If you use AT&T for your local service you may notice a charge (AT&T hopes you don’t) for “minimum use” on long distance even if you don’t use long distance. From the FAQ on their site.

“The usage minimum is necessary because some of our customers use our services so infrequently that they do not cover the cost of providing them with basic service. The usage minimum helps us to continue to provide the high quality innovation and reliable service that you expect from AT&T. “

Of course this is bull crap. They could simply raise the price $5 on local service to recoup any losses, but instead they charge it on a service you don't use.

However it get's deeper than that. AT&T claims that the charge can be taken off IF you sign up for one of their long distance plans. So basically it's a form of extortion and nothing else.

I've been told that several States Attorney's in states that AT&T have coverage are actually looking into this charge to see if it's legal. I would imagine even if not illegal it's highly unscrupulous.