Overview
As of October 15, 2025, the university’s legacy (Centrex) telephony provider has begun retiring traditional analog phone services. At UIC, these lines are primarily used for fax machines, alarms, and other specialized applications.
Technology Solutions can no longer add or modify analog lines and will work with departments to transition to modern alternatives. If you have an existing line that requires repair, we will review available options with you to minimize disruption.
Additionally, the vendor has implemented a significant, unplanned cost increase, prompting changes to the funding model. In response, Technology Solutions is conducting a comprehensive review of all remaining analog lines to modernize services, reduce costs, and ensure business continuity across campus.
Access the recorded Zoom informational session from March 13, where Technology Solutions reviewed the project and answered questions from business managers.
Why This Is Happening
Our current provider has increased the cost of our older, traditional landline phone services (also known as “Centrex” lines) by 1200%, with additional increases expected in the future.
As a result, continuing to include legacy phone lines in the basic bundle of services is no longer financially sustainable, necessitating a change to the university’s billing model.
What Units Can Expect
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Beginning FY27 (effective Wednesday, July 1, 2026), legacy phone lines (non-VoIP) will no longer be included in the basic bundle of services.
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After July 1, 2026, any remaining legacy phone lines will change to a self-sustaining (chargeback) model.
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Units will be billed at the market rate for each legacy phone line that remains in service. That rate is currently $65 per month per line and is expected to increase as AT&T continues to raise prices. For more rate information, visit the Rate and Funding page.
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A valid CFOAP will be required for each remaining legacy phone line.
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There will be no change in how technical support is requested. Units should continue to submit support tickets through the UIC Help Center.
What do units need to do
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Review phone numbers associated with your unit(s) in the Centrex Lines spreadsheet in UIC Box. Login is required.
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By May 1, 2026, complete the Centrex Line Adjustment form for each number to confirm details on how the number is being used and what action should be taken going forward.
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Identify whether each line should be:
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Maintained – still needed (e.g., fax, alarm, or critical use)
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Converted – migrated to a new number using Zoom Phone
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Disconnected – no longer needed - see below for instructions on how to request the removal
No Response - If no response is received for a given number, the phone line will transition to a chargeback model, billing the CFOAP on file at the current rate of $65 per month starting, July 1, 2026.
How to Request Removal of an Individual Centrex Line
To request the removal of a legacy line, please submit a ticket using the following form: Centrex Line Adjustment (submit one form for each line)
Timeline
Centrex legacy phone lines will transition to a self-supported chargeback model at the current rate of $65/month per line, effective July 1, 2026. We ask that units review and submit decisions for each of their Centrex lines by Monday, June 15th, 2026.
Our Commitment
While this change was prompted by external cost increases, we are taking a proactive and transparent approach to protect UIC’s operations and budgets. We are committed to working closely with all units to make informed decisions that support long-term service stability and financial sustainability.