Advocate Networks Launches Federal Excise Tax (Fet) Recovery Service

Atlanta, Georgia – March 12, 2007 – Advocate Networks, a trusted advisor in mobility, convergence, data, and voice telecommunications management, today announced immediately availability of its Federal Excise Tax (FET) Recovery Service which helps companies recover thousands of dollars in excess FET payments. The company’s FET Recovery Service comprises a telecommunications expense management (TEM) application and automated tool that can be optimized in one day to reclaim 15-35% in FET taxes paid. It reduces the cost, complexity and amount of data to be collected, checked, analyzed, and audited for FET recovery. Over 15 enterprises in the energy, business services, technology and healthcare industries have already taken advantage of this service which typically benefits companies with high long distance bills, multiple cell phones and at least $1 million or more in annual telecommunications expenditure.

In 1898, the US Government levied a 3% Federal Excise Tax (FET) to support and fund the Spanish American War. On August 1, 2006 the IRS stopped collecting the FET on “bundled services” including long distance, wireless (monthly and installation), wireline services, and conferencing call charges.

All taxpayers may claim refunds for FET paid between March 1, 2003 and July 31, 2006, as part of their 2006 tax returns. All U.S.-based companies have a one-time opportunity to claim FET rebates, but must do so with their Federal Tax Return by April 17, 2007; by seeking an extension; or by submitting an amended tax return. The IRS allows businesses to reclaim FET credit using a standard deduction or itemization formula. It estimates it could make up to $13 billion dollars in refunds, according to a January 23, 2007 article in USA Today. “This is an incredible one-time opportunity to recover some of our long distance expenses,” said Kirk Walsh, Director of Security and Telecommunications at WellStar Health System which operates five hospitals and more than 40 physician practices in Northwest Georgia. “We anticipate a recovery in excess of $15,000” he continued.

“Our research has shown that our itemization-based FET Recovery Service can save companies 15-35% more than the IRS formula method. This is a gift and April 17, 2007 is one date all companies should keep with the tax man,” said Scott Fogle, co-founder and co-president, Advocate Networks.

Advocate Networks is a recognized expert in telecommunications expense management services which keep track of assets and expenses, and automate procurement, inventory management, invoice processing and audits. Its Telerazor Technologies LLC telecom expense management subsidiary was recognized as a TAG Top 40 Innovator company in 2005.

About Advocate Networks, LLC

Advocate Networks is an enterprise communications consulting company which provides technical, operational and financial expertise in all voice, data, video and wireless areas of enterprise communications systems and infrastructure. Advocate Networks serves as a "trusted advisor" to its customers, assisting with strategic planning, optimization, procurement, and implementation of "best practices" in all forms of voice, data, video and wireless communications. Founded in 2001 privately-held Advocate Networks is based in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.advocatenetworks.com

Media Contact:
Helga Ojinmah
For Advocate Networks
Tel. 770 444 3969 - Atlanta, GA
helga@helioscomm.com