Radio License Holders May Face 5% Hike in Fees

Radio license holders may see regulatory fees rise after several years of decreases. The proposed 2026 FCC annual regulatory fees for commercial radio stations are set to increase by approximately 5% with proposed fees ranging from $395 for small-market Class D AM stations to as much as $25,000 for major market FM stations. The fees are based on population served and station class. For the smallest operators there is a silver lining as stations with a total regulatory fee liability of $1,000 or less for the year may be exempt.