How to File FCC Form 475 Complaints

The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) handles thousands of complaints each day in regards to television, telephone and satellite communications. That makes it important to file a complaint with the FCC correctly, using the proper form for your complaint. Form 475, for example, governs general complaints such as billing disputes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

File a Form 475 Complaint

1. Load the FCC's General Complaints Web site (see Resources below). From here you will be able to access information about general complaints, as well as online versions of Form 475.
2. Click on the link that best fits how you wish to file your Form 475 complaint. If you want to file electronically, for example, you may click the Form 475 link. If you want to file via email, simply click the FCC's email address.
3. File a Form 475 complaint electronically (using the Form 475 link) by filling in the required fields on the electronic form. You'll need to include your personal information as well as a description of your complaint.
4. Be sure to include the contact information of the companies that have contacted you, if you have a general complaint against a telephone company or telemarketer.
5. Call the FCC to file a complaint directly using the toll-free number: (888) CALL-FCC or [phone]. There can be heavy call volumes, so expect to be on hold for at least five minutes.
6. Or, print out Form 475 and submit it via toll-free fax: (888) CALL-FCC or [phone].

Tips & Warnings

• Be as specific as possible when you file a Form 475 complaint. Provide as much background information as you can, as well as documented proof for your complaint in order to help address the situation.
• Note that for certain disputes, the only way the FCC can verify your complaint is with evidence, so keep records of telephone bills or telephone logs indicating specific calls in order to prove your complaint and give the FCC what it needs to take action.
• Be aware that your complaint may be made public if yours is one of many.
• Note that "slamming" (having your telephone company changed without your permission) is not considered a general complaint, so it is not filed using Form 475, but Form 501.