the messages it transmits. Examples include telephone answering services, alarm/security companies and transaction processing companies. 

EN BANC

An informal meeting held by the Commission to hear presentations on specific topics by diverse parties. The Commissioners, or other officials, question presenters and use their comments in considering FCC rules and policies on the subject matter under consideration. 

Equal Access

The ability of a long distance company to connect its facilities to the local telephone company which allows customers to have a choice in the company they select for long distance service. Customers can reach any local toll or long distance number by dialing 1+ the number. All 1+ calls will be routed to the company you have selected as your primary carrier. 

Extended Local Area Service/Extended Local Calling (ELC)

Expands your local calling area to include former long distance destinations. Based on the type of service you have, extended local service plans may appear on the bill in several ways. In general, the presentation of these plans has been simplified to show the minutes or units used, and the amount due. Charges for each telephone line are identified.