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Frequently asked questions about taxes, surcharges, and regulatory fees on Plivo invoices.

What additional charges may appear on my invoice?

Your invoice may include additional charges based on service type and location:
ChargeDescription
Sales TaxState and local taxes based on service address
Telecom TaxTelecommunications-specific taxes
CCRFCarrier Cost Recovery Fee — fixed percentage on US voice, numbers, and Zentrunk usage
Regulatory FeesFederal communications program contributions
Carrier SurchargesFees imposed by US/Canadian carriers on SMS/MMS traffic

What is the Carrier Cost Recovery Fee (CCRF)?

CCRF is a pass-through mechanism for recovering federal regulatory costs, including:
  • Universal Service Fund contributions
  • Other telecommunications fees
This charge applies exclusively to US-originating or US-terminating calls.

What are carrier surcharges on messaging?

US and Canadian carriers levy surcharges on SMS and MMS communications. These fees vary depending on:
  • Mobile carrier
  • Message type (SMS vs MMS)
  • Number type (long code, toll-free, or short code)

How are taxes calculated?

Plivo determines applicable taxes using your billing address, including:
  • State and local sales taxes
  • Telecom taxes
  • Jurisdiction-specific charges
Update your billing address in Account Settings for accurate assessment.

Why does Plivo charge taxes?

Where Plivo has sufficient presence in a state, locality, or jurisdiction, we are required to collect applicable taxes and remit them to appropriate authorities. Sales tax functions as an indirect tax at the point of transaction — although Plivo pays initially, customers ultimately bear the burden per applicable law.

What taxes apply for India-based accounts?

Tax TypeDetails
GST18% charged on all invoiced amounts
GSTINRequired in account profile
Supply your GST registration details through the Console for proper account configuration.