XML 30 R36.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.2.0.727

Variable Interest Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 1 Months Ended | 6 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |  |
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Mar. 31, 2015 | Jun. 30, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 | Jun. 30, 2014 | Dec. 31, 2013
Assets |  |  |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents |  | $ 362,282 |  | $ 211,513 | $ 404,058 | $ 342,065
Other current assets |  | 18,144 |  | 90,834 |  |
Licenses |  | 1,827,656 |  | 1,443,438 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net |  | 2,625,815 |  | 2,728,217 |  |
Other assets and deferred charges |  | 195,909 |  | 276,218 |  |
Liabilities |  |  |  |  |  |
Current liabilities |  | 828,574 |  | 856,894 |  |
Variable Interest Entities, Other Disclosures |  |  |  |  |  |
Total winning bid |  | 338,300 |  |  |  |
Variable Interest Entities (VIE's) |  |  |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents |  | 2,069 |  | 2,588 |  |
Other current assets |  | 211 |  | 278 |  |
Licenses |  | 651,281 | [1] | 312,977 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net |  | 9,636 |  | 10,671 |  |
Other assets and deferred charges |  | 150 |  | 60,059 |  |
Total assets |  | 663,347 |  | 386,573 |  |
Liabilities |  |  |  |  |  |
Current liabilities |  | 83 |  | 110 |  |
Deferred liabilities and credits |  | 567 |  | 622 |  |
Total liabilities |  | 650 |  | 732 |  |
Variable Interest Entities, Other Disclosures |  |  |  |  |  |
Capital contributions, loans or advances |  | 280,600 |  |  |  |
Advantage Spectrum L.P. |  |  |  |  |  |
Variable Interest Entities, Other Disclosures |  |  |  |  |  |
Federal Communications Commission deposit |  |  |  | $ 60,000 |  |
Total winning bid |  | 338,300 |  |  |  |
Other auction charges |  | $ 2,300 |  |  |  |
Designated entity auction discount |  | 25.00% |  |  |  |
Licenses won |  | 124 |  |  |  |
King Street Wireless L.P. |  |  |  |  |  |
Variable Interest Entities, Other Disclosures |  |  |  |  |  |
Cash distributions paid | $ 60,000 |  |  |  |  |
King Street Wireless, L.P. distribution paid to U.S. Cellular | 54,000 |  |  |  |  |
King Street Wireless, Inc. |  |  |  |  |  |
Variable Interest Entities, Other Disclosures |  |  |  |  |  |
King Street Wireless, L.P. distribution paid to King Street Wireless, Inc. | $ 6,000 |  |  |  |  |
[1] | Includes payments totaling $338.3 million made by Advantage Spectrum to the FCC as described below.

X
- References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AssetsAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Cash -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28358313&loc=d3e6676-107765 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=31042434&loc=d3e3044-108585 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Cash Equivalents -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of cash distribution paid to unit-holder of limited partnership (LP). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 272 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6373374&loc=d3e70434-108055 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.3-04) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27012166&loc=d3e187085-122770 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 272 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6373374&loc=d3e70478-108055 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerCashDistributionsPaid
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Carrying amount (original costs adjusted for previously recognized amortization and impairment) as of the balance sheet date for the capitalized costs to acquire rights under a license arrangement (for example, to sell specified products in a specified territory) having an indefinite period of benefit. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26713463&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedLicenseAgreements
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.21) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 21 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.8) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 8 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.17) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 17 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of unearned revenue or income not otherwise specified in the taxonomy which is expected to be taken into income after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.26) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 605 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SAB TOPIC 13.A.Q4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27012821&loc=d3e214044-122780 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) -Number Topic 13 -Section A + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherDeferredCreditsNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.13) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6391035&loc=d3e2868-110229 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 13 -Subparagraph a -Article 5 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 8 -Article 7 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The carrying amount of the consolidated Variable Interest Entity's assets included in the reporting entity's statement of financial position. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (bb) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28200181&loc=d3e5710-111685 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityConsolidatedCarryingAmountAssets
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The carrying amount of the consolidated Variable Interest Entity's liabilities included in the reporting entity's statement of financial position. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (bb) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28200181&loc=d3e5710-111685 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityConsolidatedCarryingAmountLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of financial or other support the reporting entity has provided (explicitly or implicitly) to the Variable Interest Entity (VIE) that it was not previously contractually required to provide or that the reporting entity intends to provide, including, for example, situations in which the reporting entity assisted the VIE in obtaining another type of support. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5A -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28200181&loc=SL6759159-111685 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityFinancialOrOtherSupportAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityMeasureOfActivityAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of cash distribution paid to consolidated subsidiary by another consolidated subsidiary. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_DistributionMadeToConsolidatedSubsidiaryByAnotherConsolidatedSubsidiary
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of cash distribution paid to the entity by a consolidated subsidiary. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_DistributionMadeToParentCompanyByConsolidatedSubsidiary
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash outflow for an FCC license auction deposit. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_FccLicenseAuctionDepositPayment
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition FCC license auction discount resulting from bidding credits awarded to certain participants in accordance with the rules defined by the FCC for each auction. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_FccLicenseAuctionDesignatedEntityDiscount
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Certain other charges, not including winning bid amounts, associated with an entity's participation in an FCC auction. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_FccLicenseAuctionOtherCharges
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Total number of licenses won in an FCC license auction. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_FccLicenseAuctionTotalLicensesWon
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The total winning bid amount in a FCC license auction. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | usm_FccLicenseAuctionTotalWinningBid
Namespace Prefix: | usm_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis=us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityPrimaryBeneficiaryAggregatedDisclosureMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis=usm_VariableInterestEntityAdvantageSpectrumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis=usm_VariableInterestEntityKingStreetLPMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis=usm_VariableInterestEntityKingStreetIncMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |