The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted new rules that eliminate paper tariff filings. All carriers that have an existing tariff on file with the FCC must e-file a complete copy of that tariff using the Electronic Tariff Filing System (ETFS) by Jan. 17, 2012. As of that date, the FCC will cancel all paper tariffs on file that have not been replaced with an electronic filing. Carriers who want to maintain an access tariff in the future must make this e-filing prior to the deadline.

In their initial e-filing via ETFS, carriers are required to e-file the exact tariff that is currently effective with the FCC. This initial ETFS e-filing does not require an FCC filing fee.