SMTA FAQs

What is a coop?

An enterprise owned and operated by those who use its services.

Why is my first bill higher than I expected?

Your first bill is pro-rated from the day your service was turned on through the end of the month, then we always bill for the following month in advance. Also included is a one-time $15.00 connection fee.

What is flat rate or measured EAS?

You have the choice of paying your Extended Area Service (EAS), either on per minute basis or a simple flat rate for unlimited calling to your EAS areas. EAS areas are the areas you can call from where you can use your exchange without creating a long distance charge. Salem, Stayton and Lyons is one extended area for $.08 per minute or ($11.65 residential) and Albany is the other extended area of service: $.08 per minute or $13.00 residential.

Why does it take so long to get my credit refund after I've disconnected my service?

The disconnected account has to go through two billing cycles to make sure there's not any outstanding long distance or collect calls, this process may take 30 - 60 days.

Instead of getting charged every time I use Directory Assistance - do I have any other options?

Yes. The best way to find out directory information in SMTA's serving area is to utilize the SMTA Telephone Directory, there you will also find other useful information as well. You can also utilize the websites including www.anywho.com and www.whitepages.com.

Are there any assistance programs if I have low income?

Yes, you can call the Oregon Telephone Assistance Program (OTAP), 1-800-848-4442 (TTY 1-800-648-3458) to inquire about qualification.

I can't be home when your installer comes to do my wiring, is it okay if my son/daughter is there to let him in?

Yes, but they need to be at least 18.

What are all the different charges on my bill for?

Access Recovery Charges (ARC) Explained

• Federal Excise Tax: this charge is levied by the Federal Government for the use of telecommunications services. Monies collected are passed onto the Internal Revenue Service.
• Oregon Universal Service Surcharge: this charge is to ensure that basic telephone service is available in rural areas at a reasonable and affordable rate within Oregon. Monies collected are passed on to the Oregon Public Utility Commission.
• Federal Universal Service Charge: this charge is to ensure that basic telephone service is available in rural areas at a reasonable and affordable rates throughout the United States. The FCC imposes this charge on local telephone companies.
• FCC Access Charge: This charge is mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for access to the Public Switched Network. It is to help cover a local telephone companies fixed costs of operating and maintaining the local telephone network.
• Residential Service Protection Fund: this fee is used to provide telecommunications devices and relay services for Oregon residents with speech and/or hearing impairments. Monies collected are passed on to the Oregon Public Utilities Commission.
• E-911 State Tax: this fee is assessed on behalf of the State of Oregon to pay for 911 emergency dispatch services, regardless of whether a household has ever made a 911 call. Monies collected are passed onto the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Who has the cheapest long distance?

We are not permitted to say, however determining the cheapest long distance is based on individual calling patterns and the perceived value you receive from your long distance carrier. There are many long distance providers offering many different calling plans for domestic and international calls and we can provide you with a list of these carriers for you to contact to begin the process of setting up service. Check all the listings we have set up for long distance carriers.

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