Telephone & Data Systems Inc.

2015 Annual Report www.tdsinc.com 4787_TDS.indd   13/22/16   1:29 AMHONORING OUR FOUNDER   “ The concept I had in mind  was simple: bring together  a group of small, primarily rural, telephone companies whose skills, strengths and assets could be shared by all.”– LeRoy Carlson, 1989, TDS: The First  Twenty Years “A deep-rooted conviction of mine has always been that the customer is king.”– LeRoy Carlson, 1989, TDS: The First Twenty Years “Roy always has faith that ways will be found to accomplish the objectives. He places great confidence in people, and as a result, they accomplish things that they thought might not be possible.”– LeRoy T. (Ted) Carlson, Jr., President  and CEO – TDS“ The people who live in  these rural and suburban areas should have the same and equal access to the  full range of technological advances available today as those enjoyed by people who live in urban areas.”– LeRoy Carlson, 1979, TDS Annual ReportTDS celebrates the 100th birthday of our founder and chairman emeritus,  LeRoy (Roy) T. Carlson. His vision, leadership, values and business principles  set the foundation for the company that TDS is today. Roy’s belief in delivering exceptional customer service and the latest technology, and his unwavering commitment to the nation’s rural and suburban communities, are still the focus of our businesses; they provide the basis on which TDS will continue to grow our businesses to serve the needs of our customers, associates and shareholders. “ The key to harnessing  the business power and potential of communications technology is to respect and understand the people who use, develop and support it.”– LeRoy Carlson, 2002 KPMG Illinois High Tech Awards ceremony4787_TDS.indd   23/22/16   1:29 AMDear SHareHoLDerS

TDS’ mission is to provide outstanding communication services to 
our customers and meet the needs of our shareholders, our people, and 
our communities. In pursuing this mission, we seek to continuously grow 
our businesses, create opportunities for our associates and employees, 
and steadily build value over the long term for our shareholders.

Building on 2015 successes
At TDS we strive to differentiate ourselves from the 
national telecommunication giants by providing the 
best services and products together with exceptional 
customer service. We focus our efforts on America’s 
suburban and rural markets, including some of the most 
remote areas of the country. We have strengthened and 
expanded our high-quality networks and improved our 
data and communications service offerings. Combined 
with our customer-focused culture, our networks and 
service offerings are the foundation upon which we are 
growing and building value for our shareholders.

TDS businesses achieved signifi cant milestones in 2015:

• U.S. Cellular completed 4G LTE deployment.

• U.S. Cellular began Voice over LTE (VoLTE) trials. 

VoLTE will bring customer benefi ts, including enabling 
both voice and data to be delivered simultaneously 
to devices. 

• TDS Telecom continued to deploy fi ber technology 
in key markets, reaching 21% of its ILEC service 
addresses.

• OneNeck IT Solutions opened one and expanded 

another data center.

At TDS we strive to 
differentiate ourselves 
from the national 
telecommunications giants 
by providing the best 
services and products 
together with exceptional 
customer service.  

In a very competitive industry dominated by 
large players, we take a personal approach to our 
customers and to the communities in which we operate. 
Our prominent local presence in these markets is a 
competitive advantage. From sponsoring high school 
sports teams to staffi ng call centers in our markets, we 
have built local presence that allows us to know and 
better serve our customers and their changing needs. 

A further strength, that is an advantage, is that we have 
expanded our business into a diversifi ed portfolio of 
data and communications companies. We are growing 
and prospering by sharing expertise and capabilities 
from wireless, wireline, cable, and hosted and managed 
services to develop services for the customers in 
our markets.

telephone and data systems   1

U.S. Cellular exists to provide exceptional wireless 
communication services which enhance consumers’ lives, 
increase the competitiveness of local businesses, and 
improve the effi ciency of government operations in the 
mid-sized and rural markets we serve.  

As a mid-sized operator, we seek to use our relatively 
smaller size to our competitive advantage. This starts 
with a network that provides high-quality services 
in the “Middle of Anywhere” and is complemented by 
our associates, who take a more personal approach 
to knowing and serving our customers. This local focus 
is a unique differentiator that allows our associates to 
deliver outstanding customer service by treating 
customers like neighbors, not numbers.  

We achieved two important goals in 2015: we reignited 
customer growth and improved profi tability, laying the 
foundation for continued success.

Operating on a network quality foundation 
In 2015, we continued our investment in our network 
to provide more capacity to meet growing demands for 
data services and to provide better in-home coverage. 
With 4G LTE, we can provide our customers, even in the 
more remote rural areas, with all the benefi ts of our 
data services, also creating new growth opportunities 
for us. We secured 4G LTE roaming agreements with 
national carriers to further enhance our customers’ 
data experience.

Building on the strength of our newly completed 4G LTE 
network, we are further refi ning our network strategy and 
are planning to begin the multi-year rollout of VoLTE. 
We are designing VoLTE to bring even more quality 
products and services to our customers over the next few 
years, and increase our fl exibility to pursue attractive new 
revenue opportunities.

Reigniting customer growth 
Customer growth has been and will continue to be 
our number one priority. We are proud of our 2015 
accomplishments and excited about our prospects, 
even while acknowledging that adding new customers 
is increasingly diffi cult in the wireless industry.  

2   telephone and data systems 

We plan to grow by focusing on what our customers desire: 
competitive pricing and promotions that showcase our 
high-quality 4G LTE network. Supporting this effort, we are 
redesigning our stores into retail destinations that can 
enhance the customer experience and further boost sales. 
We successfully repositioned our company to grow our 
customer base again, even in the face of a very 
competitive wireless market. We saw a steady and 
meaningful improvement in our churn levels as we 
delivered high levels of customer satisfaction. We also 
continued to see former customers return to U.S. Cellular, 
representing approximately 20% of new accounts.

We continue to manage our expense levels, which 
contributed to stronger margins and growth in operating 
cash fl ow in 2015. Growing our customer base and 
revenue also is crucial to improving our margins and 
profi tability. We see opportunity for revenue growth with 
further smartphone penetration allowing us to monetize 
data usage. In addition, sales of our Shared Connect data 
plans create more devices per account. These plans, and 
the increasing use of connected devices like tablets by 
our customers, drive them to choose larger data buckets 
resulting in revenue growth. 

Completing the 4G LTE 
deployment was the 
culmination of a four-
year effort, and one of 
our major priorities for 
the year.  

The rapidly growing small and medium business (SMB) 
market and regional government agencies are a natural 
fi t for U.S. Cellular given our local focus. We have 
reorganized our sales channel and expanded our 
business pricing portfolio to include shared data and 
machine-to-machine offerings. As the needs of our SMB 
customers grow, we continue to expand our Business 
Solutions Product Catalog with products like 
international roaming, fl eet management applications, 
wireless priority service, and more.

TDS TeLeCoM

TDS Telecom seeks to own and offer our customers “the 
best data pipe” into their homes and businesses through 
a portfolio of broadband offerings. The TDS Telecom 
businesses—wireline, cable, and hosted and managed 
services—pursue communications and data market 
opportunities to provide compelling services, solutions, and 
products to both residential and commercial consumers. 

Wireline
In our wireline business, our targeted investments in 
fi ber technology have strengthened our triple play bundle 
offerings and resulted in higher average revenue per 
connection and low churn rates. Take rates for our IPTV 
service, TDS TV, have exceeded expectations in 2015, 
with 98% of all TDS TV customers subscribing to triple 
play bundles. We have now launched TDS TV in 27 markets, 
enabling 167,000 service addresses, which is roughly 
23% of our total footprint. By mid-year 2016, we intend 
to deepen our fi ber build to reach approximately 25% of 
our residential ILEC footprint.

In order to accelerate sales, we have continued our 
Fiberville marketing campaign, which markets high-speed 
broadband and TDS TV in new neighborhoods prior to 
build-outs. The campaign has been increasingly effective 
over the past year, as we have seen 10-20% market 
penetration in advance of turning up service.  

Cable
We are pleased with the progress of our cable business 
since we entered the industry in 2013. Cable is a natural 
extension of TDS Telecom’s original wireline business 
that enables us to leverage our existing expertise and 
infrastructure. Both wireline and cable share the common 
strategy to “own the best data pipe in the market.” As 
part of this broadband strategy, we plan to continue 
growing high-margin broadband services bundled with 
video and voice products.  

We are seeing our cable customer base continue to grow, 
accelerated by the attractive demographics in these 
markets, with household growth greater than the national 
average. We continue to evaluate additional strategic 
cable acquisitions that can further augment our growth 
and profi tability.

TDS Telecom seeks 
to own and offer our 
customers “the best 
data pipe” into their 
homes and businesses 
through a portfolio of 
broadband offerings. 

HMS
Our hosted and managed services (HMS) business, 
OneNeck IT Solutions, is another key element of our 
strategy to expand our business as it builds upon our 
core capabilities. As a communications service provider, 
we have foundational expertise in building and 
managing data networks and IT infrastructure. 

HMS plays an important role in TDS Telecom’s growth 
strategy. We are in the advanced stages of integrating 
the fi ve HMS businesses we acquired. In 2015, we 
completed both the construction of a new data center 
in Denver, Colorado and an expansion of another data 
center in Madison, Wisconsin. With this additional 
capacity up and running, combined with a highly 
motivated sales force trained on our extensive line of 
services and products, we are poised for more growth. 

While we saw higher equipment sales in 2015, there’s 
still progress to be made in increasing recurring sales 
revenues. We believe the HMS industry has attractive 
long-term growth potential as mid-market companies 
look to outsource their IT needs. 

telephone and data systems   3

TDS CorporaTe

Creating long-term value 
At the corporate level of TDS, we are continually  
looking to build value in the TDS portfolio of 
businesses. We intend to supplement organic growth 
through strategic acquisitions. Our long-term strategy 
calls for the majority of our capital to be reinvested  
in our operating businesses to strengthen their growth 
and competitive positions. We also return value to  
TDS shareholders through the payment of regular 
quarterly cash dividends and through share repurchases.  

In 2015, TDS primarily focused on investing in 
the networks that we believe will strengthen 
our competitive position and improve operating 
performance. Looking forward, we will continue to 
execute on our strategies to build strong, competitive 
businesses providing high-quality, data-focused 
products and services.  

Since August of 2013, TDS has invested $581.4 million, 
primarily through the acquisition of cable companies, 
and has returned $195.8 million to shareholders through 
payments of $147.0 million in cash dividends and  
$48.8 million in stock repurchases. 

Regulatory 
TDS and its subsidiaries are active participants in the 
public policy arena, engaging policy makers on issues 
that directly impact our customers and our businesses. 
We advocated in Washington that the government 
auction of new spectrum later this year be structured to 
benefit all carriers and not just the very largest ones.  
We are thoroughly considering our participation in this  
600 MHz auction. We also are advocating in support of 
programs to fund the ongoing needs for high-quality 
wireless and wired broadband communications in rural 
communities.

Upgrading our Annual Report 
We have changed the format of our annual report 
this year, revising the Management’s Discussion and 
Analysis section by adding charts and other graphics to 
more plainly and clearly present our business and our 
performance. We hope you find this information and 
format helpful and, as always, welcome your feedback. 

Honoring Our Visionary Founder  
and Looking Ahead 
As TDS begins its 48th year of business, we look forward 
to celebrating the legacy of our centenarian founder, 
LeRoy T. (Roy) Carlson. From our humble origins in 
rural Wisconsin to our nationwide presence today, we 
continue to operate and serve with Roy’s basic principle, 
that “the customer is king.” It is the foundation upon 
which we intend to continue building shareholder value 
with our growing portfolio of businesses.

Thank you 
Thank you to each of the associates and employees of 
the TDS companies for your dedication and innovation 
in providing outstanding services, products, and total 
customer experiences to each of our customers across 
the nation.

Thank you also to each of our shareholders and our debt 
holders for your continuing support of our long-term 
growth and development.

Sincerely,

LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.  
President and Chief  
Executive Officer 

Walter C. D. Carlson
Chairman of the Board 

4   telephone and data systems 

 
TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC.

ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015
Pursuant to SEC Rule 14a-3

The following audited financial statements and certain other financial information for the year ended
December 31, 2015, represent Telephone and Data Systems’ annual report to shareholders as required
by the rules and regulations of the Security and Exchange Commission (‘‘SEC’’).

The following information was filed with the SEC on February 24, 2016 as Exhibit 13 to Telephone and
Data Systems’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. Such information
has not been updated or revised since the date it was originally filed with the SEC. Accordingly, you are
encouraged to review such information together with any subsequent information that we have filed with
the SEC and other publicly available information.

Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.

Financial Reports Contents

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Executive Overview

Terms used by TDS

Results of Operations – TDS Consolidated

U.S. Cellular Operations

TDS Telecom Operations

Wireline Operations

Cable Operations

HMS Operations

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Contractual and Other Obligations

Consolidated Cash Flows

Consolidated Balance Sheet Analysis

Applications of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Other Items

Regulatory Matters

Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 Safe Harbor Cautionary Statement

Market Risk

Supplemental Information

Consolidated Statement of Operations

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Consolidated Balance Sheet – Assets

Consolidated Balance Sheet – Liabilities and Equity

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Reports of Management

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

Consolidated Quarterly Information (Unaudited)

Shareholder Information

Exhibit 13

Page No.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

11MAR201618343100

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (‘‘MD&A’’) should be read in
conjunction with the Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended
December 31, 2015. This report contains statements that are not based on historical facts, including the words
‘‘believes,’’ ‘‘anticipates,’’ ‘‘intends,’’ ‘‘expects’’ and similar words. These statements constitute and represent ‘‘forward
looking statements’’ as this term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward looking
statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or
developments to be significantly different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such
forward looking statements.

TDS uses certain ‘‘non-GAAP financial measures’’ throughout the MD&A. A discussion of the reason TDS uses these
measures and a reconciliation to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is included in the Supplemental
Information section within this MD&A.

General

Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (‘‘TDS’’) is a diversified telecommunications company that provides high-quality
telecommunications services to approximately 6 million customers nationwide. TDS provides wireless services through its
84%-owned subsidiary, United States Cellular Corporation (‘‘U.S. Cellular’’). TDS also provides wireline services, cable
services and hosted and managed services (‘‘HMS’’), through its wholly-owned subsidiary, TDS Telecommunications
Corporation (‘‘TDS Telecom’’). TDS’ segments operate almost entirely in the United States. See Note 18 — Business
Segment Information in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for summary financial information on each
business segment.

2015 Operating Revenues

2015 Adjusted EBITDA*

6%

3%

14%

77%

Wireless

Wireline

Cable

HMS

11MAR201618465399

3% 1%

22%

74%

Wireless

Wireline

Cable

HMS

11MAR201618464613

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

TDS Mission and Strategy

TDS’ mission is to provide outstanding communications services to its customers and meet the needs of its
shareholders, its people, and its communities. In pursuing this mission, TDS seeks to profitably grow its businesses,
create opportunities for its associates and employees, and steadily build value over the long-term for its shareholders.
Across all of its businesses, TDS is focused on providing exceptional customer experiences through best-in-class
services and products and superior customer service.

TDS’ long-term strategy calls for the majority of its capital to be reinvested in its operating businesses to strengthen their
competitive positions, while still returning value to TDS shareholders through the payment of a regular quarterly cash
dividend and share repurchases.

1

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Throughout 2015, as discussed below, TDS primarily focused on investing in the networks that are the backbone of its
commitment to provide outstanding communications services to its customers. TDS believes these investments will
strengthen its competitive position and improve operating performance. Looking ahead to 2016, TDS will look to build
shareholder value by continuing to execute on its strategies to build strong, competitive businesses providing
high-quality, data-focused products and services.

Invest in the business to improve returns and pursue initiatives that align with long-term strategies

Consistent with its strategy, TDS made significant investments in 2015 to improve the performance of its networks. U.S.
Cellular completed the rollout of the 4G LTE network giving customers faster data speeds on an even higher-quality
wireless network. U.S. Cellular also participated in Auction 97 indirectly through its limited partnership interest in
Advantage Spectrum L.P. (‘‘Advantage Spectrum’’). Advantage Spectrum was the provisional winning bidder of 124
licenses for an aggregate bid of $338.3 million.

At TDS Telecom, the wireline segment continued its targeted fiber deployment and now offers IPTV service in 27
markets. During 2015, TDS Telecom also worked to integrate cable acquisitions and continued efforts to improve
network quality and product offerings of previously acquired cable businesses. The HMS segment opened a new data
center in Denver, CO to expand its presence in the IT outsourcing market.

Return value to shareholders

Since August of 2013, TDS has invested $581.4 million, primarily through acquisition of cable companies and returned
$195.8 million to shareholders through payment of $147.0 million in regular quarterly cash dividends and $48.8 million of
stock repurchases. During 2015, TDS paid $61.2 million in regular quarterly cash dividends. TDS increased the dividend
paid to its investors by 5% in 2015 which marks the 41st consecutive year of dividend increases and in February 2016,
TDS increased its dividend per share from $0.141 to $0.148. There were no TDS and limited U.S. Cellular share
repurchases in 2015. There is no assurance that TDS will continue to increase the dividend rate or pay dividends and no
assurance that TDS or U.S. Cellular will make any significant amount of share repurchases in the future.

Annual Dividends Per TDS Share

Shares Repurchased
(Shares in millions)

$0.60

$0.50

$0.40

$0.30

$0.20

$0.10

$0.00

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2009

2013
2010
2015
11MAR201618464745

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2011

2014

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6

5

4

3

2

1

0

TDS

U.S. Cellular

11MAR201618465639
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Support growth initiatives through sound and disciplined financing strategies.

During 2015, U.S. Cellular sold $300 million in 7.25% senior notes and secured a $225 million term loan to fund its
operations, current and future spectrum purchases, growth in equipment installment plan receivables and capital
expenditures.

2

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Significant Financial and Operating Matters

The following is a summary of certain selected information contained in the comprehensive MD&A that follows. The
overview does not contain all of the information that may be important. You should carefully read the entire MD&A and
not rely solely on the highlights.

(cid:2) Net income attributable to TDS shareholders was $219.0 million in 2015, compared to a net loss of $136.4 million in
2014. The year-over-year improvement was attributable to several factors including (i) increased equipment revenues
bolstered by equipment installment plan activity; (ii) reduced cost of equipment sold due to fewer wireless equipment
sales transactions overall and lower cost per wireless unit sold; (iii) reduced selling, general and administrative
expenses; (iv) increased gains from sales and exchanges of businesses and licenses; and (v) non-cash losses on
impairment in 2014. Diluted earnings per share was $1.98 compared to a diluted loss per share of $1.26 one year
ago.

(cid:2) In March 2015, U.S. Cellular announced that it would discontinue its loyalty reward program effective September 1,
2015. All unredeemed reward points expired at that time and the deferred revenue balance related to such expired
points was recognized as service revenues. The amount of deferred revenue recognized upon discontinuation of this
program was $58.2 million.

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular completed license exchanges and the sale of towers outside of its operating markets. See Note 6 —

Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information
related to these transactions.

(cid:2) Total additions to Property, plant and equipment were $759.4 million, including expenditures to complete the network
rollout of 4G LTE, construct cell sites, increase capacity in existing cell sites and switches, outfit new and remodel
existing retail stores, enhance billing and other customer management related systems and platforms, perform network
upgrades and fiber expansion, and expand HMS data center facilities.

Terms Used by TDS

All defined terms in this MD&A are used as defined in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and additional
terms are defined below:

(cid:2) 4G LTE – fourth generation Long-Term Evolution which is a wireless broadband technology.

(cid:2) Auction 97 – An FCC auction of AWS-3 spectrum licenses that ended in January 2015.

(cid:2) Average Billings per Account (‘‘ABPA’’) – metric is calculated by dividing total postpaid service revenues plus
equipment installment plan billings by the average number of postpaid accounts by the number of months in the
period.

(cid:2) Average Billings per User (‘‘ABPU’’) – metric is calculated by dividing total postpaid service revenues plus

equipment installment plan billings by the average number of postpaid customers by the number of months in the
period.

(cid:2) Average Revenue per Account (‘‘ARPA’’) – metric is calculated by dividing total postpaid service revenues by the

average number of postpaid accounts by the number of months in the period.

(cid:2) Average Revenue per User (‘‘ARPU’’) – metric is calculated by dividing a revenue base by an average number of

customers by the number of months in the period. These revenue bases and customer populations are shown below:

(cid:2) Postpaid ARPU – consists of total postpaid service revenues and postpaid customers.

(cid:2) Service Revenue ARPU – consists of total postpaid, prepaid and reseller service revenues, inbound roaming and

other service revenues and postpaid, prepaid and reseller customers.

(cid:2) Broadband Connections – refers to the number of Wireline customers provided high-capacity data circuits via

various technologies, including DSL and dedicated internet circuit technologies or the Cable billable number of lines
into a building for high-speed data services.

(cid:2) Churn Rate – represents the percentage of the customers that disconnect service each month. These rates represent

the average monthly churn rate for each respective period.

3

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(cid:2) FCC – Federal Communications Commission

(cid:2) Gross Additions – represents the total number of new customers added during the period, without regard to

customers who terminate service.

(cid:2) IPTV Connections – represents the number of customers provided video services using IP networking technology.

(cid:2) ManagedIP Connections – refers to the number of telephone handsets, data lines and IP trunks providing

communications using IP networking technology.

(cid:2) Net Additions (Losses) – represents the total number of new customers added during the period, net of customers

who terminate service during that period.

(cid:2) Smartphone Penetration – is calculated by dividing postpaid smartphone customers by total postpaid customers.

(cid:2) Video Connections – generally, a home or business receiving video programming counts as one video connection.
In counting bulk residential or commercial connections, such as an apartment building or a hotel, connections are
counted based on the number of units/rooms within the building receiving service.

(cid:2) Voice Connections – refers to the individual circuit connecting a customer to Wireline’s central office facilities or the

Cable billable number of lines into a building for voice services.

(cid:2) VoLTE – Voice over Long-Term Evolution which is a technology specification that defines the standards and

procedures for delivering voice communication and data over 4G LTE networks.

(cid:2) Wireline Residential Revenue per Connection – is calculated by dividing total wireline residential revenue by the

average number of total wireline residential customers.

4

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — TDS CONSOLIDATED

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating revenues

U.S. Cellular . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All other1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$3,996,853
1,158,043
21,345

$3,892,747
1,088,312
28,379

$3,918,836
947,003
35,397

$ 104,106
69,731
(7,034)

3% $ (26,089)
6%
141,309
(25)%
(7,018)

Total operating revenues . . . . .

5,176,241

5,009,438

4,901,236

166,803

3%

108,202

Operating expenses

U.S. Cellular . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All other1 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,683,911
1,078,583
16,676

4,036,137
1,098,683
64,482

3,771,971
902,171
(8,265)

(352,226)
(20,100)
(47,806)

Total operating expenses . . . .

4,779,170

5,199,302

4,665,877

(420,132)

Operating income (loss)

U.S. Cellular . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All other1 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

312,942
79,460
4,669

(143,390)
(10,371)
(36,103)

146,865
44,832
43,662

Total operating income (loss) . .

397,071

(189,864)

235,359

Other income (expenses)

Equity in earnings of

unconsolidated entities . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . .
Gain (loss) on investments . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

140,076
38,783
–
(141,719)
391

131,965
16,957
–
(111,397)
115

132,714
9,092
14,547
(98,811)
(37)

Total other income (expenses)

.

37,531

37,640

57,505

Income (loss) before income

taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . .
Income tax expense (benefit)

434,602
171,992

(152,224)
(4,932)

292,864
126,043

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . .

262,610

(147,292)

166,821

456,332
89,831
40,772

586,935

8,111
21,826
–
(30,322)
276

(109)

586,826
176,924

409,902

(9)%
(2)%
(74)%

(8)%

>100%
>100%
>100%

>100%

6%
>100%
N/M
(27)%
>100%

–

>100%
>100%

>100%

(1)%
15%
(20)%

2%

7%
22%
>100%

11%

264,166
196,512
72,747

533,425

(290,255) >(100)%
(55,203) >(100)%
(79,765) >(100)%

(425,223) >(100)%

(749)
7,865
(14,547)
(12,586)
152

(19,865)

(1)%
87%
N/M
(13)%
>100%

(35)%

(445,088) >(100)%
(130,975) >(100)%

(314,113) >(100)%

Less: Net income (loss)

attributable to noncontrolling
interests, net of tax . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to

43,573

(10,937)

24,894

54,510

>100%

(35,831) >(100)%

TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . .
. .
Preferred dividend requirement

219,037
(49)

(136,355)
(49)

141,927
(49)

355,392
–

>100%
–

(278,282) >(100)%
–

–

Net income (loss) available to

common shareholders . . . . . .

$ 218,988

$ (136,404)

$ 141,878

$ 355,392

>100% $ (278,282) >(100)%

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . .

$ 759,368

$ 770,577

$ 909,660

$ (11,209)

(1)% $ (139,083)

(15)%

N/M – Percentage change not meaningful

1 Consists of corporate and other operations and intercompany eliminations.

2

In 2015 and 2013, TDS recognized an incremental gain compared to U.S. Cellular of $11.9 million on the Tower Sale and $53.5 million upon closing of
the Divestiture Transaction, respectively, as a result of lower asset basis in the assets disposed. In 2014, TDS recognized expenses of $20.2 million
related to exit and disposal activities due to a License Purchase and Customer Recommendation Agreement between U.S. Cellular and Airadigm. See
Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges for additional information related to these transactions.

5

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$6,000

$5,000

$4,000

$3,000

$2,000

$1,000

$0

All Other

TDS Telecom

U.S. Cellular

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618465519

2015-2014 Commentary

TDS’ 3% increase in operating revenues was driven by
Equipment sales revenues at U.S. Cellular due primarily to
an increasing number of customers choosing equipment
installment plans. Cable acquisitions completed in 2014
also contributed to the improvement.

2014-2013 Commentary

Cable and HMS acquisitions completed in 2013 and 2014
drove the 2% increase in TDS’s operating revenues in
2014. This was partially offset by a decrease in U.S.
Cellular’s operating revenues which experienced a decline
in retail service revenue and inbound roaming and an
improvement in Equipment sales revenue due primarily to
the implementation of equipment installment plans on a
broad basis in 2014.

Refer to individual segment discussions in this MD&A for
additional details on operating revenues at the segment
level.

Operating expenses

TDS’ operating expenses decreased by 8% from 2014. Expenses associated with ongoing operations of TDS,
specifically Cost of equipment and products, decreased due primarily to an overall lower average price per unit on a
fewer number of devices sold in the wireless operations. Additionally, effective cost management of Selling, general and
administrative expenses contributed to the decline in operating expenses. Operating cost improvements were partially
offset by additional expenses added to support the newly acquired cable operations in 2014. Further contributing to the
improvement was increased gains on divestiture and exchange transactions recognized in 2015. Such gains were
$282.8 million in 2015 and $128.8 million in 2014. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes
to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these gains.

TDS’ operating expenses increased by 11% from 2013 to 2014. Cable and HMS acquisitions completed in 2013 and
2014 partially drove the increase as well as an increase in Cost of equipment and products associated with higher cost
per wireless device as U.S. Cellular’s customers’ preferences shifted toward higher priced devices. Significant gains
recognized in 2013 related to divestiture and exchange transactions also contributed to the increased operating
expenses from 2013 to 2014. Such gains were $128.8 million in 2014 and $556.1 million in 2013. This was partially offset
by accelerated depreciation expense recognized as a result of the Divestiture Transaction in 2013 and a year-over-year
decrease caused by the NY1 and NY2 Deconsolidation in 2013. The NY1 and NY2 Deconsolidation and the Divestiture
Transaction are discussed in Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated Entities and Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures
and Exchanges, respectively, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Refer to individual segment discussions in this MD&A for additional details on operating expenses at the segment level.

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities represents TDS’ share of net income from entities in which it has a
noncontrolling interest and that are accounted for by the equity method. TDS’ investment in the Los Angeles SMSA
Limited Partnership (‘‘LA Partnership’’) contributed $74.0 million, $71.8 million and $78.4 million to Equity in earnings of
unconsolidated entities in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Interest and dividend income

Interest and dividend income increased due to imputed interest income recognized on equipment installment plans of
$33.9 million and $8.7 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 3 — Equipment Installment Plans in the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

6

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Gain (loss) on investments

In connection with the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation, TDS recognized a non-cash pre-tax gain of $14.5 million which was
recorded in Gain (loss) on investments in 2013. See Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated Entities in the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Interest expense

Interest expense increased from 2014 to 2015 due primarily to U.S. Cellular’s issuance of $275 million of 7.25% Senior
Notes in December 2014 and the $225 million Term Loan in July 2015. Interest expense increased from 2013 to 2014
due primarily to a decrease in capitalized interest related to network and systems projects.

Income tax expense

The effective tax rates on Income before income taxes and extraordinary items (‘‘pre-tax income’’) for 2015, 2014 and
2013 were 39.6%, 3.2% and 43.0%, respectively. The following significant discrete and other items impacted income tax
expense for these years:

2015 — The effective tax rate for 2015 is consistent with a normalized tax rate inclusive of federal and state tax. There
were no significant discrete items that impacted the rate.

2014 — The effective tax rate for 2014 includes tax expense of $38.5 million related to valuation allowances recorded
against certain state deferred tax assets, higher tax expense of $18.3 million due to the tax effects of a nondeductible
impairment of Goodwill, and a tax benefit of $10.8 million related to a release of valuation allowance on federal net
operating losses previously limited under loss utilization rules. The overall effective tax rate is lower due to the effect of
these items combined with the loss in 2014 in Income (loss) before income taxes.

2013 — The effective tax rate for 2013 includes tax expense of $14.9 million related to the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation
and the Divestiture Transaction, and a tax benefit of $5.5 million resulting from statute of limitation expirations. The NY1
and NY2 Deconsolidation and the Divestiture Transaction are discussed in Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated
Entities and Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges, respectively, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements.

See Note 4 — Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the effective
tax rate.

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax includes the noncontrolling public shareholders’
share of U.S. Cellular’s net income (loss), the noncontrolling shareholders’ or partners’ share of certain U.S. Cellular
subsidiaries’ net income (loss) and other TDS noncontrolling interests.

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax

21,775
3,119

24,894

U.S. Cellular noncontrolling public shareholders’
Noncontrolling shareholders’ or partners’

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38,230 $
5,343

(6,826) $
(4,111)

$

43,573 $

(10,937) $

7

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Earnings
(Dollars in millions)

$1,400

$1,200

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

($200)

($400)

$870 

$781 

$1,160 

Net Income
(Loss)

Adjusted
EBITDA*

$167 

$263 

($147)

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618464870

2015-2014 Commentary

Adjusted EBITDA increased due primarily to increased
revenues and decreased cash expenses in U.S. Cellular’s
operations. U.S. Cellular’s Loss on equipment (Equipment
sales less Cost of equipment sold) decreased
$291.5 million from 2014 to 2015 as a result of the
continued adoption of equipment installment plans, less
devices sold, and a lower average cost per device sold.
Net income (loss) increased from 2014 to 2015 due to the
same reasons as Adjusted EBITDA, and also due to an
increase in Gain on sale of business and other exit costs
in U.S. Cellular, and a Loss on impairment of Goodwill
recognized in the HMS segment in 2014.

2014-2013 Commentary

Adjusted EBITDA decreased due primarily to decreased
revenues and increased cash expenses in U.S. Cellular’s
operations. U.S. Cellular’s Service revenues declined due
to a decrease in the average retail customer base and a
decrease in Inbound roaming revenue, among other
factors. Net income (loss) decreased from 2013 to 2014
due to the same reasons as Adjusted EBITDA, and also
due to a decrease in both Gain on sale of business and
other exit costs and Gain on license sales and exchanges
in U.S. Cellular. In addition, a Loss on impairment of
Goodwill recognized in the HMS segment in 2014 further
decreased Net income from 2013 to 2014.

* Represents a non-GAAP measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

8

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

11MAR201607260845

U.S. CELLULAR OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OVERVIEW
U.S. Cellular owns, operates, and invests in wireless markets throughout the United States. U.S. Cellular is an 84%-
owned subsidiary of TDS. U.S. Cellular’s strategy is to attract and retain wireless customers through a value proposition
comprised of a high-quality network, outstanding customer service, and competitive devices, plans, and pricing, all
provided with a local focus.

OPERATIONS

U.S. Cellular headquarters, Chicago, IL

U.S. Cellular operations

13MAR201601440360

(cid:2) Serves approximately 4.9 million customers including 4.4 million postpaid and 0.4 million prepaid customers.

(cid:2) Operates in 23 states.

(cid:2) Employs approximately 6,400 employees.

(cid:2) Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

(cid:2) 6,297 cell sites including 3,978 owned towers in service.

SIGNIFICANT TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS
Technology and Support Systems:

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular continued to deploy 4G LTE as a result of U.S. Cellular’s strategic initiative to enhance its network. 4G
LTE now reaches 99% of postpaid customers and 98% of cell sites. The adoption of data-rich smartphones and
connected devices is driving significant growth in data traffic. At the end of the year, 72% of postpaid customers had
4G capable devices, with the LTE network handling 81% of data traffic. Also, U.S. Cellular began user trials related to
VoLTE technology to allow customers to utilize the LTE network for both voice and data services, and these trials are
anticipated to continue into 2016.

(cid:2) In 2015, U.S. Cellular spent $285.8 million in cash for license acquisitions, the majority of which came from U.S.
Cellular’s participation in Auction 97 indirectly through its limited partnership interest in Advantage Spectrum.

9

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Advantage Spectrum was the provisional winning bidder of 124 AWS licenses for an aggregate bid of $338.3 million,
after its expected designated entity discount of 25%. Advantage Spectrum’s bid amount, less the initial deposit
amount of $60.0 million paid in 2014, was paid to the FCC in March 2015. These licenses have not yet been granted
by the FCC. U.S. Cellular’s strategy is to continue to obtain interests in and access to wireless licenses in current
operating markets. This strategy will help ensure adequate spectrum to deliver a best-in-class network that meets the
growing capacity and speed requirements of U.S. Cellular customers.

Asset Management:

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular continued to pursue opportunities to monetize non-strategic assets to support investment in the business.
In December 2014, U.S. Cellular entered into an agreement with a third party to sell 595 towers and certain related
contracts, assets, and liabilities for $159.0 million in cash. The gain recognized was $3.8 million and $108.2 million in
2014 and 2015, respectively. This agreement and related transactions are referred to as the ‘‘Tower Sale.’’

(cid:2) Additionally, U.S. Cellular entered into various agreements to transfer certain non-operating licenses to third parties in
exchange for receiving licenses in operating markets and cash. In connection with these various agreements, U.S.
Cellular received cash totaling $145.0 million and recognized an aggregate pre-tax gain of $149.1 million in 2015.

(cid:2) In January 2016, U.S. Cellular entered into an agreement to purchase a 700 MHz A Block license for $36.0 million.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2016 pending regulatory approval. In February 2016, U.S.
Cellular entered into multiple agreements with third parties that provide for the transfer of certain AWS and PCS
spectrum licenses and approximately $30 million in cash to U.S. Cellular, in exchange for U.S. Cellular transferring
certain AWS, PCS and 700 MHz licenses to the third parties. The transactions are subject to regulatory approval and
other customary closing conditions, and are expected to close in 2016. Upon closing of the transactions, U.S. Cellular
expects to recognize a gain.

Products and Services:

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular continued to leverage competitive value-based pricing for its plans and services, including equipment
installment plan offerings. U.S. Cellular will continue to offer equipment installment plans in 2016. To the extent that
customers adopt these plans, U.S. Cellular expects an increase in equipment sales revenues. However, certain of the
equipment installment plans provide the customer with a reduction in the monthly access charge for the device; thus,
to the extent that existing customers adopt such plans, U.S. Cellular expects a reduction in retail service revenues and
ARPU.

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular launched iconic Samsung and Apple devices and expanded the portfolio of tablets and connected
devices in line with the strategic initiative to increase gross additions, reduce churn, and increase data usage.

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular continued to expand distribution through third-party national and on-line retailers. As a growing base of
customers purchase wireless service outside of corporate and agent owned locations, U.S. Cellular will continue to
explore new relationships with additional third-party retailers as part of the strategy to expand distribution.

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular also expanded its solutions available to business and government customers, including a growing suite

of machine-to-machine solutions across various categories. U.S. Cellular will continue to enhance its advanced
wireless services and connected solutions for consumer, business and government customers.

10

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

Retail Customer Composition
December 31, 2015

Postpaid Customer Results

8%

2013

2014

2015

92%

Postpaid

Prepaid

11MAR201618514709

Gross Additions

697,000

940,000

831,000

Net Additions (Losses)

(325,000)

31,000

111,000

Churn

1.8%

1.8%

1.4%

Postpaid customers –
end of period

4,267,000

4,298,000

4,409,000
12MAR201609462001

2015-2014 Commentary

2014-2013 Commentary

Postpaid customers comprised approximately 92% of
U.S. Cellular’s retail customers at December 31, 2015.
U.S. Cellular believes the increase in net additions in
2015 is a result of competitive products and services
priced to offer the best value to customers, improved
speed to market for product offerings, and expanded
equipment installment plan offerings. U.S. Cellular also
believes postpaid churn continued to decline from 2014
levels due to an improved customer experience and
strong retention programs. Total retail customers at the
period ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 were
4,796,000, 4,646,000 and 4,610,000, respectively.

Postpaid customers comprised approximately 93% of
U.S. Cellular’s retail customers at December 31, 2014.
Postpaid churn in 2013 and the first half of 2014 was
adversely affected by the billing system conversion in
2013; however it improved over the course of 2014.

11

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Quarterly Postpaid Churn Rate

2.29%

2.03%

1.91%

1.73%

1.71%

1.73%

1.59%

1.60%

1.48%

1.34%

1.41%

1.31%

2.50%

2.00%

1.50%

1.00%

0.50%

0.00%

3/31/2013

6/30/2013

9/30/2013

12/31/2013

3/31/2014

6/30/2014

9/30/2014

12/31/2014

3/31/2015

6/30/2015

Smartphone Penetration

2015-2014 Commentary

9/30/2015

12/31/2015

11MAR201618514433

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

3G

4G

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618515001

Smartphone penetration increased to 74% of the
postpaid handset customer base, up from 65% a year
ago.

The percentage of postpaid handset customers with
feature phones has continued to decrease from 35% in
2014 to 26% in 2015 and is expected to continue
declining as handset gross additions consist primarily of
smartphones. During the fourth quarter of 2015,
smartphones represented 91% of total handset sales.

Continued growth in revenues and costs related to data
products and services may result in increased operating
expenses and the need for additional investment in
spectrum, network capacity and network enhancements.

2014-2013 Commentary

Smartphone penetration increased to 65% of the
postpaid handset customer base, up from 53% a year
ago. This contributed to increased service revenues from
data.

12

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Postpaid ARPU/ABPU

Postpaid ARPA/ABPA

$57.78

$56.75

$54.31

$54.50

$59.74

Postpaid
ARPU

Postpaid
ABPU

$61

$60

$59

$58

$57

$56

$55

$54

$53

$52

$51

$150.07

$136.90

$135.61

$133.19

Postpaid
ARPA

Postpaid
ABPA

$154

$150

$146

$142

$138

$134

$130

$126

$122

$118

$120.92

2013

2014

2015

14MAR201602231864

2013

2014

2015

14MAR201602231739

2015-2014 Commentary

Postpaid ARPU decreased in 2015 due to industry-wide price competition, including discounts on shared data plans
provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the time of activation or
renewal partially offset by the continued adoption of smartphones and shared data plans. The increase in postpaid
ARPA is the result of increased postpaid connections per account driven by increased connected device penetration.

U.S. Cellular implemented equipment installment plans on a broad basis in 2014. These plans increase equipment sales
revenue as customers pay for their wireless devices in installments at a total device price that is generally higher than
the device price offered to customers in conjunction with alternative plans that are subject to a service contract.
Equipment installment plans also have the impact of reducing service revenues as many equipment installment plans
provide for reduced monthly access charges. In order to reflect the ARPU and ARPA trend for the impact of equipment
installment plans in 2014 and 2015, U.S. Cellular has also presented ARPU and ARPA plus average monthly equipment
installment plan billings per customer (ABPU) and account (ABPA), respectively. U.S. Cellular believes presentation of
these measures is useful in order to reflect the trends in total revenues per customer and account.

2014-2013 Commentary

The increases are a result of increased smartphone penetration, increased adoption of shared data plans, and the
special issuance of loyalty rewards points which negatively impacted these metrics in 2013, partially offset by discounts
on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the
time of activation or renewal.

13

(1)%
31%

3%

1%
(12)%
(6)%

(7)%
100%

–
(24)%

(196,836)
170,747

(26,089)

6,476
193,669
(85,481)

114,664
(140,753)

(197,784)
(9,137)

(5)%
(15)%
(3)%

(5)%
53%

(1)%

1%
19%
(5)%

3%
(29)%

(25)%
(30)%

87%

56%

7%

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
The Divestiture Transaction and the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation were consummated in the second quarter of 2013 as
further described in Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges and Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated
Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The information presented below includes the Divestiture
Markets and the NY1 & NY2 Partnerships for the portion of 2013 prior to the respective transactions.

Components of Operating Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Retail service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inbound roaming . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other

$2,994,353
191,801
164,277

$3,012,984
224,090
160,863

$3,165,496
263,186
166,091

$ (18,631)
(32,289)
3,414

(1)% $ (152,512)
(39,096)
(5,228)

(14)%
2%

Service revenues . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment sales . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,350,431
646,422

3,397,937
494,810

3,594,773
324,063

(47,506)
151,612

Total operating revenues . . . . . .

3,996,853

3,892,747

3,918,836

104,106

System operations (excluding

Depreciation, amortization and
accretion reported below)

. . . . .
Cost of equipment sold . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative .

Operating cash flow* . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and

accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
(Gain) loss on sale of business and
. . . . . . . . .

other exit costs, net

775,042
1,052,810
1,493,730

3,321,582
675,271

769,911
1,192,669
1,591,914

3,554,494
338,253

763,435
999,000
1,677,395

3,439,830
479,006

5,131
(139,859)
(98,184)

(232,912)
337,018

606,455
16,313

605,997
21,469

803,781
30,606

458
(5,156)

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(146,884)

(112,993)

(255,479)

(33,891)

Total operating expenses . . . . . .

3,683,911

4,036,137

3,771,971

(352,226)

(30)%

(9)%

142,486

264,166

(113,555)

(32,830)

(246,767)

(80,725) >(100)%

213,937

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . .

$ 312,942

$ (143,390)

$ 146,865

$ 456,332

>100% $ (290,255) >(100)%

Adjusted EBITDA* . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 852,152

$ 480,325

$ 615,204

$ 371,827

77% $ (134,879)

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . .

$ 533,053

$ 557,615

$ 737,501

$ (24,562)

(4)% $ (179,886)

(22)%

(24)%

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

14

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Total Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$4,500

$4,000

$3,500

$3,000

$2,500

$2,000

$1,500

$1,000

$500

$0

Service revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Charges for access, airtime, roaming, recovery of regulatory
costs and value added services, including data products
and services (‘‘retail service’’)

(cid:2) Charges to other wireless carriers whose customers use

U.S. Cellular’s wireless systems when roaming

(cid:2) Amounts received from the Federal USF

(cid:2) Tower rental revenues

Equipment revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Sales of wireless devices and related accessories to new

and existing customers, agents, and third-party distributors

Equipment

Other
Service

Inbound
Roaming

Retail
Service

2013

2014

2015

30MAR201620541628

Key components of changes in the statement of operations line items were as follows:

2015-2014 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Service revenues decreased as a result of (i) a decrease in retail service revenues driven by industry-wide price
competition, including discounts on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those
providing their own device at the time of activation or renewal; and (ii) reductions in inbound roaming revenue driven by
lower roaming rates. Such reductions were partially offset by an increase in the average customer base, continued
adoption of shared data plans, and the $58.2 million of revenue recognized in 2015 from unredeemed rewards points
upon termination of U.S. Cellular’s rewards program.

Revenue representing amounts received from the Federal USF for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $92.1 million,
which remained flat year over year. Pursuant to the FCC’s Reform Order (‘‘Reform Order’’), U.S. Cellular’s current Federal
USF support is being phased down at the rate of 20% per year beginning July 1, 2012. The Phase II Mobility Fund was
not operational as of July 2014 and, therefore, as provided by the Reform Order, the phase down was suspended at
60% of the baseline amount. U.S. Cellular will continue to receive USF support at the 60% level until the FCC takes
further action. At this time, U.S. Cellular cannot predict what changes that the FCC might make to the USF high cost
support program and, accordingly, cannot predict whether such changes will have a material adverse effect on U.S.
Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

Equipment sales revenues increased due primarily to an increase in average revenue per device sold driven by sales
under equipment installment plans, a mix shift to smartphones and connected devices and an increase in accessory
sales, partially offset by a decrease in the number of devices sold. Equipment installment plan sales contributed
$350.7 million and $190.4 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively.

System operations expenses

Maintenance, utility and cell site expenses increased $13.3 million, or 4%, reflecting higher support costs and utility
usage for the expanded 4G LTE network and the completion of certain tower maintenance and repair projects.

Expenses incurred when U.S. Cellular’s customers used other carriers’ networks while roaming increased $19.4 million,
or 11%, driven primarily by an increase in data roaming usage, partially offset by lower rates and voice volume.

15

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Customer usage expenses decreased $27.6 million, or 13%, driven by lower fees for platform and content providers, a
decrease in long distance charges driven by rate reductions, and a decrease in circuit costs from the migration to LTE.

U.S. Cellular expects system operations expenses to increase in the future to support the continued growth in cell sites
and other network facilities as it continues to add capacity, enhance quality and deploy new technologies as well as to
support increases in total customer usage, particularly data usage. However, these increases are expected to be offset
to some extent by cost savings generated by shifting data traffic to the 4G LTE network from the 3G network.

Cost of equipment sold

The decrease in Cost of equipment sold is a result of an 11% reduction in devices sold and a decrease in the average
cost per device sold driven by the lower cost of smartphones and connected devices. Cost of equipment sold in 2015
included $448.7 million related to equipment installment plan sales compared to $280.3 million in 2014. Loss on
equipment was $406.4 million and $697.9 million for 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling expenses decreased $20.5 million, or 3%, due primarily to lower agent and retail commission expenses driven by
fewer activations and renewals, partially offset by increased advertising expenses.

General and administrative expenses decreased $77.7 million, or 9%, due primarily to lower consulting expenses related
to the billing system and customer service operations, and lower rates for roamer administration.

Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense

Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense remained relatively flat year over year.

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

The decrease in Loss on asset disposals was due primarily to fewer write-offs and disposals of certain network assets.

(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net

The net gain in 2015 was due primarily to a $108.2 million gain recognized on the Tower Sale. The net gain in 2014 was
due primarily to $29.3 million of gain related to the continuing impact of the Divestiture Transaction. See Note 6 —
Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net

The net gains in 2015 and 2014 were due to license sales and exchanges with third parties. See Note 6 — Acquisitions,
Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

2014-2013 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Service revenues decreased as a result of a decrease in the average customer base (including the reductions caused
by the Divestiture Transaction and NY1 and NY2 Deconsolidation) and a reduction in revenues from the Federal USF. A
decrease in Inbound roaming revenues caused by reductions in inbound roaming rates and voice volumes partially
offset by higher inbound roaming data usage further contributed to the decrease in service revenues.

Such reductions were partially offset by increased revenues as a result of higher smartphone penetration and tower
rental revenues.

Equipment sales revenues increased due to an increase in the average revenue per device sold due primarily to the
implementation of equipment installment plans on a broad basis in 2014, and increases in the sales of connected
devices and accessories. This increase is partially offset by a decrease in sales of other device categories, primarily the
feature phone category, and the effects of the Divestiture Transaction and the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation. Equipment
installment plan sales contributed $190.4 million and $0.8 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively.

System operations expenses

Maintenance, utility and cell site expenses increased $26.6 million, or 8%, reflecting higher support costs for the
expanded 4G LTE network and completion of certain maintenance projects, partially offset by the impacts of the
Divestiture Transaction and NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation.

16

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Expenses incurred when U.S. Cellular’s customers used other carriers’ networks while roaming increased $5.8 million, or
3%, driven primarily by an increase in data roaming usage, partially offset by lower rates, lower voice usage, and the
impacts of the Divestiture Transaction and NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation.

Customer usage expenses decreased $25.9 million, or 11%, driven by impacts of the Divestiture Transaction and NY1 &
NY2 Deconsolidation, by lower fees for platform and content providers, a decrease in long distance charges driven by
rate reductions, and a decrease in circuit costs from LTE migration.

Cost of equipment sold

The increase in Cost of equipment sold was the result of a 22% increase in the average cost per device sold, which
more than offset the impact of selling fewer devices. Average cost per device sold increased due to general customer
preference for higher priced 4G LTE smartphones and tablets. Cost of equipment sold in 2014 includes $280.3 million
related to equipment installment plan sales compared to $0.8 million in 2013. Loss on equipment was $697.9 million and
$674.9 million for 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $85.5 million, or 5%, in 2014 due to the impacts of the
Divestiture Transaction, NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation and lower consulting expenses in 2014 related to the billing system
conversion in the prior year.

Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense

Depreciation, amortization and accretion decreased due to acceleration of Depreciation, amortization and accretion
resulting from the Divestiture Transaction. Accelerated depreciation resulting from the Divestiture Transaction was
$13.1 million and $158.5 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

The decrease in Loss on asset disposals was due primarily to fewer write-offs and disposals of certain network assets.

(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net

The net gain in 2014 and 2013 was due primarily to $29.3 million and $248.4 million of gain recognized related to the
Divestiture Transaction. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information.

(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges

The net gain in 2014 and 2013 was due to license sales and exchanges with third parties. See Note 6 — Acquisitions,
Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

17

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

12MAR201602143799

TDS TELECOM OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OVERVIEW
TDS Telecom operates in three reportable segments: Wireline, Cable and HMS. The overall strategy for the Wireline and
Cable businesses is to own the best pipe in the market in order to capitalize on data growth and the need for higher
broadband speeds. In addition, through its HMS business, TDS Telecom provides a wide range of Information
Technology (‘‘IT’’) services including colocation, dedicated hosting, hosted application management, cloud computing
services and planning, engineering, procurement, installation, sales and management of IT infrastructure hardware
solutions.

OPERATIONS

TDS Telecom headquarters, Madison, WI

Wireline operations

Cable operations

HMS operations

13MAR201603225344

(cid:2) Wireline and Cable serve approximately 1.2 million broadband, video and voice connections in 34 states.

(cid:2) Wireline operates 105 incumbent local exchange carriers (‘‘ILEC’’) in 25 states and competitive local exchange carriers

(‘‘CLEC’’) in 4 states.

(cid:2) Cable operates primarily in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Utah and Oregon.

(cid:2) HMS operates a total of eight data centers. It owns two data centers in Iowa, one each in Minnesota, Wisconsin,

Colorado and Oregon and it leases two data centers in Arizona.

18

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SIGNIFICANT TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS
Acquisition/ Divestiture:

(cid:2) TDS Telecom entered the cable business with the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Baja Broadband, LLC
(‘‘Baja’’) on August 1, 2013, which operates cable systems in markets primarily in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and
Utah. Baja was rebranded as TDS in 2015. On September 1, 2014, TDS Telecom expanded it cable operations with
the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of a group of companies operating as BendBroadband
(‘‘BendBroadband’’), headquartered in Bend, Oregon. As part of the agreement, a Tier III data center providing
colocation and managed services and a cable advertising and broadcast business were also acquired. The operations
of the data center are included in the HMS segment. The operations of the cable and the advertising and broadcast
businesses are included in the Cable segment. Through its Cable operations, TDS Telecom is expanding broadband
services while leveraging its core competencies in network management and customer focus. Additionally, TDS
Telecom will continue to pursue cable acquisitions that meet its criteria of having favorable competitive environments,
attractive market demographics and the ability to grow broadband penetration.

(cid:2) As a result of continually reviewing all of its operations, in 2015 and 2014, TDS Telecom divested certain ILEC markets
that it considered non-strategic. On an annualized basis these ILEC divestitures collectively represented approximately
1% of TDS Telecom 2015 Total operating revenues.

(cid:2) In 2013, TDS Telecom acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of MSN Communications, Inc. (‘‘MSN’’) for

$43.6 million in cash. MSN is an information technology solutions provider whose service offerings complement the
HMS portfolio of products.

Technology & Support Systems:

(cid:2) TDS Telecom’s Wireline segment continued to upgrade and expand its network to respond to the needs of its

customers for greater bandwidth and advanced technologies. Where economically feasible, TDS Telecom is deploying
fiber technology to provide internet speeds of up to 1 Gigabits per second (‘‘Gbps’’). In non-fiber markets, TDS
Telecom offers speeds reaching up to 50 Megabits per second (‘‘Mbps’’) using a bonded product.

(cid:2) TDS Telecom launched ARRIS’ Whole Home Solution branded as CatchTV, and TV Everywhere, and successfully

trialed managedIP services in certain cable markets. TDS Telecom has continued to make capacity investments in its
cable markets in line with its strategy to increase broadband penetration in those markets.

(cid:2) Beginning in 2014 TDS Telecom was able to offer a full suite of end-to-end IT solutions through its OneNeck IT

Solutions unified brand. These integration efforts continued in 2015 across all markets.

(cid:2) TDS Telecom launched a data center in Colorado and completed a Madison data center expansion in 2015. TDS

Telecom will continue to explore additional facility expansion, reconfiguration, and development opportunities in 2016
and beyond.

Products and Services:

(cid:2) In 2015, TDS Telecom continued rolling out IPTV, branded as TDS TV, to new markets in order to leverage its

high-speed network. TDS TV provides customers with connected-home DVRs, video-on-demand (‘‘VOD’’) and TV
Everywhere. TDS Telecom has now launched TDS TV in 27 markets, enabling 167,000 service addresses, which is
roughly 23% of its service addresses. Where TDS TV is not available, TDS Telecom partners with a satellite TV provider
to allow for triple or double play bundling.

(cid:2) TDS Telecom strives to be the preferred broadband provider in its ILEC residential markets. As such, TDS Telecom
continues to invest to offer higher speed data service. As of December 31, 2015, TDS Telecom was able to provide
broadband service to 94% of its ILEC physical access lines. At December 31, 2015, 65% of the service addresses in
its ILEC markets had 10 Mbps or faster service available and 36% of the service addresses in its ILEC markets had
25 Mbps or faster service available.

(cid:2) TDS Telecom continues to focus its commercial sales on managedIP. TDS managedIP is available in Wireline markets
that cover 88% of all commercial customers at December 31, 2015 and is also available in certain cable markets.

19

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
Components of Operating Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating revenues

Wireline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intra-company elimination . . . . .

$ 700,903
174,966
286,795
(4,621)

$ 716,422
116,855
258,732
(3,697)

$ 726,567
35,883
185,616
(1,063)

$ (15,519)
58,111
28,063
(924)

(2)% $ (10,145)
50%
80,972
11%
73,116
(25)%
(2,634)

(1)%
>100%
39%
>(100)

TDS Telecom operating

revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,158,043

1,088,312

947,003

69,731

6%

141,309

15%

Operating expenses

Wireline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intra-company elimination . . . . .

612,346
168,627
302,231
(4,621)

617,948
116,565
367,867
(3,697)

661,561
35,927
205,746
(1,063)

(5,602)
52,062
(65,636)
(924)

(1)%
45%
(18)%
(25)%

(43,613)
80,638
162,121
(2,634)

(7)%
>100%
79%
>(100)

TDS Telecom operating

expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,078,583

1,098,683

902,171

(20,100)

(2)%

196,512

22%

TDS Telecom operating income

(loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

79,460

$ (10,371)

$

44,832

Adjusted EBITDA* . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 306,029

$ 298,042

$ 249,474

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . .

$ 219,065

$ 208,063

$ 164,858

$

$

$

89,831

>100% $ (55,203) >(100)%

7,987

11,002

3% $

48,568

5% $

43,205

19%

26%

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$1,400

$1,200

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

HMS

Cable

Wireline

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618465276

Key components of changes in the statement of operations items were as follows:

2015-2014 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Operating revenues increased in 2015 due to $55.5 million from Cable acquisitions, offset by declines in Wireline
commercial and wholesale revenues of $19.3 million. HMS equipment sales increased $21.0 million.

20

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Total operating expenses

Operating expenses decreased in 2015 due to the impact of an $84.0 million non-cash goodwill impairment loss in 2014
offset by a $43.8 million increase from Cable acquisitions. HMS equipment cost of goods sold increased $16.6 million.

2014-2013 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Operating revenues increased in 2014 due primarily to $164.5 million from Cable and HMS acquisitions.

Total operating expenses

Operating expenses increased in 2014 due primarily to $160.6 million from Cable and HMS acquisitions and an
$84.0 million non-cash goodwill impairment loss, which was partially offset by a $43.6 million decrease in Wireline
expenses.

An $84.0 million loss on impairment of goodwill was recognized in the HMS segment during the quarter ended
September 30, 2014. See Note 7 — Intangible Assets in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more
information related to this impairment.

21

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

12MAR201602143799

WIRELINE OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OVERVIEW
TDS Telecom’s Wireline business provides broadband, video and voice services. These services are provided to
residential, commercial, and wholesale customers in a mix of rural, small town and suburban markets, with the largest
concentration of its customers in the Upper Midwest and the Southeast. TDS Telecom’s strategy is to offer its residential
customers broadband, video, and voice services through value-added bundling. In its commercial business TDS
Telecom’s focus is on small- to medium-sized businesses and its sales efforts emphasize advanced IP-based voice and
data services.

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

ILEC Residential Customers by Broadband Speeds Wireline Residential Revenue per Connection

100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%

>5 Mb

>10 Mb

>25 Mb

2013

2014

12MAR201601532774
2015

$43

$42

$41

$40

$39

$42.13 

$41.22 

$40.53 

2013

2014

12MAR201601533250
2015

Residential broadband customers are increasingly choosing higher speeds in ILEC markets with 47% choosing speeds
of 10 Mbps or greater, and 16% choosing speeds of 25 Mbps or greater, driving increases in average revenue per
connection.

22

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Residential Connections

Commercial Connections

400,000

350,000

300,000

250,000

200,000

150,000

100,000

50,000

0

Voice

Broadband

IPTV

2013

2014

2015

12MAR201601532646

250,000

200,000

150,000

100,000

50,000

0

Voice

Broadband

managedIP

2013

2014

2015

12MAR201601532238

TDS Telecom added 11,000 IPTV connections in 2015 with
expansion into nine new markets. Voice connections
continued to decline in 2015.

TDS managedIP connections grew in 2015; however, this
did not completely offset the decline in voice connections.

23

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW — WIRELINE
Components of Operating Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Service revenues

Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wholesale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 296,943
220,643
181,352

$ 293,304
229,306
191,976

$ 293,217
229,715
200,440

$

Total service revenues . . . . . .
Equipment and product sales . . . .

Total operating revenues . . .

Cost of services (excluding

depreciation, amortization and
accretion reported below)

. . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . .
Selling, general and administrative .

Operating cash flow* . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and

accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
(Gain) loss on sale of business and
. . . . . . . . .

other exit costs, net

698,938
1,965

700,903

254,879
2,212
193,850

450,941
249,962

165,841
5,094

714,586
1,836

716,422

256,878
2,336
189,956

449,170
267,252

169,044
2,091

723,372
3,195

726,567

266,635
3,831
220,097

490,563
236,004

170,868
130

3,639
(8,663)
(10,624)

(15,648)
129

(15,519)

(1,999)
(124)
3,894

1,771
(17,290)

1% $

(4)%
(6)%

(2)%
7%

(2)%

(1)%
(5)%
2%

–
(6)%

87
(409)
(8,464)

(8,786)
(1,359)

(10,145)

(9,757)
(1,495)
(30,141)

(41,393)
31,248

–
–
(4)%

(1)%
(43)%

(1)%

(4)%
(39)%
(14)%

(8)%
13%

(3,203)
3,003

(2)%
>100%

(1,824)
1,961

(1)%
>100%

(9,530)

(2,357)

–

(7,173) >(100)%

(2,357)

Total operating expenses . . .

612,346

617,948

661,561

(5,602)

(1)%

(43,613)

Total operating income . . . . . . . . .

$

88,557

$

98,474

$

65,006

$

(9,917)

(10)% $

33,468

Adjusted EBITDA* . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 252,150

$ 269,624

$ 237,568

$ (17,474)

(6)% $

32,056

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . .

$ 140,433

$ 135,805

$ 140,009

$

4,628

3% $

(4,204)

N/M – Not meaningful

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

24

N/M

(7)%

51%

13%

(3)%

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$800

$700

$600

$500

$400

$300

$200

$100

$0

Residential revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Broadband services, including fiber-based and digital and other

premium and enhanced data services

(cid:2) IPTV and satellite video

(cid:2) Voice services

Commercial revenues consist of:

(cid:2) TDS managedIP voice and data services

(cid:2) High-speed and dedicated business internet services

(cid:2) Voice services

Wholesale revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Network access services to interexchange carriers for the
origination and termination of interstate and intrastate long
distance phone calls on TDS Telecom’s network and special
access services to carriers and others

(cid:2) Amounts received from state and Federal USF

Wholesale

Commercial

Residential

2013

2014

2015

13MAR201603060553

Key components of changes in the statement of operations items were as follows:

2015-2014 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Residential revenues increased in 2015 as growth in data and IPTV more than offset the decline in legacy voice services.
A 2% increase in average revenue per residential connection driven by price increases for broadband and video
services, growth in customers opting for faster broadband speeds and growth in customers selecting higher-tier IPTV
packages increased revenues $1.3 million. IPTV average connections grew 53% increasing revenues $9.4 million, while
average legacy voice connections declined by 4% decreasing revenues by $4.9 million.

Commercial revenues decreased in 2015 as declining legacy voice and data connections reduced revenues
$13.9 million, while 8% growth in average managedIP connections increased commercial revenues $5.5 million.

In 2015, TDS Telecom received $74.6 million in wholesale revenues under Federal USF programs. At this time, TDS
Telecom cannot predict what changes that the FCC might make to the USF high cost support program and, accordingly,
cannot predict whether such changes will have a material adverse effect on TDS Telecom’s business, financial condition
or results of operations.

Wholesale revenues decreased in 2015 due primarily to a $4.4 million reduction in revenues received through inter-state
and intra-state regulatory support mechanisms and $1.6 million due to an 11% reduction in intra-state minutes-of-use.

Cost of services

Cost of services decreased in 2015 due primarily to $10.8 million in reduced costs of provisioning circuits, purchasing
unbundled network elements and providing long-distance services, offset by $7.2 million in increased charges related to
the growth in IPTV.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased in 2015 due to $3.8 million of employee-related expenses and a
$2.0 million increase in Federal USF contribution expense.

Gain on sale of business and other exit costs, net

Divestitures of certain Wireline companies resulted in a Gain on sale of business and other exit costs, net in 2015 and
2014.

25

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

2014-2013 Commentary

Total operating revenues

Residential revenues were relatively unchanged from the prior year. Legacy voice connections declined by 5%,
decreasing revenues by $7.1 million, while IPTV connections grew 73% increasing revenues $6.6 million. A 1% increase
in average revenue per residential connection driven by price increases for broadband services, growth in customers
opting for faster broadband speeds and growth in customers selecting higher-tier IPTV packages increased revenues
$1.8 million.

Commercial revenues were relatively unchanged from the prior year. Decreases in revenue from declining legacy voice
and data connections exceeded increases in revenues from a 19% growth in average managedIP connections by
$3.1 million. A 1% increase in average revenue per connection driven by price increases on legacy voice and data
services and managedIP customers moving to higher speed data services increased commercial revenues $2.8 million.

Wholesale revenues decreased 4% in 2014. Revenues received through inter-state and intra-state regulatory support
mechanisms decreased $6.9 million. Wholesale revenues declined $2.7 million due to a 10% reduction in intra-state
minutes-of-use.

Cost of services

Costs of providing long-distance services, provisioning circuits and purchasing unbundled network elements decreased
by $9.8 million and employee expenses decreased by $5.0 million due primarily to reductions in employees. Charges
related to the growth in IPTV increased cost of services $4.5 million.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

The decrease of selling, general and administrative expenses in 2014 was due to cost control efforts. Employee
expenses decreased $18.1 million due primarily to reductions in employees, and consulting and IT maintenance charges
decreased $2.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively. Federal USF charges decreased $3.0 million.

26

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

31MAR201601464080

CABLE OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OVERVIEW
TDS Telecom entered the cable business with the acquisition of Baja on August 1, 2013 and the acquisition of
BendBroadband on September 1, 2014. TDS Telecom’s strategy is to expand its broadband services while leveraging its
core competencies in network management and customer focus. TDS Telecom seeks to be the leading provider of
broadband and video services in its targeted markets.

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

Market Penetration

Cable Connections

Broadband

36%

Video

33%

Voice

17%
11MAR201618514268

140,000

120,000

100,000

80,000

60,000

40,000

20,000

0

Broadband

Video

Voice

Market Penetration is calculated by dividing
the number of customer connections by the
service addresses passed.

Cable connections grew 5% in 2015 with increases in broadband and voice outpacing
declines in video. The growth in 2014 was due primarily to the acquisition of
BendBroadband.

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618514135

27

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW — CABLE
Components of Operating Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

20142

20131

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Service revenues

Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial

$138,377
36,152

$ 93,985
22,870

$ 29,016
6,867

$ 44,392
13,282

47% $ 64,969
58%
16,003

Total service revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment and product sales . . . . . . . . . . . .

174,529
437

116,855
–

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . .

174,966

116,855

Cost of services (excluding depreciation,

amortization and accretion reported below) . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

78,758
169
53,738

132,665
42,301
35,271
691

54,265
–
36,175

90,440
26,415
23,643
2,482

Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . .

168,627

116,565

Total operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

6,339

$

290

Adjusted EBITDA* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 42,341

$ 26,422

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 51,573

$ 35,640

35,883
–

35,883

17,274
–
11,054

28,328
7,555
7,571
28

35,927

57,674
437

58,111

24,493
169
17,563

42,225
15,886
11,628
(1,791)

52,062

49%
N/M

50%

45%
N/M
49%

47%
60%
49%
(72)%

>100%
>100%

>100%
N/M

80,972
–

80,972

>100%

36,991
–
25,121

62,112
18,860
16,072
2,454

>100%
N/M
>100%

>100%
>100%
>100%
>100%

45%

80,638

>100%

$

$

$

(44)

$

6,049

>100% $

334

>100%

7,557

$ 15,919

60% $ 18,865

>100%

8,375

$ 15,933

45% $ 27,265

>100%

N/M – Not meaningful

1 Represents the operations of Baja from August 1, 2013 (date of acquisition) to December 31, 2013.

2 Represents the operations of Baja for twelve months and BendBroadband from September 1, 2014 (date of acquisition) to December 31, 2014.

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$200

$180

$160

$140

$120

$100

$80

$60

$40

$20

$0

Residential revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Broadband services utilizing DOCSIS 3.0 technology for

high-speed internet, security and support services

(cid:2) Video services including premium programming in HD,

multi-room and TV Everywhere offerings

(cid:2) Voice services

Commercial

Residential

Commercial revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Broadband and VoIP services

(cid:2) Voice services

(cid:2) Video services

2013

2014

2015

11MAR201618514574

28

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Key components of changes in the statement of operations items were as follows:

2015-2014 Commentary

Changes in operating revenues and operating expenses in 2015 are due primarily to acquisitions. Acquisitions
contributed $55.5 million to operating revenues. Cable revenues grew 2% excluding acquisitions due primarily to an
increase in broadband and voice connections. Acquisitions contributed $43.8 million to operating expenses. The
remaining increase is due to higher advertising, plant maintenance and programming content costs.

2014-2013 Commentary

Changes in operating revenues and operating expenses in 2014 are due primarily to acquisitions. Acquisitions
contributed $79.4 million to operating revenues. Cable revenues grew 5% excluding acquisitions. Acquisitions contributed
$75.5 million to operating expenses. The remaining increase is due to higher programming content costs.

29

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

12MAR201610541045

HMS OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Under TDS Telecom’s OneNeck IT Solutions brand, TDS Telecom offers a full-suite of IT solutions ranging from
equipment resale to full management and hosting of a customer’s IT infrastructure and applications. The goal of HMS
operations is to create, deliver, and support a platform of IT products and services tailored for mid-market business
customers.

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW — HMS
Components of Operating Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2015 vs. 2014

2014 vs. 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Service revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment and product sales . . . . . . . .

$ 116,810
169,985

$ 109,766
148,966

$ 94,875
90,741

$

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . . .

286,795

258,732

185,616

Cost of services (excluding depreciation,
amortization and accretion reported
below)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . .

Operating cash flow* . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . .
. . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

85,163
142,927
47,104

275,194
11,601
26,948
–
89

77,392
126,362
53,020

256,774
1,958
26,912
84,000
181

60,423
75,991
44,945

181,359
4,257
24,262
–
125

7,044
21,019

28,063

7,771
16,565
(5,916)

18,420
9,643
36
(84,000)
(92)

6% $ 14,891
58,225

14%

11%

73,116

10%
13%
(11)%

7%
>100%
–
N/M
(51)%

16,969
50,371
8,075

75,415
(2,299)
2,650
84,000
56

Total operating expenses . . . . . . . .

302,231

367,867

205,746

(65,636)

(18)%

162,121

16%
64%

39%

28%
66%
18%

42%
(54)%
11%
N/M
45%

79%

Total operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . .

$ (15,436)

$(109,135)

$ (20,130)

$ 93,699

86% $ (89,005) >(100)%

Adjusted EBITDA* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 11,538

$

1,996

$

4,349

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 27,059

$ 36,618

$ 16,474

$

$

9,542

>100% $ (2,353)

(54)%

(9,559)

(26)% $ 20,144

>100%

N/M – Not meaningful

* Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to Supplemental Information within this MD&A for a reconciliation of this measure.

30

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Revenues
(Dollars in millions)

$350

$300

$250

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

Service revenues consist of:

(cid:2) Cloud and hosting solutions

(cid:2) Managed services

(cid:2) Enterprise Resource Planning (‘‘ERP’’) application

Equipment

Service

management

(cid:2) Professional services

(cid:2) Co-location services

(cid:2) IT hardware maintenance services

Equipment revenues consist of:

(cid:2) IT hardware sales

2013

2014

2015

12MAR201601532511

Key components of changes in the statement of operations items were as follows:

2015-2014 Commentary

Growth in recurring services and increases in professional services and maintenance resulted in an increase in Service
revenues in 2015. Equipment and product sales revenues from sales of IT infrastructure hardware solutions increased in
2015 due primarily to higher spending by existing customers. There was a corresponding increase in Cost of equipment
and products and Cost of services needed to support revenue growth. Selling, general and administrative expenses
decreased due to efficiency improvements.

2014-2013 Commentary

Increases in operating revenues and operating expenses in 2014 are due primarily to acquisitions. Acquisitions
contributed $85.1 million to operating revenues. Increases in Equipment and product sales revenues were partially offset
by $15.4 million in lower spending by existing customers. Acquisitions contributed $85.1 million to operating expenses.
Increases in Cost of equipment and products were partially offset by $12.2 million reduced spending on equipment by
existing customers.

As a result of interim testing performed during the third quarter of 2014, TDS determined the carrying value of the HMS
goodwill exceeded the implied fair value of HMS goodwill. As a result, an $84.0 million impairment loss was recognized.

31

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources of Liquidity

TDS believes that existing cash and investment balances, funds available under its revolving credit facilities, and
expected cash flows from operating and investing activities provide liquidity for TDS to meet its normal day-to-day
operating needs and debt service requirements for the coming year.

TDS and its subsidiaries operate capital-intensive businesses. TDS has used internally-generated funds and also has
obtained substantial funds from external sources for general corporate purposes. In the past, TDS’ existing cash and
investment balances, funds available under its revolving credit facilities, funds from other financing sources, including a
term loan and other long-term debt, and cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, including sales of
assets or businesses, provided sufficient liquidity and financial flexibility for TDS to meet its normal day-to-day operating
needs and debt service requirements, to finance the build-out and enhancement of markets and to fund acquisitions.
There is no assurance that this will be the case in the future. It may be necessary from time to time to increase the size
of the existing revolving credit facilities, to put in place new credit facilities, or to obtain other forms of financing in order
to fund potential expenditures. TDS’ liquidity would be adversely affected if, among other things, TDS is unable to obtain
short or long-term financing on acceptable terms, TDS makes spectrum license purchases in FCC auctions or from
other parties, the LA Partnership does not resume or reduces distributions compared to prior historical levels and/or ETC
and/or other regulatory support payments continue to decline. In addition, although sales of assets or businesses by
TDS have been an important source of liquidity for TDS in recent periods, TDS does not expect a similar level of such
sales in the future, which will reduce a source of liquidity for TDS. In recent years, TDS’ credit rating has declined to
sub-investment grade.

In certain recent periods, TDS has incurred negative free cash flow (defined as Cash flows from operating activities less
Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment) and this will continue in the future if operating results do not
improve. TDS currently expects to have negative free cash flow in 2016. TDS may require substantial additional capital
for, among other uses, funding day-to-day operating needs, working capital, acquisitions of providers of wireless or
wireline telecommunications services, cable markets, IT services or other businesses, spectrum license or system
acquisitions, system development and network capacity expansion, debt service requirements, the repurchase of shares,
the payment of dividends, or making additional investments. There can be no assurance that sufficient funds will
continue to be available to TDS or its subsidiaries on terms or at prices acceptable to TDS. Insufficient cash flows from
operating activities, changes in its credit ratings, defaults of the terms of debt or credit agreements, uncertainty of
access to capital, deterioration in the capital markets, reduced regulatory capital at banks which in turn limits their ability
to borrow and lend, other changes in the performance of TDS or in market conditions or other factors could limit or
restrict the availability of financing on terms and prices acceptable to TDS, which could require TDS to reduce its
acquisition, capital expenditure and business development programs, reduce the acquisition of spectrum licenses,
and/or reduce or cease share repurchases and/or the payment of dividends. TDS cannot provide assurances that
circumstances that could have a material adverse effect on its liquidity or capital resources will not occur. Any of the
foregoing would have an adverse impact on TDS’ businesses, financial condition or results of operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and money market investments. The primary objective of TDS’ Cash and cash
equivalents investment activities is to preserve principal. Cash held by U.S. Cellular is for its operational needs and
acquisition, capital expenditure and business development programs. TDS does not have direct access to U.S. Cellular
cash unless U.S. Cellular pays a dividend on its common stock. U.S. Cellular has no current intention to pay a dividend
to its shareholders.

32

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

TDS Cash and Cash Equivalents
(Dollars in millions)

$1,200

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

At December 31, 2015, TDS’ consolidated cash and
cash equivalents totaled $984.6 million. The majority of
TDS’ Cash and cash equivalents was held in bank
deposit accounts and in money market funds that invest
exclusively in U.S. Treasury Notes or in repurchase
agreements fully collateralized by such obligations. TDS
monitors the financial viability of the money market funds
and direct investments in which it invests and believes
that the credit risk associated with these investments is
low.

U.S. Cellular

TDS Telecom , TDS
Corporate & Other

2013

2014

2015

12MAR201601533026

Financing

Revolving Credit Facilities

TDS (exclusive of facilities held by U.S. Cellular) and U.S. Cellular have revolving credit facilities available for general
corporate purposes including spectrum purchases and capital expenditures, with a maximum borrowing capacity of
$400 million and $300 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the unused capacity under these agreements was
$399.4 million and $282.5 million, respectively. Neither TDS nor U.S. Cellular borrowed or repaid any cash amounts
under their revolving credit facilities in 2015, and had no cash borrowings outstanding under their revolving credit
facilities as of December 31, 2015. The continued availability of the revolving credit facilities requires TDS and U.S.
Cellular to comply with certain negative and affirmative covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and make
representations regarding certain matters at the time of each borrowing. TDS and U.S. Cellular believe that they were in
compliance as of December 31, 2015 with all of the financial and other covenants and requirements set forth in their
revolving credit facilities.

See Note 11 — Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the revolving
credit facilities.

Term Loan

In January 2015, U.S. Cellular entered into a senior term loan credit facility. In July 2015, U.S. Cellular borrowed the full
amount of $225 million available under this facility in two separate draws. Principal reductions will be due and payable in
quarterly installments of $2.8 million beginning in March 2016 through December 2021, and the remaining unpaid
balance will be due and payable in January 2022. This facility was entered into for general corporate purposes, including
working capital, spectrum purchases and capital expenditures.

The continued availability of the term loan facility requires U.S. Cellular to comply with certain negative and affirmative
covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and make representations regarding certain matters at the time of each
borrowing, that are substantially the same as those in the U.S. Cellular revolving credit facility described above. TDS
believes that U.S. Cellular was in compliance at December 31, 2015 with all of the financial and other covenants and
requirements set forth in the term loan facility.

See Note 11 — Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Financial Covenants

As noted above, The TDS and U.S. Cellular revolving credit facilities and the U.S. Cellular senior term loan facility require
TDS or U.S. Cellular, as applicable, to comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants, including certain financial
covenants. In particular, under these agreements, as amended, beginning July 1, 2014, TDS and U.S. Cellular are
required to maintain the Consolidated Leverage Ratio at a level not to exceed 3.75 to 1.00 for the period of the four
fiscal quarters most recently ended (this was 3.00 to 1.00 prior to July 1, 2014). The maximum permitted Consolidated

33

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Leverage Ratio decreases beginning January 1, 2016 from 3.75 to 3.50, with further decreases effective July 1, 2016 and
January 1, 2017 (and will return to 3.00 to 1.00 at that time). TDS and U.S. Cellular believe they were in compliance at
December 31, 2015 with all such covenants. However, depending on TDS and U.S. Cellular’s future financial
performance, there is a risk that TDS and/or U.S. Cellular could fail to satisfy the financial covenants in the future. If TDS
or U.S. Cellular breach a financial or other covenant of any of these agreements, it would result in a default under that
agreement, and could involve a cross-default under other debt instruments. This could in turn cause the affected lenders
to accelerate the repayment of principal and accrued interest on any outstanding debt under such agreements and, if
they choose, terminate the facility. If appropriate, TDS and U.S. Cellular may request the applicable lender for an
amendment of financial covenants in the TDS and U.S. Cellular revolving credit facility and the U.S. Cellular term loan
facility, in order to provide additional financial flexibility to TDS and U.S. Cellular, and may also seek other changes to
such facilities. There is no assurance that the lenders will agree to any amendments. If the lenders agree to
amendments, this may result in additional payments or higher interest rates payable to the lenders and/or additional
restrictions. Restrictions in such debt instruments may limit TDS’ operating and financial flexibility.

Other Long-Term Financing

TDS and U.S. Cellular each have an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 to issue senior or subordinated
debt securities. The proceeds from any such issuances may be used for general corporate purposes including: the
possible reduction of other short-term or long-term debt, spectrum purchases, and capital expenditures; in connection
with acquisition, construction and development programs; for working capital; to provide additional investments in
subsidiaries; or the repurchase of shares. The TDS shelf registration permits TDS to issue at any time and from time to
time senior or subordinated debt securities in one or more offerings in an indeterminate amount. The U.S. Cellular shelf
registration statement permits U.S. Cellular to issue at any time and from time to time senior or subordinated debt
securities in one or more offerings, up to the amount registered. The ability of TDS or U.S. Cellular to complete an
offering pursuant to such shelf registration statements is subject to market conditions and other factors at the time.

In November 2015, U.S. Cellular issued $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due in 2064 for general corporate purposes
including spectrum purchases, reducing the available amount on U.S. Cellular’s shelf registration statement from
$500 million to $200 million. U.S. Cellular has the authority to replenish this shelf registration statement back to
$500 million.

TDS believes that it and its subsidiaries were in compliance as of December 31, 2015 with all covenants and other
requirements set forth in its long-term debt indentures. TDS and U.S. Cellular have not failed to make nor do they expect
to fail to make any scheduled payment of principal or interest under such indentures.

The long-term debt principal payments due for the next five years represent less than 3% of the total gross long-term
debt obligation at December 31, 2015. Refer to Market Risk — Long-Term Debt for additional information regarding
required principal payments and the weighted average interest rates related to TDS’ Long-term debt.

TDS and U.S. Cellular, at their discretion, may from time to time seek to retire or purchase their outstanding debt through
cash purchases and/or exchanges for other securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions,
tender offers, exchange offers or otherwise. Such repurchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market
conditions, liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.

See Note 11 — Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on long-term
financing.

Credit Ratings

In certain circumstances, TDS’ and U.S. Cellular’s interest cost on their various facilities may be subject to increase if
their current credit ratings from nationally recognized credit rating agencies are lowered, and may be subject to
decrease if the ratings are raised. The facilities do not cease to be available nor do the maturity dates accelerate solely
as a result of a downgrade in TDS’ or U.S. Cellular’s credit rating. However, downgrades in TDS’ or U.S. Cellular’s credit
rating could adversely affect their ability to renew the facilities or obtain access to other credit facilities in the future.

34

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

TDS and U.S. Cellular are rated at sub-investment grade. TDS and U.S. Cellular’s credit ratings as of December 31,
2015, and the dates such ratings were issued/re-affirmed were as follows:

Rating Agency

Moody’s (TDS) (re-affirmed November 2015)
Moody’s (U.S. Cellular) (re-affirmed November 2015)
Standard & Poor’s (re-affirmed November 2015)
Fitch Ratings (re-affirmed August 2015)

Capital Requirements

Rating

Outlook

— negative outlook
Ba2
— negative outlook
Ba1
— stable outlook
BB
BB+ — stable outlook

The discussion below is intended to highlight some of the significant cash outlays expected during 2016 and beyond
and to highlight the spending incurred in prior years for these items. This discussion does not include cash required to
fund normal operations, and is not a comprehensive list of capital requirements. Significant cash requirements that are
not routine or in the normal course of business could arise from time to time.

Capital Expenditures

TDS makes substantial investments to acquire wireless licenses and properties and to construct and upgrade
telecommunications networks and facilities to remain competitive and as a basis for creating long-term value for
shareholders. In recent years, rapid changes in technology and new opportunities (such as 4G LTE technology in the
Wireless business and fiber in the Wireline business) have required substantial investments in potentially revenue-
enhancing and cost-reducing upgrades to TDS’ networks to remain competitive.

35

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Capital expenditures (i.e., additions to property, plant and equipment and system development expenditures), which
include the effects of accruals and capitalized interest, in 2015, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

Capital Expenditures
(Dollars in millions)

$1,000

$900

$800

$700

$600

$500

$400

$300

$200

$100

$0

Corporate
and Other

HMS

Cable

Wireline

U.S. Cellular

2013

2014

2015

31MAR201601273856

In 2015, U.S. Cellular completed its deployment of 4G
LTE technology in certain markets and TDS Telecom
continued its fiber deployment and completed its
expansion of certain HMS data center facilities.

U.S. Cellular’s capital expenditures for 2016 are expected
to be approximately $500 million. These expenditures are
expected to be for the following general purposes:

(cid:2) Expand and enhance network coverage, including

construction of a new regional connectivity center and
providing additional capacity to accommodate
increased network usage, principally data usage, by
current customers;

(cid:2) Deploy VoLTE technology in certain markets;

(cid:2) Expand and enhance the retail store network; and

(cid:2) Develop and enhance office systems.

TDS Telecom’s capital expenditures for 2016 are
expected to be approximately $180 million. These
expenditures are expected to be for the following general
purposes:

(cid:2) Maintain and enhance existing infrastructure at

Wireline, Cable and HMS;

(cid:2) Complete planned fiber expansion in Wireline and

Cable markets to support IPTV and super high-speed
data; and

(cid:2) Success-based spending to sustain managedIP, IPTV,

Cable and HMS growth.

TDS plans to finance its capital expenditures program for 2016 using primarily Cash flows from operating activities,
existing cash balances, borrowings under its revolving credit agreements and/or other long-term debt.

Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges

TDS may be engaged from time to time in negotiations relating to the acquisition, divestiture or exchange of companies,
properties, wireless spectrum and other possible businesses. In general, TDS may not disclose such transactions until

36

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

there is a definitive agreement. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements for additional information related to significant transactions.

Cash Payments for Acquisitions
(Dollars in millions)

$350

$300

$250

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

HMS
Businesses

Cable
Businesses

U.S. Cellular
Licenses

TDS assesses its business interests on an
ongoing basis with a goal of improving the
competitiveness of its operations and
maximizing its long-term return on capital. As
part of this strategy, TDS reviews attractive
opportunities to acquire additional wireless
operating markets and wireless spectrum,
including pursuant to FCC auctions; and
telecommunications, cable, HMS or other
possible businesses.

2013

2014

2015

31MAR201601273985

Cash Payments Received from Divestitures
(Dollars in millions)

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

Other

Wireline
Businesses

U.S. Cellular
Businesses

U.S. Cellular
Licenses

31MAR201601274111

2013

2014

2015

TDS may seek to divest outright or include in
exchanges for other interests those interests
that are not strategic to its long-term success.

In February 2016, U.S. Cellular filed an application to participate as a forward auction bidder for 600 MHz broadcast
television spectrum licenses in an FCC auction referred to as Auction 1000. Auction 1000 is expected to commence with
the broadcaster initial commitment deadline on March 29, 2016. Forward auction bidding is likely to begin a couple of
months later and could continue for three months or longer. See ‘‘Regulatory Matters — FCC Auction 1000.’’ Prior to
becoming a qualified bidder, U.S. Cellular must make an upfront payment, the size of which establishes its initial bidding
eligibility. If U.S. Cellular is a winning bidder in the auction, it may be required to make additional payments to the FCC
that may be substantial. In such event, U.S. Cellular plans to finance such payments from its existing cash balances,
borrowings under its revolving credit agreement and/or additional long-term debt.

Due to the FCC’s anti-collusion rules, TDS may not disclose any details relating to U.S. Cellular’s participation or
information about whether or not it is a winning bidder unless and until it is announced as a winning bidder by the FCC.

Due to changes in FCC rules, U.S. Cellular will not be participating in Auction 1000 through a limited partnership that is
a ‘‘designated entity’’ which qualifies for a discount of 25% on any licenses won in the auction, as U.S. Cellular has
done in prior auctions. Instead, U.S. Cellular will be participating in the auction directly and will not qualify for any
discount on licenses that may be won in the auction.

37

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

To the extent that existing competitors or new entrants acquire low-band (600 MHz) spectrum in U.S. Cellular markets in
Auction 1000, U.S. Cellular could face increased competition over time from competitors that hold more efficient and
superior low-band spectrum, which would have an adverse effect on TDS’ wireless competitive position.

In January 2016, TDS entered into an agreement to purchase a 700 MHz A Block license for $36.0 million. In February
2016, TDS entered into multiple agreements with third parties that provide for the transfer of certain AWS and PCS
spectrum licenses and approximately $30 million in cash to U.S. Cellular, in exchange for U.S. Cellular transferring
certain AWS, PCS and 700 MHz licenses to the third parties.

Variable Interest Entities

TDS consolidates certain entities because they are ‘‘variable interest entities’’ under GAAP. See Note 14 — Variable
Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these variable
interest entities. TDS may elect to make additional capital contributions and/or advances to these variable interest
entities in future periods in order to fund their operations.

Common Share Repurchase Programs

In 2013, the Board of Directors of TDS authorized a $250 million stock repurchase program for the purchase of TDS
Common Shares from time to time. The maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under this program
was $201.2 million as of December 31, 2015. This authorization does not have an expiration date.

In 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase from time to time of up to 1,300,000 Common
Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis. As of
December 31, 2015, there were 4,755,298 U.S. Cellular Common Shares available for purchase under this program,
which increased by 1,300,000 Common Shares on January 1, 2016. This authorization does not have an expiration date.

There were no TDS and limited U.S. Cellular share repurchases in 2015. Depending on their future financial performance,
construction, development or acquisition programs, and available sources of financing, TDS and U.S. Cellular may not
have sufficient liquidity or capital resources to make significant share repurchases. Therefore, there is no assurance that
TDS or U.S. Cellular will make any significant amount of share repurchases in the future.

For additional information related to the current TDS and U.S. Cellular repurchase authorizations and repurchases made
during 2015, 2014 and 2013, see Note 16 — Common Shareholders’ Equity in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

TDS had no transactions, agreements or other contractual arrangements with unconsolidated entities involving
‘‘off-balance sheet arrangements,’’ as defined by SEC rules, that had or are reasonably likely to have a material current
or future effect on its financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

Dividends

TDS paid quarterly dividends per outstanding share of $0.1410 in 2015, $0.1340 in 2014 and $0.1275 in 2013. TDS
increased the dividend per share to $0.1480 in the first quarter of 2016. See Note 16 — Common Shareholders’ Equity
in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. TDS has no current plans to change its
policy of paying dividends.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

CONTRACTUAL AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS
At December 31, 2015, the resources required for contractual obligations were as follows:

Payments Due by Period

Total

Less Than
1 Year

1 - 3 Years

3 - 5 Years

More Than
5 Years

(Dollars in millions)
Long-term debt obligations1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest payments on long-term debt obligations . .
Operating leases2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

2,527.2
6,176.8
1,324.0
5.0
1,306.1

$

14.2
164.9
156.9
0.3
663.9

$

23.3
329.6
254.0
0.7
408.6

$

22.6
329.6
188.9
0.7
164.9

2,467.1
5,352.7
724.2
3.3
68.7

$

11,339.1

$

1,000.2

$

1,016.2

$

706.7

$

8,616.0

1

2

3

Includes current and long-term portions of debt obligations. The total long-term debt obligation differs from Long-term debt in the Consolidated Balance
Sheet due to capital leases, debt issuance costs and the unamortized discount related to U.S. Cellular’s 6.7% Senior Notes. See Note 11 — Debt in the
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Includes future lease costs related to telecommunications plant facilities, office space, retail sites, cell sites, data centers and equipment. See
Note 13 — Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Includes obligations payable under non-cancellable contracts, commitments for network facilities and transport services, agreements for software
licensing, long-term marketing programs, and agreements with Apple to purchase certain minimum quantities of Apple iPhone products and fund
marketing programs related to the Apple iPhone and iPad products.

The table above excludes liabilities related to ‘‘unrecognized tax benefits’’ as defined by GAAP because TDS is unable
to predict the period of settlement of such liabilities. Such unrecognized tax benefits were $38.9 million at December 31,
2015. See Note 4 — Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on
unrecognized tax benefits.

See Note 13 — Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional
information.

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
TDS operates a capital- and marketing-intensive business. TDS utilizes cash on hand, cash from operating activities,
cash proceeds from divestitures and disposition of investments, short-term credit facilities and long-term debt financing
to fund its acquisitions (including licenses), construction costs, operating expenses and share repurchases. Cash flows
may fluctuate from quarter to quarter and year to year due to seasonality, the timing of acquisitions and divestitures,
capital expenditures and other factors. The following discussion summarizes TDS’ cash flow activities in 2015, 2014 and
2013.

2015 Commentary

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities were $789.7 million in 2015. An increase in cash flows from operating activities was
due primarily to improved net income and working capital factors. In 2015, increased receivables related to equipment
installment plans decreased cash flows from operating activities. In the near term and as the popularity of equipment
installment plans increases, TDS expects this trend to continue.

In December 2015, as part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015, bonus depreciation was enacted
which allowed TDS to accelerate deductions for depreciation, resulting in an overpayment of estimated tax amounts paid
during 2015. Primarily as a result of this overpayment, TDS has recorded $70.1 million of Income taxes receivable at
December 31, 2015. TDS paid income taxes, net of refunds, of $57.4 million in 2015.

Future cash flows from operating activities may be impacted by distributions from investments in unconsolidated entities.
Distributions from unconsolidated entities in 2015, 2014 and 2013 were $60.1 million, $112.3 million and $127.9 million,
respectively. U.S. Cellular holds a 5.5% ownership interest in the LA Partnership. In 2014 and 2013, U.S. Cellular received
cash distributions of $60.5 million and $71.5 million, respectively, from the LA Partnership. U.S. Cellular did not receive

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

any cash distributions in 2015 from the LA Partnership as U.S. Cellular was informed by the general partner that, in
connection with the acquisition of a spectrum license covering the LA Partnership’s market in FCC Auction 97, the LA
Partnership would not make a cash distribution in 2015. This spectrum license will enhance the value of U.S. Cellular’s
interest in the LA Partnership. Notwithstanding the lack of a cash distribution in 2015, U.S. Cellular will be obligated to
make tax payments on its share of any taxable income reported by the LA Partnership in 2015 and beyond. The amount
of future cash distributions from the LA Partnership are uncertain, and could be impacted by future spectrum purchases
by the LA Partnership.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used for investing activities were $737.7 million in 2015. TDS makes substantial investments to acquire
wireless licenses and properties and to construct and upgrade telecommunications networks and facilities as a basis for
creating long-term value for shareholders. In recent years, rapid changes in technology and new opportunities have
required substantial investments in potentially revenue-enhancing and cost-reducing upgrades to TDS’ networks. Cash
used for additions to property, plant and equipment totaled $800.6 million in 2015.

During 2015, a $278.3 million payment was made by Advantage Spectrum L.P. to the FCC for licenses for which it was
the provisional winning bidder. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges and Note 14 — Variable Interest
Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows from financing activities were $460.7 million in 2015. In July 2015, U.S. Cellular borrowed $225 million on its
Term Loan. In November 2015, U.S. Cellular issued $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2064.

2014 Commentary

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities were $394.8 million in 2014. Working capital factors which significantly decreased
cash flows from operating activities included changes in accounts payable levels as a result of timing differences related
to operating expenses and device purchases. In 2014, increased receivables related to equipment installment plans
decreased cash flows from operating activities.

In December 2014, as part of the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014, bonus depreciation was enacted which allowed
TDS to accelerate deductions for depreciation resulting in a federal taxable loss in 2014. Primarily as a result of this
federal income tax carryback, TDS recorded $113.7 million of Income taxes receivable at December 31, 2014. TDS paid
income taxes, net of refunds, of $48.9 million in 2014.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used for investing activities were $909.7 million in 2014. Cash used for additions to property, plant and
equipment totaled $799.5 million in 2014. Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses in 2014 was $295.3 million which
includes $272.8 million related to Cable acquisitions and $22.9 million related to Licenses. Cash received from
divestitures in 2014 was $187.6 million which includes $91.8 million related to Licenses and $71.1 million related to the
Divestiture Transaction. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information related to these acquisitions and divestitures. TDS realized cash proceeds of
$50.0 million in 2014 related to the maturities of its investments in U.S. Treasury Notes and corporate notes. In 2014,
cash used for investing activities includes a $60.0 million deposit made by Advantage Spectrum, L.P., a variable interest
entity consolidated by U.S. Cellular, to the FCC for its participation in Auction 97. See Note 14 — Variable Interest
Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows from financing activities were $156.8 million in 2014. In December 2014, U.S. Cellular issued $275 million of
7.25% Senior Notes due 2063.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

2013 Commentary

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities were $494.6 million in 2013. Accounts receivable grew substantially due primarily to
billing delays encountered during the conversion to a new U.S. Cellular billing system in the third quarter of 2013. TDS
paid income taxes, net of refunds, of $175.6 million in 2013. The change in inventory was due primarily to higher costs
per unit related to 4G LTE smartphones.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used for investing activities were $260.7 million in 2013. Cash used for additions to property, plant and
equipment totaled $883.8 million in 2013. Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses in 2013 was $314.6 million which
includes $264.1 million related to a Cable acquisition, $34.0 million related to an HMS acquisition and $16.5 million
related to FCC licenses. Cash received from divestitures in 2013 was $811.1 million which includes $490.6 million related
to the Divestiture Transaction and $312.0 million related to Licenses. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and
Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these acquisitions and
divestitures.

TDS realized cash proceeds of $115.0 million in 2013 related to the maturities of its investments in U.S. Treasury Notes,
corporate notes and certificates of deposit.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows used for financing activities were $144.4 million in 2013. On June 25, 2013, U.S. Cellular paid a special cash
dividend of $5.75 per share, for an aggregate amount of $482.3 million, to all holders of U.S. Cellular Common Shares
and Series A Common Shares as of June 11, 2013. Of the $482.3 million paid, TDS received $407.1 million while
noncontrolling public shareholders received $75.2 million. The cash paid to noncontrolling public shareholders is
presented as U.S. Cellular dividends paid to noncontrolling public shareholders on the Consolidated Statement of Cash
Flows.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS
The following discussion addresses certain captions in the consolidated balance sheet and changes therein. This
discussion is intended to highlight the significant changes and is not intended to fully reconcile the changes. Changes in
financial condition during 2015 are as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents increased $512.7 million driven primarily by proceeds received from U.S. Cellular’s issuance
of $300 million 7.25% Senior Notes and U.S. Cellular’s $225 million draw on the Term Loan. Cash flow from operating
activities less cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment yielded a net cash reduction of $10.9 million.
Cash received from divestitures also exceeded Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses by $56.0 million.

Accounts receivable, net

Accounts receivable, net increased $119.2 million primarily as a result of the $136.7 million increase attributable to
equipment installment plans. U.S. Cellular implemented equipment installment plans on a broad basis in 2014.

Inventory, net

Inventory, net decreased $115.5 million due primarily to selling inventory on hand at December 31, 2014 and better
management of purchasing and overall inventory levels based upon anticipated demand and promotional activities.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net deferred income tax asset

Net deferred income tax asset decreased $107.7 million as a result of the early adoption of ASU 2015-17 as of
December 31, 2015. The previously identified Net current deferred tax asset is now grouped with non-current deferred
income tax liability in accordance with ASU 2015-17. See Note 4 — Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements for more information on ASU 2015-17.

Assets held for sale

Assets held for sale decreased $103.3 million due the closing of the Tower Sale ($38.4 million), two license exchanges
($56.8 million), and the sale of certain ILEC markets ($8.2 million). No assets were held for sale as of December 31,
2015. For information on the Tower Sale, see Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

Licenses

Licenses increased $390.8 million due primarily to an aggregate winning bid of $338.3 million in FCC Auction 97 by
Advantage Spectrum and other license purchases and exchanges resulting in a net increase of $51.0 million. Auction 97
licenses won by Advantage Spectrum have not yet been granted. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and
Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about these transactions.

Long-term debt, net

Long-term debt, net increased $498.8 million due primarily to U.S. Cellular’s $300 million 7.25% Senior Notes issued in
November 2015 and $225 million Term Loan draw in July 2015. See Note 11 — Debt for additional information.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
TDS prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. TDS’ significant accounting policies are
discussed in detail in Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements in
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Management believes the application of the following critical accounting policies and the estimates required by such
application reflect its most significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of TDS’ consolidated financial
statements. Management has discussed the development and selection of each of the following accounting policies and
related estimates and disclosures with the Audit Committee of TDS’ Board of Directors.

Intangible Asset Impairment

Licenses, Goodwill and Franchise rights represent a significant component of TDS’ consolidated assets. These assets
are considered to be indefinite lived assets and are therefore not amortized but tested annually for impairment. TDS
performs annual impairment testing of Licenses, Goodwill and Franchise rights as of November 1 of each year or more
frequently if triggering events are present. Significant negative events, such as changes in any of the assumptions
described below as well as decreases in forecasted cash flows, could result in an impairment in future periods.

See Note 7 — Intangible Assets in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to Licenses,
Goodwill and Franchise rights activity in 2015 and 2014.

Wireless Licenses – U.S. Cellular

Prior to the fourth quarter of 2015, U.S. Cellular separated its FCC licenses into eleven units of accounting based on
geographic service areas. The eleven units of accounting consisted of four geographic units of accounting for developed
operating market licenses (‘‘built licenses’’) and seven geographic non-operating market licenses (‘‘unbuilt licenses’’). As
part of the current year annual impairment evaluation, U.S. Cellular evaluated the aggregation criteria based on how
such licenses are deployed and provide value in U.S. Cellular’s operations, and current industry and market factors. It
was determined that the built licenses should be aggregated into one unit of accounting. The unbuilt licenses continued
to be separated into seven geographic units of accounting.

As of November 1, 2015, U.S. Cellular performed a qualitative impairment assessment to determine whether it was more
likely than not that the fair value of the licenses exceeded their carrying value. Given the change in the reporting units for
built licenses, the qualitative assessment was performed for the following units of accounting: historical four units of

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

accounting for built licenses, newly defined one unit of accounting for built licenses, and seven unbuilt licenses. As part
of the assessment, U.S. Cellular considered several qualitative factors, including analysts’ estimates of license values,
recent spectrum auction results, recent U.S. Cellular transactions and other industry and market factors. Based on this
assessment, U.S. Cellular concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the licenses in each unit of
accounting exceeded the respective carrying values. Therefore, no impairment of licenses existed and no Step 1
impairment evaluation was completed.

Goodwill – U.S. Cellular

U.S. Cellular has recorded Goodwill as a result of the acquisition of wireless companies. Prior to the fourth quarter of
2015, U.S. Cellular was comprised of four reporting units based on geographic service areas. Due to the evolution of the
business and the extent to which U.S. Cellular has similar customers, products and services, and operations across all
geographic regions, and also operates one interdependent network, U.S. Cellular determined that it had one reporting
unit as of November 1, 2015. The change in reporting units required U.S. Cellular to perform an impairment test for both
the previous four reporting units and one new reporting unit as of November 1, 2015. The newly defined one reporting
unit hereafter is referred to as U.S. Cellular.

Based on the results of the annual Goodwill impairment assessment performed as of November 1, 2015, the fair value
of each of the historical four and U.S. Cellular reporting units exceeded their respective carrying values. Therefore, no
impairment of Goodwill existed.

A discounted cash flow approach was used to value each reporting unit, using value drivers and risks specific to the
industry and current economic factors. The cash flow estimates incorporated assumptions that market participants would
use in their estimates of fair value and may not be indicative of U.S. Cellular specific assumptions. However, the
discount rate used in the analysis accounts for any additional risk a market participant might place on integrating U.S.
Cellular into its operations at the level of cash flows assumed under this approach. The most significant assumptions
made in this process were the revenue growth rate (shown as a compound annual growth rate in the table below), the
terminal revenue growth rate and the discount rate. There are uncertainties associated with these key assumptions and
potential events and/or circumstances that could have a negative effect on these key assumptions described below.

Key Assumptions

As of November 1, 2015

Revenue growth rate1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminal revenue growth rate1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discount rate2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.3%
2.0%
9.5%

1 There are risks that could negatively impact the projected revenue growth rates, including, but not limited to: the success of new and existing products/

services, competition, operational difficulties and customer churn.

2 The discount rate of each reporting unit was computed by calculating the weighted average cost of capital of market participants with businesses

reasonably comparable to U.S. Cellular. The discount rate is dependent upon the cost of capital of other industry market participants and the company
specific risk. To the extent that the weighted average cost of capital of industry participants increases or U.S. Cellular’s risk in relation to its peers
increases, this would decrease the estimated fair value of the reporting units. The weighted average cost of capital may increase if borrowing costs rise,
market participants weight more of their capital structure towards equity vs. debt, or other elements affecting the estimated cost of equity increase.

Provided all other assumptions remained the same, for the historical four reporting units, the discount rate would have to
increase to a range of 9.5% to 11.0% to yield an estimated fair value of reporting units that equal their respective
carrying values at November 1, 2015. Further, assuming all other assumptions remained the same, for the historical four
reporting units, the terminal growth rate assumptions would need to decrease to amounts ranging from negative 1.5% to
positive 2.0% to yield an estimated fair value equal to the carrying values of the respective reporting unit at November 1,
2015.

Provided all other assumptions remained the same, for the U.S. Cellular reporting unit, the discount rate would have to
increase to 10.6% to yield an estimated fair value of the reporting unit that equals its carrying value at November 1,
2015. Further, assuming all other assumptions remained the same, for the U.S. Cellular reporting unit, the terminal
growth rate assumption would need to decrease to negative 0.6% to yield an estimated fair value equal to the carrying
value of the reporting unit at November 1, 2015.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Goodwill balance of U.S. Cellular and of each prior reporting unit at TDS as of November 1, 2015 and the
percentage by which the estimated fair value of the corresponding reporting units exceeded the carrying values, as a
percentage of carrying value, was as follows:

Reporting Unit

(Dollars in thousands)
Prior Reporting Units:

Goodwill balance at
TDS1

Excess of estimated Fair
Value over Carrying Value

Central Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mid-Atlantic Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New England Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Northwest Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

New Single Reporting Unit:

U.S. Cellular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$
$
$

$

68,511
114,351
17,473
26,516

226,851

32.0%
0.6%
20.8%
32.1%

24.0%

1 Previously under GAAP, TDS accounted for U.S. Cellular’s share repurchases as step acquisitions, allocating a portion of the share repurchase value to
TDS’ Goodwill. This resulted in a difference between U.S. Cellular’s Goodwill on a stand-alone basis and the TDS consolidated Goodwill related to U.S.
Cellular. TDS recorded subsequent activities relating to Goodwill, including impairments and divestiture activities, for both entities based on their
respective balances.

Goodwill – TDS Telecom

TDS Telecom has recorded Goodwill as a result of the acquisition of wireline, cable and HMS businesses. For purposes
of the 2015 and 2014 Goodwill impairment tests, TDS Telecom had three reporting units: Wireline, Cable and HMS.

Based on the results of the TDS Telecom annual Goodwill impairment assessment performed as of November 1, 2015,
the fair values of the Wireline, Cable and HMS reporting units exceeded their carrying values. Therefore, no impairment
of Goodwill existed for the reporting units.

The discounted cash flow approach and guideline public company method were used to value the Wireline, Cable and
HMS reporting units. The discounted cash flow approach uses value drivers and risks specific to the industry and
current economic factors. The most significant assumptions made in this process were the revenue growth rate (shown
as a compound annual growth rate in the table below), the terminal revenue growth rate and the discount rate. The
guideline public company method develops an indication of fair value by calculating average market pricing multiples for
selected publicly-traded companies. The developed multiples were applied to applicable financial measures of the
respective reporting unit to determine fair value. The discounted cash flow approach and guideline public company
method were weighted to arrive at the total fair value used for impairment testing. The weighting of methods was
consistently applied in both 2015 and 2014.

For purposes of the discounted cash flow approach, the following table represents key assumptions used in estimating
the fair value of the Wireline, Cable and HMS reporting units as of the testing date. There are uncertainties associated
with these key assumptions and potential events and/or circumstances that could have a negative effect on the key
assumptions described below.

Key Assumptions

Revenue growth rate1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminal revenue growth rate1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discount rate2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As of November 1, 2015

Wireline

(2.3)%
0.0%
6.5%

Cable

8.3%
2.5%
9.5%

HMS

4.8%
2.5%
11.5%

1 There are risks that could negatively impact the projected revenue growth rates, including, but not limited to: the success of new and existing products/

services, competition, and operational difficulties. TDS Telecom’s reporting units use internally generated forecasts to develop such rates. These
internally generated forecasts consider such things as observed demand, market factors and competitive knowledge.

2 The discount rate is dependent upon the cost of capital of other industry market participants and company specific risk. To the extent that the weighted
average cost of capital of industry participants increases, this would decrease the estimated fair value of the reporting units. The weighted average cost
of capital may increase if borrowing costs rise, market participants weight more of their capital structure towards equity vs. debt, Wireline, Cable or
HMS’ risk in relation to its peers increases or other elements affecting the estimated cost of equity increase.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Provided all other assumptions remained the same, the Wireline, Cable and HMS discount rates would have to increase
to 7.3%, 10.0% and 13.3%, respectively, to yield estimated fair values equal to their respective carrying values at
November 1, 2015. Further, provided all other assumptions remained the same, the Wireline, Cable and HMS terminal
revenue growth rate assumptions would need to decrease to negative 1.2%, positive 1.6% and negative 2.1%,
respectively, to yield an estimate of fair value equal to the carrying value of the respective reporting units at November 1,
2015.

The Goodwill balances of the reporting units tested for impairment as of November 1, 2015 and the percentage by
which the estimated fair value of the corresponding reporting units exceeded their carrying values, as a percentage of
carrying value, was as follows:

Reporting unit

Goodwill balance

Excess of estimated Fair
Value over Carrying Value

(Dollars in thousands)
Wireline1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$
$

408,770
95,322
34,830

5.9%
7.5%
32.3%

1 Between the November 1, 2015 impairment date and the December 31, 2015 Consolidated Balance Sheet date, TDS recorded an immaterial adjustment

to the Goodwill balance related to the divestiture of certain Wireline markets.

Franchise Rights – TDS Telecom

TDS Telecom has recorded Franchise rights as a result of acquisitions of cable businesses. TDS Telecom tests
Franchise rights for impairment at a level of reporting referred to as a unit of accounting. For purposes of its impairment
testing of Franchise rights, TDS Telecom had one unit of accounting: Cable.

TDS Telecom applied the build-out (or Greenfield) method to estimate the fair value of Franchise rights in 2015 and
2014. Based on the results of this assessment, the estimated fair value of the Franchise rights exceeded their carrying
value.

The following table represents key assumptions used in estimating the fair value of the Franchise rights using the
build-out method. There are uncertainties associated with these key assumptions and potential events and/or
circumstances that could have a negative effect on the key assumptions are described below.

Key Assumptions

As of November 1, 2015

Build-out period1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discount rate2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminal revenue growth rate3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2 years
8.0%
2.5%

1 The build-out period represents the estimated time to perform a hypothetical build of the network. Changes in the estimated build-out period can occur

as a result of changes in resources and technology. Such changes could negatively or positively impact the results.

2 The discount rate used in the valuation of Franchise rights is less than the discount rate used in the valuation of the Cable reporting unit for purposes of
Goodwill impairment testing. The discount rate used for Franchise rights includes a reduced company-specific risk premium as it is assumed a market
participant starting a cable network build would construct and operate its network in an optimal manner and would not be constrained by the current
network and operations associated with a mature cable company. The discount rate is estimated based on the overall risk-free interest rate adjusted for
industry participant information, such as a typical capital structure (i.e., debt-equity ratio), the after-tax cost of debt, and the cost of equity. The cost of
equity takes into consideration the average risk specific to individual market participants. The weighted average cost of capital may increase if borrowing
costs rise, market participants weight more of their capital structure towards equity vs. debt, or other elements affecting the estimated cost of equity
increase.

3 There are risks that could negatively impact the projected revenue growth rates, including, but not limited to: the success of new and existing products/
services, competition, network buildout costs and operational difficulties. TDS Telecom’s reporting units use internally generated forecasts to develop
such rates. These internally generated forecasts consider such things as observed demand, market factors and competitive knowledge.

As of November 1, 2015, the fair value of the franchise rights exceeded its carrying value by 34.8%. Provided all other
assumptions remained the same, the discount rate would have to increase to 8.5% to yield an estimated fair value of the
Franchise rights that equals the carrying value at November 1, 2015. Further, provided all other assumptions remained
the same, the terminal revenue growth rate assumption would need to decrease to 1.6% to yield an estimate of fair
value equal to the carrying value of the Franchise rights at November 1, 2015.

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Income Taxes

The amounts of income tax assets and liabilities, the related income tax provision and the amount of unrecognized tax
benefits are critical accounting estimates because such amounts are significant to TDS’ financial condition and results of
operations.

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires TDS to calculate a provision for income taxes. This
process involves estimating the actual current income tax liability together with assessing temporary differences resulting
from the different treatment of items for tax purposes. These temporary differences result in deferred income tax assets
and liabilities, which are included in TDS’ Consolidated Balance Sheet. TDS must then assess the likelihood that
deferred income tax assets will be realized based on future taxable income and, to the extent management believes that
realization is not likely, establish a valuation allowance. Management’s judgment is required in determining the provision
for income taxes, deferred income tax assets and liabilities and any valuation allowance that is established for deferred
income tax assets.

TDS recognizes the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be
sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits
recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on management’s judgment as to the
possible outcome that has a greater than 50% cumulative likelihood of being realized upon ultimate resolution.

See Note 4 — Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details regarding TDS’ income tax
provision, deferred income taxes and liabilities, valuation allowances and unrecognized tax benefits, including information
regarding estimates that impact income taxes.

Equipment Installment Plans

TDS offers customers, through its owned and agent distribution channels, the option to purchase certain devices under
installment contracts over a specified time period and, under certain of these plans, offers the customer a trade-in right.
Customers on an installment contract who elect to trade-in the device will receive a credit in the amount of the
outstanding balance of the installment contract, provided the customer trades-in an eligible used device in good working
condition and purchases a new device from TDS. Equipment revenue under these contracts is recognized at the time
the device is delivered to the end-user customer for the selling price of the device, net of any deferred imputed interest
and the value of the trade-in right, if applicable.

Trade-In Right

TDS values the trade-in right as a guarantee liability. This liability is initially measured at fair value and is determined
based on assumptions including the probability and timing of the customer upgrading to a new device and the
estimated fair value of the used device eligible for trade-in. TDS reevaluates its estimate of the guarantee liability at each
reporting date. A significant change in any of the aforementioned assumptions used to compute the guarantee liability
would impact the amount of revenue recognized under these plans and the timing thereof. In 2015 and 2014, TDS
assumed the earliest contractual time of trade-in, or the minimum amount of payments as specified in the device
installment contract, for all customers on installment contracts with trade-in rights.

When a customer exercises the trade-in option, the difference between the outstanding receivable balance forgiven and
the fair value of the used device is recorded as a reduction to the guarantee liability. If the customer does not exercise
the trade-in option at the time he or she is eligible, TDS begins amortizing the liability and records this amortization as
additional operating revenue.

Interest

TDS equipment installment plans do not provide for explicit interest charges. For equipment installment plans with a
duration of greater than twelve months, TDS imputes interest using a market rate and recognizes such interest income
over the duration of the plan as a component of Interest and dividend income. Changes in the imputed interest rate
would impact the amount of revenue recognized under these plans.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

TDS maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that result from the failure of its customers to
make payments due under the equipment installment plans. The allowance is estimated based on historical experience,
account aging and other factors that could affect collectability. When it is probable that an account balance will not be

46

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

collected, the account balance is charged against the allowance for doubtful accounts. To the extent that actual loss
experience differs significantly from historical trends, the required allowance amounts could differ from the original
estimates.

OTHER ITEMS
Inflation

Management believes that inflation affects TDS’ business to no greater or lesser extent than the general economy.

Seasonality

U.S. Cellular’s profitability historically has been lower in the fourth quarter as a result of significant marketing and
promotional activity during the holiday season.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements for information on recently issued accounting pronouncements.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

See Note 20 — Certain Relationships and Related Transactions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

REGULATORY MATTERS
FCC Net Neutrality Order

In February 2015, the FCC adopted an Open Internet Order relating to new net neutrality rules. The rules became
effective in June 2015. The order reclassified high-speed, or broadband, internet access service as a
‘‘telecommunication service,’’ making it subject to common carrier regulation under Title II of the Communications Act of
1934. The order applies equally to fixed and wireless broadband internet service providers and thus applies to internet
broadband services provided by telephone, cable and wireless providers.

The rules prohibit (i) blocking (broadband providers may not block access to legal content, applications, services, or
non-harmful devices); (ii) throttling (broadband providers may not impair or degrade lawful Internet traffic on the basis of
content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices); and (iii) paid prioritization (broadband providers may not favor
some lawful internet traffic over other lawful traffic in exchange for consideration, i.e., internet ‘‘fast lanes’’ are prohibited).
Also, internet service providers may not prioritize content and services of their affiliates. In addition, the FCC has now
asserted jurisdiction over internet traffic exchange, so interconnection arrangements will now be subject to a statutory
requirement that all charges, practices, classifications, and regulations for and related to interconnection must be just
and reasonable. The rules also include a general conduct standard that will be applied on a case-by-case basis to
address questionable practices as they occur that unreasonably interfere with or unreasonably disadvantage lawful
content, applications, services, or devices to be used by end users (individuals or entities that use a broadband internet
access service), or made available by edge providers (individuals or entities that provide any content, application, or
service over the internet, and any individual or entity that provides a device used for accessing any content, application,
or service over the internet). Although broadband internet access providers will be allowed to engage in reasonable
network management practices, it is uncertain what practices will be permitted by the FCC. The order also expands the
FCC’s current internet transparency rules.

All of these requirements will be subject to FCC enforcement and potential third-party claims for damages or equitable
relief. Under Title II, the FCC will have broad regulatory authority over internet services and internet service providers.
Although the FCC indicated that it will forbear from a number of utility-style regulations, such as rate regulation, tariffs,
and unbundling requirements, the FCC could decide to apply such regulations and requirements in the future. Also, it is
uncertain if internet services may be subject to the Federal USF contributions or taxation in the future as a result of the
reclassification under Title II. Lawsuits have been filed challenging the net neutrality rules and the FCC’s decision to
reclassify broadband internet access service under Title II. TDS cannot predict the outcome of these proceedings or the
impact on its business.

47

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Changes to FCC’s Designated Entity Rules

U.S. Cellular participated in certain prior FCC spectrum auctions through limited partnerships that qualified as
‘‘designated entities’’ under FCC rules and, as such, were eligible for bid credit discounts of 25% with respect to
licenses won in the auctions. U.S. Cellular participated in Auction 97 indirectly through its interest in Advantage
Spectrum. Advantage Spectrum applied as a ‘‘designated entity’’ and expects to receive bid credits resulting in a 25%
discount with respect to spectrum purchased in Auction 97. In July 2015, the FCC adopted a Report and Order that
amended the FCC’s designated entity rules. The amended rules include caps on bid credits that designated entities
may receive in future auctions and modify the attribution rules. The amended rules also restrict certain joint bidding
agreements but permit certain other arrangements involving more than one party. The FCC also has adopted a rule
which would enable the FCC to recoup some or all of the bidding credits granted to any designated entity, on a license
by license basis, which allowed a 10 percent or greater non-controlling interest holder in the designated entity to use
25 percent or more of its spectrum capacity during the first five years of the license term. Additionally, the amended
rules make certain other changes to the FCC’s competitive bidding rules.

Due to the changes in FCC rules, U.S. Cellular will not be participating in Auction 1000 (discussed below) through a
limited partnership that is a ‘‘designated entity’’ which qualifies for a discount of 25% on any licenses won in the auction,
as U.S. Cellular has done in prior auctions. Instead, U.S. Cellular will be participating in the auction directly and will not
qualify for any discount on licenses that may be won in the auction.

FCC Auction 1000

The FCC has scheduled an auction of 600 MHz spectrum licenses, referred to as Auction 1000. Auction 1000 involves:
(1) a ‘‘reverse auction’’ in which broadcast television licensees submit bids to voluntarily relinquish spectrum usage
rights in exchange for payments; (2) a ‘‘repacking’’ of the broadcast television bands in order to free up certain
broadcast spectrum for other uses; and (3) a ‘‘forward auction’’ of licenses for spectrum cleared through this process to
be used for wireless communications. Interested broadcasters filed their applications by January 12, 2016 and forward
auction bidders, including U.S. Cellular, filed applications prior to February 10, 2016. U.S. Cellular evaluates opportunities
to acquire additional spectrum in FCC auctions and thus plans to participate in the forward auction. Auction 1000 is
expected to commence with the broadcaster initial commitment deadline on March 29, 2016. Forward auction bidding is
likely to begin a couple of months later, and could continue for three months or longer. The FCC anti-collusion rules
place certain restrictions on public disclosures and business communications with other companies relating to U.S.
Cellular’s participation until the down payment deadline for Auction 1000, which will be ten business days after release
of the FCC’s Channel Reassignment Public Notice, following the end of the forward auction. These anti-collusion rules,
which could last six months or more from February 10, 2016, may restrict the conduct of certain U.S. Cellular activities
with other applicants in Auction 1000 as well as with nationwide providers of wireless services which are not applicants
in Auction 1000. The restrictions could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results
of operations.

48

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995 SAFE
HARBOR CAUTIONARY STATEMENT
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and other sections of this
Annual Report contain statements that are not based on historical facts, including the words ‘‘believes,’’ ‘‘anticipates,’’
‘‘intends,’’ ‘‘expects’’ and similar words. These statements constitute and represent ‘‘forward-looking statements’’ as this
term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known
and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be
significantly different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking
statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, the following risks:

(cid:2) Intense competition in the markets in which TDS operates could adversely affect TDS’ revenues or increase its costs to

compete.

(cid:2) A failure by TDS to successfully execute its business strategy (including planned acquisitions, divestitures and

exchanges) or allocate resources or capital could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or
results of operations.

(cid:2) Uncertainty in TDS’ future cash flow and liquidity or in the ability to access capital, deterioration in the capital markets,
other changes in TDS’ performance or market conditions, changes in TDS’ credit ratings or other factors could limit or
restrict the availability of financing on terms and prices acceptable to TDS, which could require TDS to reduce its
construction, development or acquisition programs, reduce the acquisition of spectrum licenses, and/or reduce or
cease share repurchases and/or the payment of dividends.

(cid:2) TDS has a significant amount of indebtedness which could adversely affect its financial performance and in turn
adversely affect its ability to make payments on its indebtedness, comply with terms of debt covenants and incur
additional debt.

(cid:2) Changes in roaming practices or other factors could cause TDS’ roaming revenues to decline from current levels,
roaming expenses to increase from current levels and/or impact TDS’ ability to service its customers in geographic
areas where TDS does not have its own network, which could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial
condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) A failure by TDS to obtain access to adequate radio spectrum to meet current or anticipated future needs and/or to

accurately predict future needs for radio spectrum could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or
results of operations.

(cid:2) To the extent conducted by the FCC, TDS may participate in FCC auctions of additional spectrum in the future directly
or indirectly and, during certain periods, will be subject to the FCC’s anti-collusion rules, which could have an adverse
effect on TDS.

(cid:2) Changes in the regulatory environment or a failure by TDS to timely or fully comply with any applicable regulatory

requirements could adversely affect TDS’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) An inability to attract people of outstanding potential, to develop their potential through education and assignments, and
to retain them by keeping them engaged, challenged and properly rewarded could have an adverse effect on TDS’
business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) TDS’ assets are concentrated primarily in the U.S. telecommunications industry. Consequently, its operating results may

fluctuate based on factors related primarily to conditions in this industry.

(cid:2) TDS’ smaller scale relative to larger competitors that may have much greater financial and other resources than TDS

could cause TDS to be unable to compete successfully, which could adversely affect its business, financial condition or
results of operations.

(cid:2) Changes in various business factors, including changes in demand, customer preferences and perceptions, price

competition, churn from customer switching activity and other factors, could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business,
financial condition or results of operations.

49

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(cid:2) Advances or changes in technology could render certain technologies used by TDS obsolete, could put TDS at a

competitive disadvantage, could reduce TDS’ revenues or could increase its costs of doing business.

(cid:2) Complexities associated with deploying new technologies present substantial risk and TDS’ investments in unproven

technologies may not produce the benefits that TDS expects.

(cid:2) TDS receives regulatory support and is subject to numerous surcharges and fees from federal, state and local
governments, and the applicability and the amount of the support and fees are subject to great uncertainty.

(cid:2) Performance under device purchase agreements could have a material adverse impact on TDS’ business, financial

condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) Changes in TDS’ enterprise value, changes in the market supply or demand for wireless licenses, wireline or cable
markets or IT service providers, adverse developments in the businesses or the industries in which TDS is involved
and/or other factors could require TDS to recognize impairments in the carrying value of its licenses, goodwill, franchise
rights and/or physical assets.

(cid:2) Costs, integration problems or other factors associated with acquisitions, divestitures or exchanges of properties or

licenses and/or expansion of TDS’ businesses could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or
results of operations.

(cid:2) TDS offers customers the option to purchase certain devices under installment contracts which, compared to fixed-term
service contracts, includes risks that TDS may possibly incur greater churn, lower cash flows, increased costs and/or
increased bad debts expense due to differences in contract terms, which could have an adverse impact on TDS’
financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) A failure by TDS to complete significant network construction and systems implementation activities as part of its plans
to improve the quality, coverage, capabilities and capacity of its networks and support systems could have an adverse
effect on its operations.

(cid:2) Difficulties involving third parties with which TDS does business, including changes in TDS’ relationships with or

financial or operational difficulties of key suppliers or independent agents and third party national retailers who market
TDS’ services, could adversely affect TDS’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) TDS has significant investments in entities that it does not control. Losses in the value of such investments could have

an adverse effect on TDS’ financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) A failure by TDS to maintain flexible and capable telecommunication networks or information technology, or a material

disruption thereof, could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) TDS has experienced and, in the future, expects to experience cyber-attacks or other breaches of network or

information technology security of varying degrees on a regular basis, which could have an adverse effect on TDS’
business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) The market price of TDS’ Common Shares is subject to fluctuations due to a variety of factors.

(cid:2) Changes in facts or circumstances, including new or additional information, could require TDS to record charges in

excess of amounts accrued in the financial statements, which could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial
condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) Disruption in credit or other financial markets, a deterioration of U.S. or global economic conditions or other events
could, among other things, impede TDS’ access to or increase the cost of financing its operating and investment
activities and/or result in reduced revenues and lower operating income and cash flows, which would have an adverse
effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) Settlements, judgments, restraints on its current or future manner of doing business and/or legal costs resulting from

pending and future litigation could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business, financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) The possible development of adverse precedent in litigation or conclusions in professional studies to the effect that

radio frequency emissions from wireless devices and/or cell sites cause harmful health consequences, including cancer
or tumors, or may interfere with various electronic medical devices such as pacemakers, could have an adverse effect
on TDS’ wireless business, financial condition or results of operations.

50

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(cid:2) Claims of infringement of intellectual property and proprietary rights of others, primarily involving patent infringement

claims, could prevent TDS from using necessary technology to provide products or services or subject TDS to
expensive intellectual property litigation or monetary penalties, which could have an adverse effect on TDS’ business,
financial condition or results of operations.

(cid:2) Certain matters, such as control by the TDS Voting Trust and provisions in the TDS Restated Certificate of Incorporation,

may serve to discourage or make more difficult a change in control of TDS.

(cid:2) Any of the foregoing events or other events could cause revenues, earnings, capital expenditures and/or any other

financial or statistical information to vary from TDS’ forward-looking estimates by a material amount.

TDS undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information,
future events or otherwise. Readers should evaluate any statements in light of these important factors.

MARKET RISK
Long-Term Debt

As of December 31, 2015, the majority of TDS’ long-term debt was in the form of fixed-rate notes with maturities ranging
up to 49 years. Fluctuations in market interest rates can lead to significant fluctuations in the fair value of these fixed-rate
notes.

The following chart presents the scheduled principal payments on long-term debt by maturity dates at December 31,
2015:

 $700

 $600

 $500

 $400

 $300

 $200

 $100

 $-

5.875% - TDS - Retail (TDA)
6.875% - TDS - Retail (TDE)
6.7% - U.S. Cellular - Institutional
7.25% - U.S. Cellular - Retail (UZB)
U.S. Cellular Term Loan

6.625% - TDS - Retail (TDI)
7.0% - TDS - Retail (TDJ)
6.95% - U.S. Cellular - Retail (UZA)
7.25% - U.S. Cellular - Retail (UZC)

6
1
0
2

8
1
0
2

0
2
0
2

2
2
0
2

4
2
0
2

6
2
0
2

8
2
0
2

0
3
0
2

2
3
0
2

4
3
0
2

6
3
0
2

8
3
0
2

0
4
0
2

2
4
0
2

4
4
0
2

6
4
0
2

8
4
0
2

0
5
0
2

2
5
0
2

4
5
0
2

6
5
0
2

51

8
5
0
2

31MAR201601274243

2
6
0
2

4
6
0
2

0
6
0
2

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table presents the scheduled principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, and the
related weighted average interest rates by maturity dates at December 31, 2015:

Principal Payments Due by Period

Long-Term Debt
Obligations1

Weighted-Avg. Interest
Rates on Long-Term
Debt Obligations2

(Dollars in millions)
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
After 5 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

14.3
12.1
11.4
11.4
11.4
2,469.4

2,530.0

3.3%
3.2%
3.3%
3.3%
3.3%
6.6%

6.5%

1 The total long-term debt obligation differs from Long-term debt in the Consolidated Balance Sheet due to unamortized debt issuance costs on all

non-revolving debt instruments and unamortized discount related to U.S. Cellular’s 6.7% Senior Notes. See Note 11 — Debt in the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

2 Represents the weighted average interest rates at December 31, 2015 for debt maturing in the respective periods.

Fair Value of Long-Term Debt

At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the estimated fair value of long-term debt obligations, excluding capital lease
obligations and the current portion of such long-term debt, was $2,483.2 million and $1,932.4 million, respectively. See
Note 2 — Fair Value Measurements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Other Market Risk Sensitive Instruments

The substantial majority of TDS’ other market risk sensitive instruments (as defined in item 305 of SEC Regulation S-K)
are short-term, including Cash and cash equivalents. Accordingly, TDS believes that a significant change in interest rates
would not have a material effect on such other market risk sensitive instruments.

52

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
TDS sometimes uses information derived from consolidated financial information but not presented in its financial
statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP to evaluate the performance of its business. Certain of these
measures are considered ‘‘non-GAAP financial measures’’ under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Rules.
Specifically, TDS has referred to the following measures in this Form 10-K Report:

(cid:2) Adjusted EBITDA

(cid:2) Operating Cash Flow

(cid:2) Free Cash Flow

(cid:2) Adjusted Free Cash Flow

Below is a reconciliation of each of these measures:

Adjusted EBITDA and Operating Cash Flow

Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and accretion), is defined as net income
adjusted for the items set forth in the reconciliation. Operating cash flow is defined as net income adjusted for the items
set forth in the reconciliation. Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow exclude these items in order to show operating
results on a more comparable basis from period to period. From time to time, TDS may exclude other items from
Adjusted EBITDA and/or Operating cash flow if such items help reflect operating results on a more comparable basis.
TDS does not intend to imply that any such items that are excluded are non-recurring, infrequent or unusual; such items
may occur in the future. Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow are not measures of financial performance under
GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to net income as indicators of the company’s operating
performance or as alternatives to cash flows from operating activities, determined in accordance with GAAP, as
indicators of cash flows or as measures of liquidity. TDS believes Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow are useful

53

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

measures of TDS’ operating results before significant recurring non-cash charges, gains and losses, and other items as
indicated below.

TDS – CONSOLIDATED

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Income tax expense (benefit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

$

262,610

$

(147,292)

$

166,821

171,992
141,719
844,361

1,420,682

–
(135,887)
(146,884)
22,176
–

1,160,087

140,076
38,783
391

980,837

844,361
–
(135,887)
(146,884)
22,176

(4,932)
111,397
836,532

795,705

87,802
(15,846)
(112,993)
26,531
–

781,199

131,965
16,957
115

632,162

836,532
87,802
(15,846)
(112,993)
26,531

126,043
98,811
1,018,077

1,409,752

–
(300,656)
(255,479)
30,841
(14,547)

869,911

132,714
9,092
(37)

728,142

1,018,077
–
(300,656)
(255,479)
30,841

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

397,071

$

(189,864)

$

235,359

54

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

U.S. CELLULAR

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Income tax expense (benefit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
(Gain) loss on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

$

247,295

$

(46,922)

$

144,522

156,334
86,194
606,455

1,096,278

(113,555)
(146,884)
16,313
–

852,152

140,083
36,332
466

675,271

606,455
(113,555)
(146,884)
16,313

(11,782)
57,386
605,997

604,679

(32,830)
(112,993)
21,469
–

480,325

129,764
12,148
160

338,253

605,997
(32,830)
(112,993)
21,469

113,134
43,963
803,781

1,105,400

(246,767)
(255,479)
30,606
(18,556)

615,204

131,949
3,961
288

479,006

803,781
(246,767)
(255,479)
30,606

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

312,942

$

(143,390)

$

146,865

TDS TELECOM

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Income tax expense (benefit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

$

45,915

$

(24,356)

$

29,801

34,972
738
228,060

309,685

–
(9,530)
5,874
–

17,590
(1,188)
219,599

211,645

84,000
(2,357)
4,754
–

19,084
(1,565)
202,701

250,021

–
–
283
(830)

306,029

298,042

249,474

17
2,265
(117)

8
2,430
(21)

303,864

295,625

228,060
–
(9,530)
5,874

219,599
84,000
(2,357)
4,754

19
1,824
(185)

247,816

202,701
–
–
283

44,832

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

79,460

$

(10,371)

$

55

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

WIRELINE

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) before income taxes (GAAP)1
Add back:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

91,878

$

103,541

$

70,665

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

(1,133)
165,841

256,586

(9,530)
5,094
–

(2,695)
169,044

269,890

(2,357)
2,091
–

(3,265)
170,868

238,268

–
130
(830)

252,150

269,624

237,568

17
2,193
(22)

8
2,396
(32)

249,962

267,252

165,841
(9,530)
5,094

169,044
(2,357)
2,091

19
1,759
(214)

236,004

170,868
–
130

65,006

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

88,557

$

98,474

$

CABLE

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) before income taxes (GAAP)1
Add back:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

6,837

$

392

$

(116)

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

(458)
35,271

41,650

691

42,341

37
3

42,301

35,271
691

(95)
23,643

23,940

2,482

26,422

8
(1)

26,415

23,643
2,482

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

6,339

$

290

$

74
7,571

7,529

28

7,557

2
–

7,555

7,571
28

(44)

56

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

HMS

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) before income taxes (GAAP)1
Add back:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

(17,828)

$

(110,699)

$

(21,664)

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add back:

Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deduct:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

2,329
26,948

11,449

–
89

11,538

35
(98)

11,601

26,948
–
89

1,602
26,912

(82,185)

84,000
181

1,996

26
12

1,958

26,912
84,000
181

1,626
24,262

4,224

–
125

4,349

63
29

4,257

24,262
–
125

Operating income (loss) (GAAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

(15,436)

$

(109,135)

$

(20,130)

1

Income tax expense (benefit) is not provided at the individual segment level for Wireline, Cable and HMS. TDS calculates income tax expense for TDS
Telecom in total.

Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow

The following table presents Free cash flow and Adjusted free cash flow. Free cash flow is defined as Cash flows from
operating activities less Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment. Adjusted free cash flow is defined as
Cash flows from operating activities (which includes cash outflows related to the Sprint decommissioning), as adjusted
for cash proceeds from the Sprint Cost Reimbursement (which are included in Cash flows from investing activities in the
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows), less Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment. Free cash flow
and Adjusted free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures which TDS believes may be useful to investors and other
users of its financial information in evaluating the amount of cash generated by business operations (including cash
proceeds from the Sprint Cost Reimbursement), after Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment.

(Dollars in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . .
Less: Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment

Free cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add: Sprint Cost Reimbursement1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted free cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

789,694
800,628

(10,934)
29,974

19,040

$

$

$

394,812
799,496

(404,684)
71,097

(333,587)

$

$

$

494,610
883,797

(389,187)
10,560

(378,627)

2015

2014

2013

1 See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to the

Sprint Cost Reimbursement.

57

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)
Operating revenues

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment and product sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 4,321,969
854,272

$

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,176,241

4,328,654
680,784

5,009,438

$

4,443,491
457,745

4,901,236

Operating expenses

Cost of services (excluding Depreciation, amortization and accretion reported

below) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,190,910
1,224,031
1,780,463
844,361
–
22,176
(135,887)
(146,884)

1,164,658
1,346,811
1,865,807
836,532
87,802
26,531
(15,846)
(112,993)

1,118,183
1,107,133
1,947,778
1,018,077
–
30,841
(300,656)
(255,479)

Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,779,170

5,199,302

4,665,877

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

397,071

(189,864)

235,359

Investment and other income (expense)

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

Total investment and other income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense (benefit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Preferred dividend requirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

140,076
38,783
–
(141,719)
391

37,531

434,602
171,992

262,610
43,573

219,037
(49)

131,965
16,957
–
(111,397)
115

37,640

(152,224)
(4,932)

(147,292)
(10,937)

(136,355)
(49)

132,714
9,092
14,547
(98,811)
(37)

57,505

292,864
126,043

166,821
24,894

141,927
(49)

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

218,988

$

(136,404)

$

141,878

Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . .

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . .

Dividends per share to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

108,645
2.02

109,910
1.98

0.56

$

$

$

$

$

$

108,485
(1.26)

108,485
(1.26)

0.54

$

$

$

108,490
1.31

109,132
1.29

0.51

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

58

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss)
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Change in net unrealized gain (loss) on equity investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in foreign currency translation adjustment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change related to retirement plan

Amounts included in net periodic benefit cost for the period

Net actuarial gains (losses)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prior service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of prior service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of unrecognized net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Change in deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Change related to retirement plan, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

. . . . . . . . . . .

$

262,610

$

(147,292)

$

166,821

(399)
37

866
(7,412)
(2,988)
290

(9,244)
3,509

(5,735)

(6,097)

341
48

10,990
2,057
(3,644)
1,287

10,690
(4,058)

6,632

7,021

51
(34)

13,345
–
(3,605)
2,452

12,192
(4,646)

7,546

7,563

Comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax . . . . . .

256,513
43,573

(140,271)
(10,937)

174,384
24,894

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . .

$

212,940

$

(129,334)

$

149,490

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

59

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities

2015

2014

2013

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add (deduct) adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating

$

262,610

$

(147,292)

$

166,821

activities

Depreciation, amortization and accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bad debts expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Distributions from unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncash interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Changes in assets and liabilities from operations

Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment installment plans receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer deposits and deferred revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued interest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flows from investing activities

Cash used for additions to property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash received from divestitures and exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash received for investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Federal Communications Commission deposit
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flows from financing activities

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayment of long-term debt
Issuance of long-term debt
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayment of borrowing under revolving credit facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borrowing under revolving credit facility
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Common Shares reissued for benefit plans, net of tax payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
U.S. Cellular Common Shares reissued for benefit plans, net of tax payments . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of TDS Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of U.S. Cellular Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends paid to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
U.S. Cellular dividends paid to noncontrolling public shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payment of debt issuance costs
Distributions to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments to acquire additional interest in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

844,361
112,292
40,400
70,849
(140,076)
60,060
–
22,176
(135,887)
(146,884)
–
2,760
(769)

(120,230)
(133,734)
115,482
7,245
(35,850)
38,259
4,046
(77,416)

789,694

(800,628)
(286,861)
342,870
–
–
6,932

(737,687)

(816)
525,000
–
–
13,329
2,167
–
(6,188)
(61,219)
–
(13,026)
(6,369)
(3,983)
11,840

460,735

836,532
107,861
35,793
71,713
(131,965)
112,349
87,802
26,531
(15,846)
(112,993)
–
1,642
(641)

17,629
(188,829)
(29,149)
(117,264)
33,952
(122,921)
1,277
(71,369)

394,812

(799,496)
(295,253)
187,645
50,000
(60,000)
7,360

(909,744)

(1,072)
275,000
(150,000)
150,000
(2,019)
830
(39,096)
(18,943)
(58,040)
–
(10,215)
(627)
–
11,001

156,819

1,018,077
105,629
30,338
(67,150)
(132,714)
127,929
–
30,841
(300,656)
(255,479)
(14,547)
2,463
612

(293,729)
(591)
(83,536)
86,028
66,460
17,388
380
(9,954)

494,610

(883,797)
(314,570)
811,120
115,000
–
11,594

(260,653)

(1,581)
37
–
–
9,654
5,784
(9,692)
(18,544)
(55,293)
(75,235)
(23)
(3,766)
(4,505)
8,740

(144,424)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

512,742

(358,113)

89,533

Cash and cash equivalents

Beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

471,901

830,014

End of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

984,643

$

471,901

$

740,481

830,014

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

60

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET — ASSETS

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Current assets

2015

2014

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable

Due from customers and agents, less allowances of $49,223 and $41,431, respectively . . . . . . .
Other, less allowances of $1,468 and $1,141, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory, net
Net deferred income tax asset
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

984,643

$

471,901

705,313
97,543
158,222
–
112,235
70,094
30,293

548,537
135,144
273,707
107,686
86,506
113,708
29,766

Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,158,343

1,766,955

Assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

103,343

Licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Franchise rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $144,490 and $133,823,

respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,844,348
765,792
244,180

46,525
401,720
616

1,453,574
771,352
244,300

64,499
321,729
508

Property, plant and equipment

In service and under construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11,520,061
7,755,584

11,194,044
7,347,919

Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,764,477

3,846,125

Other assets and deferred charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

196,461

282,037

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 9,422,462

$

8,854,422

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

61

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET — LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

December 31,

(Dollars and shares in thousands)
Current liabilities

2015

2014

Current portion of long-term debt
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer deposits and deferred revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14,306
348,737
288,412
11,962
40,569
113,375
127,023

944,384

$

808
387,125
324,318
7,919
46,734
114,549
181,803

1,063,256

Liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

21,643

Deferred liabilities and credits

Net deferred income tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other deferred liabilities and credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

900,054
432,949

941,519
430,774

Long-term debt, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,439,827

1,941,069

Commitments and contingencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

–

Noncontrolling interests with redemption features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,097

1,150

Equity

TDS shareholders’ equity

Series A Common and Common Shares

Authorized 290,000 shares (25,000 Series A Common and 265,000 Common Shares)
Issued 132,782 shares (7,211 Series A Common and 125,571 Common Shares) and 132,749

shares (7,179 Series A Common, and 125,570 Common Shares), respectively

Outstanding 108,966 shares (7,211 Series A Common and 101,755 Common Shares) and
107,899 shares (7,179 Series A Common, and 100,720 Common Shares), respectively
Par Value ($.01 per share) of $1,328 ($72 Series A Common and $1,256 Common Shares)

and of $1,327 ($72 Series A Common and $1,255 Common Shares), respectively . . . . . . .
Capital in excess of par value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares at cost:

1,328
2,363,558

1,327
2,336,511

23,816 and 24,850 Common Shares, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(727,182)
355
2,487,491

(748,199)
6,452
2,330,187

Total TDS shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,125,550

3,926,278

Preferred shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

824
577,777

824
527,909

Total equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,704,151

4,455,011

Total liabilities and equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 9,422,462

$

8,854,422

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

62

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T

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Nature of Operations

Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (‘‘TDS’’) is a diversified telecommunications company providing high-quality services
to approximately 4.9 million wireless customers and 1.2 million wireline and cable connections at December 31, 2015.
TDS conducts all of its wireless operations through its 84%-owned subsidiary, United States Cellular Corporation (‘‘U.S.
Cellular’’). TDS provides broadband, video, voice and hosted and managed services through its wholly-owned
subsidiary, TDS Telecommunications Corporation (‘‘TDS Telecom’’).

TDS has the following reportable segments: U.S. Cellular, Wireline, Cable, and Hosted and Managed Services (‘‘HMS’’)
operations. TDS’ non-reportable other business activities are presented as ‘‘Corporate, Eliminations and Other’’. This
includes the operations of TDS’ wholly-owned subsidiary Suttle-Straus, Inc. (‘‘Suttle-Straus’’). Suttle-Straus’ financial
results were not significant to TDS’ operations. All of TDS’ segments operate only in the United States, except for HMS,
which includes an insignificant foreign operation. See Note 18 — Business Segment Information for summary financial
information on each business segment.

Principles of Consolidation

The accounting policies of TDS conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America
(‘‘GAAP’’) as set forth in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (‘‘FASB’’) Accounting Standards Codification
(‘‘ASC’’). Unless otherwise specified, references to accounting provisions and GAAP in these notes refer to the
requirements of the FASB ASC. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of TDS, its majority-owned
subsidiaries, general partnerships in which it has a majority partnership interest and variable interest entities (‘‘VIEs’’) in
which TDS is the primary beneficiary. Both VIE and primary beneficiary represent terms defined by GAAP.

Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 2015 financial statement presentation. In the fourth
quarter of 2015, TDS adopted, on a retrospective basis, Accounting Standards Update 2015-03, Simplifying the
Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (‘‘ASU 2015-03’’). See discussion of ASU 2015-03 below under Debt Issuance
Costs.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect (a) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and
liabilities at the date of the financial statements and (b) the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates are involved in accounting for
goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, income taxes and equipment installment plans.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

U.S. Cellular’s accounts receivable consist primarily of amounts owed by customers for wireless services and equipment
sales, including sales of certain devices under equipment installment plans through its owned and agent distribution
channels, by agents for sales of equipment to them and by other wireless carriers whose customers have used U.S.
Cellular’s wireless systems.

TDS Telecom’s accounts receivable primarily consist of amounts owed by customers for services and products provided,
by interexchange carriers for long-distance traffic which TDS Telecom carries on its network, and by interstate and
intrastate revenue pools that distribute access charges.

The allowance for doubtful accounts is the best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses related to existing
billed and unbilled accounts receivable. The allowance is estimated based on historical experience, account aging and

66

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

other factors that could affect collectability. Accounts receivable balances are reviewed on either an aggregate or
individual basis for collectability depending on the type of receivable. When it is probable that an account balance will
not be collected, the account balance is charged against the allowance for doubtful accounts. TDS does not have any
off-balance sheet credit exposure related to its customers.

The changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts during 2015, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions, net of recoveries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deductions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

48,637
112,292
(104,701)

$

65,604
107,861
(124,828)

33,415
105,629
(73,440)

Balance at end of year1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

56,228

$

48,637

$

65,604

2015

2014

2013

1

In 2015 and 2014, balance includes an allowance of $5.5 million and $6.1 million, respectively, related to the long-term portion of unbilled equipment
installment plan receivables.

Inventory

Inventory consists primarily of wireless devices stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined using the
first-in, first-out method and market determined by replacement cost or estimated net realizable value.

Licenses

Licenses consist of direct and incremental costs incurred in acquiring Federal Communications Commission (‘‘FCC’’)
licenses to provide wireless service.

TDS has determined that wireless licenses are indefinite-lived intangible assets and, therefore, not subject to
amortization based on the following factors:

(cid:2) Radio spectrum is not a depleting asset.

(cid:2) The ability to use radio spectrum is not limited to any one technology.

(cid:2) TDS and its consolidated subsidiaries are licensed to use radio spectrum through the FCC licensing process, which

enables licensees to utilize specified portions of the spectrum for the provision of wireless service.

(cid:2) TDS and its consolidated subsidiaries are required to renew their FCC licenses every ten years or, in some cases,

every fifteen years. To date, all of TDS’ license renewal applications have been granted by the FCC. Generally, license
renewal applications filed by licensees otherwise in compliance with FCC regulations are routinely granted. If, however,
a license renewal application is challenged either by a competing applicant for the license or by a petition to deny the
renewal application, the license will be renewed if the licensee can demonstrate its entitlement to a ‘‘renewal
expectancy.’’ Licensees are entitled to such an expectancy if they can demonstrate to the FCC that they have
provided ‘‘substantial service’’ during their license term and have ‘‘substantially complied’’ with FCC rules and policies.
TDS believes that it is probable that its future license renewal applications will be granted.

U.S. Cellular performs its annual impairment assessment of Licenses as of November 1 of each year or more frequently
if there are events or circumstances that cause U.S. Cellular to believe the carrying value of Licenses exceeds their fair
value on a more likely than not basis. Prior to the fourth quarter of 2015, U.S. Cellular separated its FCC licenses into
eleven units of accounting based on geographic service areas. The eleven units of accounting consisted of four
geographic units of accounting for developed operating market licenses (‘‘built licenses’’) and seven geographic
non-operating market licenses (‘‘unbuilt licenses’’). As part of the current year annual impairment evaluation, U.S. Cellular
evaluated the aggregation criteria based on how such licenses are deployed and provide value in U.S. Cellular’s
operations, and current industry and market factors. It was determined the built licenses should be aggregated into one
unit of accounting. The unbuilt licenses continued to be separated into seven geographic units of accounting.

As of November 1, 2015, U.S. Cellular performed a qualitative impairment assessment to determine whether it was more
likely than not that the fair value of the built and unbuilt licenses exceed their carrying value. In 2014, U.S. Cellular
estimated the fair value of built licenses for purposes of impairment testing using the build-out method. The build-out
method estimates the fair value of Licenses by discounting to present value the future cash flows calculated based on a
hypothetical cost to build-out U.S. Cellular’s network. For units of accounting which consist of unbuilt licenses, the fair

67

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

value of the unbuilt licenses is assumed to change by the same percentage, and in the same direction, that the fair
value of built licenses measured using the build-out method changed during the period. Based on the impairment
assessments performed, U.S. Cellular did not have an impairment of its Licenses in 2015 or 2014.

See Note 7 — Intangible Assets for additional details related to Licenses.

Goodwill

TDS has Goodwill as a result of its acquisition of wireless, wireline, cable and HMS companies and, under previous
business combination guidance in effect prior to 2009, step acquisitions related to U.S. Cellular’s repurchase of its
common shares. Such Goodwill represents the excess of the total purchase price over the fair value of net assets
acquired in these transactions. TDS performs its annual impairment assessment of Goodwill as of November 1 of each
year or more frequently if there are events or circumstances that cause TDS to believe the carrying value of individual
reporting units exceeds their respective fair values on a more likely than not basis.

See Note 7 — Intangible Assets for additional details related to Goodwill.

U.S. Cellular

For purposes of conducting its annual Goodwill impairment test as of November 1, 2015, U.S. Cellular identified one
reporting unit. In 2014, U.S. Cellular identified four reporting units based on four geographic groupings of operating
markets, representing four geographic service areas. Due to the evolution of the business and the extent to which U.S.
Cellular has similar customers, products and services, and operations across all geographic regions, and also operates
one interdependent network, U.S. Cellular determined it had one reporting unit as of November 1, 2015. The change in
reporting units required U.S. Cellular to perform an impairment test for both the previous four reporting units and one
new reporting unit as of November 1, 2015. A discounted cash flow approach was used to value each reporting unit for
purposes of the Goodwill impairment review. Based upon the impairment assessments performed, U.S. Cellular did not
have an impairment of its Goodwill in 2015 or 2014.

TDS Telecom

For purposes of conducting its annual Goodwill impairment test as of the November 1, 2015 and 2014, TDS Telecom
has identified three reporting units: Wireline, Cable and HMS. The discounted cash flow approach and guideline public
company method were used to value the Wireline and Cable reporting units for the 2015 and 2014 annual impairment
tests and the HMS reporting unit for the 2015 impairment test. For the 2014 annual impairment test, TDS Telecom
performed a qualitative assessment of the HMS reporting unit due to the interim impairment test performed on the HMS
reporting unit during the third quarter of 2014. Based on the impairment assessments performed, Wireline and Cable did
not have an impairment of their Goodwill in 2015 or 2014. HMS also did not have an impairment of its Goodwill in 2015;
however, HMS recognized a loss on impairment in 2014 as described in Note 7 — Intangible Assets.

Franchise Rights

TDS Telecom has Franchise rights as a result of acquisitions of cable businesses. Franchise rights are intangible assets
that provide their holder with the right to operate a business in a certain geographical location as sanctioned by the
franchiser, usually a government agency. TDS has determined that Franchise rights are indefinite-lived intangible assets
and, therefore, not subject to amortization because TDS expects both the renewal by the granting authorities and the
cash flows generated from the Franchise rights to continue indefinitely. Cable Franchise rights are generally granted for
ten year periods and may be renewed for additional terms upon approval by the granting authority. TDS anticipates that
future renewals of its Franchise rights will be granted.

TDS Telecom performs its annual impairment assessment of Franchise rights as of November 1 of each year or more
frequently if there are events or circumstances that cause TDS Telecom to believe the carrying value of Franchise rights
exceeds their fair value on a more likely than not basis. TDS Telecom tests Franchise rights for impairment at a unit of
accounting level for which one unit of accounting was identified. TDS Telecom estimates the fair value of franchise rights
for purposes of impairment testing using the build-out method. Based on the impairment assessments performed, TDS
Telecom did not have an impairment of Franchise rights in 2015 or 2014.

See Note 7 — Intangible Assets for additional details related to Franchise rights.

68

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

For its equity method investments for which financial information is readily available, TDS records its equity in the
earnings of the entity in the current period. For its equity method investments for which financial information is not readily
available, TDS records its equity in the earnings of the entity on a one quarter lag basis.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment is stated at the original cost of construction or purchase including capitalized costs of
certain taxes, payroll-related expenses, interest and estimated costs to remove the assets.

Expenditures that enhance the productive capacity of assets in service or extend their useful lives are capitalized and
depreciated. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs of assets in service are charged to Cost of services or Selling,
general and administrative expense, as applicable. Retirements and disposals of assets are recorded by removing the
original cost of the asset (along with the related accumulated depreciation) from plant in service and charging it,
together with net removal costs (removal costs less an applicable accrued asset retirement obligation and salvage value
realized), to (Gain) loss on asset disposals, net.

TDS capitalizes certain costs of developing new information systems.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the related asset, except for
certain Wireline segment assets, which use the group depreciation method. The group depreciation method develops a
depreciation rate based on the average useful life of a specific group of assets, rather than each asset individually. TDS
depreciates leasehold improvement assets associated with leased properties over periods ranging from one to thirty
years; such periods approximate the shorter of the assets’ economic lives or the specific lease terms.

Useful lives of specific assets are reviewed throughout the year to determine if changes in technology or other business
changes would warrant accelerating the depreciation of those specific assets. Due to the Divestiture Transaction more
fully described in Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges, U.S. Cellular changed the useful lives of certain
assets in 2013. Other than the Divestiture Transaction, there were no material changes to useful lives of property, plant
and equipment in 2015, 2014 or 2013. See Note 9 — Property, Plant and Equipment for additional details related to
useful lives.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

TDS reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets
might be impaired.

U.S. Cellular has one asset group for purposes of assessing property, plant and equipment for impairment based on the
fact that the individual operating markets are reliant on centrally operated data centers, mobile telephone switching
offices and a network operations center. U.S. Cellular operates a single integrated national wireless network, and the
lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets and
liabilities represent cash flows generated by this single interdependent network.

TDS Telecom has three asset groups of Wireline, Cable and HMS for purposes of assessing property, plant and
equipment for impairment based on their integrated network, assets and operations. The cash flows generated by each
of these groups is the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other
groups of assets and liabilities.

Agent Liabilities

U.S. Cellular has relationships with agents, which are independent businesses that obtain customers for U.S. Cellular. At
December 31, 2015 and 2014, U.S. Cellular had accrued $75.7 million and $95.3 million, respectively, for amounts due
to agents. These amounts are included in Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

69

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Debt Issuance Costs

Debt issuance costs include underwriters’ and legal fees and other charges related to issuing various borrowing
instruments and other long-term agreements, and are amortized over the respective term of each instrument. TDS early
adopted ASU 2015-03 using the retrospective method as of December 31, 2015. ASU 2015-03 requires certain debt
issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as an offset to the related debt obligation. Debt issuance costs
related to TDS and U.S. Cellular’s revolving credit facilities are excluded from the scope of ASU 2015-03 and are
recorded in Other assets and deferred charges in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. As a result of the retrospective
adoption, TDS reclassified unamortized debt issuance costs of $52.5 million as of December 31, 2014 from Other assets
and deferred charges to Long-term debt, net in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Other than this reclassification, the
adoption of ASU 2015-03 did not have an impact on TDS’ consolidated financial statements.

Asset Retirement Obligations

TDS accounts for asset retirement obligations by recording the fair value of a liability for legal obligations associated with
an asset retirement in the period in which the obligations are incurred. At the time the liability is incurred, TDS records a
liability equal to the net present value of the estimated cost of the asset retirement obligation and increases the carrying
amount of the related long-lived asset by an equal amount. Until the obligation is fulfilled, TDS updates its estimates
relating to cash flows required and timing of settlement. TDS records the present value of the changes in the future
value as an increase or decrease to the liability and the related carrying amount of the long-lived asset. The liability is
accreted to future value over a period ending with the estimated settlement date of the respective asset retirement
obligation. The carrying amount of the long-lived asset is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Upon
settlement of the obligation, any difference between the cost to retire the asset and the recorded liability is recognized in
the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Treasury Shares

Common Shares repurchased by TDS are recorded at cost as treasury shares and result in a reduction of equity. When
treasury shares are reissued, TDS determines the cost using the first-in, first-out cost method. The difference between
the cost of the treasury shares and reissuance price is included in Capital in excess of par value or Retained earnings.

Revenue Recognition

Revenues related to services are recognized as services are rendered. Revenues billed in advance or in arrears of the
services being provided are estimated and deferred or accrued, as appropriate.

Revenues from sales of equipment, products and accessories are recognized when TDS no longer has any
requirements to perform, when title has passed and when the products are accepted by the customer.

Multiple Deliverable Arrangements

U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom sell multiple element service and equipment offerings. In these instances, revenues are
allocated using the relative selling price method. Under this method, arrangement consideration is allocated to each
element on the basis of its relative selling price. Revenue recognized for the delivered items is limited to the amount due
from the customer that is not contingent upon the delivery of additional products or services.

Loyalty Reward Program

In March 2015, U.S. Cellular announced that it would discontinue its loyalty reward program effective September 1, 2015.
All unredeemed reward points expired at that time and the deferred revenue balance of $58.2 million related to such
expired points was recognized as service revenues. At December 31, 2014, U.S. Cellular had deferred revenue related to
loyalty reward points outstanding of $94.6 million.

U.S. Cellular followed the deferred revenue method of accounting for its loyalty reward program. Under this method,
revenue allocated to loyalty reward points was deferred. The amount allocated to the loyalty points was based on the
estimated retail price of the products and services for which points may be redeemed divided by the number of loyalty
points required to receive such products and services. This was calculated on a weighted average basis and required
U.S. Cellular to estimate the percentage of loyalty points that would be redeemed for each product or service.

Revenue was recognized at the time of customer redemption or when such points were depleted via an account
maintenance charge. U.S. Cellular employed the proportional model to recognize revenues associated with breakage.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Under the proportional model, U.S. Cellular allocated a portion of the estimated future breakage to each redemption and
recorded revenue proportionally.

In the fourth quarter of 2013, U.S. Cellular issued loyalty reward points with a value of $43.5 million as a loyalty bonus in
recognition of the inconvenience experienced by customers during U.S. Cellular’s billing system conversion in 2013. The
value of the loyalty bonus reduced Service revenues in the Consolidated Statement of Operations in 2013.

Equipment Installment Plans

U.S. Cellular equipment revenue under equipment installment plan contracts is recognized at the time the device is
delivered to the end-user customer for the selling price of the device, net of any deferred imputed interest or trade-in
right, if applicable. Imputed interest is reflected as a reduction to the receivable balance and recognized over the
duration of the plan as a component of Interest and dividend income. See Note 3 — Equipment Installment Plans for
additional information.

Incentives

Discounts and incentives that are deemed cash are recognized as a reduction of Operating revenues concurrently with
the associated revenue.

U.S. Cellular issues rebates to its agents and end customers. These incentives are recognized as a reduction to revenue
at the time the wireless device sale to the customer occurs. The total potential rebates and incentives are reduced by
U.S. Cellular’s estimate of rebates that will not be redeemed by customers based on historical experience of such
redemptions.

Activation Fees

TDS charges its end customers activation fees in connection with the sale of certain services and equipment. Activation
fees charged by TDS Telecom in conjunction with a service offering are deferred and recognized over the average
customer’s service period. Device activation fees charged at U.S. Cellular agent locations in connection with subsidized
device sales are deferred and recognized over a period that corresponds with the length of the customer’s service
contract. Device activation fees charged at U.S. Cellular company-owned retail stores in connection with subsidized
device sales are recognized at the time the device is delivered to the customer. Device activation fees charged at both
agent locations and U.S. Cellular company-owned retail stores in connection with equipment installment plan device
transactions are deferred and recognized over a period that corresponds with the equipment upgrade eligibility date
based on the contract terms.

Amounts Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities – Gross vs. Net

TDS records amounts collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities net within a tax liability account
if the tax is assessed upon the customer and TDS merely acts as an agent in collecting the tax on behalf of the
imposing governmental authority. If the tax is assessed upon TDS, then amounts collected from customers as recovery
of the tax are recorded in Service revenues and amounts remitted to governmental authorities are recorded in Selling,
general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The amounts recorded gross in
revenues that are billed to customers and remitted to governmental authorities totaled $95.3 million, $113.5 million and
$131.0 million for 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Wholesale Revenues

TDS Telecom earns wholesale revenues in its Wireline segment as a result of its participation in revenue pools with other
telephone companies for interstate revenue and for certain intrastate revenue. Such pools are funded by long distance
revenue and/or access charges within state jurisdictions and by access charges in the interstate jurisdiction. Wholesale
revenues earned through the various pooling processes are recorded based on estimates following the National
Exchange Carrier Association’s rules as approved by the FCC.

Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (‘‘ETC’’) Revenues

Telecommunications companies may be designated by states, or in some cases by the FCC, as an ETC to receive
support payments from the Universal Service Fund if they provide specified services in ‘‘high cost’’ areas. ETC revenues
recognized in the reporting period represent the amounts which U.S. Cellular is entitled to receive for such period, as
determined and approved in connection with U.S. Cellular’s designation as an ETC in various states.

71

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Advertising Costs

TDS expenses advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs totaled $267.9 million, $228.5 million and $212.8 million in
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Income Taxes

TDS files a consolidated federal income tax return. Deferred taxes are computed using the liability method, whereby
deferred tax assets are recognized for future deductible temporary differences and operating loss carryforwards, and
deferred tax liabilities are recognized for future taxable temporary differences. Both deferred tax assets and liabilities are
measured using the tax rates anticipated to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. Temporary differences
are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. Deferred tax assets are
reduced by a valuation allowance when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will
not be realized. TDS evaluates income tax uncertainties, assesses the probability of the ultimate settlement with the
applicable taxing authority and records an amount based on that assessment.

In November 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-17, Income Taxes: Balance Sheet Classification
of Deferred Taxes (‘‘ASU 2015-17’’), requiring all deferred tax assets and liabilities, and any related valuation allowance,
to be classified as non-current on the balance sheet. The classification change for all deferred taxes as non-current
simplifies entities’ processes as it eliminates the need to separately identify the net current and net non-current deferred
tax asset or liability in each jurisdiction and allocate valuation allowances. TDS is required to adopt ASU 2015-17 on
January 1, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. TDS early adopted this standard using the prospective method as of
December 31, 2015. No prior period amounts were adjusted.

Stock-Based Compensation and Other Plans

TDS has established long-term incentive plans, dividend reinvestment plans, and a non-employee director compensation
plan. See Note 17 — Stock-Based Compensation for additional information. The dividend reinvestment plan of TDS is
not considered a compensatory plan and, therefore, recognition of compensation costs for grants made under this plan
is not required. All other plans are considered compensatory plans; therefore, recognition of compensation costs for
grants made under these plans is required.

TDS values its share-based payment transactions using a Black-Scholes valuation model. Stock-based compensation
cost recognized during the period is based on the portion of the share-based payment awards that are ultimately
expected to vest. Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost recognized has been reduced for estimated forfeitures.
Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ
from those estimates. Pre-vesting forfeitures and expected life are estimated based on historical experience related to
similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the stock-based awards, vesting schedules and
expectations of future employee behavior. TDS believes that its historical experience provides the best estimates of
future pre-vesting forfeitures and future expected life. The expected volatility assumption is based on the historical
volatility of TDS’ common stock over a period commensurate with the expected life. The dividend yield assumption is
equal to the dividends declared in the most recent year as a percentage of the share price on the date of grant. The
risk-free interest rate assumption is determined using the U.S. Treasury Yield Curve Rate with a term length that
approximates the expected life of the stock options.

TDS stock option awards cliff vest in three years. Therefore, compensation cost for TDS stock option awards is
recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period. U.S. Cellular
stock option awards vest on an annual basis in three separate tranches. Compensation cost for U.S. Cellular stock
option awards is recognized using a graded attribution method over the requisite service period, which is generally the
vesting period. TDS and U.S. Cellular restricted stock units cliff vest in three years. Therefore, compensation cost for
TDS and U.S. Cellular restricted stock units is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which
is generally the vesting period.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers
(‘‘ASU 2014-09’’). ASU 2014-09 outlines a single comprehensive model to use in accounting for revenue arising from
contracts with customers. In August 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-14, Revenue from
Contracts with Customers: Deferral of the Effective Date, requiring the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on January 1, 2018.

72

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Early adoption as of January 1, 2017 is permitted; however, TDS does not intend to adopt early. TDS is evaluating the
effects that adoption of ASU 2014-09 will have on its financial position, results of operations, and disclosures.

In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s
Ability to Continue as a Going Concern (‘‘ASU 2014-15’’). ASU 2014-15 requires TDS to assess its ability to continue as
a going concern each interim and annual reporting period and provide certain disclosures if there is substantial doubt
about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, including management’s plan to alleviate the substantial doubt.
TDS is required to adopt the provisions of ASU 2014-15 for the annual period ending December 31, 2016, but early
adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU 2014-15 will not impact TDS’ financial position or results of operations but
may impact future disclosures.

In February 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-02, Consolidation: Amendments to the
Consolidation Analysis (‘‘ASU 2015-02’’). ASU 2015-02 simplifies consolidation accounting by reducing the number of
consolidation models. Additionally, ASU 2015-02 changes certain criteria for identifying variable interest entities. TDS
adopted the provisions of this standard as of January 1, 2016. TDS expects that certain consolidated subsidiaries that
are not defined as variable interest entities under current accounting guidance will be defined as variable interest entities
under the provisions of ASU 2015-02. However, TDS’ adoption of ASU 2015-02 will not change the group of entities
which TDS is required to consolidate in its financial statements. Accordingly, the adoption of ASU 2015-02 will not
impact its financial position or results of operations.

In July 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-11, Inventory: Simplifying the Measurement of
Inventory (‘‘ASU 2015-11’’), which requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost or net realizable value. TDS is
required to adopt ASU 2015-11 on January 1, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. TDS is evaluating the effects that
adoption of ASU 2015-11 will have on its financial position and results of operations.

In September 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-16, Business Combinations: Simplifying the
Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments (‘‘ASU 2015-16’’). ASU 2015-16 simplifies how adjustments are made to
provisional amounts recognized in a business combination during the measurement period. TDS adopted ASU 2015-16
on January 1, 2016. There will be no immediate impacts to TDS’ financial position, results of operations, and
disclosures.

In January 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Overall: Recognition
and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (‘‘ASU 2016-01’’). This ASU introduces changes to current
accounting for equity investments and financial liabilities under the fair value option and the presentation and disclosure
requirements for financial instruments. TDS is required to adopt ASU 2016-01 on January 1, 2018. Certain provisions are
eligible for early adoption. TDS is evaluating the effects that adoption of ASU 2016-01 will have on its financial position
and results of operations.

NOTE 2 FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, TDS did not have any financial or nonfinancial assets or liabilities that were required
to be recorded at fair value in its Consolidated Balance Sheet in accordance with GAAP.

The provisions of GAAP establish a fair value hierarchy that contains three levels for inputs used in fair value
measurements. Level 1 inputs include quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. Level 2
inputs include quoted market prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or quoted market prices for
identical assets and liabilities in inactive markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable. A financial instrument’s level within
the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. A
financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is not representative of its expected performance or its overall
risk profile and, therefore, Level 3 assets are not necessarily higher risk than Level 2 assets or Level 1 assets.

73

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TDS has applied the provisions of fair value accounting for purposes of computing the fair value of financial instruments
for disclosure purposes as displayed below.

Level within
the Fair
Value
Hierarchy

December 31, 2015

December 31, 2014

Book Value

Fair Value

Book Value

Fair Value

(Dollars in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt

Retail
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Institutional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

2
2
2

$

984,643

$

984,643

$

471,901

$

471,901

1,753,250
533,015
215,538

1,766,308
501,461
215,456

1,453,250
532,722
4,749

1,414,105
513,647
4,675

The fair value of Cash and cash equivalents approximates the book value due to the short-term nature of these financial
instruments. Long-term debt excludes capital lease obligations and the current portion of Long-term debt. The fair value
of ‘‘Retail’’ Long-term debt was estimated using market prices for TDS’ 7.0% Senior Notes, 6.875% Senior Notes,
6.625% Senior Notes and 5.875% Senior Notes, and U.S. Cellular’s 6.95% Senior Notes, 7.25% 2063 Senior Notes and
7.25% 2064 Senior Notes. TDS’ ‘‘Institutional’’ debt consists of U.S. Cellular’s 6.7% Senior Notes which are traded over
the counter. TDS’ ‘‘Other’’ debt consists of a senior term loan credit facility and other borrowings with financial
institutions. TDS estimated the fair value of its Institutional and Other debt through a discounted cash flow analysis using
the interest rates or estimated yield to maturity for each borrowing, which ranged from 0.00% to 7.51% and 0.00% to
7.25% at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

NOTE 3 EQUIPMENT INSTALLMENT PLANS
TDS offers customers through its owned and agent distribution channels the option to purchase certain devices under
equipment installment contracts over a specified time period. For certain equipment installment plans (‘‘EIP’’), after a
specified period of time or amount of payments, the customer may have the right to upgrade to a new device and have
the remaining unpaid equipment installment contract balance waived, subject to certain conditions, including trading in
the original device in good working condition and signing a new equipment installment contract. TDS values this trade-in
right as a guarantee liability. The guarantee liability is initially measured at fair value and is determined based on
assumptions including the probability and timing of the customer upgrading to a new device and the fair value of the
device being traded-in at the time of trade-in. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the guarantee liability related to these
plans was $92.7 million and $57.5 million, respectively, and is reflected in Customer deposits and deferred revenues in
the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

TDS equipment installment plans do not provide for explicit interest charges. For equipment installment plans with
duration of greater than twelve months, TDS imputes interest. Equipment installment plan receivables had a weighted
average effective imputed interest rate of 9.7% and 10.2% as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

The following table summarizes the unbilled equipment installment plan receivables as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.
Such amounts are presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as Accounts receivable – customers and agents and
Other assets and deferred charges, where applicable.

December 31,

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands)
Short-term portion of unbilled equipment installment plan receivables, gross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short-term portion of unbilled deferred interest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short-term portion of unbilled allowance for credit losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 278,709
(20,810)
(13,827)

$ 127,400
(16,365)
(3,686)

Short-term portion of unbilled equipment installment plan receivables, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 244,072

$ 107,349

Long-term portion of unbilled equipment installment plan receivables, gross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term portion of unbilled deferred interest
Long-term portion of unbilled allowance for credit losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

75,738
(2,283)
(5,537)

89,435
(2,791)
(6,065)

Long-term portion of unbilled equipment installment plan receivables, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

67,918

$

80,579

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TDS assesses the collectability of the equipment installment plan receivables based on historical payment experience,
account aging and other qualitative factors and provides an allowance for estimated losses. The credit profiles of TDS
customers on equipment installment plans are similar to those of TDS customers with traditional subsidized plans.
Customers with a higher risk credit profile are required to make a deposit for equipment purchased through an
installment contract.

TDS recorded out-of-period adjustments in 2015 due to errors related to equipment installment plan transactions that
were attributable to 2014. TDS has determined that these adjustments were not material to prior annual periods, and
also were not material to the current year results. These equipment installment plan adjustments had the impact of
reducing Equipment sales revenues by $6.2 million and Income before income taxes by $5.8 million in 2015.

NOTE 4 INCOME TAXES
TDS’ current income taxes balances at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

December 31,

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands)
Federal income taxes receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net state income taxes receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

66,785
3,309

$ 108,820
4,391

Income tax expense (benefit) is summarized as follows:

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Current

2015

2014

2013

Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

92,887
8,256

$

(87,736)
11,091

$ 181,579
11,614

Deferred

Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Federal – valuation allowance adjustment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State – valuation allowance adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

60,939
–
9,910
–

41,851
(10,816)
2,208
38,470

(65,970)
–
(1,180)
–

$ 171,992

$

(4,932)

$ 126,043

A reconciliation of TDS’ income tax expense computed at the statutory rate to the reported income tax expense, and the
statutory federal income tax expense rate to TDS’ effective income tax expense rate is as follows:

2015

2014

2013

Year Ended December 31,

Amount

Rate

Amount

Rate

Amount

Rate

(Dollars in thousands)
Statutory federal income tax expense and rate . . . . .
State income taxes, net of federal benefit1 . . . . . . . .
Effect of noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gains (losses) on investments and sale of assets2 . . .
Change in federal valuation allowance3 . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill impairment4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other differences, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 152,111
11,002
2,791
–
2,022
–
4,066

35.0% $ (53,278)
42,834
(5,777)
–
(8,697)
18,260
1,726

2.5
0.6
–
0.5
–
1.0

35.0%
(28.1)
3.8
–
5.7
(12.0)
(1.2)

$ 102,502
10,548
(1,034)
14,949
–
–
(922)

Total income tax expense (benefit) and rate . . . . . . .

$ 171,992

39.6% $

(4,932)

3.2%

$ 126,043

35.0%
3.6
(0.4)
5.1
–
–
(0.3)

43.0%

1 State income taxes, net of federal benefit, include changes in unrecognized tax benefits as well as adjustments to the valuation allowance. During the
third quarter of 2014 TDS recorded a $38.5 million increase to income tax expense related to a valuation allowance recorded against certain state
deferred tax assets.

2 Gains (losses) on investments and sale of assets represents 2013 tax expense related to the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation and the Divestiture

Transaction. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges and Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated Entities for additional information.

3 Change in federal valuation allowance in 2015 relates primarily to losses incurred by certain entities where realization of deferred tax assets is not ‘‘more
likely than not.’’ The decrease to income tax expense in 2014 was due to a valuation allowance reduction for federal net operating losses previously
limited under loss utilization rules.

4 Goodwill impairment reflects an adjustment to increase income tax expense by $18.3 million related to a portion of the goodwill impairment of Suttle-
Straus and the HMS reporting unit recorded in 2014 which is nondeductible for income tax purposes. See Note 7 — Intangible Assets for additional
information related to the goodwill impairment.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Significant components of TDS’ deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as
follows:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Deferred tax assets

2015

2014

Current deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net operating loss (‘‘NOL’’) carryforwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compensation and benefits – other
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred rent
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

–
137,574
61,680
37,744
19,896
92,787

Total deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

349,681
(112,357)

Net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

237,324

Deferred tax liabilities

Property, plant and equipment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Licenses/intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Partnership investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

672,473
300,669
163,287
–

113,402
135,676
54,789
11,014
19,604
35,523

370,008
(113,553)

256,455

667,540
259,865
151,123
9,724

Total deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,136,429

1,088,252

Net deferred income tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

899,105

$

831,797

TDS early adopted ASU 2015-17 as of December 31, 2015 using the prospective method. The change required by the
guidance, whereby all deferred taxes are classified as non-current, simplifies processes by eliminating the need to
separately identify the net current and net non-current deferred tax asset or liability in each jurisdiction and allocate
valuation allowances. The prior year Consolidated Balance Sheet and the deferred tax disclosure above were not
revised. At December 31, 2015, $900.1 million of net deferred income tax liability is included in Net deferred income tax
liability and $1.0 million is included in Other assets and deferred charges in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. At
December 31, 2014, $107.7 million of net current deferred income tax asset is included in Net deferred income tax asset
and $941.5 million of net noncurrent deferred income tax liability is included in Net deferred income tax liability and
$2.0 million is included in Other assets and deferred charges in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

At December 31, 2015, TDS and certain subsidiaries had $2.4 billion of state NOL carryforwards (generating a
$114.2 million deferred tax asset) available to offset future taxable income. The state NOL carryforwards expire between
2016 and 2035. Certain subsidiaries had federal NOL carryforwards (generating a $23.4 million deferred tax asset)
available to offset their future taxable income. The federal NOL carryforwards expire between 2018 and 2035. A valuation
allowance was established for certain state NOL carryforwards and federal NOL carryforwards since it is more likely than
not that a portion of such carryforwards will expire before they can be utilized.

A summary of TDS’ deferred tax asset valuation allowance is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Charged (credited) to income tax expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Charged to other accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$ 113,553
(1,196)
–

79,064
34,489
–

$

70,502
1,954
6,608

Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 112,357

$ 113,553

$

79,064

2015

2014

2013

76

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at beginning of year

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions for tax positions of current year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for settlements of tax positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for lapses in statutes of limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 37,816
7,382
1,783
(1,434)
(1,225)
(5,448)

$ 30,390
7,610
883
(399)
(312)
(356)

$ 28,420
6,388
1,858
(467)
(1,337)
(4,472)

Unrecognized tax benefits balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 38,874

$ 37,816

$ 30,390

2015

2014

2013

Unrecognized tax benefits are included in Accrued taxes and Other deferred liabilities and credits in the Consolidated
Balance Sheet. If these benefits were recognized, they would have reduced income tax expense in 2015, 2014 and 2013
by $25.6 million, $24.6 million and $19.8 million, respectively, net of the federal benefit from state income taxes.

As of December 31, 2015, it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by approximately
$10 million in the next twelve months. The nature of the uncertainty relates primarily to state income tax positions and
their resolution or the expiration of statutes of limitation.

TDS recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in Income tax expense (benefit). The
amounts charged to income tax expense related to interest and penalties resulted in an expense of $0.6 million,
$3.4 million and $0.7 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Net accrued interest and penalties were $16.8 million
and $16.2 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

TDS and its subsidiaries file federal and state income tax returns. With only limited exceptions, TDS is no longer subject
to federal income tax audits for the years prior to 2012. With only a few exceptions, TDS is no longer subject to state
income tax audits for years prior to 2011.

NOTE 5 EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders is computed by dividing Net income (loss) available to
common shareholders of TDS by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders is computed by dividing Net income (loss) available to
common shareholders of TDS by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period
adjusted to include the effects of potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities primarily include incremental
shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options and the vesting of restricted stock units.

77

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The amounts used in computing earnings (loss) per common share and the effects of potentially dilutive securities on
the weighted average number of common shares were as follows:

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars and shares in thousands, except earnings per share)
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders:
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders of TDS used in basic earnings

(loss) per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 218,988

$ (136,404)

$ 141,878

Adjustments to compute diluted earnings:

Noncontrolling interest adjustment
Preferred dividend adjustment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1,525)
49

–
–

(1,058)
49

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders of TDS used in diluted earnings

(loss) per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 217,512

$ (136,404)

$ 140,869

Weighted average number of shares used in basic earnings (loss) per share

Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Series A Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

101,453
7,192

108,645

101,304
7,181

108,485

101,339
7,151

108,490

Effects of dilutive securities:

Stock options1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock units1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred shares1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

773
436
56

–
–
–

209
375
58

Weighted average number of shares used in diluted earnings (loss) per share . . . . . . . .

109,910

108,485

109,132

Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1 There were no effects of dilutive securities in 2014 due to the net loss for the year.

$

$

2.02

1.98

$

$

(1.26)

(1.26)

$

$

1.31

1.29

On June 25, 2013, U.S. Cellular paid a special cash dividend of $5.75 per share, for an aggregate amount of
$482.3 million, to all holders of U.S. Cellular Common Shares and Series A Common Shares as of June 11, 2013.
Outstanding U.S. Cellular stock options and restricted stock unit awards were equitably adjusted for the special cash
dividend.

Certain Common Shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units or conversion of
convertible preferred shares were not included in average diluted shares outstanding for the calculation of Diluted
earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders because their effects were antidilutive. The number of such
Common Shares excluded is shown in the table below.

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Shares in thousands)
Stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,499
190
–

8,984
839
56

7,120
171
–

NOTE 6 ACQUISITIONS, DIVESTITURES AND EXCHANGES
Divestiture Transaction

On May 16, 2013, pursuant to a Purchase and Sale Agreement, U.S. Cellular sold customers and certain PCS spectrum
licenses to subsidiaries of Sprint Corp. fka Sprint Nextel Corporation (‘‘Sprint’’) in U.S. Cellular’s Chicago, central Illinois,
St. Louis and certain Indiana/Michigan/Ohio markets (‘‘Divestiture Markets’’) in consideration for $480 million in cash. The
Purchase and Sale Agreement also contemplated certain other agreements, together with the Purchase and Sale
Agreement collectively referred to as the ‘‘Divestiture Transaction.’’

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These agreements require Sprint to reimburse U.S. Cellular up to $200 million (the ‘‘Sprint Cost Reimbursement’’) for
certain network decommissioning costs, network site lease rent and termination costs, network access termination costs,
and employee termination benefits for specified engineering employees. As of December 31, 2015, U.S. Cellular had
received a cumulative total of $111.6 million pursuant to the Sprint Cost Reimbursement. Sprint Cost Reimbursement
totaling $30.0 million, $71.1 million and $10.6 million had been received and recorded in Cash received from divestitures
and exchanges in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

As a result of the Divestiture Transaction, TDS recognized gains of $6.0 million, $29.3 million and $302.0 million in (Gain)
loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net, in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Other Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges

(cid:2) In 2015, TDS sold certain Wireline markets for $25.6 million, including working capital adjustments, and recognized

aggregated gains of $9.5 million.

(cid:2) In March 2015, U.S. Cellular exchanged certain of its unbuilt PCS licenses for certain other PCS licenses located in

U.S. Cellular’s existing operating markets and $117.0 million of cash. As of the transaction date, the licenses received
in the transaction had an estimated fair value, per a market approach, of $43.5 million. A gain of $125.2 million was
recorded in (Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net in the Consolidated Statement of Operations in the first
quarter of 2015.

(cid:2) U.S. Cellular participated in Auction 97 indirectly through its limited partnership interest in Advantage Spectrum.

Advantage Spectrum was the provisional winning bidder for 124 licenses for an aggregate winning bid of
$338.3 million, after its expected designated entity discount of 25%. Advantage Spectrum’s bid amount, less the
upfront payment of $60.0 million paid in 2014, was paid to the FCC in March 2015. These licenses have not yet been
granted by the FCC. See Note 14 — Variable Interest Entities for additional information.

(cid:2) In December 2014, U.S. Cellular entered into an agreement with a third party to sell 595 towers and certain related
contracts, assets, and liabilities for $159.0 million. This agreement and related transactions are referred to as the
‘‘Tower Sale’’ and were accomplished in two closings. The first closing occurred in December 2014 and included the
sale of 236 towers, without tenants, for $10.0 million. On this same date, U.S. Cellular received $7.5 million in earnest
money. At the time of the first closing, a $4.7 million gain was recorded. The second closing for the remaining 359
towers, primarily with tenants, took place in January 2015, at which time U.S. Cellular received $141.8 million in
additional cash proceeds and TDS recorded a gain of $120.2 million in (Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit
costs, net.

(cid:2) In September 2014, U.S. Cellular entered into an agreement with a third party to exchange certain PCS and AWS

licenses for certain other PCS and AWS licenses and $28.0 million of cash. This license exchange was accomplished
in two closings. The first closing occurred in December 2014 at which time U.S. Cellular transferred licenses to the
counterparty with a net book value of $11.5 million, received licenses with an estimated fair value, per a market
approach, of $51.5 million, recorded a $21.7 million gain and recorded an $18.3 million deferred credit in Other
current liabilities. The license that was transferred to the counterparty in the second closing had a net book value of
$22.2 million. The second closing occurred in July 2015. At the time of the second closing, U.S. Cellular received
$28.0 million in cash and recognized the deferred credit from the first closing, resulting in a total gain of $24.0 million
recorded on this part of the license exchange.

(cid:2) In September 2014, TDS acquired substantially all of the assets of a group of companies operating as

BendBroadband, headquartered in Bend, Oregon for $260.7 million in cash. BendBroadband is a full-service
communications company, offering an extensive range of broadband, fiber connectivity, cable television and telephone
services for commercial and residential customers in Central Oregon. As part of the agreement, TDS also acquired a
Tier III data center providing colocation and managed services and a cable advertising and broadcast business.
BendBroadband service offerings complement the current portfolio of products offered through TDS Telecom
businesses. Goodwill was recorded due primarily to the expectation of future growth and synergies in Cable segment
operations. The operations of the data center are included in the HMS segment. The operations of the cable and the
advertising and broadcast businesses are included in the Cable segment.

(cid:2) In May 2014, U.S. Cellular entered into a License Purchase and Customer Recommendation Agreement with Airadigm
Communications Inc. (‘‘Airadigm’’), a wholly-owned subsidiary of TDS. In September 2014, pursuant to the License
Purchase and Customer Recommendation Agreement, Airadigm transferred FCC spectrum licenses and certain tower

79

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

assets in certain markets in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan, to U.S. Cellular for $91.5 million in cash (the
‘‘Airadigm Transaction’’). Since both parties to this transaction are controlled by TDS, upon closing, U.S. Cellular
recorded the transferred assets at Airadigm’s net book value of $15.2 million.

(cid:2) In March 2014, U.S. Cellular sold the majority of its St. Louis area non-operating market spectrum license for

$92.3 million. A gain of $75.8 million was recorded in (Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges in the Consolidated
Statement of Operations in the first quarter of 2014.

(cid:2) In February 2014, U.S. Cellular completed an exchange whereby U.S. Cellular received one E block PCS spectrum
license covering Milwaukee, WI in exchange for one D block PCS spectrum license covering Milwaukee, WI. The
exchange of licenses provided U.S. Cellular with spectrum to meet anticipated future capacity and coverage
requirements. No cash, customers, network assets, other assets or liabilities were included in the exchange. As a
result of this transaction, TDS recognized a gain of $15.7 million, representing the difference between the $15.9 million
fair value of the license surrendered, calculated using a market approach valuation method, and the $0.2 million
carrying value of the license surrendered. This gain was recorded in (Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations in the first quarter of 2014.

(cid:2) In October 2013, TDS acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of MSN Communications, Inc. (‘‘MSN’’) for

$43.6 million in cash. MSN is an information technology solutions provider whose service offerings complement the
HMS portfolio of products. MSN is included in the HMS segment for reporting purposes.

(cid:2) In October 2013, U.S. Cellular sold the majority of its Mississippi Valley non-operating market license (‘‘unbuilt

license’’) for $308.0 million. At the time of the sale, a $250.6 million gain was recorded in (Gain) loss on license sales
and exchanges in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

(cid:2) In August 2013, TDS Telecom acquired substantially all of the assets of Baja Broadband, LLC (‘‘Baja’’) for

$264.1 million in cash. Baja is a cable company that operates in markets primarily in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas,
and Utah and offers broadband, video and voice services, which complement the TDS Telecom portfolio of products.
Baja is included in the Cable segment for reporting purposes.

TDS’ acquisitions in 2015 and 2014 and the allocation of the purchase price for these acquisitions were as follows:

Purchase
Price1

Goodwill2

Licenses

Franchise
Rights

Intangible
Assets Subject
to Amortization3

Net Tangible
Assets/(Liabilities)

Allocation of Purchase Price

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
U.S. Cellular licenses4 . . . . . . $

345,807 $

– $

345,807 $

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

345,807 $

– $

345,807 $

– $

– $

– $

– $

2014
U.S. Cellular licenses . . . . . . . $
TDS Telecom cable business . .

41,707 $

273,789

– $

33,610

41,707 $
2,703

– $

120,979

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

315,496 $

33,610 $

44,410 $

120,979 $

– $

14,056

14,056 $

–

–

–
102,441

102,441

1 Cash amounts paid for acquisitions may differ from the purchase price due to cash acquired in the transactions and the timing of cash payments

related to the respective transactions.

2 The entire amount of Goodwill acquired in 2014 was amortizable for income tax purposes.

3

4

In 2014, at the date of acquisition, the weighted average amortization period for Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization acquired was 4.6 years for
TDS Telecom’s cable business.

Includes purchases totaling $338.3 million made by Advantage Spectrum from the FCC for licenses in Auction 97. These licenses have not yet been
granted by the FCC.

80

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TDS did not have any assets or liabilities classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2014, the
following assets and liabilities were classified in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as ‘‘Assets held for sale’’ and
‘‘Liabilities held for sale’’:

Current
Assets

Other
Assets and
Deferred
Charges

Licenses

Goodwill

Property,
Plant and
Equipment

Total
Assets
Held
for Sale

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Divestiture of Spectrum Licenses .
Sale of Business — Towers . . . .
Divestiture of Wireline markets . .

$

$

–
1,472
215

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1,687

$

–
773
2

775

$

$

$

56,809
–
–

$

–
4,344
4,100

$

–
31,770
3,858

56,809
38,359
8,175

56,809

$

8,444

$

35,628

$

103,343

Current
Liabilities

Other
Deferred
Liabilities
and Credits

Total
Liabilities
Held for Sale

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Sale of Business — Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Divestiture of Wireline markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

3,607
218

3,825

$

$

17,641
177

17,818

$

$

21,248
395

21,643

NOTE 7 INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Activity related to TDS’ Licenses, Goodwill and Franchise rights are presented below. See Note 6 — Acquisitions,
Divestitures and Exchanges for information regarding transactions which affected these intangible assets during the
periods. Prior to 2009, TDS accounted for U.S. Cellular’s share repurchases as step acquisitions, allocating a portion of
the share repurchase value to TDS’ Licenses and Goodwill. Consequently, U.S. Cellular’s Licenses and Goodwill on a
stand-alone basis do not equal the TDS consolidated Licenses and Goodwill related to U.S. Cellular.

Licenses

U.S. Cellular

Wireline

Cable

Other1

Total

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transferred to Assets held for sale . . . . . . . .
Exchanges, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Divestitures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other

$

Balance at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exchanges, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other

$

1,405,759
41,707
(56,809)
55,780
–
1,634

1,448,071
345,807
43,485
1,482

$

2,800
–
–
–
–
–

2,800
–
–
–

–
2,703
–
–
–
–

2,703
–
–
–

$

$

15,220
–
–
–
(15,220)
–

–
–
–
–

–

1,423,779
44,410
(56,809)
55,780
(15,220)
1,634

1,453,574
345,807
43,485
1,482

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1,838,845

$

2,800

$

2,703

$

$

1,844,348

1 Represents the transfer of licenses from Airadigm to U.S. Cellular in 2014. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges for additional

information.

2 Amount in 2015 includes purchases totaling $338.3 million made by Advantage Spectrum from the FCC for licenses in which it was the provisional

winning bidder in Auction 97. See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges, and Note 14 — Variable Interest Entities for further information.
These licenses have not yet been granted by the FCC.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Goodwill

U.S. Cellular

Wireline

Cable

HMS

Other

Total

$

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 20131 .
Acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment . . . . . . .
Divestitures . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transferred to Assets held for

sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2014 .
Divestitures . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

232,041
–
–
(291)

(4,344)

227,406
–
(555)

$

420,458
–
–
(2,564)

(4,100)

413,794
(5,005)
–

61,712
33,610
–
–

–

95,322
–
–

$

$

118,830
–
(84,000)
–

$

3,802
–
(3,802)
–

–

34,830
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

836,843
33,610
(87,802)
(2,855)

(8,444)

771,352
(5,005)
(555)

Balance at December 31, 2015 .

$

226,851

$

408,789

$

95,322

$

34,830

$

$

765,792

1

Includes accumulated impairment losses in prior periods as follows: $333.9 million for U.S. Cellular, $29.4 million for Wireline and $0.5 million for Other.

Interim Goodwill Impairment Assessment

During the third quarter of 2014, due to a decline in projected revenue and earnings of TDS Telecom’s HMS reporting
unit compared with previously projected results, TDS determined that an interim impairment test of HMS Goodwill was
required.

As of August 1, 2014, the carrying value of the HMS reporting unit exceeded its fair value; therefore, a Step 2 Goodwill
impairment test was performed. The second step compared the implied fair value of the reporting unit Goodwill to the
carrying amount of that Goodwill. To calculate the implied fair value of Goodwill in this second step, TDS allocated the
fair value of the reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of that reporting unit (including any unrecognized
intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value was the price
paid to acquire the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amount assigned to the
assets and liabilities of the reporting unit was the implied fair value of Goodwill. Since the carrying amount of Goodwill
exceeded the implied fair value of Goodwill, an impairment loss was recognized for that difference. As a result of the
Step 2 Goodwill impairment test, TDS recognized a loss on impairment of $84.0 million during the third quarter of 2014.

Franchise Rights

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Balance at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cable

123,668
120,979
(347)

244,300
(120)

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

244,180

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 8 INVESTMENTS IN UNCONSOLIDATED ENTITIES
Investments in unconsolidated entities consist of amounts invested in wireless and wireline entities in which TDS holds a
noncontrolling interest. These investments are accounted for using either the equity or cost method as shown in the
following table:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Equity method investments:

2015

2014

Capital contributions, loans, advances and adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cumulative share of income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cumulative share of distributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

123,250
1,468,312
(1,205,497)

$

127,939
1,323,898
(1,145,438)

Cost method investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

386,065
15,655

306,399
15,330

Total investments in unconsolidated entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

401,720

$

321,729

The following tables, which are based on information provided in part by third parties, summarize the combined assets,
liabilities and equity, and results of operations of TDS’ equity method investments:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Assets

2015

2014

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Due from affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

670,723
88,685
4,604,312

$ 5,363,720

Liabilities and Equity

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term capital lease obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Partners’ capital and shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

810,121
242,301
157,785
1,539
4,151,974

$

$

$

733,133
303,322
2,345,562

3,382,017

407,073
175,516
29,342
1,722
2,768,364

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Results of Operations

$ 5,363,720

$

3,382,017

2015

2014

2013

Revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 6,979,184
5,245,216

$

Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,733,968
(9,049)

6,700,266
5,063,925

1,636,341
6,741

$

6,239,200
4,492,372

1,746,828
4,019

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1,724,919

$

1,643,082

$

1,750,847

NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation

U.S. Cellular holds a 60.00% interest in St. Lawrence Seaway RSA Cellular Partnership (‘‘NY1’’) and a 57.14% interest in
New York RSA 2 Cellular Partnership (‘‘NY2’’) (together with NY1, the ‘‘Partnerships’’). The remaining interests in the
Partnerships are held by Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless (‘‘Verizon Wireless’’). Prior to April 3, 2013, because
U.S. Cellular owned a greater than 50% interest in each of these Partnerships and based on U.S. Cellular’s rights under
the Partnership Agreements, U.S. Cellular consolidated the financial results of these Partnerships in accordance with
GAAP.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

On April 3, 2013, U.S. Cellular entered into an agreement with Verizon Wireless relating to the Partnerships. The
agreement amends the Partnership Agreements in several ways which provide Verizon Wireless with substantive
participating rights that allow Verizon Wireless to make decisions that are in the ordinary course of business of the
Partnerships and which are significant to directing and executing the activities of the business. Accordingly, as required
by GAAP, TDS deconsolidated the Partnerships effective as of April 3, 2013 and thereafter reported them as equity
method investments in its consolidated financial statements (‘‘NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation’’). After the NY1 &
NY2 Deconsolidation, U.S. Cellular retained the same ownership percentages in the Partnerships and continues to report
the same percentages of income from the Partnerships. Effective April 3, 2013, TDS’ income from the Partnerships is
reported in Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

In accordance with GAAP, as a result of the NY1 & NY2 Deconsolidation, U.S. Cellular’s interest in the Partnerships was
reflected in Investments in unconsolidated entities at a fair value of $114.8 million as of April 3, 2013. Recording U.S.
Cellular’s interest in the Partnerships required allocation of the excess of fair value over book value to customer lists,
licenses, a favorable contract and goodwill of the Partnerships. Amortization expense related to customer lists and the
favorable contract will be recognized over their respective useful lives and is included in Equity in earnings of
unconsolidated entities in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. In addition, TDS recognized a non-cash pre-tax
gain of $14.5 million in the second quarter of 2013. The gain was recorded in Gain (loss) on investments in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations.

NOTE 9 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
TDS’ Property, plant and equipment in service and under construction, and related accumulated depreciation and
amortization, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leasehold and land improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cable and wire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Network and switching equipment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cell site equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Office furniture and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other operating assets and equipment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Work in process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accumulated depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Useful Lives
(Years)

2015

2014

N/A
5-40
1-30
15-35
5-13
7-25
3-10
3-12
1-7
N/A

$

54,567
506,486
1,137,414
1,688,606
2,278,425
3,382,743
586,975
205,132
1,459,437
220,276

$

52,946
480,028
1,130,468
1,628,782
2,239,176
3,284,993
634,853
204,625
1,319,930
218,243

11,520,061
(7,755,584)

11,194,044
(7,347,919)

$ 3,764,477

$

3,846,125

Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $810.5 million, $797.6 million and $984.4 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013,
respectively. In 2015, 2014 and 2013, (Gain) loss on asset disposals, net included charges of $22.2 million, $26.5 million
and $30.8 million, respectively, related to disposals of assets, trade-ins of older assets for replacement assets and other
retirements of assets from service in the normal course of business.

NOTE 10 ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS
U.S. Cellular is subject to asset retirement obligations associated with its leased cell sites, switching office sites, retail
store sites and office locations in its operating markets. Asset retirement obligations generally include obligations to
restore leased land and retail store and office premises to their pre-lease conditions.

TDS Telecom owns poles, cable and wire and certain buildings and also leases data center and office space and
property used for housing central office switching equipment and fiber cable. These assets and leases often have
removal or remediation requirements associated with them. For example, TDS Telecom’s poles, cable and wire are often
located on property that is not owned by TDS Telecom and are often subject to the provisions of easements, permits, or

84

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

leasing arrangements. Pursuant to the terms of the permits, easements, or leasing arrangements, TDS Telecom is often
required to remove these assets and return the property to its original condition at some defined date in the future.

Asset retirement obligations are included in Other deferred liabilities and credits and Other current liabilities in the
Consolidated Balance Sheet.

In 2015 and 2014, U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom performed a review of the assumptions and estimated costs related to
asset retirement obligations. The results of the reviews (identified as ‘‘Revisions in estimated cash outflows’’) and other
changes in asset retirement obligations during 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional liabilities accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Revisions in estimated cash outflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposition of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accretion expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transferred to Liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

239,032
1,661
(3,669)
(9,684)
15,735
–

275,238
4,907
(992)
(46,242)
17,506
(11,385)

Balance at end of year1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

243,075

$

239,032

1 The total amount of asset retirement obligations related to the Divestiture Transaction and Airadigm Transaction included in Other current liabilities was

2015

2014

$9.1 million as of December 31, 2014.

NOTE 11 DEBT
Revolving Credit Facilities

At December 31, 2015, TDS and U.S. Cellular had revolving credit facilities available for general corporate purposes.
Amounts under the revolving credit facilities may be borrowed, repaid and reborrowed from time to time until maturity.
U.S. Cellular borrowed and repaid cash amounts under its revolving credit facility in 2014. Neither TDS nor U.S. Cellular
borrowed under their revolving credit facilities in 2015 or 2013 except for standby letters of credit.

In certain circumstances, TDS’ and U.S. Cellular’s interest cost on their revolving credit facilities may be subject to
increase if their current credit ratings from nationally recognized credit rating agencies are lowered, and may be subject
to decrease if the ratings are raised.

In 2014, certain nationally recognized credit rating agencies downgraded TDS and U.S. Cellular corporate and senior
debt credit ratings. After these downgrades, TDS and U.S. Cellular are rated at sub-investment grade. As a result of
these downgrades, the commitment fee on the revolving credit facilities increased to 0.30% per annum. The downgrades
also increased the interest rate on any borrowings under the revolving credit facilities by 0.25% per annum. As of
December 31, 2015, TDS’ and U.S. Cellular’s credit ratings from the nationally recognized credit rating agencies
remained at sub-investment grade. The revolving credit facilities do not cease to be available nor do the maturity dates
accelerate solely as a result of a downgrade in TDS’ or U.S. Cellular’s credit rating. However, downgrades in TDS’ or
U.S. Cellular’s credit rating could adversely affect their ability to renew the revolving credit facilities or obtain access to
other credit facilities in the future.

The maturity date of any borrowings under the TDS and U.S. Cellular revolving credit facilities would accelerate in the
event of a change in control.

The continued availability of the revolving credit facilities requires TDS and U.S. Cellular to comply with certain negative
and affirmative covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and make representations regarding certain matters at the
time of each borrowing. TDS and U.S. Cellular believe they were in compliance as of December 31, 2015 with all
covenants and other requirements set forth in the revolving credit facilities.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table summarizes the terms of such revolving credit facilities as of December 31, 2015:

TDS

U.S. Cellular

(Dollars in millions)
Maximum borrowing capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Letters of credit outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amount borrowed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amount available for use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illustrative borrowing rate: One-month London Interbank Offered Rate (‘‘LIBOR’’) plus contractual

spread1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illustrative LIBOR Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contractual spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commitment fees on amount available for use2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$
$
$

400.0
0.6
–
399.4

$
$
$
$

2.18%
0.43%
1.75%
0.30%

300.0
17.5
–
282.5

2.18%
0.43%
1.75%
0.30%

Agreement date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maturity date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dec 2010
Dec 2017

Dec 2010
Dec 2017

Fees incurred attributable to the Revolving Credit Facility are as follows:

Fees incurred as a percent of Maximum borrowing capacity for 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fees incurred, amount

0.33%

0.29%

2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$
$

1.3
0.9
0.9

$
$
$

0.9
3.0
0.8

1 Borrowings under the revolving credit facility bear interest at LIBOR plus a contractual spread based on TDS’ or U.S. Cellular’s credit rating or, at TDS’

or U.S. Cellular’s option, an alternate ‘‘Base Rate’’ as defined in the revolving credit agreement. TDS and U.S. Cellular may select a borrowing period of
either one, two, three or six months (or other period of twelve months or less if requested by TDS or U.S. Cellular and approved by the lenders).

2 The revolving credit facility has commitment fees based on the unsecured senior debt ratings assigned to TDS and U.S. Cellular by certain ratings

agencies.

In connection with U.S. Cellular’s revolving credit facility, TDS and U.S. Cellular entered into a subordination agreement
dated December 17, 2010 together with the administrative agent for the lenders under U.S. Cellular’s revolving credit
agreement. Pursuant to this subordination agreement, (a) any consolidated funded indebtedness from U.S. Cellular to
TDS will be unsecured and (b) any (i) consolidated funded indebtedness from U.S. Cellular to TDS (other than
‘‘refinancing indebtedness’’ as defined in the subordination agreement) in excess of $105 million and (ii) refinancing
indebtedness in excess of $250 million will be subordinated and made junior in right of payment to the prior payment in
full of obligations to the lenders under U.S. Cellular’s revolving credit agreement. As of December 31, 2015, U.S. Cellular
had no outstanding consolidated funded indebtedness or refinancing indebtedness that was subordinated to the
revolving credit agreement pursuant to the subordination agreement.

In July 2014, TDS and U.S. Cellular entered into amendments to the revolving credit facilities agreements which
increased the Consolidated Leverage Ratio (the ratio of Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to Consolidated Earnings
before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) that the companies are required to maintain. Beginning July 1,
2014, TDS and U.S. Cellular are required to maintain the Consolidated Leverage Ratio at a level not to exceed 3.75 to
1.00 for the period of the four fiscal quarters most recently ended (this was 3.00 to 1.00 prior to July 1, 2014). The terms
of the amendment decrease the maximum permitted Consolidated Leverage Ratio beginning January 1, 2016 from 3.75
to 3.50, with further decreases effective July 1, 2016 and January 1, 2017 (and will return to 3.00 to 1.00 at that time).
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2015, the actual Consolidated Leverage Ratio was 2.25 to 1.00. Future
changes in TDS’ and U.S. Cellular’s financial condition could negatively impact their ability to meet the financial
covenants and requirements in their revolving credit facilities agreements. TDS also has certain other non-material credit
facilities from time to time.

At December 31, 2015, TDS had recorded $3.6 million of issuance costs related to the revolving credit facilities which is
included in Other assets and deferred charges in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Term Loan

In January 2015, U.S. Cellular entered into a senior term loan credit facility. In July 2015, U.S. Cellular borrowed the full
amount of $225 million available under this facility in two separate draws. The interest rate on outstanding borrowings

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

will be reset at three and six month intervals at a rate of LIBOR plus 250 basis points. This credit facility provides for the
draws to be continued on a long-term basis under terms that are readily determinable. U.S. Cellular has the ability and
intent to carry the debt for the duration of the agreement. Principal reductions will be due and payable in quarterly
installments of $2.8 million beginning in March 2016 through December 2021, and the remaining unpaid balance will be
due and payable in January 2022. This facility was entered into for general corporate purposes, including working
capital, spectrum purchases and capital expenditures.

The continued availability of the term loan facility requires U.S. Cellular to comply with certain negative and affirmative
covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and make representations regarding certain matters at the time of each
borrowing, that are substantially the same as those in the U.S. Cellular revolving credit facility described above.

In connection with U.S. Cellular’s term loan credit facility, TDS and U.S. Cellular entered into a subordination agreement
dated January 21, 2015 together with the administrative agent for the lenders under U.S. Cellular’s term loan credit
agreement, which is substantially the same as the subordination agreement in the U.S. Cellular revolving credit facility
described above. As of December 31, 2015, U.S. Cellular had no outstanding consolidated funded indebtedness or
refinancing indebtedness that was subordinated to the term loan facility pursuant to this subordination agreement.

Other Long-Term Debt

In November 2015, U.S. Cellular issued $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2064, and received cash proceeds of
$289.7 million after payment of debt issuance costs of $10.3 million. These funds will be used for general corporate
purposes, including working capital, spectrum purchases and capital expenditures.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 was as follows:

December 31,

2015

Less
Unamortized
discount
and debt
issuance
costs

Principal
Amount

2014

Less
Unamortized
discount
and debt
issuance
costs

Total

Total

Principal
Amount

Issuance Maturity Call
date

date

date

(Dollars in thousands)
TDS:

Unsecured Senior Notes

March
2005
Nov
2010
March
2011
Nov
2012
Oct
2001

March March
2010 $
2045
Nov
Nov
2059
2015
March March
2016
2060
Dec
Dec
2061
2017
Oct
2021

116,250 $

3,567 $

112,683 $

116,250 $

3,604 $

112,646

225,000

7,537

217,463

225,000

7,561

217,439

300,000

9,621

290,379

300,000

9,650

290,350

195,000

6,718

188,282

195,000

6,744

188,256

1,097

–

1,097

1,097

–

1,097

837,347

27,443

809,904

837,347

27,559

809,788

6.625% . . . . . . .

6.875% . . . . . . .

7.000% . . . . . . .

5.875% . . . . . . .

Purchase contract . .

Total Parent

. .

Subsidiaries:

U.S. Cellular –

Unsecured Senior Notes

Dec 2003
and

6.700% . . . . . . . June 2004

6.950% . . . . . . .

7.250% . . . . . . .

7.250% . . . . . . .

Dec
2003
May
2016
Dec
2019
Nov
2020

Dec
2033
May
2060
Dec
2063
Nov
2064
Jan
2022

May
2011
Dec
2014
Nov
2015
Jan
2015

544,000

15,247

528,753

544,000

15,656

528,344

342,000

10,905

331,095

342,000

10,937

331,063

275,000

9,629

265,371

275,000

9,644

265,356

300,000

10,316

289,684

–

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

–
2,143

699
767

3,686
31

Term Loan . . . . .
Obligation on capital leases .

225,000
2,200

2,283
–

222,717
2,200

TDS Telecom –

Rural Utilities Service (‘‘RUS’’) and other notes .
Obligation on capital leases . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other –

Long-term notes .
Obligation on capital leases .

Through
2016

691
733

2,961
24

–

–

691
733

2,961
24

–
2,143

699
767

3,686
31

Total Subsidiaries . . . . .

1,692,609

48,380

1,644,229

1,168,326

36,237

1,132,089

Total long-term debt . . . . . . . .

$ 2,529,956 $

75,823 $ 2,454,133 $ 2,005,673 $

63,796 $ 1,941,877

Long-term debt, current . . .
Long-term debt, noncurrent

$
14,306
$ 2,439,827

$
808
$ 1,941,069

TDS may redeem its callable notes and U.S. Cellular may redeem its 6.95% Senior Notes, 7.25% 2063 Senior Notes and
7.25% 2064 Senior Notes, in whole or in part at any time after the respective call date, at a redemption price equal to
100% of the principal amount redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest. U.S. Cellular may redeem the 6.7% Senior
Notes, in whole or in part, at any time prior to maturity at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the
principal amount of such notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, or (b) the sum of the present values of the remaining

88

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

scheduled payments of principal and interest thereon discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at the
Treasury Rate plus 30 basis points.

Interest on the notes is payable quarterly on Senior Notes outstanding at December 31, 2015, with the exception of U.S.
Cellular’s 6.7% note in which interest is payable semi-annually.

The annual requirements for principal payments on long-term debt are approximately $14.3 million, $12.1 million,
$11.4 million, $11.4 million and $11.4 million for the years 2016 through 2020, respectively.

The covenants associated with TDS and its subsidiaries’ long-term debt obligations, among other things, restrict TDS’
ability, subject to certain exclusions, to incur additional liens, enter into sale and leaseback transactions, and sell,
consolidate or merge assets.

TDS’ long-term debt notes do not contain any provisions resulting in acceleration of the maturities of outstanding debt in
the event of a change in TDS’ credit rating. However, a downgrade in TDS’ credit rating could adversely affect its ability
to obtain long-term debt financing in the future.

NOTE 12 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Defined Contribution Plans

TDS sponsors a qualified noncontributory defined contribution pension plan. The plan provides benefits for certain
employees of TDS Corporate, TDS Telecom and U.S. Cellular. Under this plan, pension costs are calculated separately
for each participant and are funded annually. Total pension costs were $16.4 million, $16.4 million and $16.2 million in
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. In addition, TDS sponsors a defined contribution retirement savings plan (‘‘401(k)’’)
plan. Total costs incurred from TDS’ contributions to the 401(k) plan were $25.7 million, $25.3 million and $24.8 million in
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

TDS also sponsors an unfunded nonqualified deferred supplemental executive retirement plan for certain employees to
offset the reduction of benefits caused by the limitation on annual employee compensation under the tax laws.

Other Post-Retirement Benefits

TDS sponsors a defined benefit post-retirement plan that provides medical benefits to retirees and that covers certain
employees of TDS Corporate and TDS Telecom. The plan is contributory, with retiree contributions adjusted annually.

In August 2015, TDS approved an amendment to its defined benefit post-retirement plan. Under this plan, TDS provides
a subsidy to retirees to pay for various medical plan options. The amendment increased subsidy caps and became
effective January 1, 2016. The plan amendment, along with certain valuation assumption updates, increased the plan’s
benefit obligation by $8.6 million. This amount is included in TDS’ December 31, 2015 Accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss) as a component of Net actuarial gains (losses) and Prior service cost.

The following amounts are included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Balance
Sheet before affecting such amounts for income taxes:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Net prior service costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net actuarial loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015

2014

$

$

6,846
(7,280)

(434)

$

$

17,246
(8,436)

8,810

The estimated net actuarial loss and prior service cost gain for the postretirement benefit plans that will be amortized
from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost during 2016 are $0.2 million and $2.0 million,
respectively.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances of the benefit obligation and the fair value of plan
assets for the other post-retirement benefit plan.

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Change in benefit obligation

2015

2014

Benefit obligation at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service cost
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan amendments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actuarial (gain) loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prescription drug subsidy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Benefit obligation at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Change in plan assets

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actual return (loss) on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair value of plan assets at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

34,645
549
1,540
7,412
(3,723)
227
2,222
(4,101)

38,771

51,324
395
2,222
168
(4,101)

50,008

Funded status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

11,237

$

46,142
1,018
2,255
(2,057)
(10,897)
264
2,216
(4,296)

34,645

49,743
3,495
2,216
166
(4,296)

51,324

16,679

The funded status identified above is recorded as a component of Other assets and deferred charges in TDS’
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

The following table sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the plans’ assets at fair value, as of December 31,
2015 and 2014. A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that
is significant to the fair value measurement. A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is not
representative of its expected performance or its overall risk profile, and therefore Level 3 assets are not necessarily
higher risk than Level 2 assets or Level 1 assets. There were no Level 3 assets for any years presented.

Mutual funds are valued based on the closing price reported on the active market on which the individual securities are
traded. The bank common trust is entirely comprised of the BlackRock Intermediate Government/Credit Bond Index
Fund F (‘‘BlackRock Bond Fund’’) and is valued using the market approach which values the underlying investments in
the fund using observable inputs for similar assets.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

December 31, 2015

(Dollars in thousands)
Mutual funds

Level 1

Level 2

Total

International equity1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Money market2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
US large cap3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

11,912
3,139
22,327

$

–
–
–

Bank common trust

Bond4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

12,630

Total plan assets at fair value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

37,378

$

12,630

$

December 31, 2014

(Dollars in thousands)
Mutual funds

Level 1

Level 2

Bond5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International equity1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Money market2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
US large cap3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
US small cap6
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other

$

$

12,842
12,003
2,053
20,191
4,234
–

Total plan assets at fair value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

51,323

$

–
–
–
–
–
1

1

$

$

11,912
3,139
22,327

12,630

50,008

Total

12,842
12,003
2,053
20,191
4,234
1

51,324

1

International equity – This type of fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing in the stocks of companies located outside the
United States that are considered to have the potential for above-average capital appreciation.

2 Money market – This type of fund seeks as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital and the maintenance of

liquidity by investing in a diversified portfolio of high-quality, dollar-denominated short-term debt securities.

3 US large cap – This type of fund seeks to track the performance of several benchmark indices that measure the investment return of large-capitalization

stocks. The funds attempt to replicate the indices by investing substantially all of their assets in the stocks that make up the various indices in
approximately the same proportion as the weighting in the indices.

4 Bond (bank common trust) – This type of fund seeks to achieve maximum total return by investing in Bond Index Funds and other short-term

investments.

5 Bond (mutual funds) – This type of fund seeks to achieve a maximum total return, consistent with preservation of capital and prudent investment

management by investing in a wide spectrum of fixed income instruments including bonds, debt securities and other similar instruments issued by
government and private-sector entities.

6 US small cap – This type of fund seeks to track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of small-capitalization
stocks. The fund attempts to replicate the index by investing substantially all of its assets in the stocks that make up the index in approximately the
same proportion as the weighting in the index.

The following table summarizes how plan assets are invested.

Investment
Category

U.S. equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Target Asset
Allocation

45%
25%
30%

Allocation of Plan Assets
at December 31,

2015

44.7%
23.8%
31.5%

2014

47.6%
23.4%
29.0%

The post-retirement benefit fund engages multiple asset managers to ensure proper diversification of the investment
portfolio within each asset category. The investment objective is to meet or exceed the rate of return of a performance
index comprised of 45% Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Index, 25% FTSE All World (excluding U.S.) Stock Index,
and 30% Barclays Capital Aggregate Bond Index. The three-year and five-year average rates of return for TDS’ post-
retirement benefit fund are 8.02% and 7.40%, respectively.

The post-retirement benefit fund does not hold any debt or equity securities issued by TDS, U.S. Cellular or any related
parties.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TDS is not required to set aside current funds for its future retiree health insurance benefits. The decision to contribute to
the plan assets is based upon several factors, including the funded status of the plan, market conditions, alternative
investment opportunities, tax benefits and other circumstances. In accordance with applicable income tax regulations,
annual contributions to fund the costs of future retiree medical benefits may not exceed certain thresholds. TDS has not
determined whether it will make a contribution to the plan in 2016.

Net periodic benefit cost recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Operations includes the following components:

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of prior service costs1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of actuarial losses2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

549
1,540
(3,252)
(2,988)
290

$

1,018
2,255
(3,402)
(3,644)
1,287

Net post-retirement cost (benefit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

(3,861)

$

(2,486)

$

1 Based on straight-line amortization over the average time remaining before active employees become fully eligible for plan benefits.

2 Based on straight-line amortization over the average time remaining before active employees retire.

The following assumptions were used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost:

December 31,

Benefit obligations
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015

4.40%

4.20%
6.50%

1,348
2,137
(3,065)
(3,605)
2,452

(733)

2014

4.20%

5.00%
7.00%

The discount rate for 2015 and 2014 was determined using a hypothetical Aa spot yield curve represented by a series of
annualized individual spot discount rates from six months to 99 years. The spot rate curve was derived from a direct
calculation of the implied forward rate curve based on the included bond cash flows. This yield curve, when populated
with projected cash flows that represent the expected timing and amount of TDS plan benefit payments, produces a
single effective interest discount rate that is used to measure the plan’s liabilities.

The expected rate of return was determined using the target asset allocation for the TDS plan and rate of return
expectations for each asset class.

The measurement date for actuarial determination was December 31, 2015. For measurement purposes, the annual rate
of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 2015 to be 9.5% for plan participants
aged 65 and above, and 7.3% for participants under age 65. For all participants the 2015 annual rate of increase is
expected to decrease to 5.0% by 2024. The 2014 expected rate of increase was 7.8% for plan participants aged 65 and
above, and 7.5% for participants under age 65, decreasing to 5.0% for all participants by 2022.

A 1% increase or decrease in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects as of and for the
year ended December 31, 2015:

(Dollars in thousands)
Effect on total service and interest cost components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$

14
230

$
$

(13)
(202)

One Percent

Increase

Decrease

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following estimated future benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected to be paid:

Year

Estimated Future
Post-Retirement
Benefit Payments

(Dollars in thousands)
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2021-2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1,823
1,969
2,061
2,163
2,257
12,229

NOTE 13 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Agreements

In November 2014, U.S. Cellular executed a Master Statement of Work and certain other documents with Amdocs
Software Systems Limited (‘‘Amdocs’’). The agreement provides that U.S. Cellular will outsource to Amdocs certain
support functions for its Billing and Operational Support System (‘‘B/OSS’’). Such functions include application support,
billing operations and some infrastructure services. The agreement has a term through September 30, 2019, subject to
five one-year renewal periods at U.S. Cellular’s option. The estimated amount to be paid to Amdocs with respect to the
agreement during the remaining term is approximately $83 million (exclusive of travel and expenses and subject to
certain potential adjustments).

During 2013, U.S. Cellular entered into agreements with Apple to purchase certain minimum quantities of Apple iPhone
products and fund marketing programs related to the Apple iPhone and iPad products over a three-year period
beginning in November 2013. Based on current forecasts, TDS estimates that the remaining contractual commitment as
of December 31, 2015 under these agreements is approximately $196 million. At this time, TDS expects to meet its
contractual commitments with Apple.

Lease Commitments

TDS and its subsidiaries have leases for certain plant facilities, office space, retail store sites, cell sites, data centers and
data-processing equipment which are accounted for as operating leases. Certain leases have renewal options and/or
fixed rental increases. Renewal options that are reasonably assured of exercise are included in determining the lease
term. Any rent abatements or lease incentives, in addition to fixed rental increases, are included in the calculation of rent
expense and calculated on a straight-line basis over the defined lease term.

As of December 31, 2015, future minimum rental payments required under operating leases and rental receipts expected
under operating leases that have noncancellable lease terms in excess of one year were as follows:

Operating Leases Operating Leases
Future Minimum
Future Minimum
Rental Receipts
Rental Payments

(Dollars in thousands)
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

156,882
136,248
117,806
100,894
87,993
724,217

48,304
40,180
31,940
21,608
10,184
1,238

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1,324,040

$

153,454

For 2015, 2014 and 2013, rent expense for noncancellable long-term leases was $168.4 million, $177.0 million and
$187.4 million, respectively; and rent expense under cancellable short-term leases was $10.8 million, $8.8 million and
$12.5 million, respectively.

93

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Indemnifications

TDS enters into agreements in the normal course of business that provide for indemnification of counterparties. The
terms of the indemnifications vary by agreement. The events or circumstances that would require TDS to perform under
these indemnities are transaction specific; however, these agreements may require TDS to indemnify the counterparty for
costs and losses incurred from litigation or claims arising from the underlying transaction. TDS is unable to estimate the
maximum potential liability for these types of indemnifications as the amounts are dependent on the outcome of future
events, the nature and likelihood of which cannot be determined at this time. Historically, TDS has not made any
significant indemnification payments under such agreements.

Legal Proceedings

TDS is involved or may be involved from time to time in legal proceedings before the FCC, other regulatory authorities,
and/or various state and federal courts. If TDS believes that a loss arising from such legal proceedings is probable and
can be reasonably estimated, an amount is accrued in the financial statements for the estimated loss. If only a range of
loss can be determined, the best estimate within that range is accrued; if none of the estimates within that range is
better than another, the low end of the range is accrued. The assessment of the expected outcomes of legal
proceedings is a highly subjective process that requires judgments about future events. The legal proceedings are
reviewed at least quarterly to determine the adequacy of accruals and related financial statement disclosures. The
ultimate outcomes of legal proceedings could differ materially from amounts accrued in the financial statements.

TDS has accrued $0.5 million and $0.4 million with respect to legal proceedings and unasserted claims as of
December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. TDS has not accrued any amount for legal proceedings if it cannot estimate
the amount of the possible loss or range of loss. TDS is unable to estimate any contingent loss in excess of the
amounts accrued.

NOTE 14 VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
TDS consolidates variable interest entities (‘‘VIEs’’) in which it has a controlling financial interest and is the primary
beneficiary. A controlling financial interest will have both of the following characteristics: (a) the power to direct the VIE
activities that most significantly impact economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb the VIE losses and right
to receive benefits that are significant to the VIE. TDS reviews these criteria initially at the time it enters into agreements
and subsequently when reconsideration events occur.

Consolidated VIEs

As of December 31, 2015, TDS holds a variable interest in and consolidates the following VIEs under GAAP:

(cid:2) Advantage Spectrum and Frequency Advantage L.P., the general partner of Advantage Spectrum;

(cid:2) Aquinas Wireless L.P. (‘‘Aquinas Wireless’’); and

(cid:2) King Street Wireless L.P. (‘‘King Street Wireless’’) and King Street Wireless, Inc., the general partner of King Street

Wireless.

The power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of Advantage Spectrum,
Aquinas Wireless and King Street Wireless (collectively, the ‘‘limited partnerships’’) is shared. Specifically, the general
partner of these VIEs has the exclusive right to manage, operate and control the limited partnerships and make all
decisions to carry on the business of the partnerships; however, the general partner of each partnership needs the
consent of the limited partner, a TDS subsidiary, to sell or lease certain licenses, to make certain large expenditures,
admit other partners or liquidate the limited partnerships. Although the power to direct the activities of the VIEs is
shared, TDS has a disproportionate level of exposure to the variability associated with the economic performance of the
VIEs, indicating that TDS is the primary beneficiary of the VIEs. Accordingly, these VIEs are consolidated.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table presents the classification of the consolidated VIEs’ assets and liabilities in TDS’ Consolidated
Balance Sheet.

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)
Assets

2015

2014

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Licenses1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets and deferred charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred liabilities and credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

$

1,435
265
648,661
7,722
147

658,230

143
489

632

$

$

$

$

2,588
278
312,977
10,671
60,059

386,573

110
622

732

1 At December 31, 2015, includes purchases totaling $338.3 million made by Advantage Spectrum from the FCC as described below.

Other Related Matters

In March 2015, King Street Wireless made a $60.0 million distribution to its investors. Of this distribution, $6.0 million
was provided to King Street Wireless, Inc. and $54.0 million was provided to U.S. Cellular.

FCC Auction 97 ended in January 2015. TDS participated in Auction 97 indirectly through its interest in Advantage
Spectrum. A subsidiary of U.S. Cellular is a limited partner in Advantage Spectrum. Advantage Spectrum applied as a
‘‘designated entity,’’ and expects to receive bid credits with respect to spectrum purchased in Auction 97. Advantage
Spectrum was the winning bidder for 124 licenses for an aggregate bid of $338.3 million, after its expected designated
entity discount of 25%. This amount is classified as Licenses in TDS’ Consolidated Balance Sheet. Advantage
Spectrum’s bid amount, less the initial deposit of $60.0 million paid in 2014, plus certain other charges totaling
$2.3 million, were paid to the FCC in March 2015. These licenses have not yet been granted by and are still pending
before the FCC. To help fund this payment, U.S. Cellular made loans and capital contributions to Advantage Spectrum
and Frequency Advantage totaling $280.6 million during 2015. TDS’ capital contributions and advances made to its VIEs
totaled $60.9 million in 2014. There were no capital contributions or advances made to VIEs in 2013.

Advantage Spectrum, Aquinas Wireless and King Street Wireless were formed to participate in FCC auctions of wireless
spectrum and to fund, establish, and provide wireless service with respect to any FCC licenses won in the auctions. As
such, these entities have risks similar to those described in the ‘‘Risk Factors’’ in TDS’ Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2015.

TDS may agree to make additional capital contributions and/or advances to Advantage Spectrum, Aquinas Wireless or
King Street Wireless and/or to their general partners to provide additional funding for the development of licenses
granted in various auctions. TDS may finance such amounts with a combination of cash on hand, borrowings under its
revolving credit agreement and/or other long-term debt. There is no assurance that TDS will be able to obtain additional
financing on commercially reasonable terms or at all to provide such financial support.

The limited partnership agreements of Advantage Spectrum, Aquinas Wireless and King Street Wireless also provide the
general partner with a put option whereby the general partner may require the limited partner, a subsidiary of U.S.
Cellular, to purchase its interest in the limited partnership. The general partner’s put options related to its interests in
King Street Wireless and Aquinas Wireless will become exercisable in 2019 and 2020, respectively. The general partner’s
put options related to its interest in Advantage Spectrum will become exercisable on the fifth and sixth anniversaries of
the issuance of any license. The put option price is determined pursuant to a formula that takes into consideration fixed
interest rates and the market value of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares. Upon exercise of the put option, the general
partner is required to repay borrowings due to U.S. Cellular. If the general partner does not elect to exercise its put
option, the general partner may trigger an appraisal process in which the limited partner (a subsidiary of U.S. Cellular)
may have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the general partner’s interest in the limited partnership at a price
and on other terms and conditions specified in the limited partnership agreement. In accordance with requirements

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

under GAAP, TDS is required to calculate a theoretical redemption value for all of the put options assuming they are
exercisable at the end of each reporting period, even though such exercise is not contractually permitted. Pursuant to
GAAP, this theoretical redemption value, net of amounts payable to U.S. Cellular for loans and accrued interest thereon
made by U.S. Cellular to the general partners (‘‘net put value’’), was $1.1 million and $1.2 million at December 31, 2015
and 2014, respectively. The net put value is recorded as Noncontrolling interests with redemption features in TDS’
Consolidated Balance Sheet. Also in accordance with GAAP, changes in the redemption value of the put options, net of
interest accrued on the loans, are recorded as a component of Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of
tax, in TDS’ Consolidated Statement of Operations.

During 2015, TDS recorded out-of-period adjustments attributable to 2013 and 2014, related to an agreement with King
Street Wireless. TDS has determined that these adjustments were not material to the prior quarterly or annual periods,
and also were not material to the full year 2015 results. As a result of these out-of-period adjustments, Net income
decreased by $2.8 million and Net income attributable to TDS shareholders decreased by $3.3 million in 2015.

NOTE 15 NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
The following schedule discloses the effects of Net income attributable to TDS shareholders and changes in TDS’
ownership interest in U.S. Cellular on TDS’ equity for 2015, 2014 and 2013:

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Transfer (to) from the noncontrolling interests

Change in TDS’ Capital in excess of par value from U.S. Cellular’s

$

219,037

$

(136,355)

$

141,927

issuance of U.S. Cellular shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(14,785)

(12,420)

(14,135)

Change in TDS’ Capital in excess of par value from U.S. Cellular’s

repurchase of U.S. Cellular shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in TDS’ Capital in excess of par value from common control
transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of ownership in subsidiaries from noncontrolling interests . .

1,325

–
240

Net transfers (to) from noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(13,220)

1,296

7,484
(1,034)

(4,674)

3,370

–
(123)

(10,888)

Change from net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders and

transfers (to) from noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

205,817

$

(141,029)

$

131,039

Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests in Finite-Lived Subsidiaries

TDS’ consolidated financial statements include certain noncontrolling interests that meet the GAAP definition of
mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. These mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests represent interests
held by third parties in consolidated partnerships, where the terms of the underlying partnership agreement provide for a
defined termination date at which time the assets of the subsidiary are to be sold, the liabilities are to be extinguished
and the remaining net proceeds are to be distributed to the noncontrolling interest holders and TDS in accordance with
the respective partnership agreements. The termination dates of these mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests
range from 2085 to 2113.

The estimated aggregate amount that would be due and payable to settle all of these noncontrolling interests, assuming
an orderly liquidation of the finite-lived consolidated partnerships on December 31, 2015, net of estimated liquidation
costs, is $15.7 million. This amount excludes redemption amounts recorded in Noncontrolling interests with redemption
features in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The estimate of settlement value was based on certain factors and
assumptions which are subjective in nature. Changes in those factors and assumptions could result in a materially larger
or smaller settlement amount. TDS currently has no plans or intentions relating to the liquidation of any of the related
partnerships prior to their scheduled termination dates. The corresponding carrying value of the mandatorily redeemable
noncontrolling interests in finite-lived consolidated partnerships at December 31, 2015 was $4.2 million, and is included
in Noncontrolling interests in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The excess of the aggregate settlement value over the
aggregate carrying value of these mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests is due primarily to the unrecognized
appreciation of the noncontrolling interest holders’ share of the underlying net assets in the consolidated partnerships.
Neither the noncontrolling interest holders’ share, nor TDS’ share, of the appreciation of the underlying net assets of
these subsidiaries is reflected in the consolidated financial statements.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 16 COMMON SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Common Stock

As of December 31, 2015, Series A Common Shares were convertible, on a share for share basis, into Common Shares
and 7,211,260 Common Shares were reserved for possible issuance upon conversion of Series A Common Shares.

The following table summarizes the number of Common and Series A Common Shares issued and repurchased.

(Shares in thousands)

Balance at December 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conversion of Series A Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend reinvestment, incentive and compensation plans . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conversion of Series A Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend reinvestment, incentive and compensation plans . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conversion of Series A Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend reinvestment, incentive and compensation plans . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tax-Deferred Savings Plan

Common
Shares

Common
Treasury
Shares

Series A
Common
Shares

125,512
–
33
–

125,545
–
25
–

125,570
1
–

125,571

24,641
339
–
(1,026)

23,954
1,542
–
(646)

24,850
–
(1,034)

23,816

7,160
–
(33)
39

7,166
–
(25)
38

7,179
(1)
33

7,211

TDS has reserved 90,341 Common Shares at December 31, 2015, for issuance under the TDS Tax-Deferred Savings
Plan, a qualified profit-sharing plan pursuant to Sections 401(a) and 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Participating
employees have the option of investing their contributions and TDS’ contributions in a TDS Common Share fund, a U.S.
Cellular Common Share fund or certain unaffiliated funds.

Common Share Repurchases

TDS and U.S. Cellular Share Repurchases

On August 2, 2013, the Board of Directors of TDS authorized a $250 million stock repurchase program for the purchase
of TDS Common Shares from time to time pursuant to open market purchases, block transactions, private purchases or
otherwise, depending on market conditions. This authorization does not have an expiration date.

On November 17, 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase of up to 1,300,000 Common
Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis. These
purchases will be made pursuant to open market purchases, block purchases, private purchases, or otherwise,
depending on market prices and other conditions. This authorization does not have an expiration date.

97

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Share repurchases made under these authorizations were as follows:

Year Ended December 31,

(Shares and dollar amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

2015

U.S. Cellular Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014

U.S. Cellular Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2013

U.S. Cellular Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TDS Common Shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NOTE 17 STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
TDS Consolidated

Number of
Shares

Average Cost
Per Share

Amount

178
–

496
1,542

499
339

$

$

$

34.86
–

38.19
25.36

37.19
28.60

$

$

$

6,188
–

18,943
39,096

18,544
9,692

The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense recognized during 2015, 2014 and 2013:

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2015

2014

2013

Stock option awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock unit awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred compensation bonus and matching stock unit awards . . . . . . .
Awards under Non-Employee Director compensation plan . . . . . . . . . .

$

Total stock-based compensation, before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

18,431
20,067
622
1,280

40,400
(15,267)

$

15,802
17,968
690
1,333

35,793
(13,519)

Total stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes . . . . . . .

$

25,133

$

22,274

$

12,973
15,535
550
1,280

30,338
(11,459)

18,879

At December 31, 2015, unrecognized compensation cost for all stock-based compensation awards was $42.8 million
and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years.

The following table provides a summary of the stock-based compensation expense included in the Consolidated
Statement of Operations for the years ended:

December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2015

2014

2013

Selling, general and administrative expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of services and products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

37,465
2,935

40,400

$

$

32,505
3,288

35,793

$

$

27,130
3,208

30,338

TDS’ tax benefits realized from the exercise of stock options and other awards totaled $7.7 million in 2015.

TDS (Excluding U.S. Cellular)

The information in this section relates to stock-based compensation plans using the equity instruments of TDS.
Participants in these plans are employees of TDS Corporate and TDS Telecom and Non-employee Directors of TDS.
Information related to plans using the equity instruments of U.S. Cellular are shown in the U.S. Cellular section following
the TDS section.

Under the TDS Long-Term Incentive Plans, TDS may grant fixed and performance based incentive and non-qualified
stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and deferred compensation stock unit awards to key employees.

TDS had reserved 17,389,000 Common Shares at December 31, 2015 for equity awards granted and to be granted
under the TDS Long-Term Incentive Plans in effect. At December 31, 2015, the only types of awards outstanding are
fixed non-qualified stock option awards, restricted stock unit awards, and deferred compensation stock unit awards.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TDS has also established a Non-Employee Directors’ compensation plan under which it has reserved 139,000 TDS
Common Shares at December 31, 2015 for issuance as compensation to members of the Board of Directors who are
not employees of TDS.

TDS uses treasury stock to satisfy requirements for shares issued pursuant to its various stock-based compensation
plans.

Long-Term Incentive Plan – Stock Options – Stock options granted to key employees are exercisable over a specified
period not in excess of ten years. Stock options generally vest over periods up to three years from the date of grant.
Stock options outstanding at December 31, 2015 expire between 2016 and 2025. However, vested stock options
typically expire 30 days after the effective date of an employee’s termination of employment for reasons other than
retirement. Employees who leave at the age of retirement have 90 days (or one year if they satisfy certain requirements)
within which to exercise their vested stock options. The exercise price of options equals the market value of TDS
common stock on the date of grant.

TDS estimated the fair value of stock options granted in 2015, 2014 and 2013 using the Black Scholes valuation model
and the assumptions shown in the table below:

Expected life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected annual volatility rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated annual forfeiture rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015

6.1 years
30.8%
1.9%
1.8%
3.2%

2014

5.8 years
39.6%
2.0%
1.8%
2.9%

2013

5.7 years
41.0%
2.3%
1.0%
2.9%

A summary of TDS stock options (total and portion exercisable) and changes during 2015, is presented in the tables
and narrative below.

Common Share Options

Outstanding at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . .
(6,487,000 exercisable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Outstanding at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . .
(6,009,000 exercisable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number of
Options

9,140,000

$

998,000
(575,000)
(21,000)
(407,000)

9,135,000

$
$

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Prices

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
(in years)

30.25
32.93
29.26
23.11
26.30
37.09

30.29
32.54

$
$

9,531,000
5,548,000

5.3
3.8

The weighted average grant date fair value per share of the TDS stock options granted in 2015, 2014 and 2013 was
$7.66, $8.66 and $7.01, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of TDS stock options exercised in 2015, 2014 and
2013 was $3.8 million, $0.2 million and $2.5 million, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value represents the total
pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between TDS’ closing stock prices and the exercise price, multiplied by the number
of in-the-money options) that was received by the option holders upon exercise or that would have been received by
option holders had all options been exercised on December 31, 2015.

Long-Term Incentive Plans – Restricted Stock Units – TDS also grants restricted stock unit awards to key employees.
Each outstanding restricted stock unit is convertible into one Common Share Award. The restricted stock unit awards
currently outstanding were granted in 2013, 2014 and 2015 and will vest in 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

TDS estimates the fair value of restricted stock units by reducing the grant-date price of TDS’ shares by the present
value of the dividends expected to be paid on the underlying shares during the requisite service period, discounted at
the appropriate risk-free interest rate, since employees are not entitled to dividends declared on the underlying shares
while the restricted stock is unvested. The fair value is then recognized as compensation cost on a straight-line basis
over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

A summary of TDS nonvested restricted stock units and changes during 2015, is presented in the table below:

Common Restricted Stock Units

Nonvested at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number

692,000
368,000
(16,000)

Nonvested at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,044,000

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

23.20
27.57
25.60

24.70

$
$
$

$

No restricted stock units vested during 2015. The total fair values as of the respective vesting dates of restricted stock
units vested during 2014 and 2013 were $7.5 million and $5.8 million, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair
value per share of the restricted stock units granted in 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $27.57, $25.26 and $21.09,
respectively.

Long-Term Incentive Plans – Deferred Compensation Stock Units – Certain TDS employees may elect to defer receipt of
all or a portion of their annual bonuses and to receive a company matching contribution on the amount deferred. All
bonus compensation that is deferred by employees electing to participate is immediately vested and is deemed to be
invested in TDS Common Share units. The amount of TDS’ matching contribution depends on the portion of the annual
bonus that is deferred. Participants receive a 25% stock unit match for amounts deferred up to 50% of their total annual
bonus and a 33% match for amounts that exceed 50% of their total annual bonus; such matching contributions also are
deemed to be invested in TDS Common Share units.

The total fair values of deferred compensation stock units that vested during 2015, 2014 and 2013 were $0.1 million,
$0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value per share of the deferred
compensation stock units granted in 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $25.36, $23.27 and $21.99, respectively. As of
December 31, 2015, there were 261,000 vested but unissued deferred compensation stock units valued at $6.8 million.

Compensation of Non-Employee Directors – TDS issued 28,000, 33,000 and 33,000 Common Shares under its
Non-Employee Director plan in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Dividend Reinvestment Plans (‘‘DRIP’’) – TDS had reserved 605,000 Common Shares at December 31, 2015, for
issuance under Automatic Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plans and 107,000 Series A Common Shares for
issuance under the Series A Common Share Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan. These plans enabled holders of
TDS’ Common Shares and Preferred Shares to reinvest cash dividends in Common Shares and holders of Series A
Common Shares to reinvest cash dividends in Series A Common Shares. The purchase price of the shares is 95% of
the market value, based on the average of the daily high and low sales prices for TDS’ Common Shares on the New
York Stock Exchange for the ten trading days preceding the date on which the purchase is made. These plans are
considered non-compensatory plans; therefore no compensation expense is recognized for stock issued under these
plans.

U.S. Cellular

The information in this section relates to stock-based compensation plans using the equity instruments of U.S. Cellular.
Participants in these plans are employees of U.S. Cellular and Non-employee Directors of U.S. Cellular. Information
related to plans using the equity instruments of TDS are shown in the previous section.

U.S. Cellular has established the following stock-based compensation plans: Long-Term Incentive Plans and a
Non-Employee Director compensation plan.

Under the U.S. Cellular Long-Term Incentive Plans, U.S. Cellular may grant fixed and performance based incentive and
non-qualified stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and deferred compensation stock unit awards to key
employees. At December 31, 2015, the only types of awards outstanding are fixed non-qualified stock option awards,
restricted stock unit awards, and deferred compensation stock unit awards.

Under the Non-Employee Director compensation plan, U.S. Cellular may grant Common Shares to members of the
Board of Directors who are not employees of U.S. Cellular or TDS.

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TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

On June 25, 2013, U.S. Cellular paid a special cash dividend to all holders of U.S. Cellular Common Shares and
Series A Common Shares as of June 11, 2013. Outstanding U.S. Cellular stock options, restricted stock unit awards and
deferred compensation stock units were equitably adjusted for the special cash dividend. The impact of such
adjustments are fully reflected for all years presented. See Note 5 — Earnings Per Share for additional information.

At December 31, 2015, U.S. Cellular had reserved 9,340,000 Common Shares for equity awards granted and to be
granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plans and 183,000 Common Shares for issuance under the Non-Employee
Director compensation plan.

U.S. Cellular uses treasury stock to satisfy requirements for Common Shares issued pursuant to its various stock-based
compensation plans.

Long-Term Incentive Plans – Stock Options – Stock options granted to key employees are exercisable over a specified
period not in excess of ten years. Stock options generally vest over a period of three years from the date of grant. Stock
options outstanding at December 31, 2015 expire between 2016 and 2025. However, vested stock options typically
expire 30 days after the effective date of an employee’s termination of employment for reasons other than retirement.
Employees who leave at the age of retirement have 90 days (or one year if they satisfy certain requirements) within
which to exercise their vested stock options. The exercise price of options equals the market value of U.S. Cellular
Common Shares on the date of grant.

U.S. Cellular estimated the fair value of stock options granted during 2015, 2014 and 2013 using the Black-Scholes
valuation model and the assumptions shown in the table below.

2015

2014

2013

Expected life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected annual volatility rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated annual forfeiture rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.6 years
30.1%
0%
1.2%
9.7%

4.5 years
28.0%-28.1%
0%
1.4%-1.5%
9.4%

4.6-9.0 years
29.2%-39.6%
0%
0.7%-2.4%
0.0%-8.1%

The fair value of options is recognized as compensation cost using an accelerated attribution method over the requisite
service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period.

A summary of U.S. Cellular stock options outstanding (total and portion exercisable) and changes during 2015, is
presented in the table below:

Common Share Options

Outstanding at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . .
(1,586,000 exercisable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Outstanding at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . .
(1,849,000 exercisable) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number of
Options

3,388,000

$

1,279,000
(321,000)
(110,000)
(134,000)

4,102,000

$
$

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
(in years)

41.51
45.28
36.42
32.94
37.57
43.77

40.62
44.33

$
$

11,292,000
3,733,000

6.8
4.6

The weighted average grant date fair value per share of the U.S. Cellular stock options granted in 2015, 2014 and 2013
was $9.94, $10.68 and $11.53, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of U.S. Cellular stock options exercised in
2015, 2014 and 2013 was $2.1 million, $2.0 million and $6.8 million, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value
represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between U.S. Cellular’s closing stock price and the exercise
price multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that was received by the option holders upon exercise or that
would have been received by option holders had all options been exercised on December 31, 2015.

101

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Long-Term Incentive Plans – Restricted Stock Units – U.S. Cellular grants restricted stock unit awards, which generally
vest after three years, to key employees.

U.S. Cellular estimates the fair value of restricted stock units based on the closing market price of U.S. Cellular shares
on the date of grant. The fair value is then recognized as compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite
service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period.

A summary of U.S. Cellular nonvested restricted stock units at December 31, 2015 and changes during the year then
ended is presented in the table below:

Common Restricted Stock Units

Nonvested at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number

1,142,000
478,000
(349,000)
(77,000)

$

Nonvested at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,194,000

$

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

35.60
37.24
34.05
35.76

36.70

The total fair value of restricted stock units that vested during 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $12.9 million, $11.1 million and
$8.8 million, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value per share of the restricted stock units granted in
2015, 2014 and 2013 was $37.24, $41.24 and $32.06, respectively.

Long-Term Incentive Plans – Deferred Compensation Stock Units – Certain U.S. Cellular employees may elect to defer
receipt of all or a portion of their annual bonuses and to receive a company matching contribution on the amount
deferred. All bonus compensation that is deferred by employees electing to participate is immediately vested and is
deemed to be invested in U.S. Cellular Common Share stock units. The amount of U.S. Cellular’s matching contribution
depends on the portion of the annual bonus that is deferred. Participants receive a 25% match for amounts deferred up
to 50% of their total annual bonus and a 33% match for amounts that exceed 50% of their total annual bonus; such
matching contributions also are deemed to be invested in U.S. Cellular Common Share stock units.

The total fair value of deferred compensation stock units that vested during 2015 and 2013 was $0.2 million and less
than $0.1 million, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value per share of the deferred compensation stock
units granted in 2015 and 2013 was $35.96 and $31.50, respectively. There were no deferred compensation stock units
granted or that vested during 2014. As of December 31, 2015, there were 6,000 vested but unissued deferred
compensation stock units valued at $0.2 million.

Compensation of Non-Employee Directors – U.S. Cellular issued 15,000, 14,200 and 13,000 Common Shares in 2015,
2014 and 2013, respectively, under its Non-Employee Director compensation plan.

102

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 18 BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom are billed for all services they receive from TDS, consisting primarily of information
processing, accounting and finance, and general management services. Such billings are based on expenses
specifically identified to U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom and on allocations of common expenses. Management believes
the method used to allocate common expenses is reasonable and that all expenses and costs applicable to U.S.
Cellular and TDS Telecom are reflected in the accompanying business segment information on a basis that is
representative of what they would have been if U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom operated on a stand-alone basis.

Financial data for TDS’ reportable segments for 2015, 2014 and 2013, is as follows. See Note 1 — Summary of
Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements for additional information.

Year Ended or as of December 31, 2015

Cellular Wireline

Cable

HMS

U.S.

TDS
Telecom
Eliminations

TDS

Corporate,
Telecom Eliminations

Total

and Other

Total

TDS Telecom

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating revenues

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,350,431 $ 698,938 $174,529 $116,810
169,985
Equipment and product sales . . . . . . .

646,422

1,965

437

$(4,621)
–

$ 985,656
172,387

$ (14,118)
35,463

$4,321,969
854,272

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . 3,996,853

700,903

174,966

286,795

(4,621)

1,158,043

21,345

5,176,241

Cost of services (excluding Depreciation,
amortization and accretion expense
reported below) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other

775,042
1,052,810
1,493,730
606,455
16,313

254,879
2,212
193,850
165,841
5,094

78,758
169
53,738
35,271
691

85,163
142,927
47,104
26,948
89

(4,334)
–
(287)
–
–

414,466
145,308
294,405
228,060
5,874

1,402
25,913
(7,672)
9,846
(11)

1,190,910
1,224,031
1,780,463
844,361
22,176

exit costs, net

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(113,555)

(9,530)

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(146,884)

–

–

–

–

–

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . .
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated

entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

312,942

88,557

6,339

(15,436)

140,083
36,332
(86,194)
466

17
2,193
1,133
(22)

–
37
458
3

–
35
(2,329)
(98)

Income (loss) before income taxes . . .

403,629

91,878

6,837

(17,828)

Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

156,334

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

247,295

Add back:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other

606,455
16,313

165,841
5,094

35,271
691

26,948
89

exit costs, net

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(113,555)

(9,530)

–

–

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

(146,884)
86,194
156,334

–
(1,133)

–
(458)

–
2,329

Adjusted EBITDA2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 852,152 $ 252,150 $ 42,341 $ 11,538

Investments in unconsolidated entities . . . $ 363,384 $
–
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,059,978 $1,312,394 $577,788 $285,929
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 533,053 $ 140,433 $ 51,573 $ 27,059

3,802 $

– $

–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–
–

(9,530)

(12,802)

(135,887)

–

–

(146,884)

79,460

4,669

397,071

17
2,265
(738)
(117)

80,887

34,972

45,915

(24)
186
(54,787)
42

(49,914)

(19,314)

(30,600)

140,076
38,783
(141,719)
391

434,602

171,992

262,610

228,060
5,874

9,846
(11)

844,361
22,176

(9,530)

(12,802)

(135,887)

–
738
34,972

–
54,787
(19,314)

(146,884)
141,719
171,992

$ 306,029

$

1,906

$1,160,087

$
3,802
$2,176,111
$ 219,065

$ 34,534
$186,373
7,250
$

$ 401,720
$9,422,462
$ 759,368

$

$
$
$

103

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Year Ended or as of December 31, 2014 Cellular Wireline

Cable

HMS

U.S.

TDS
Telecom
Eliminations

TDS

Corporate,
Telecom Eliminations

Total

and Other

Total

TDS Telecom

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating revenues

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,397,937 $ 714,586 $116,855 $ 109,766
148,966
Equipment and product sales . . . . . .

494,810

1,836

–

$(3,697)
–

$ 937,510
150,802

$ (6,793)
35,172

$4,328,654
680,784

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . 3,892,747

716,422

116,855

258,732

(3,697)

1,088,312

28,379

5,009,438

769,911
1,192,669
1,591,914
605,997
–
21,469

256,878
2,336
189,956
169,044
–
2,091

54,265
–
36,175
23,643
–
2,482

77,392
126,362
53,020
26,912
84,000
181

(3,504)
–
(193)
–
–
–

385,031
128,698
278,958
219,599
84,000
4,754

9,716
25,444
(5,065)
10,936
3,802
308

1,164,658
1,346,811
1,865,807
836,532
87,802
26,531

–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–
–

(2,357)

19,341

(15,846)

–

–

(112,993)

(10,371)

(36,103)

(189,864)

8
2,430
1,188
(21)

2,193
2,379
(55,199)
(24)

131,965
16,957
(111,397)
115

(6,766)

(86,754)

(152,224)

17,590

(10,740)

(4,932)

(24,356)

(76,014)

(147,292)

219,599
84,000
4,754

10,936
3,802
308

836,532
87,802
26,531

(2,357)

19,341

(15,846)

–
(1,188)
17,590

–
55,199
(10,740)

(112,993)
111,397
(4,932)

$ 298,042

$

2,832

$ 781,199

$
3,803
$2,252,035
$ 208,063

$ 34,912
$140,078
4,899
$

$ 321,729
$8,854,422
$ 770,577

$

$
$
$

Cost of services (excluding Depreciation,
amortization and accretion expense
reported below) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other
exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(112,993)

–

(32,830)

(2,357)

–

–

–

–

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . .
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated

entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(143,390)

98,474

290

(109,135)

129,764
12,148
(57,386)
160

8
2,396
2,695
(32)

–
8
95
(1)

–
26
(1,602)
12

Income (loss) before income taxes . . .

(58,704)

103,541

392

(110,699)

Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

(11,782)

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(46,922)

Add back:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion .
Loss on impairment of assets . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
. . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other
exit costs, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(Gain) loss on license sales and

605,997
–
21,469

169,044
–
2,091

23,643
–
2,482

(32,830)

(2,357)

26,912
84,000
181

–

–
1,602

–

–
(95)

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

(112,993)
57,386
(11,782)

–
(2,695)

Adjusted EBITDA2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 480,325 $ 269,624 $ 26,422 $

1,996

Investments in unconsolidated entities . . . $ 283,014 $
–
Total assets3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,462,309 $1,419,478 $563,585 $ 268,972
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 557,615 $ 135,805 $ 35,640 $ 36,618

3,803 $

– $

104

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Year Ended or as of December 31, 2013

Cellular Wireline

Cable

HMS

U.S.

TDS
Telecom
Eliminations

TDS

Corporate,
Telecom Eliminations

Total

and Other

Total

TDS Telecom

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating revenues

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,594,773 $ 723,372 $ 35,883 $ 94,875
90,741
Equipment and product sales . . . . . . .

324,063

3,195

–

$(1,063)
–

$ 853,067
93,936

$ (4,349)
39,746

$4,443,491
457,745

Total operating revenues . . . . . . . . 3,918,836

726,567

35,883

185,616

(1,063)

947,003

35,397

4,901,236

Cost of services (excluding Depreciation,
amortization and accretion reported
below) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of equipment and products . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other

763,435
999,000
1,677,395
803,781
30,606

266,635
3,831
220,097
170,868
130

17,274
–
11,054
7,571
28

60,423
75,991
44,945
24,262
125

(1,000)
–
(63)
–
–

exit costs, net

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(246,767)

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(255,479)

–

–

–

–

–

–

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . .
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated

entities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on investments . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

146,865

65,006

(44)

(20,130)

131,949
3,961
18,556
(43,963)
288

19
1,759
830
3,265
(214)

–
2
–
(74)
–

–
63
–
(1,626)
29

Income (loss) before income taxes . . .

257,656

70,665

(116)

(21,664)

Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

113,134

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

144,522

Add back:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other

803,781
30,606

170,868
130

7,571
28

24,262
125

exit costs, net

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(246,767)

–

(Gain) loss on license sales and

exchanges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on investments . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense (benefit)1 . . . . . . . .

(255,479)
(18,556)
43,963
113,134

–
(830)
(3,265)

–

–
–
74

–

–
–
1,626

Adjusted EBITDA2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 615,204 $ 237,568 $

7,557 $

4,349

Investments in unconsolidated entities . . . $ 265,585 $
Total assets3
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 737,501 $ 140,009 $

–
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,430,255 $1,452,502 $278,969 $328,397
8,375 $ 16,474

3,809 $

– $

–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

$

$
$
$

343,332
79,822
276,033
202,701
283

–

–

11,416
28,311
(5,650)
11,595
(48)

1,118,183
1,107,133
1,947,778
1,018,077
30,841

(53,889)

(300,656)

–

(255,479)

44,832

43,662

235,359

19
1,824
830
1,565
(185)

48,885

19,084

29,801

746
3,307
(4,839)
(56,413)
(140)

(13,677)

(6,175)

(7,502)

132,714
9,092
14,547
(98,811)
(37)

292,864

126,043

166,821

202,701
283

11,595
(48)

1,018,077
30,841

–

(53,889)

(300,656)

–
(830)
(1,565)
19,084

–
4,839
56,413
(6,175)

(255,479)
(14,547)
98,811
126,043

$ 249,474

$

5,233

$ 869,911

$
3,809
$2,059,868
$ 164,858

$ 32,378
$370,905
7,301
$

$ 301,772
$8,861,028
$ 909,660

1

Income tax expense (benefit) is not provided at the individual segment level for Wireline, Cable and HMS. TDS calculates income tax expense for ‘‘TDS
Telecom Total’’.

2 Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and accretion (‘‘Adjusted EBITDA’’) is a segment measure reported to the chief
operating decision maker for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to the segments and assessing their performance. Adjusted
EBITDA is defined as net income, adjusted for the items set forth in the reconciliation above. Adjusted EBITDA excludes these items in order to show
operating results on a more comparable basis from period to period. From time to time, TDS may also exclude other items from Adjusted EBITDA if
such items help reflect operating results on a more comparable basis. TDS does not intend to imply that any of such items that are excluded are
non-recurring, infrequent or unusual; such items may occur in the future. TDS believes Adjusted EBITDA is a useful measure of TDS’ operating results
before significant recurring non-cash charges, discrete gains and losses, and other items as indicated above.

3 ASU 2015-03, regarding simplification of the presentation of debt issuance costs, was adopted as of December 31, 2015 and applied retrospectively. All

prior year numbers have been revised to conform to this standard.

105

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 19 SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW DISCLOSURES
Following are supplemental cash flow disclosures regarding interest paid and income taxes paid.

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2015

2014

2013

Interest paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes paid, net of refunds received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$134,916
57,442

$108,510
48,876

$ 96,241
175,629

Following are supplemental cash flow disclosures regarding transactions related to stock-based compensation awards.
In certain situations, TDS and U.S. Cellular withhold shares that are issuable upon the exercise of stock options or the
vesting of restricted shares to cover, and with a value equivalent to, the exercise price and/or the amount of taxes
required to be withheld from the stock award holder at the time of the exercise or vesting. TDS and U.S. Cellular then
pay the amount of the required tax withholdings to the taxing authorities in cash.

TDS:

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2015

2014

2013

Common Shares withheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aggregate value of Common Shares withheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,163
76

$

109,061
$ 2,751

265,748
$ 7,639

Cash receipts upon exercise of stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash disbursements for payment of taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13,405
(76)

732
(2,751)

12,092
(2,438)

Net cash receipts (disbursements) from exercise of stock options and vesting of other stock

awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 13,329

$ (2,019)

$ 9,654

U.S. Cellular:

Year Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2015

2014

2013

Common Shares withheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aggregate value of Common Shares withheld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

228,011
$ 8,448

163,355
$ 6,868

606,582
$25,179

Cash receipts upon exercise of stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash disbursements for payment of taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6,881
(4,714)

5,166
(4,336)

10,468
(4,684)

Net cash receipts from exercise of stock options and vesting of other stock awards . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 2,167

$

830

$ 5,784

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (‘‘the Recovery Act’’), TDS Telecom was awarded and
received $93.9 million in federal grants and provided $32.4 million of its own funds to complete 44 projects to provide
broadband access in unserved areas. TDS Telecom received $15.1 million, $15.3 million, and $41.9 million in grants in
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These funds reduced the carrying amount of the assets to which they relate. TDS
Telecom had recorded $14.2 million in grants receivable at December 31, 2014 as a component of Accounts receivable,
Other, in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

On September 27, 2012, the FCC conducted a single round, sealed bid, reverse auction to award up to $300 million in
one-time Mobility Fund Phase I support to successful bidders that commit to provide 3G, or better, wireless service in
areas designated as unserved by the FCC. This auction was designated by the FCC as Auction 901. U.S. Cellular and
several of its wholly-owned subsidiaries participated in Auction 901 and were winning bidders in eligible areas within 10
states and will receive up to $40.1 million in one-time support from the Mobility Fund. These funds when received
reduce the carrying amount of the assets to which they relate or offset operating expenses. In connection with these
winning bids, in June 2013, U.S. Cellular provided $17.4 million letters of credit to the FCC, of which the entire amount
remained outstanding as of December 31, 2015. U.S. Cellular has received $13.4 million in support funds, of which the
entire balance has been spent as of December 31, 2015. In 2014, $1.9 million was included as a component of Other
assets and deferred charges in the Consolidated Balance Sheet and $11.5 million reduced the carrying amount of the
assets to which they relate, which are included in Property, plant and equipment in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. U.S.

106

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Cellular has set up a receivable in the amount of $18.4 million as of December 31, 2015 as part of Phase II of the
Mobility Fund.

NOTE 20 CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The following persons are partners of Sidley Austin LLP, the principal law firm of TDS and its subsidiaries: Walter C.D.
Carlson, a trustee and beneficiary of a voting trust that controls TDS, the non-executive Chairman of the Board and
member of the Board of Directors of TDS and a director of U.S. Cellular, a subsidiary of TDS; William S. DeCarlo, the
General Counsel of TDS and an Assistant Secretary of TDS and certain subsidiaries of TDS; and Stephen P. Fitzell, the
General Counsel of U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecommunications Corporation and an Assistant Secretary of certain
subsidiaries of TDS. Walter C.D. Carlson does not provide legal services to TDS or its subsidiaries. TDS, U.S. Cellular
and their subsidiaries incurred legal costs from Sidley Austin LLP of $11.9 million in 2015, $15.4 million in 2014 and
$17.6 million in 2013.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of TDS is responsible for the review and evaluation of all related-party
transactions as such term is defined by the rules of the New York Stock Exchange.

NOTE 21 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In January 2016, TDS entered into an agreement to purchase a 700 MHz A Block license for $36.0 million. The
transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2016 pending regulatory approval. In February 2016, TDS entered
into multiple agreements with third parties that provide for the transfer of certain AWS and PCS spectrum licenses and
approximately $30 million in cash to U.S. Cellular, in exchange for U.S. Cellular transferring certain AWS, PCS and 700
MHz licenses to the third parties. The transactions are subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing
conditions, and are expected to close in 2016. Upon closing of the transactions, TDS expects to recognize a gain.

107

REPORTS OF MANAGEMENT

Management’s Responsibility for Financial Statements

Management of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. has the responsibility for preparing the accompanying consolidated
financial statements and for their integrity and objectivity. The statements were prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America and, in management’s opinion, were fairly presented. The
financial statements included amounts that were based on management’s best estimates and judgments. Management
also prepared the other information in the annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the
financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited these consolidated financial
statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and
has expressed herein its unqualified opinion on these financial statements.

/s/ LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.

LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.
President and
Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)

/s/ Douglas D. Shuma

Douglas D. Shuma
Senior Vice President - Finance and
Chief Accounting Officer
(principal financial officer and principal
accounting officer)

108

REPORTS OF MANAGEMENT

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such
term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. TDS’ internal control over financial reporting is
a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America (‘‘GAAP’’). TDS’ internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that
(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and
dispositions of the assets of the issuer; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to
permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the issuer are
being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and, where required, the Board of Directors of the
issuer; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use,
or disposition of the issuer’s assets that could have a material effect on the interim or annual consolidated financial
statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also,
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.

Under the supervision and with the participation of TDS’ management, including its principal executive officer and
principal financial officer, TDS conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting
as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria established in the 2013 version of Internal Control — Integrated
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Management
has concluded that TDS maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015 based on
criteria established in the 2013 version of Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the COSO.

The effectiveness of TDS’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015 has been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in the firm’s report included
herein.

/s/ LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.

LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.
President and
Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)

/s/ Douglas D. Shuma

Douglas D. Shuma
Senior Vice President - Finance and
Chief Accounting Officer
(principal financial officer and principal
accounting officer)

109

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.:

In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of other auditors, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets
and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity, and cash flows
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. and its subsidiaries at
December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 2015 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America. Also in our opinion, based on our audit, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated
Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The
Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over
financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the
accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express
opinions on these financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our
integrated audits. We did not audit the financial statements of Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership and Subsidiary, a
5.5% owned entity accounted for by the equity method of accounting. The consolidated financial statements of
Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. reflect an investment in this partnership of $197,600,000 and $123,600,000 as of
December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and equity earnings of $74,000,000, $71,800,000 and $78,400,000 for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015. The financial statements of Los Angeles SMSA Limited
Partnership and Subsidiary were audited by other auditors whose report thereon has been furnished to us, and our
opinion on the financial statements expressed herein, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Los Angeles
SMSA Limited Partnership and Subsidiary, is based solely on the report of the other auditors. We conducted our audits
in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards
require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material
respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts
and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial
reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a
material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on
the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the
circumstances. We believe that our audits and the report of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it classifies
debt issuance costs and deferred income taxes in 2015.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies
and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are
recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of
management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely
detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on
the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also,
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chicago, Illinois
February 24, 2016

110

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

Year Ended or at December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)

Statement of Operations data
Operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs,
net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges . . . . . .
Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling

interests, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders .
Net income (loss) available to common . . . . . . . .
Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . .
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS

shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding . . . . .
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS
shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends per Common, Special Common and

Series A Common Share2

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance Sheet data
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment, net
Total assets3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net long-term debt, excluding current portion3
. . . .
Total TDS shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 5,176,241
–

$ 5,009,438
87,802

$ 4,901,236
–

$ 5,345,277
515

$ 5,180,471
–

(135,887)
(146,884)
397,071
–
262,610

43,573
219,037
218,988
108,645

2.02
109,910

1.98

0.56

984,643
3,764,477
9,422,462
2,439,827
4,125,550
759,368

$

$

$

$

$

$

(15,846)
(112,993)
(189,864)
–
(147,292)

(10,937)
(136,355)
(136,404)
108,485

(1.26)
108,485

(1.26)

0.54

471,901
3,846,125
8,854,422
1,941,069
3,926,278
770,577

$

$

$

$

$

$

(300,656)
(255,479)
235,359
14,547
166,821

24,894
141,927
141,878
108,490

1.31
109,132

1.29

0.51

$

$

$

$

21,061
–
183,863
(3,718)
122,653

40,792
81,861
81,811
108,671

0.75
108,937

0.75

0.49

830,014
3,878,144
8,861,028
1,676,955
4,117,837
909,660

$

740,481
3,997,266
8,580,235
1,677,906
4,011,536
$ 1,004,621

–
(11,762)
362,502
24,103
250,242

49,676
200,566
200,516
108,562

1.85
109,098

1.83

0.47

563,275
3,784,535
8,166,005
1,494,857
3,962,161
987,218

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1

Includes Loss on Impairment of intangible assets related to Goodwill in 2014 and 2012.

2 Dividends per share reflects the amount paid per share outstanding at the date the dividend was declared and has not been retroactively adjusted to

reflect the impact of the Share Consolidation Amendment approved by TDS shareholders on January 13, 2012.

3 Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (‘‘ASU 2015-03’’), was adopted early as of December 31, 2015 and applied retrospectively. All prior

year numbers have been revised to conform to this standard. See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting
Pronouncements for additional information regarding ASU 2015-03.

111

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. CONSOLIDATED QUARTERLY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

Quarter Ended

2015

March 31

June 30

September 30

December 31

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

Operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net1 . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . .
Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1,251,593
5,377
(123,783)
(122,873)
282,629
175,801
145,740
108,169

$

$ 1,276,395
4,752
(5,589)
(25)
32,121
26,500
23,046
108,484

$

$ 1,373,798
4,919
(559)
(23,986)
93,434
62,395
51,083
108,848

$

$ 1,274,455
7,128
(5,956)
–
(11,113)
(2,086)
(832)
109,067

$

Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS

shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TDS Common Shares3

High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

$

1.35
108,946

1.33

26.64
23.00
24.90
0.141

$

$

$

$

0.21
109,785

0.21

30.76
24.84
29.40
0.141

$

$

$

$

0.47
110,214

0.46

30.64
24.51
24.96
0.141

$

$

$

$

(0.01)
109,067

(0.01)

30.59
24.83
25.89
0.141

Quarter Ended

2014

March 31

June 30

September 30

December 31

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

Operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net1 . . . . .
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on impairment of assets2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to TDS shareholders . . . . . . . . .
Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1,195,962
2,430
(6,900)
(91,446)
–
20,685
20,294
18,254
108,988

$

$ 1,236,392
7,903
2,611
–
–
(49,090)
(25,726)
(22,038)
108,719

$

$ 1,280,023
9,293
(4,790)
–
84,000
(125,415)
(121,199)
(116,030)
108,252

$

$ 1,297,061
6,905
(6,767)
(21,547)
3,802
(36,044)
(20,661)
(16,541)
107,995

$

Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS shareholders .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to TDS

shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TDS Common Shares3

High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

$

0.17
109,672

0.16

27.90
21.30
26.21
0.134

$

$

$

$

(0.20)
108,719

(0.20)

28.41
24.67
26.11
0.134

$

$

$

$

(1.07)
108,252

(1.07)

26.93
23.08
23.96
0.134

$

$

$

$

(0.15)
107,995

(0.15)

26.49
22.19
25.25
0.134

1 See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges for additional information on (Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net and

(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges.

2 See Note 7 — Intangible Assets for additional information on Loss on impairment of assets.

3 The high, low and closing sales prices as reported by the New York Stock Exchange (‘‘NYSE’’).

112

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Stock and Dividend Information

TDS’ Common Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (‘‘NYSE’’) under the symbol ‘‘TDS.’’ As of January 31,
2016, the last trading day of the month, TDS Common Shares were held by approximately 1,377 record owners, and the
Series A Common Shares were held by approximately 76 record owners.

TDS has paid cash dividends on its common stock since 1974, and paid dividends of $0.56 per Common and Series A
Common Share during 2015. During 2014, TDS paid dividends of $0.54 per Common and Series A Common Share.

The Common Shares of United States Cellular Corporation, an 84%-owned subsidiary of TDS, are listed on the NYSE
under the symbol ‘‘USM.’’

See ‘‘Consolidated Quarterly Information (Unaudited)’’ for information on the high and low trading prices of the TDS
Common Shares for 2015 and 2014.

Stock Performance Graph

The following chart provides a comparison of TDS’ cumulative total return to shareholders (stock price appreciation plus
dividends) during the previous five years to the returns of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Composite Stock Price Index and
the Dow Jones U.S. Telecommunications Index. As of December 31, 2015, the Dow Jones U.S. Telecommunications
Index was composed of the following companies: 8X8 Inc., AT&T Inc., CenturyLink Inc., Frontier Communications Corp.,
Level 3 Communications Inc., SBA Communications Corp., Sprint Corp., T-Mobile US Inc., Telephone and Data
Systems, Inc. (TDS) and Verizon Communications Inc.

Telephone & Data Systems Inc.

S&P 500 Index

Dow Jones U.S. Telecommunications Index

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

12MAR201601532903
2015

* Cumulative total return assumes reinvestment of dividends

Telephone and Data Systems Common Shares

(NYSE: TDS)
S&P 500 Index
Dow Jones U.S. Telecommunications Index

$ 100
100
100

$

72.10
102.11
103.97

$

68.43
118.45
123.50

$

81.39
156.82
140.95

$

81.41
178.28
144.32

$

85.22
180.75
149.39

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Assumes $100.00 invested at the close of trading on the last trading day preceding the first day of 2010, in TDS
Common Shares, S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones U.S. Telecommunications Index.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

TDS’ dividend reinvestment plans provide its common and preferred shareholders with a convenient and economical
way to participate in the future growth of TDS. Holders of record of ten (10) or more Common Shares or Preferred

113

TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Shares may purchase Common Shares with their reinvested dividends at a five percent discount from market price.
Common Shares may also be purchased, at market price, on a monthly basis through optional cash payments by
participants in this plan. The initial ten (10) shares cannot be purchased directly from TDS. An authorization card and
prospectus will be mailed automatically by the transfer agent to all registered record holders with ten (10) or more
shares. Once enrolled in the plan, there are no brokerage commissions or service charges for purchases made under
the plan.

Investor relations

TDS’ annual report, SEC filings and news releases are available to investors, securities analysts and other members of
the investment community. These reports are provided, without charge, upon request to our Corporate Office. Investors
may also access these and other reports through the Investor Relations portion of the TDS website (www.tdsinc.com).

Questions regarding lost, stolen or destroyed certificates, consolidation of accounts, transferring of shares and name or
address changes should be directed to:

Julie Mathews, Director — Investor Relations
Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 4000
Chicago, IL 60602
312.592.5341
312.630.9299 (fax)
julie.mathews@tdsinc.com

General inquiries by investors, securities analysts and other members of the investment community should be directed to:

Jane W. McCahon, Senior Vice President — Corporate Relations and Corporate Secretary
Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 4000
Chicago, IL 60602
312.592.5379
312.630.9299 (fax)
jane.mccahon@tdsinc.com

Directors and executive officers
See ‘‘Election of Directors’’ and ‘‘Executive Officers’’ sections of the Proxy Statement issued in 2016 for the 2016 Annual
Meeting.

Principal counsel
Sidley Austin LLP, Chicago, Illinois

Transfer agent
Computershare Trust Company, N.A.
211 Quality Circle, Suite 210
College Station, TX 77845
877.337.1575

Independent registered public accounting firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Visit TDS’ web site at www.tdsinc.com

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OfficersWalter C. D. Carlson Chairman of the Board (non-executive) Partner - Sidley Austin LLP Chairman - Corporate  Governance and  Nominating CommitteeLeRoy T. Carlson, Jr. President and  Chief Executive Officer   Member - Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee Chairman - Technology  Advisory GroupLetitia G. Carlson, MD Physician and Associate  Clinical Professor -  George Washington University Medical CenterPrudence E. Carlson Private InvestorClarence A. Davis Former Director and  Chief Executive Officer - Nestor, Inc. Member - Audit CommitteeKenneth R. Meyers President and  Chief Executive Officer - U.S. CellularGeorge W. Off Former President and  Chief Executive Officer - Checkpoint Systems, Inc. Chairman - Audit Committee Member - Compensation Committee Member - Technology  Advisory GroupBoard of DirectorsChristopher D. O´Leary Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - International -  General Mills, Inc.  Member - Compensation Committee Member - Technology  Advisory GroupMitchell H. Saranow Chairman - The Saranow Group, LLC Member - Audit Committee Member - Corporate  Governance and  Nominating CommitteeGary L. Sugarman Managing Member -  Richfield Capital Partners Principal - Richfield  Associates, Inc.  Member - Compensation  CommitteeHerbert S. Wander Of Counsel - Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP Chairman - Compensation Committee  Member - Audit CommitteeDavid A. Wittwer President and  Chief Executive Officer - TDS TelecomDirectors Emeritus LeRoy T. Carlson Chairman Emeritus  Director Emeritus -  U.S. Cellular Donald C. Nebergall Consultant  LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr.  President and  Chief Executive OfficerJoseph R. Hanley Senior Vice President -  Technology, Services  and Strategy Jane W. McCahon Senior Vice President -  Corporate Relations and Corporate SecretaryPeter L. Sereda Senior Vice President -  Finance and TreasurerDouglas D. Shuma Senior Vice President -  Finance and Chief Accounting OfficerKurt B. Thaus  Senior Vice President and  Chief Information OfficerScott H. Williamson  Senior Vice President -  Acquisitions and  Corporate DevelopmentDouglas W. Chambers  Vice President and  ControllerDavid D. Gillman  Vice President - TaxC. Theodore Herbert Vice President -  Human ResourcesFrieda E. Ireland Vice President -  Internal AuditKenneth M. Kotylo Vice President -  Acquisitions and  Corporate DevelopmentLaurie A. Ruchti Vice President -  IT Strategy, Architecture  and QualityAlan L. Schultz Vice President -  Enterprise Growth and Portfolio StrategyJohn M. Toomey Vice President and  Assistant TreasurerTheodore E. Wiessing Vice President and  Chief Security and  Privacy OfficerWilliam S. DeCarlo  General Counsel and  Assistant Secretary LeRoy T. Carlson Chairman Emeritus 4787_TDS.indd   33/22/16   1:29 AMTelephone and Data Systems, Inc.     30 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 4000     Chicago, IL 60602     Tel: 312.630.1900  www.tdsinc.comAt TDS, our mission is to provide outstanding communications services to our customers and meet the needs of our shareholders, our people, and our communities. About Our BusinessesU.S. Cellular  Provides outstanding wireless experiences to nearly five million customers, with a high-quality network and competitive devices, plans, and pricing.TDS Telecom  Provides high-quality residential broadband, video, and voice services, and commercial VoIP (managedIP) phone and dedicated broadband services. TDS Telecom also manages the operations of: OneNeck IT Solutions  Delivers hybrid IT solutions, including cloud and hosting solutions, managed services, ERP application management, professional services, and IT hardware. BendBroadband  Offers an extensive range of broadband, fiber connectivity, cable TV, and voice services for residential and commercial customers. Telephone and Data Systems headquarters, ChicagoU.S. Cellular operationsWireline operationsCable operationsHMS operationsTelephone and Data Systems headquarters, ChicagoU.S. Cellular operationsWireline operationsCable operationsHMS operations4787_TDS.indd   43/22/16   1:29 AM