If you’ve heard about the FCC shutting down traditional landline services, you might wonder, “Will this affect my business?” The short answer is yes, especially if you still rely on a fax machine, security system, or any other device tied to a copper phone line. Under FCC Order 19-72, telecom providers are no longer required to maintain or offer new POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) lines, a change quietly reshaping how small businesses communicate.
While replacing systems you’ve trusted for years can feel overwhelming, you’re not alone and have options. In this article, we’ll explain what FCC Order 19-72 means, why it’s happening, and, most importantly, how your business can easily adapt without losing the ability to fax, communicate, or operate smoothly.
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What Is FCC Order 19-72?
FCC Order 19-72, officially known as the 2019 US Telecom Forbearance Order, is a decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that allows major phone carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and others to phase out outdated copper-based telephone services, including traditional landlines, also known as POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service).
Starting in August 2022, these carriers were no longer required to provide new POTS lines or continue offering some wholesale voice services to competitors. This gave them the green light to retire aging copper networks and shift focus toward newer technologies like fiber-optic networks, VoIP (Voice over IP), and wireless services.
Why Is the FCC Phasing Out Traditional Landline Services
The short answer? Technology has moved on, and so has the market. The FCC argues that traditional landline services are expensive to maintain and less competitive. Copper networks are old, fragile, and costly for providers to keep running.
Today, most customers can access high-speed internet, VoIP, cable phone services, or mobile phones. Also, many modern communication services no longer depend on copper lines.
By removing these older obligations, the FCC encourages carriers to invest in modern IP-based networks that offer faster, more flexible, and often cheaper communication options.
What Does FCC 19-72A1 Telecom Forbearance Order Mean for Consumers and Businesses?
This is where it hits home for small businesses. If your business still uses a traditional fax machine, relies on alarm systems, elevator phones, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, or has backup POTS lines for emergencies, then you’re affected by this FCC order.
You may soon find that your service provider is either retiring your copper landline or asking you to migrate to VoIP or fiber. If they still maintain your old lines, you might be charged more than your previous plans.
This is especially concerning for businesses that rely on fax machines since most standalone fax machines were designed for POTS lines. Without copper lines, they may not function properly on VoIP or other digital alternatives without additional equipment.
How to Prepare for FCC Landline Shutdown Order 19-72
The good news is that you have options. Plus, there’s plenty of time to act now. Here’s how you can prepare:
- Check with your provider and determine if and when they plan to retire copper lines in your area.
- List every device in your business that still depends on a traditional landline, including your fax machine.
- Consider switching to an online fax solution. Also known as cloud faxing, online faxing is the easiest way to continue faxing without worrying about landline compatibility. It works over the internet, is HIPAA-compliant (for healthcare providers), and requires no physical fax machine.
- Evaluate VoIP-friendly alternatives. You can explore VoIP adapters or hybrid solutions if you still want to keep some devices on a line-based system. However, these may have limitations for certain applications, including faxing.
- Plan ahead to avoid scrambling when the copper retirement notice arrives. The best way to prepare is to have a transition plan in place now.
FCC Order 19-72 isn’t just telecom industry news. It will affect small businesses nationwide, especially those still relying on traditional landlines for everyday operations. The key is to start planning early and choose the best alternatives wisely.
iFax: A Landline-Free Fax Alternative
As copper lines disappear, there’s no need to abandon faxing altogether. You just need a better way to do it. That’s where iFax comes in.
With iFax, you can keep faxing without worrying about landlines, outdated hardware, or expensive telecom bills. Here’s why thousands of businesses trust iFax:
- No phone lines needed – fax directly over the internet, no POTS or VoIP needed
- HIPAA & GLBAA compliant – secure enough for healthcare, finance, legal, and more
- Easy to use – get started in minutes without the technical headaches of hidden fees
- Cost-effective – eliminate expensive phone lines and maintenance. Choose among flexible plans that scale with your business.
- Moden faxing tools – enjoy other features like electronic signatures, cloud storage integration, and real-time delivery tracking
Don’t wait until your landline is shut off. With iFax, you can make a smooth transition today. Sign up for a free trial now and start future-proofing your business.
