How to File FCC Form 475B Complaints

The FCC is responsible for answering user complaints related to communications mediums such as telephone and television services. General billing and harassment complaints are handled using Form 475, but the FCC has designated Form 475B for complaints specifically relating to obscenity and indecency. File Form 475B if you've been exposed to content you find inappropriate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Fax machine
• Telephone

File a Form 475B Complaint

1. Be aware that the Form 475B is intended for complaints of indecency and obscenity only. It requires different information from a general complaint.
2. Log on to the FCC's Complaints section (see Resources below). From here you will have access to a wide array of options, including reading about the laws governing communications.
3. Click the link in the main window called "Obscene, Profane and Indecent Broadcast Complaints." This will lead you to a secondary information page containing contact information as well as a link to the Fact Sheet regarding obscenity and indecency.
4. Click the Form 475B link to access a form to file your complaint online (see Resources below).
5. Provide all of the information required by the FCC for filing a complaint using Form 475B. This includes your name, address and information regarding the incident cited.
6. Be as specific as possible when describing the subject of your complaint. Keep a record of the date and time of the incident, as well as names of the offending parties, whether that means a radio personality or a particular television show.
7. Click "Submit" once you've completed Form 475B. It is possible that you will be contacted in regards to your complaint, although if there have been other complaints pertaining to the same incident, this may not be the case.
8. Submit your complaint via telephone by calling (888) CALL-FCC or [phone] or via fax by dialing [phone].

Tips & Warnings

• Try to keep a recording of the incident about which you file a complaint. This helps to prove your complaint is valid and gives the FCC what it needs to determine what action is needed in response.
• Be aware that while your personal information is kept private, your complaint itself can potentially become public.

Who Can Help: