Gee, you didn't mention the reimbursement of a portion of our property taxes fee now replaced by the flat $0.99/month all inclusive recoupment of operational costs fee. I got to the point where I was tired of all the nickel and diming so I've left Sprint.

Notwithstanding, an equivalent fee has been popping up more and more places recently. Most of the airlines charge the equivalent fee when you purchase miles from them. Alamo car rental charges the equivalent fee for their car rentals IF you ask for frequent flyer mileage credit [if you don't then there's no equivalent fee].

If you look at IRS publication 720 I think [I could be wrong on the number] you will find regulations which mandate the airlines' payment of the airline excise tax on frequent flyer miles capable of being redeemed for air transportation.