Windstream 10-K 1 Mar 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 23, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Windstream Holdings, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,282,266
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		97,288,913
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 893,938,786
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Windstream Services, LLC
Entity Central Index Key	1,585,644
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSO

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues																	$ 5,279.9		$ 5,598.6		$ 5,647.6
Product sales																	107.1		166.7		181.9
Total revenues and sales	$ 1,309.1		$ 1,344.9		$ 1,359.6		$ 1,373.4		$ 1,427		$ 1,498.6		$ 1,421.1		$ 1,418.6		5,387		5,765.3		5,829.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization included below)																	2,677.8		2,762		2,773.3
Cost of products sold																	98.5		145.2		156.6
Selling, general and administrative																	797.7		866.5		929.8
Depreciation and amortization																	1,263.5		1,366.5		1,386.4
Merger, integration and other costs																	13.8		95		40.4
Restructuring charges																	20.3		20.7		35.9
Total costs and expenses																	4,871.6		5,255.9		5,322.4
Operating income	73.7		129.4		154.6		157.7		131.7		178.5		79.3		119.9		515.4		509.4		507.1
Dividend income on CS&L common stock																	17.6		48.2		0
Other (expense) income, net																	(1.2)		9.3		0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock																	15.2		0		0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									326.1								(10)		326.1		0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt																	(18)		(36.4)		0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock																	(181.9)		0		0
Interest expense																	(860.6)		(813.2)		(571.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes																	(523.5)		43.4		(64.6)
Income tax (benefit) expense																	(140)		16		(25.1)
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)		$ (66.2)		$ 1.5		$ (231.9)		$ 140.5		$ (7.2)		$ (111.2)		$ 5.3		$ (383.5)		$ 27.4		$ (39.5)
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share:
Net (loss) income	$ (0.94)	[1]	$ (0.72)	[1]	$ 0.01	[1]	$ (2.52)	[1]	$ 1.41	[1]	$ (0.08)	[1]	$ (1.13)	[1]	$ 0.05	[1]	$ (4.11)	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ (0.45)
[1]	Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year.

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS3

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net (loss) income	$ (383.5)	$ 27.4	$ (39.5)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized holding gain (loss) arising during the period	156.1	(286.5)	0
Gain on disposal recognized in the period	(51.5)	0	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized in the period	181.9	0	0
Change in available-for-sale securities	286.5	(286.5)	0
Interest rate swaps:
Unrealized loss on designated interest rate swaps	8	(8.8)	(23.2)
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Income tax (expense) benefit	(5)	(1.1)	2.9
Change in interest rate swaps	7.8	1.7	(4.5)
Postretirement and pension plans:
Prior service credit arising during the period	0	1.8	0.1
Change in net actuarial (loss) gain for employee benefit plans	(0.2)	0.1	(3.6)
Plan curtailments and settlements	(5.5)	(18)	(10)
Amounts included in net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0.2	1	0.1
Amortization of prior service credits	(1.1)	(3.9)	(5.9)
Income tax benefit	2.6	7.3	7.4
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(4)	(11.7)	(11.9)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	290.3	(296.5)	(16.4)
Comprehensive loss	$ (93.2)	$ (269.1)	$ (55.9)

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS4

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 59.1	$ 31.3	$ 27.8	$ 48.2
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27.1 and $33.1, respectively)	618.6	643.9
Inventories	77.5	79.5
Prepaid expenses and other	111.7	120.6
Total current assets	866.9	875.3
Goodwill	4,213.6	4,213.6	4,352.8
Other intangibles, net	1,320.5	1,504.7
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Investment in CS&L common stock	0	549.2
Other assets	85.5	95.5
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Accounts payable	390.2	430.1
Advance payments and customer deposits	178.1	193.9
Accrued taxes	78	84.1
Accrued interest	58.1	78.4
Other current liabilities	366.6	322
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term debt	4,848.7	5,164.6
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Deferred income taxes	151.5	287.4
Other liabilities	513.3	492.2
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	559.7	602.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)	12.1
Accumulated deficit	(395.6)	(12.1)
Total shareholders’ equity	170	306.4	$ 224.8	$ 840.2
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$ 11,770	$ 12,518.1

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS5

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current Assets:
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 27.1	$ 33.1
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized	166,700,000	166,700,000
Common stock, shares issued	96,300,000	96,700,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	96,300,000	96,700,000

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS6

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net (loss) income	$ (383.5)	$ 27.4	$ (39.5)
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations:
Depreciation and amortization	1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Provision for doubtful accounts	43.8	47.1	54.9
Share-based compensation expense	41.6	55.3	41.8
Pension expense	59.1	1.2	128.3
Deferred income taxes	(138.3)	(16.3)	(13.4)
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock	(15.2)	0	0
Noncash portion of net loss on early extinguishment of debt	(51.9)	(18.5)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock	181.9	0	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Loss (gain) from sale of data center	10	(326.1)	0
Plan curtailment	(5.5)	(18)	(9.6)
Other, net	1.2	7.4	16.4
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net
Accounts receivable	(15.1)	(69.5)	(55)
Prepaid income taxes	(4.4)	0	1.1
Prepaid expenses and other	30.4	1.4	(6)
Accounts payable	(47.2)	31.1	(13.1)
Accrued interest	(20.1)	(26.4)	(3.1)
Accrued taxes	(6.1)	17.9	(9)
Other current liabilities	21.2	(17.7)	8.4
Other liabilities	(42.4)	(11.6)	(21.5)
Other, net	(3.4)	(36.2)	(15.6)
Net cash provided from operating activities	924.4	1,026.6	1,467.3
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants	0	0	(13.3)
Changes in restricted cash	0	6.7	3
Proceeds from the sale of property	6.3	0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects	0	23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	0	26
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	(73.9)	(12.8)
Acquisition of a business	0	0	(22.6)
Disposition of data center business	0	574.2	0
Other, net	(6.5)	2.8	3.9
Net cash used in investing activities	(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Dividends paid to shareholders	(58.6)	(369.2)	(602.2)
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off	0	1,035	0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements	0	43.1	0
Repayments of debt and swaps	(3,263.7)	(3,350.9)	(1,395.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance	3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs	(12.4)	(4.3)	0
Stock repurchases	(28.9)	(46.2)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations	(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Payments under capital lease obligations	(57.7)	(31.5)	(26.8)
Other, net	(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities	93.4	(501.1)	(718.6)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period	31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	59.1	31.3	27.8
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures:
Interest paid, net of interest capitalized	867.1	828.9	564.4
Income taxes paid (refunded), net	$ 6.2	$ 1.1	$ (8.8)

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS7

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Accumulated Deficit
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 840.2	$ 811.7	$ 28.5	$ 0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	(39.5)	0	0	(39.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(11.9)	0	(11.9)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	9.8	0	9.8	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	(14.3)	0	(14.3)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(55.9)	0	(16.4)	(39.5)
Share-based compensation	22.1	22.1	0	0
Stock options exercised	1.6	1.6	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	1.4	1.4	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	21.6	21.6	0	0
Stock issued to qualified pension plan	8.3	8.3	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(11.6)	(11.6)	0	0
Dividends declared to stockholders	(602.9)	(602.9)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	224.8	252.2	12.1	(39.5)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	27.4	0	0	27.4
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in available-for-sale securities	(286.5)	0	(286.5)	0
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(11.7)	0	(11.7)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	7.1	0	7.1	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	(5.4)	0	(5.4)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(269.1)	0	(296.5)	27.4
Effect of REIT spin-off (See Note 3)	585.6	585.6	0	0
Share-based compensation	25	25	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	5.9	5.9	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	21.6	21.6	0	0
Stock repurchases	(46.2)	(46.2)	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(9.7)	(9.7)	0	0
Dividends declared to stockholders	(231.5)	(231.5)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	306.4	602.9	(284.4)	(12.1)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	(383.5)	0	0	(383.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in available-for-sale securities	286.5	0	286.5	0
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(4)	0	(4)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	2.9	0	2.9	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	4.9	0	4.9	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(93.2)	0	290.3	(383.5)
Share-based compensation	21.8	21.8	0	0
Stock options exercised	0.5	0.5	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	5.6	5.6	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	24	24	0	0
Stock repurchases	(28.9)	(28.9)	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(8)	(8)	0	0
Dividends declared to stockholders	(58.2)	(58.2)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 170	$ 559.7	$ 5.9	$ (395.6)

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONS8

WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Dividends, per share declared to stockholders	$ 0.60	$ 2.31	$ 6

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOL

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATION - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									$ 5,279.9	$ 5,598.6	$ 5,647.6
Product sales									107.1	166.7	181.9
Total revenues and sales	$ 1,309.1	$ 1,344.9	$ 1,359.6	$ 1,373.4	$ 1,427	$ 1,498.6	$ 1,421.1	$ 1,418.6	5,387	5,765.3	5,829.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization included below)									2,677.8	2,762	2,773.3
Cost of products sold									98.5	145.2	156.6
Selling, general and administrative									797.7	866.5	929.8
Depreciation and amortization									1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Merger, integration and other costs									13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges									20.3	20.7	35.9
Total costs and expenses									4,871.6	5,255.9	5,322.4
Operating income	73.7	129.4	154.6	157.7	131.7	178.5	79.3	119.9	515.4	509.4	507.1
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2	0
Other (expense) income, net									(1.2)	9.3	0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2	0	0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business					326.1				(10)	326.1	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(36.4)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)	0	0
Interest expense									(860.6)	(813.2)	(571.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(523.5)	43.4	(64.6)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(140)	16	(25.1)
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)	$ (66.2)	$ 1.5	$ (231.9)	$ 140.5	$ (7.2)	$ (111.2)	$ 5.3	(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									5,279.9	5,598.6	5,647.6
Product sales									107.1	166.7	181.9
Total revenues and sales									5,387	5,765.3	5,829.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization included below)									2,677.8	2,762	2,773.3
Cost of products sold									98.5	145.2	156.6
Selling, general and administrative									796	864.5	927.5
Depreciation and amortization									1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Merger, integration and other costs									13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges									20.3	20.7	35.9
Total costs and expenses									4,869.9	5,253.9	5,320.1
Operating income									517.1	511.4	509.4
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2	0
Other (expense) income, net									(1.2)	9.3	0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2	0	0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									(10)	326.1	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(36.4)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)	0	0
Interest expense									(860.6)	(813.2)	(571.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(521.8)	45.4	(62.3)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(139.3)	16.8	(24.2)
Net (loss) income									$ (382.5)	$ 28.6	$ (38.1)

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONS10

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net (loss) income	$ (383.5)	$ 27.4	$ (39.5)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized holding gain (loss) arising during the period	156.1	(286.5)	0
Gain on disposal recognized in the period	(51.5)	0	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized in the period	181.9	0	0
Change in available-for-sale securities	286.5	(286.5)
Interest rate swaps:
Unrealized loss on designated interest rate swaps	8	(8.8)	(23.2)
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Income tax (expense) benefit	(5)	(1.1)	2.9
Change in interest rate swaps	7.8	1.7	(4.5)
Postretirement and pension plans:
Prior service credit arising during the period	0	(1.8)	(0.1)
Change in net actuarial (loss) gain for employee benefit plans	(0.2)	0.1	(3.6)
Plan curtailments and settlements	(5.5)	(18)	(10)
Amounts included in net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0.2	1	0.1
Amortization of prior service credits	(1.1)	(3.9)	(5.9)
Income tax benefit	2.6	7.3	7.4
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(4)	(11.7)	(11.9)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	290.3	(296.5)	(16.4)
Comprehensive (loss) income	(93.2)	(269.1)	(55.9)
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Net (loss) income	(382.5)	28.6	(38.1)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized holding gain (loss) arising during the period	156.1	(286.5)	0
Gain on disposal recognized in the period	(51.5)	0	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized in the period	181.9	0	0
Change in available-for-sale securities	286.5	(286.5)	0
Interest rate swaps:
Unrealized loss on designated interest rate swaps	8	(8.8)	(23.2)
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Income tax (expense) benefit	(5)	(1.1)	2.9
Change in interest rate swaps	7.8	1.7	(4.5)
Postretirement and pension plans:
Prior service credit arising during the period	0	1.8	0.1
Change in net actuarial (loss) gain for employee benefit plans	(0.2)	0.1	(3.6)
Plan curtailments and settlements	(5.5)	(18)	(10)
Amounts included in net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0.2	1	0.1
Amortization of prior service credits	(1.1)	(3.9)	(5.9)
Income tax benefit	2.6	7.3	7.4
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(4)	(11.7)	(11.9)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	290.3	(296.5)	(16.4)
Comprehensive (loss) income	$ (92.2)	$ (267.9)	$ (54.5)

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONS11

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) Statement - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 59.1	$ 31.3	$ 27.8	$ 48.2
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27.1 and $33.1, respectively)	618.6	643.9
Inventories	77.5	79.5
Prepaid expenses and other	111.7	120.6
Total current assets	866.9	875.3
Goodwill	4,213.6	4,213.6	4,352.8
Other intangibles, net	1,320.5	1,504.7
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Investment in CS&L common stock	0	549.2
Other assets	85.5	95.5
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Accounts payable	390.2	430.1
Advance payments and customer deposits	178.1	193.9
Accrued taxes	78	84.1
Accrued interest	58.1	78.4
Other current liabilities	366.6	322
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term debt	4,848.7	5,164.6
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Deferred income taxes	151.5	287.4
Other liabilities	513.3	492.2
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Additional paid-in capital	559.7	602.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)	12.1
Accumulated deficit	(395.6)	(12.1)
Total member equity	170	306.4	224.8	840.2
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	11,770	12,518.1
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	59.1	31.3	27.8	48.2
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27.1 and $33.1, respectively)	618.6	643.9
Inventories	77.5	79.5
Prepaid expenses and other	111.7	120.6
Total current assets	866.9	875.3
Goodwill	4,213.6	4,213.6
Other intangibles, net	1,320.5	1,504.7
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Investment in CS&L common stock	0	549.2
Other assets	85.5	95.5
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Accounts payable	390.2	430.1
Advance payments and customer deposits	178.1	193.9
Payable to Windstream Holdings, Inc.	15	15.1
Accrued taxes	78	84.1
Accrued interest	58.1	78.4
Other current liabilities	351.6	306.9
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term debt	4,848.7	5,164.6
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Deferred income taxes	151.5	287.4
Other liabilities	513.3	492.2
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Additional paid-in capital	556.1	600.3
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)
Accumulated deficit	(392)	(9.5)
Total member equity	170	306.4	$ 224.8	$ 840.5
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	$ 11,770	$ 12,518.1

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONS12

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) (PARENTHETICALS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 27.1	$ 33.1
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 27.1	$ 33.1

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONS13

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net (loss) income	$ (383.5)	$ 27.4	$ (39.5)
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations:
Depreciation and amortization	1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Provision for doubtful accounts	43.8	47.1	54.9
Share-based compensation expense	41.6	55.3	41.8
Pension expense	59.1	1.2	128.3
Deferred income taxes	(138.3)	(16.3)	(13.4)
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock	(15.2)	0	0
Noncash portion of net loss on early extinguishment of debt	(51.9)	(18.5)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock	181.9	0	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Loss (gain) from sale of data center	10	(326.1)	0
Plan curtailment	(5.5)	(18)	(9.6)
Other, net	1.2	7.4	16.4
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net
Accounts receivable	(15.1)	(69.5)	(55)
Prepaid income taxes	(4.4)	0	1.1
Prepaid expenses and other	30.4	1.4	(6)
Accounts payable	(47.2)	31.1	(13.1)
Accrued interest	(20.1)	(26.4)	(3.1)
Accrued taxes	(6.1)	17.9	(9)
Other current liabilities	21.2	(17.7)	8.4
Other liabilities	(42.4)	(11.6)	(21.5)
Other, net	(3.4)	(36.2)	(15.6)
Net cash provided from operations	924.4	1,026.6	1,467.3
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants	0	0	(13.3)
Changes in restricted cash	0	6.7	3
Proceeds from the sale of property	6.3	0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects	0	23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	0	26
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	(73.9)	(12.8)
Acquisition of a business	0	0	(22.6)
Disposition of data center business	0	574.2	0
Other, net	(6.5)	2.8	3.9
Net cash used in investing activities	(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off	0	1,035	0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements	0	43.1	0
Repayments of debt and swaps	(3,263.7)	(3,350.9)	(1,395.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance	3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs	(12.4)	(4.3)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations	(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Payments under capital lease obligations	(57.7)	(31.5)	(26.8)
Other, net	(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities	93.4	(501.1)	(718.6)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period	31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	59.1	31.3	27.8
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures:
Interest paid, net of interest capitalized	867.1	828.9	564.4
Income taxes paid (refunded), net	6.2	1.1	(8.8)
Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net (loss) income	(382.5)	28.6	(38.1)
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations:
Depreciation and amortization	1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Provision for doubtful accounts	43.8	47.1	54.9
Share-based compensation expense	41.6	55.3	41.8
Pension expense	59.1	1.2	128.3
Deferred income taxes	(138.3)	(16.3)	(13.4)
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock	(15.2)	0	0
Noncash portion of net loss on early extinguishment of debt	(51.9)	(18.5)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock	181.9	0	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps	4.8	11.6	15.8
Loss (gain) from sale of data center	10	(326.1)	0
Plan curtailment	(5.5)	(18)	(9.6)
Other, net	1.2	7.4	16.4
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net
Accounts receivable	(15.1)	(69.5)	(55)
Prepaid income taxes	(4.4)	0	1.1
Prepaid expenses and other	30.4	1.4	(6)
Accounts payable	(47.2)	31.1	(13.1)
Accrued interest	(20.1)	(26.4)	(3.1)
Accrued taxes	(6.1)	17.9	(9)
Other current liabilities	21.2	(17.7)	8.4
Other liabilities	(42.4)	(11.6)	(21.5)
Other, net	(3.4)	(36.2)	(15.6)
Net cash provided from operations	925.4	1,027.8	1,468.7
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants	0	0	(13.3)
Changes in restricted cash	0	6.7	3
Proceeds from the sale of property	6.3	0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects	0	23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	0	26
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I	0	(73.9)	(12.8)
Acquisition of a business	0	0	(22.6)
Disposition of data center business	0	574.2	0
Other, net	(6.5)	2.8	3.9
Net cash used in investing activities	(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.	(88.5)	(416.6)	(603.6)
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off	0	1,035	0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements	0	43.1	0
Repayments of debt and swaps	(3,263.7)	(3,350.9)	(1,395.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance	3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs	(12.4)	(4.3)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations	(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Payments under capital lease obligations	(57.7)	(31.5)	(26.8)
Other, net	(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities	92.4	(502.3)	(720)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period	31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	59.1	31.3	27.8
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures:
Interest paid, net of interest capitalized	867.1	828.9	564.4
Income taxes paid (refunded), net	$ 6.2	$ 1.1	$ (8.8)

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONS14

WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED) Statement - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Accumulated Deficit	Windstream Services, LLC [Member]	Windstream Services, LLC [Member]Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital	Windstream Services, LLC [Member]Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Windstream Services, LLC [Member]Accumulated Deficit
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 840.2	$ 811.7	$ 28.5	$ 0	$ 840.5	$ 812	$ 28.5	$ 0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	(39.5)	0	0	(39.5)	(38.1)	0	0	(38.1)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in available-for-sale securities					0
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(11.9)	0	(11.9)	0	(11.9)	0	(11.9)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps					9.8	0	9.8	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	(14.3)	0	(14.3)	0	(14.3)	0	(14.3)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(55.9)	0	(16.4)	(39.5)	(54.5)	0	(16.4)	(38.1)
Share-based compensation	22.1	22.1	0	0	22.1	22.1	0	0
Stock options exercised	1.6	1.6	0	0	1.6	1.6	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	1.4	1.4	0	0	1.4	1.4	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	21.6	21.6	0	0	21.6	21.6	0	0
Stock issued to qualified pension plan	8.3	8.3	0	0	8.3	8.3	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(11.6)	(11.6)	0	0	(11.6)	(11.6)	0	0
Distributions payable to Windstream Holdings, Inc.					(604.6)	(604.6)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	224.8	252.2	12.1	(39.5)	224.8	250.8	12.1	(38.1)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	27.4	0	0	27.4	28.6	0	0	28.6
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in available-for-sale securities	(286.5)	0	(286.5)	0	(286.5)	0	(286.5)	0
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(11.7)	0	(11.7)	0	(11.7)	0	(11.7)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps					7.1	0	7.1	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	(5.4)	0	(5.4)	0	(5.4)	0	(5.4)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(269.1)	0	(296.5)	27.4	(267.9)	0	(296.5)	28.6
Effect of REIT spin-off (See Note 3)					585.6	585.6	0	0
Share-based compensation	25	25	0	0	25	25	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	5.9	5.9	0	0	5.9	5.9	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	21.6	21.6	0	0	21.6	21.6	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(9.7)	(9.7)	0	0	(9.7)	(9.7)	0	0
Distributions payable to Windstream Holdings, Inc.					(278.9)	(278.9)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	306.4	602.9	(284.4)	(12.1)	306.4	600.3	(284.4)	(9.5)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net (loss) income	(383.5)	0	0	(383.5)	(382.5)	0	0	(382.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Change in available-for-sale securities	286.5	0	286.5	0	286.5	0	286.5	0
Change in postretirement and pension plans	(4)	0	(4)	0	(4)	0	(4)	0
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps					2.9	0	2.9	0
Changes in designated interest rate swaps	4.9	0	4.9	0	4.9	0	4.9	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	(93.2)	0	290.3	(383.5)	(92.2)	0	290.3	(382.5)
Share-based compensation	21.8	21.8	0	0	21.8	21.8	0	0
Stock options exercised	0.5	0.5	0	0	0.5	0.5	0	0
Stock issued for management incentive compensation plans	5.6	5.6	0	0	5.6	5.6	0	0
Stock issued to employee savings plan (See Note 9)	24	24	0	0	24	24	0	0
Taxes withheld on vested restricted stock and other	(8)	(8)	0	0	(8)	(8)	0	0
Distributions payable to Windstream Holdings, Inc.					(88.1)	(88.1)	0	0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 170	$ 559.7	$ 5.9	$ (395.6)	$ 170	$ 556.1	$ 5.9	$ (392)

Schedule I - Condensed Financia

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure	STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Operating revenues: Leasing income from subsidiaries $ 653.6 $ 446.0 $ — Total operating revenues 653.6 446.0 — Costs and expenses: Selling, general and administrative 1.7 2.0 2.3 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Total costs and expenses 355.7 241.7 2.3 Operating income (loss) 297.9 204.3 (2.3 ) Interest expense on long-term lease obligation with CS&L (500.8 ) (351.6 ) — Loss before income taxes and equity in subsidiaries (202.9 ) (147.3 ) (2.3 ) Income tax benefit (78.4 ) (57.0 ) (0.9 ) Loss before equity in subsidiaries (124.5 ) (90.3 ) (1.4 ) Equity (losses) earnings from subsidiaries (259.0 ) 117.7 (38.1 ) Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (93.2 ) $ (269.1 ) $ (55.9 ) See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement BALANCE SHEETS (Millions, except par value) Assets 2016 2015 Current Assets: Distributions receivable from Windstream Services $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Total current assets 15.0 15.1 Investment and affiliate related balances 1,937.5 2,009.5 Net property, plant and equipment 1,947.3 2,301.3 Deferred income taxes 1,212.9 1,076.0 Total Assets $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Current liabilities: Accrued dividends $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Current portion of long-term lease obligation 168.7 152.7 Total current liabilities 183.7 167.8 Long-term lease obligation 4,759.0 4,927.7 Total liabilities 4,942.7 5,095.5 Shareholders’ Equity: Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively — — Additional paid-in capital 559.7 602.9 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 (284.4 ) Accumulated deficit (395.6 ) (12.1 ) Total shareholders’ equity 170.0 306.4 Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations: Equity losses (earnings) from subsidiaries 259.0 (117.7 ) 38.1 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Deferred income taxes (77.7 ) (56.2 ) — Net cash provided from (used in) operating activities 151.8 93.2 (1.4 ) Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment — (43.1 ) — Net cash used in investing activities — (43.1 ) — Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions from Windstream Services 88.5 416.6 603.6 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 43.1 — Dividends paid to shareholders (58.6 ) (369.2 ) (602.2 ) Stock repurchases (28.9 ) (46.2 ) — Payments under long-term lease obligation (152.8 ) (94.4 ) — Net cash (used in) provided from financing activities (151.8 ) (50.1 ) 1.4 Change in cash and cash equivalents — — — Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — — — End of period $ — $ — $ — See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Background and Basis of Presentation: Notwithstanding the accounting treatment for the spin-off transaction as further discussed below, Windstream Holdings, Inc. (“Windstream Holdings”) has no material assets or operations other than its ownership in Windstream Services, LLC (“Windstream Services”) and its subsidiaries. Windstream Holdings owns a 100 percent interest in Windstream Services. On April 24, 2015, Windstream Holdings completed the spin-off of certain telecommunications network assets and other real estate, into an independent, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”), Communications Sales & Leasing, Inc. (“CS&L”). Following the spin-off transaction, Windstream Holdings entered into a long-term triple-net master lease with CS&L to lease back the telecommunications network assets. Due to various forms of continuing involvement, including Windstream Services or its subsidiaries, retaining bare legal title (but not beneficial ownership) to the various easements, permits and pole attachments related to the telecommunications network assets, the transaction was accounted for as a failed spin-leaseback for financial reporting purposes. As a result, the accompanying condensed parent company financial statements include the telecommunications network assets and other real estate assets, the long-term lease obligation associated with the master lease and the related deferred income taxes. As the master lease was entered into by Windstream Holdings for the direct benefit of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries, Windstream Services is also deemed to have continuing involvement due to retaining its regulatory obligations associated with operating the telecommunications network assets. Accordingly, the effects of the failed spin-leaseback transaction have also been reflected in the standalone consolidated financial statements of Windstream Services (collectively referred to as “CS&L spin transactions”). Certain covenants within Windstream Services’ senior secured credit facility may restrict its ability to distribute funds to Windstream Holdings in the form of dividends, loans or advances. Accordingly, these condensed financial statements of Windstream Holdings have been presented on a “Parent Only” basis. Under this basis of presentation, Windstream Holdings’ investment in its consolidated subsidiaries are presented under the equity method of accounting. Amounts reflected in these condensed parent company financial statements for investment and affiliated related balances and equity earnings from subsidiaries have been adjusted to account for the effects of the telecommunications network assets, long-term lease obligation, depreciation expense, principal and interest payments on the long-term lease obligation and related income tax effects that are also included in the net income and equity of Windstream Services. Equity income (losses) from subsidiaries for 2016 and 2015 includes $123.5 million and 89.1 million , respectively, of intercompany income related to the CS&L spin transactions. The condensed parent company financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes of Windstream Holdings and subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	WINDSTREAM HOLDINGS, INC. WINDSTREAM SERVICES, LLC SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Millions) Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Additions Description Balance at Beginning of Period Charged to Cost and Expenses Charged to Other Accounts Deductions Balance at End of Period Allowance for doubtful accounts, customers and others: For the years ended: December 31, 2016 $ 33.1 $ 43.8 $ — $ 49.8 (a) $ 27.1 December 31, 2015 $ 43.4 $ 47.1 $ — $ 57.4 (a) $ 33.1 December 31, 2014 $ 40.0 $ 54.8 $ — $ 51.4 (a) $ 43.4 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets: For the years ended: December 31, 2016 $ 147.9 $ — $ — $ 1.4 $ 146.5 December 31, 2015 $ 94.9 $ 3.8 $ 75.4 (b) $ 26.2 (c) $ 147.9 December 31, 2014 $ 84.9 $ 10.0 $ — $ — $ 94.9 Accrued liabilities related to merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges: For the years ended: December 31, 2016 $ 5.1 $ 34.1 (d) $ — $ 33.4 (g) $ 5.8 December 31, 2015 $ 11.2 $ 115.7 (e) $ — $ 121.8 (g) $ 5.1 December 31, 2014 $ 14.0 $ 76.3 (f) $ — $ 79.1 (g) $ 11.2 Notes: (a) Accounts charged off net of recoveries of amounts previously written off. (b) Reflects adjustment to valuation allowances on net operating loss carryforwards due to the effects of the REIT spin-off, which was charged to additional paid-in capital. (c) Reduction of valuation allowances on net operating loss carryforwards due to the effects of the reorganization of certain subsidiaries to limited liability companies completed during the first quarter of 2015. (d) Costs primarily consist of severance and other employee-related costs from small workforce reductions completed during the year and charges related to a network optimization project begun in 2015 as further discussed in Note (e) below. (e) Costs primarily consist of charges incurred related to the REIT spin-off, the sale of our data center business and charges related to a network optimization project designed to consolidate traffic onto network facilities operated by us and reduce the usage of other carriers’ networks in our acquired CLEC markets. Restructuring charges primarily include severance and other employee benefit costs resulting from workforce reductions completed during the year and costs incurred related to a special shareholder meeting. (f) Costs primarily consist of charges for various information technology conversions, consulting fees and other expenses incurred related to the REIT spin-off and severance and other employee benefit costs resulting from workforce reductions completed during the year. (g) Represents cash outlays for merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges. Included in this amount for 2016 is the reversal of a $2.0 million liability associated with a lease termination. See Note 11, “Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges”, to the consolidated financial statements on page F-81 in the Financial Supplement, which is incorporated herein by reference, for additional information regarding the merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges recorded by us in 2016, 2015 and 2014.

Background and Basis for Presen

Background and Basis for Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Background and Basis of Presentation:	Background and Basis for Presentation: In these consolidated financial statements, unless the context requires otherwise, the use of the terms “Windstream,” “we,” “us” or “our” shall refer to Windstream Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including Windstream Services, LLC, and the term “Windstream Services” shall refer to Windstream Services, LLC and its subsidiaries. Organizational Structure –Windstream Holdings, Inc. (“Windstream Holdings”) is a publicly traded holding company and the parent of Windstream Services, LLC (“Windstream Services”). Windstream Holdings common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) under the ticker symbol “WIN”. Windstream Holdings owns a 100 percent interest in Windstream Services. Windstream Services and its guarantor subsidiaries are the sole obligors of all outstanding debt obligations and, as a result also file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Windstream Holdings is not a guarantor of nor subject to the restrictive covenants included in any of Windstream Services’ debt agreements. The Windstream Holdings board of directors and officers oversee both companies. Description of Business – We are a leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions for consumers, businesses, enterprise organizations and wholesale customers across the United States. We offer bundled services, including broadband, security solutions, voice and digital television to consumers. We also provide data, cloud solutions, unified communications and managed services to business and enterprise clients. We supply core transport solutions on a local and long-haul fiber-optic network spanning approximately 131,000 miles. Consumer service revenues are generated from the provisioning of high-speed Internet, voice and video services to consumers. Small business service revenues include revenues from integrated voice and data services, advanced data and traditional voice and long-distance services provided to small business customers. Wholesale revenues include revenues from other communications service providers for special access circuits and fiber connections, voice and data transport services, and revenues from the reselling of our services. Enterprise service revenues include revenues from integrated voice and data services, advanced data, traditional voice and long-distance services provided to enterprise customers. Regulatory revenues include switched access revenues, federal and state Universal Service Fund (“USF”) revenues and amounts received from Connect America Fund - Phase II. Other service revenues include USF surcharge revenues, other miscellaneous services and consumer revenues generated in markets where we lease the connection to the customer premise. As further discussed in Note 3, substantially all of this consumer business was transferred into an independent, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”) in April 2015. Basis of Presentation – The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Windstream Holdings, Windstream Services and the accounts of its subsidiaries. All affiliated transactions have been eliminated, as applicable. There are no significant differences between the consolidated results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows of Windstream Holdings and those of Windstream Services other than for certain expenses incurred directly by Windstream Holdings principally consisting of audit, legal and board of director fees, NASDAQ listing fees, other shareholder-related costs, income taxes, common stock activity, and payables from Windstream Services to Windstream Holdings. Earnings per share data has not been presented for Windstream Services, because that entity has not issued publicly held common stock as defined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). Unless otherwise indicated, the note disclosures included herein pertain to both Windstream Holdings and Windstream Services. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year financial statement presentation. These changes and reclassifications did not impact net (loss) income or comprehensive loss.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: Significant Accounting Policies Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The estimates and assumptions used in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are based upon management’s evaluation of the relevant facts and circumstances as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in preparing the accompanying consolidated financial statements, and such differences could be material. Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Accounts Receivable – Accounts receivable consist principally of trade receivables from customers and are generally unsecured and due within 30 days. Expected credit losses related to trade accounts receivable are recorded as an allowance for doubtful accounts in the consolidated balance sheets. In establishing the allowance for doubtful accounts, we consider a number of factors, including historical collection experience, aging of the accounts receivable balances, current economic conditions and a specific customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations. When internal collection efforts on accounts have been exhausted, the accounts are written off by reducing the allowance for doubtful accounts. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up our customer base. Due to varying customer billing cycle cut-off, we must estimate service revenues earned but not yet billed at the end of each reporting period. Included in accounts receivable are unbilled receivables related to communications services and product sales of $33.0 million and $41.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Inventories – Inventories consist of finished goods and are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined using either an average original cost or specific identification method of valuation. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets – Prepaid expenses and other current assets consist of prepaid services, rent, insurance, maintenance contracts and refundable deposits. Prepayments are expensed on a straight-line basis over the corresponding life of the underlying agreements. Connect America Fund Support – In conjunction with reforming USF, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) established the Connect America Fund (“CAF”) which provides incremental broadband funding to a number of unserved and underserved locations. CAF includes both short-term (“ CAF Phase I”) and a longer-term (“CAF Phase II”) framework. We received $86.7 million in CAF Phase I support for upgrades and new deployments of broadband service. Pursuant to commitments we made with the FCC, we agreed to match, on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis, the total amount of CAF Phase I support we received. As construction projects which utilized CAF Phase I support were initiated, a portion of the CAF Phase I support received was reclassified from other liabilities as an offset to construction in progress to effectively reduce the capitalized cost of the constructed asset. For each construction dollar we spent, an equal amount was transferred from other liabilities to construction in progress to reflect our dollar-for-dollar matching requirement. As of December 31, 2015, we had utilized all CAF Phase I support we had received. CAF Phase I support received and used to construct network assets during each annual period has been presented within the investing activities section of the consolidated statements of cash flows. In August 2015, we notified the FCC of our acceptance of CAF Phase II support of approximately $175.0 million per year for a six year period to fund the deployment of voice and high-speed Internet capable infrastructures for approximately 400,000 eligible locations in 17 of the 18 states in which we are the incumbent provider. The CAF Phase II support in these 17 states will substantially replace funding we received under the federal USF high-cost support program. We declined the annual statewide funding in one state, New Mexico, where our projected cost to comply with the FCC’s deployment requirements greatly exceeded the funding offer. We are still eligible to participate in a competitive bidding process for the CAF Phase II support in New Mexico, along with other interested eligible competitors; however, the rules for the competitive bidding process are still under consideration by the FCC, and have not yet been finalized. We will continue to receive annual USF support in New Mexico frozen at 2011 levels until the CAF Phase II competitive bidding process is completed. Funds received under CAF Phase II are recognized as service revenues ratably over the period to which the funding pertains. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: Asset Disposals – On December 18, 2015, Windstream Services completed the sale of a substantial portion of our data center business to TierPoint LLC (“TierPoint”) for $574.2 million in cash, net of the $0.8 million working capital settlement, and recorded a pre-tax gain of $326.1 million . Excluding the effects of the gain, pre-tax losses for the data center business were $(0.5) million and $(17.6) million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. The sale of the data center business did not represent a strategic shift in our business nor had a major effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows, and accordingly, did not qualify for reporting as a discontinued operation. As part of the transaction, we established an ongoing reciprocal strategic partnership with TierPoint, allowing both companies to sell their respective products and services to each other’s prospective customers through referrals. Pursuant to the terms of the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, Windstream Services agreed to indemnify TierPoint for certain losses attributable to any alleged breaches of representations and warranties made by us with such indemnification liability capped at $10.0 million . On November 22, 2016, TierPoint submitted a notice of a claim to us for indemnification and payment of $10.0 million . We are reviewing the claims and developing defenses thereto and we have requested and received additional documentation from TierPoint. Due to the nature of the claims and the potential difficulty in defending against such claims, as of December 31, 2016, we have recorded a loss of $10.0 million related to the indemnification claim. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets – Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired through various business combinations. The cost of acquired entities at the date of the acquisition is allocated to identifiable assets, and the excess of the total purchase price over the amounts assigned to identifiable assets has been recorded as goodwill. In accordance with authoritative guidance, goodwill is to be assigned to a company’s reporting units and tested for impairment at least annually using a consistent measurement date. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment, referred to as a component. A component of an operating segment is a reporting unit for which discrete financial information is available and our executive management team regularly reviews the operating results of that component. Additionally, components of an operating segment can be combined as a single reporting unit if the components have similar economic characteristics. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is not impaired and no further testing is performed. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then a second step must be performed, and the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill must be determined and compared to the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, then an impairment loss equal to the difference will be recorded. Prior to performing the two step evaluation, an entity has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value. Under the qualitative assessment, if an entity determines that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value exceeds its carrying value, then the entity is not required to complete the two step goodwill impairment evaluation. During the fourth quarter of 2015, we changed our annual goodwill impairment assessment date to November 1 st of each year to better align with the timing of our internal strategic planning process. As of November 1, 2016, our reporting units consisted of our four reportable operating segments and excluded corporate activities. Our reporting units are not separate legal entities with discrete balance sheet information. Accordingly, in determining the reporting unit’s carrying value, assets and liabilities were assigned to the reporting units using specification identification or were allocated to the reporting units using consistent and reasonable allocation methodologies. We estimated the fair value of our reporting units using an income approach. The income approach is based on the present value of projected cash flows and a terminal value, which represents the expected normalized cash flows of the reporting unit beyond the cash flows from the discrete projection period of five years. We discounted the estimated cash flows for each of the reporting units using a rate that represents a market participant’s weighted average cost of capital commensurate with the reporting unit’s underlying business operations. We corroborated the results of the income approach by aggregating the fair values of the reporting units and comparing the total value to overall market multiples for guideline public companies operating in the same lines of business as our reporting units. We also reconciled the estimated fair value of our reporting units to our total invested capital. Based on the results of our quantitative analysis, we determined that no goodwill impairment existed as of November 1, 2016. Other intangible assets arising from business combinations such as franchise rights, customer lists, and cable franchise rights are initially recorded at estimated fair value. We amortize customer lists using the sum-of-the-digits method over an estimated life of 9 to 15 years . All other intangible assets are amortized using a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives. (See Note 4 for additional information.) 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: Net Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment are stated at original cost, less accumulated depreciation. Property, plant and equipment consists of central office equipment, office and warehouse facilities, outside communications plant, customer premise equipment, furniture, fixtures, vehicles, machinery, other equipment and software to support the business units in the distribution of telecommunications products. The costs of additions, replacements, substantial improvements and extension of the network to the customer premise, including related labor costs, are capitalized, while the costs of maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Capitalized labor costs include non-cash share-based compensation and the matching stock contribution to the employee savings plan for those employees directly involved with construction activities. Depreciation expense amounted to $1,078.3 million , $1,146.3 million , and $1,130.3 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Net property, plant and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31: (Millions) Depreciable Lives 2016 2015 Land $ 42.8 $ 43.4 Building and improvements 3-40 years 608.8 604.9 Central office equipment 3-40 years 6,493.6 6,013.9 Outside communications plant 7-47 years 7,390.9 7,245.3 Furniture, vehicles and other equipment 1-23 years 1,835.5 1,660.2 Construction in progress 618.8 527.6 16,990.4 16,095.3 Less accumulated depreciation (11,706.9 ) (10,815.5 ) Net property, plant and equipment $ 5,283.5 $ 5,279.8 Of the total net property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2016 and 2015 listed above, approximately $2.2 billion and $2.4 billion , respectively, has been legally transferred to Communications Sales & Leasing, Inc. (“CS&L”) as a result of the spin-off and leaseback by Windstream Holdings (see Note 3). Under the master lease agreement with CS&L, any capital improvements, including upgrades or replacements to the leased network assets, funded by us become the property of CS&L at the time such improvements are placed in service. As further discussed in Note 6, we accounted for the spin-off transaction as a failed spin-leaseback for financial reporting purposes and, as a result the net book value of the assets initially transferred to CS&L and any subsequent capital improvements made by us continue to be reported in our consolidated balance sheet as property, plant and equipment and are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the initial lease term of 15 years . Our regulated operations use a group composite depreciation method. Under this method, when plant is retired, the original cost, net of salvage value, is charged against accumulated depreciation and no immediate gain or loss is recognized on the disposition of the plant. For our non-regulated operations, when depreciable plant is retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are deducted from the plant accounts, with the corresponding gain or loss reflected in operating results. In accordance with the terms of certain broadband stimulus grants we received from the Rural Utilities Service (“RUS”) to fund 75 percent of the costs related to specified construction projects, the RUS retained a security interest in the assets funded by these grants for the duration of their economic life, which varies by grant for periods up to 23 years . In the event of default of terms of the agreement, the RUS could exercise the rights under its retained security interest to gain control and ownership of these assets. In addition, in the event of a proposed change in control of Windstream, the acquiring party would need to receive approval from the RUS prior to consummating the proposed transaction, for which pre-approval will not be reasonably withheld. At December 31, 2016, the net book value of assets funded by broadband stimulus grants was $106.9 million . We capitalize interest in connection with the acquisition or construction of plant assets. Capitalized interest is included in the cost of the asset with a corresponding reduction in interest expense. Capitalized interest amounted to $10.7 million , $10.4 million and $3.7 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Asset Retirement Obligations – We recognize asset retirement obligations in accordance with authoritative guidance on accounting for asset retirement obligations and conditional asset retirement obligations, which requires recognition of a liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation if the amount can be reasonably estimated. Our asset retirement obligations include legal obligations to remediate the asbestos in certain buildings if we exit them, to properly dispose of our chemically-treated telephone poles at the time they are removed from service and to restore certain leased properties to their previous condition upon exit from the lease. These asset retirement obligations totaled $53.3 million and $53.1 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and are included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: Impairment of Long-Lived Assets – We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable from future, undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group. If the asset group is not fully recoverable, an impairment loss would be recognized for the difference between the carrying value of the asset group and its estimated fair value based on discounted net future cash flows. Derivative Instruments – Windstream Services enters into interest rate swap agreements to mitigate the interest rate risk inherent in its variable rate senior secured credit facility. Derivative instruments are accounted for in accordance with authoritative guidance for recognition, measurement and disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities, including when a derivative or other financial instrument can be designated as a hedge. This guidance requires recognition of all derivative instruments at fair value, and accounting for the changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative has been designated as, qualifies as and is effective as a hedge. Changes in fair value of the effective portions of cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of other comprehensive (loss) income in the current period. Any ineffective portion of the hedges is recognized in earnings in the current period. Revenue Recognition – Service revenues are primarily derived from providing access to or usage of our networks and facilities. Service revenues are recognized over the period that the corresponding services are rendered to customers. Revenues that are billed in advance include monthly recurring network access and data services, special access and monthly recurring voice, Internet and other related charges. The unearned portion of these revenues is included in advance payments and customer deposits in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Revenues derived from other telecommunications services, including interconnection, long-distance and enhanced service revenues are recognized monthly as services are provided. Revenue from sales of indefeasible rights to use fiber optic network facilities (“IRUs”) and the related telecommunications network maintenance arrangements is generally recognized over the term of the related lease or contract. Sales of communications products including customer premise equipment and modems are recognized when products are delivered to and accepted by customers. Fees assessed to customers for service activation are deferred upon service activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected life of the customer relationship in accordance with authoritative guidance on multiple element arrangements. Certain costs associated with activating such services are deferred and recognized as an operating expense over the same period. In determining whether to include in revenues and expenses the taxes and surcharges assessed and collected from customers and remitted to government authorities, including USF charges, sales, use, value added and excise taxes, we evaluate, among other factors, whether we are the primary obligor or principal tax payer for the fees and taxes assessed in each jurisdiction in which we operate. In those jurisdictions for which we are the primary obligor, we record the taxes and surcharges on a gross basis and include in revenues and costs of services and products. In jurisdictions in which we function as a collection agent for the government authority, we record the taxes on a net basis and exclude the amounts from our revenues and costs of services and products. Advertising – Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense totaled $44.0 million , $52.9 million and $59.5 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Share-Based Compensation – In accordance with authoritative guidance on share-based compensation, we value all time-based awards to employees at fair value on the date of the grant, and recognize that value as compensation expense over the period that each award vests. Performance-based awards are valued at fair value when performance targets are set. Share-based compensation expense for performance-based awards is recognized when it is probable and estimable as measured against performance metrics. Share-based compensation expense is included in cost of services and selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Pension Benefits – We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and actuarial gains and losses due to actual experience differing from actuarial assumptions, as a component of net periodic benefit (income) expense in the fourth quarter in the year in which the gains and losses occur, and if applicable in any quarter in which an interim remeasurement is required. The remaining components of net periodic benefit (income) expense, primarily benefits earned, interest cost and expected return on plan assets, are recognized ratably on a quarterly basis. Operating Leases – Certain of our operating lease agreements include scheduled rent escalations during the initial lease term and/or during succeeding optional renewal periods. We account for these operating leases in accordance with authoritative guidance for operating leases with non-level rent payments. Accordingly, the scheduled increases in rent expense are recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term and those renewal periods that are reasonably assured. The difference between rent expense and rent paid is recorded as deferred rent and is included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term, including renewal option periods that are reasonably assured. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: Income Taxes – We account for income taxes in accordance with guidance on accounting for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax balances are adjusted to reflect tax rates based on currently enacted tax laws, which will be in effect in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the results of operations in the period of the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets unless it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with authoritative guidance which prescribes a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. Our evaluations of tax positions consider various factors including, but not limited to, changes in tax law, the measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in tax returns, the effective settlement of matters subject to audit, information obtained during in process audit activities and changes in facts or circumstances related to a tax position. We also accrue for potential interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense (benefit). Windstream Holdings and its domestic subsidiaries, including Windstream Services, file a consolidated federal income tax return. As such, Windstream Services and its subsidiaries are not separate taxable entities for federal and certain state income tax purposes. In instances when Windstream Services does not file a separate return, income taxes as presented within the accompanying consolidated financial statements attribute current and deferred income taxes of Windstream Holdings to Windstream Services and its subsidiaries in a manner that is systematic, rational and consistent with the asset and liability method. Income tax provisions presented for Windstream Services and its subsidiaries are prepared under the “separate return method.” The separate return method represents a hypothetical computation assuming that the reported revenue and expenses of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries were incurred by separate taxable entities. (Loss) Earnings Per Share – We compute basic (loss) earnings per share by dividing net (loss) income applicable to common shares by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Our non-vested restricted shares containing a non-forfeitable right to receive dividends on a one-to-one per share ratio to common shares are considered participating securities, and the impact is included in the computation of (loss) earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. Calculations of (loss) earnings per share under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator. Diluted (loss) earnings per share is computed by dividing net (loss) income applicable to common shares by the weighted average number of common shares adjusted to include the effect of potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities include incremental shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants. Diluted (loss) earnings per share excludes all potentially dilutive securities if their effect is anti-dilutive. We also issue performance-based restricted stock units as part of our share-based compensation plan. Certain of these restricted stock units contain a forfeitable right to receive dividends. Because dividends attributable to these shares are forfeited if the vesting provisions are not met, they are considered non-participating restricted shares and are not dilutive under the two-class method until the performance conditions have been satisfied. Options and warrants granted in conjunction with past acquisitions are included in the computation of dilutive (loss) earnings per share using the treasury stock method. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: A reconciliation of net (loss) income and number of shares used in computing basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Numerator: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Income allocable to participating securities (2.5 ) (3.5 ) (5.0 ) Net (loss) income attributable to common shares $ (386.0 ) $ 23.9 $ (44.5 ) Denominator: Basic and diluted shares outstanding Weighted average shares outstanding 99.1 102.0 100.3 Weighted average participating securities (5.2 ) (3.1 ) (0.8 ) Weighted average basic and diluted shares outstanding 93.9 98.9 99.5 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Net (loss) income ($4.11 ) $.24 ($.45 ) Options to purchase shares of stock issuable under share-based compensation plans that were excluded from the computation of diluted shares outstanding because the exercise prices were greater than the average market price of our common stock and, therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive, totaled approximately 0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 0.5 million shares for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Change in Accounting Estimate – The calculation of depreciation and amortization expense is based on the estimated economic useful lives of the underlying property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets. We periodically obtain updated depreciation studies to evaluate whether certain useful lives remain appropriate in accordance with authoritative guidance. With the assistance of a third-party valuation advisor, we completed analyses of the depreciable lives of assets held for use of certain subsidiaries during 2016. Based on the results of the analyses, we implemented new depreciation rates in the fourth quarter of 2016, the effects of which resulted in an increase to depreciation expense. Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2016, we reassessed the estimated useful lives of certain fiber assets, extending the useful life of such assets from 20 to 25 years. The net impact of these changes resulted in an increase to depreciation expense of $8.8 million and an increase in net loss of $5.4 million or $.06 per share for the year ended December 31, 2016. We anticipate the net impact of these changes to increase depreciation expense by $35.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Fair Value Measurement Disclosures – In May 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-07, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share (or Its Equivalent) (“ASU 2015-07”), which amends certain fair value measurement disclosures. The standard removes the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy investments for which fair value is measured using the net asset value (“NAV”) per share practical expedient and also removes certain related disclosure requirements. As required, we adopted ASU 2015-07 in 2016. Other than changes to certain annual disclosures related to our qualified pension plan assets, the adoption of this standard had no impact on our consolidated financial statements. Balance Sheet Classification – Deferred Taxes – In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes (“ASU 2015-17”). The standard requires all deferred income tax assets and liabilities be classified as noncurrent within an entity’s consolidated balance sheet. ASU 2015-17 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Entities are also permitted to apply the revised guidance on either a prospective or retrospective basis. During the fourth quarter of 2015, we early adopted this guidance on a retrospective basis and have classified deferred income taxes in our consolidated balance sheets as noncurrent for all periods presented (see Note 13). Adoption of this guidance did not affect our consolidated results of operations, financial position or liquidity. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: Measurement Period Adjustments in a Business Combination – In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments (“ASU 2015-16”), which eliminates the requirement to restate prior period financial statements for measurement period adjustments related to a business combination. The standard requires that the cumulative impact of a measurement period adjustment be recognized in the reporting period in which the adjustment is identified. ASU 2015-16 also requires companies to disclose the portion of the adjustment recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date, either separately in the income statement or in the notes. As required, we adopted ASU 2015-16 in 2016. Adoption of this guidance did not affect our consolidated results of operations, financial position or liquidity. Recently Issued Authoritative Guidance Revenue Recognition – In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”). The standard outlines a single comprehensive revenue recognition model for entities to follow in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity should recognize revenue for the t

Completion of Spin-off of Certa

Completion of Spin-off of Certain Network and Real Estate Assets: (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Completion of Spin-off of Certain Network and Real Estate Assets [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	Completion of Spin-off of Certain Network and Real Estate Assets: On April 24, 2015 , we completed the spin-off of certain telecommunications network assets, including our fiber and copper networks and other real estate, to the REIT. The spin-off also included substantially all of our consumer CLEC business. The telecommunications network assets consisted of copper cable and fiber optic cable lines, telephone poles, underground conduits, concrete pads, attachment hardware (e.g., bolts and lashings), pedestals, guy wires, anchors, signal repeaters, and central office land and buildings, with a net book value of approximately $2.5 billion at the time of spin-off. We requested and received a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service on the qualification of the spin-off as a tax-free transaction and the designation of the telecommunications network assets as real estate. As further discussed in Note 5, following the spin-off, Windstream entered into an agreement to lease back the telecommunications network assets from CS&L. 3. Completion of Spin-off of Certain Network and Real Estate Assets, Continued: Pursuant to the plan of distribution and immediately prior to the effective time of the spin-off, we contributed the telecommunications network assets and the consumer CLEC business to Communications Sales & Leasing, Inc. (“CS&L”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Windstream, in exchange for: (i) the issuance to Windstream of CS&L common stock of which 80.4 percent of the shares were distributed on a pro rata basis to Windstream’s stockholders, (ii) cash payment to Windstream in the amount of $1.035 billion and (iii) the distribution by CS&L to Windstream of approximately $2.5 billion of CS&L debt securities. After giving effect to the interest in CS&L retained by Windstream, each Windstream Holdings shareholder received one share of CS&L for every five shares of Windstream Holdings common stock held as of the record date of April 10, 2015 in the form of a tax-free dividend. An ex-date of April 27, 2015 was established by NASDAQ, and all trades through the close of business on April 24, 2015 carried the right to receive the distribution. No fractional shares were distributed in connection with the spin-off, with a cash payment being made in lieu of any fractional shares. In connection with the distribution, CS&L borrowed approximately $2.14 billion through a new senior credit agreement. CS&L also issued debt securities in the private placement market to fund the cash payment and to issue its debt securities to Windstream, consisting of $1,110.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.25 percent senior notes due April 15, 2023 and $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.00 percent senior secured notes due October 15, 2023 . The CS&L unsecured notes and the borrowings under CS&L’s new senior credit agreement were issued at a discount, and accordingly, at the date of distribution, CS&L issued to Windstream approximately $2.5 billion of its debt securities consisting of $970.2 million in term loans, $400.0 million in secured and $1,077.3 million in unsecured notes (the “CS&L Securities”). In connection with the spin-off transaction, Windstream entered into an exchange agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”), with J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. (together, the “Investment Banks”), and CS&L. Pursuant to the terms of the Exchange Agreement, Windstream agreed to transfer the CS&L Securities and cash to the Investment Banks, in exchange for the transfer by the Investment Banks to Windstream of certain debt securities of Windstream Services consisting of $1.7 billion aggregate principal amount of borrowings outstanding under Tranches A3, A4 and B4 of Windstream Services’ senior credit facility and $752.2 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings outstanding under the revolving line of credit held by the Investment Banks. On April 24, 2015 , following the completion of the spin-off transaction, Windstream and the Investment Banks completed the exchange of debt securities pursuant to the terms of the Exchange Agreement. We incurred approximately $35.4 million of costs in completing the debt-for-debt exchange. In conjunction with the retirement of debt, Windstream Services terminated seven of its ten interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges of the variable cash flows paid on its senior secured credit facility. Windstream Services paid $22.7 million to terminate the interest rate swaps. For employees and directors remaining with Windstream, restricted stock awarded pursuant to our equity incentive plans and held by employees and directors at the time of the distribution continue to represent the right to receive shares of Windstream Holdings’ common stock. In addition, the holders of these restricted shares received restricted shares of CS&L common stock equivalent to the number of shares of CS&L common stock that was received with respect to each share of unrestricted Windstream Holdings’ common stock at the time of the distribution. The existing Windstream Holdings’ restricted stock and newly issued CS&L restricted stock remain subject to vesting and other terms and conditions as prescribed by our equity incentive plans. The number of Windstream Holdings’ shares underlying any outstanding stock options and the related per share exercise price were adjusted to maintain both the aggregate fair market value of stock underlying the stock options and the relationship between the per share exercise price and the related per share market value, pursuant to the terms of the applicable Windstream Holdings’ equity incentive plans and taking into account the change in the market value of Windstream Holdings’ common stock as a result of the distribution. As of the spin-off date, excluding restricted shares held by Windstream employees and directors, Windstream retained a passive ownership interest in approximately 19.6 percent of the common stock of CS&L. Windstream disposed of all of its shares of CS&L through the completion of two debt-for-equity exchanges in June 2016 (see Note 5). Upon completion of the spin-off, we amended our certificate of incorporation to decrease the number of authorized shares of common stock from 1.0 billion to 166.7 million and enacted a one -for- six reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock which became effective on April 26, 2015.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired through various business combinations. The cost of acquired entities at the date of the acquisition is allocated to identifiable assets, and the excess of the total purchase price over the amounts assigned to identifiable assets has been recorded as goodwill. Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows: (Millions) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 4,352.8 Dispositions during the period: Consumer CLEC business transferred to CS&L in conjunction with the spin-off (a) (12.8 ) Data center business sold to TierPoint (a) (126.4 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 and 2016 $ 4,213.6 (a) Represents the portion of historical goodwill allocated to the disposed businesses. Goodwill assigned to our four operating segments at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: (Millions) Consumer and Small Business - ILEC $ 2,321.2 Wholesale 1,176.4 Enterprise 598.0 Small Business - CLEC 118.0 Total goodwill $ 4,213.6 Intangible assets were as follows at December 31: 2016 2015 (Millions) Gross Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Gross Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Franchise rights $ 1,285.1 $ (328.9 ) $ 956.2 $ 1,285.1 $ (286.1 ) $ 999.0 Customer lists (a) 1,791.7 (1,442.4 ) 349.3 1,791.7 (1,304.7 ) 487.0 Cable franchise rights 17.3 (8.0 ) 9.3 17.3 (6.8 ) 10.5 Other (b) 10.6 (4.9 ) 5.7 9.6 (1.4 ) 8.2 Balance $ 3,104.7 $ (1,784.2 ) $ 1,320.5 $ 3,103.7 $ (1,599.0 ) $ 1,504.7 (a) In connection with the spin-off, we transferred customer lists with a gross cost of $34.5 million and a net carrying value of $13.1 million to CS&L (see Note 3). At the date of sale of the data center business to TierPoint, customer lists associated with the data center operations had a gross cost of $87.8 million and a net carrying value of $35.7 million . (b) During 2016 and 2015, we acquired for cash non-exclusive licenses to various patents, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 3 years . Intangible asset amortization methodology and useful lives were as follows as of December 31, 2016 : Intangible Assets Amortization Methodology Estimated Useful Life Franchise rights straight-line 30 years Customer lists sum of years digits 9 - 15 years Cable franchise rights straight-line 15 years Other straight-line 3 years 4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Continued: Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization was $185.2 million , $220.2 million and $256.1 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization was estimated to be as follows for each of the years ended December 31 : Year (Millions) 2017 $ 159.1 2018 132.3 2019 104.9 2020 86.4 2021 68.3 Thereafter 769.5 Total $ 1,320.5

Investment in CS&L Common Stock

Investment in CS&L Common Stock (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]	I nvestment in CS&L Common Stock: Shares of CS&L retained by Windstream Services following the REIT spin-off (see Note 3) were classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). No deferred income taxes were recorded with respect to the unrealized gains and losses due to the tax-free qualification of the spin-off. As further discussed below, Windstream Services disposed of all of its shares of CS&L common stock in the second quarter of 2016. Information pertaining to this investment at December 31, 2015 was as follows: (Millions) Cost Fair Value Carrying Value Unrealized Loss CS&L common stock $835.7 $549.2 $549.2 $(286.5) Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Loss During the first quarter of 2016, we recorded an other-than-temporary impairment loss of $(181.9) million for the difference between the fair value of the CS&L common stock as of March 31, 2016 and our cost basis, which had been based on the market value of the shares on the date of spin-off. We recorded the other-than-temporarily impairment due to the duration in which the CS&L shares had traded at a market price below our initial cost basis. Following the recognition of the other-than-temporary impairment loss, the cost basis of the CS&L shares was adjusted to equal the March 31, 2016 market value of $653.8 million . Subsequent changes in the market value of the CS&L shares were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. Net Gain on Disposal In June 2016, Windstream Services disposed of all of its shares of CS&L common stock through the completion of two debt-for-equity exchanges, pursuant to which Windstream Services transferred the CS&L shares to its bank creditors in exchange for the retirement of $672.0 million of borrowings outstanding under its revolving line of credit and to satisfy transaction-related expenses. Net of expenses, Windstream Services recognized a net gain on disposal of $15.2 million in 2016. Unrealized gains related to the CS&L common stock at the time of consummating the debt-for-equity exchanges were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income and included in the determination of the net gain on disposal.
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]	(Millions) Cost Fair Value Carrying Value Unrealized Loss CS&L common stock $835.7 $549.2 $549.2 $(286.5)

Long-term Debt and Lease Obliga

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations:	Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: Windstream Holdings has no debt obligations. All debt, including the senior secured credit facility described below, have been incurred by Windstream Services and its subsidiaries. Windstream Holdings is neither a guarantor of nor subject to the restrictive covenants imposed by such debt. Long-term debt was as follows at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Issued by Windstream Services: Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B5 – variable rates, due August 8, 2019 $ 572.3 $ 578.2 Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) 894.8 — Senior secured credit facility, Revolving line of credit – variable rates, due 475.0 300.0 Debentures and notes, without collateral: 2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017 — 904.1 2020 Notes – 7.750%, due October 15, 2020 700.0 700.0 2021 Notes – 7.750%, due October 1, 2021 809.3 920.4 2022 Notes – 7.500%, due June 1, 2022 441.2 485.9 2023 Notes – 7.500%, due April 1, 2023 343.5 540.1 2023 Notes – 6.375%, due August 1, 2023 585.7 700.0 Issued by subsidiaries of the Company: Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. – 6.75%, due April 1, 2028 (b) 100.0 100.0 Net (discount) premium on long-term debt (c) (7.2 ) 4.6 Unamortized debt issuance costs (c) (51.0 ) (62.8 ) 4,863.6 5,170.5 Less current maturities (14.9 ) (5.9 ) Total long-term debt $ 4,848.7 $ 5,164.6 Weighted average interest rate 7.0 % 6.8 % Weighted maturity 4.7 years 5.3 years (a) If the maturity of the revolving line of credit is not extended prior to April 24, 2020, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be April 24, 2020; provided further, if the 2020 Notes have not been repaid or refinanced prior to July 15, 2020 with indebtedness having a maturity date no earlier than March 29, 2021, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be July 15, 2020. (b) These bonds are secured equally with the senior secured credit facility with respect to the assets of Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. (c) The net (discount) premium balance and unamortized debt issuance costs are amortized using the interest method over the life of the related debt instrument. Senior Secured Credit Facility – On March 29, 2016, Windstream Services executed an incremental amendment to its existing senior secured credit facility to provide for the issuance of an aggregate principal amount $600.0 million term loan under Tranche B6 due March 29, 2021, the proceeds of which were used to repurchase $441.1 million of outstanding 7.875 percent notes due November 1, 2017 (the “2017 Notes”) pursuant to a tender offer and to repay other debt obligations of Windstream Services along with related fees and expenses. The Tranche B6 term loan was issued at a discount of $15.0 million . Debt issuance costs associated with the Tranche B6 borrowings were $11.7 million , which were capitalized and are being amortized over the life of the term loan. 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: On September 30, 2016, Windstream Services repriced at par $597.0 million of borrowings outstanding under Tranche B6 and issued at par an incremental $150.0 million of borrowings under Tranche B6. In connection with the repricing, Windstream Services incurred $6.7 million in arrangement, legal and other fees. Based on an analysis of participating creditors, Windstream Services concluded that a portion of the repricing transaction should be accounted for as a new debt issuance, a portion as a debt modification, and the remainder as a debt extinguishment. As a result, $0.6 million of the arrangement, legal and other fees were recorded as debt issuance costs, with the remaining $6.1 million charged to interest expense in accordance with debt modification accounting. At the time of the repricing transaction, unamortized debt issuance and discount related to the original issuance of Tranche B6 term loan totaled $24.4 million , of which $3.1 million were included in the loss on debt extinguishment recognized in the third quarter of 2016, while the remaining $21.3 million continue to be deferred and amortized to interest expense over the remaining life of the term loan in accordance with debt modification accounting. In December 2016, Windstream Services issued an aggregate principal amount of $150.0 million in incremental borrowings under Tranche B6, the proceeds of which were used to pay down amounts outstanding under the revolving line of credit and to pay $1.2 million in related fees and expenses. The incremental Tranche B6 term loan was issued at a price of 99.0 percent of the principal amount of the loan, resulting in a discount of $1.5 million . On April 24, 2015, Windstream Services had previously amended its existing senior secured credit facility to include a revolving line of credit in an aggregate principal amount of $1,250.0 million and Tranche B5 term loan. The amended credit facility provides that Windstream Services may seek to obtain incremental revolving or term loans in an unlimited amount subject to maintaining a maximum secured leverage ratio and other customary conditions, including obtaining commitments and pro forma compliance with financial maintenance covenants consisting of a maximum debt to consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. In addition, Windstream Services may request extensions of the maturity date under any of its existing revolving or term loan facilities. Interest rates applicable to the Tranche B5 term loan are, at Windstream Services’ option, equal to either a base rate plus a margin of 1.75 percent per annum or London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a margin of 2.75 percent per annum. LIBOR for the Tranche B5 term loan shall at no time be less than 0.75 percent . As a result of the September 30, 2016 repricing discussed above, interest rates applicable to the Tranche B6 decreased 1.00 percent from LIBOR plus 5.00 percent per annum to LIBOR plus 4.00 percent per annum. Windstream Services retained the option to have interest on Tranche B6 be equal to a base rate plus a margin of 4.00 percent per annum. LIBOR for the Tranche B6 term loan shall at no time be less than 0.75 percent . Tranche B5 and B6 term loans made under the credit facility are subject to quarterly amortization payments in an aggregate amount equal to 0.25 percent of the initial principal amount of such term loans, with the remaining balance payable on August 8, 2019 and March 29, 2021, respectively. The senior secured credit facility is guaranteed, jointly and severally, by certain of Windstream Services’ wholly owned subsidiaries. Revolving line of credit – As a result of the April 24, 2015 amendment to the credit facility, the maturity date of the revolving line of credit was extended to April 24, 2020. Windstream Services may obtain revolving loans and may issue up to $30.0 million of letters of credit, which upon issuance reduce the amount available for other extensions of credit. Accordingly, the total amount outstanding under the letters of credit and the indebtedness incurred under the revolving line of credit may not exceed $1,250.0 million . Borrowings under the revolving line of credit may be used for permitted acquisitions, working capital and other general corporate purposes of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries. Windstream Services will pay a commitment fee on the unused portion of the commitments under the revolving credit facility that will range from 0.40 percent to 0.50 percent per annum, depending on the debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries. Revolving loans made under the credit facility are not subject to interim amortization and such loans are not required to be repaid prior to April 24, 2020, other than to the extent the outstanding borrowings exceed the aggregate commitments under the revolving credit facility. Interest rates applicable to loans under the revolving line of credit are, at Windstream Services’ option, equal to either a base rate plus a margin ranging from 0.25 percent to 1.00 percent per annum or LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.25 percent to 2.00 percent per annum, based on the debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries. During 2016, Windstream Services borrowed $2,791.0 million under the revolving line of credit in its senior secured credit facility and retired $2,616.0 million of these borrowings through December 31, 2016 . Comparatively, Windstream Services borrowed $2,355.0 million under the revolving line of credit and through the completion of the debt-for-debt exchange and repayments retired $2,660.0 million of these borrowings in 2015. Considering letters of credit of $24.2 million , the amount available for borrowing under the revolving line of credit was $750.8 million at December 31, 2016 . 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: The variable interest rate on the revolving line of credit ranged from 2.25 percent to 4.50 percent , and the weighted average rate on amounts outstanding was 2.55 percent during 2016, as compared to variable interest rates during 2015 which ranged from 2.19 percent to 4.50 percent with a weighted average rate on amounts outstanding of 2.39 percent . Debt Exchanges – In two separate transactions completed in June 2016, Windstream Services transferred all of its shares of CS&L common stock to its bank creditors in exchange for the retirement of $672.0 million of aggregate borrowings outstanding under its revolving line of credit and to satisfy transaction-related expenses. In completing the debt-for-equity exchange, Windstream Services recognized a net gain on the disposal of the CS&L common stock (see Note 5). In conjunction with the REIT spin-off, Windstream completed a debt-for-debt exchange retiring $1.7 billion aggregate principal amount of borrowings outstanding under Tranches A3, A4 and B4 of Windstream Services’ senior credit facility and $752.2 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings outstanding under the revolving line of credit. Following the completion of the debt-for-debt exchange, Windstream Services repaid the remaining $241.8 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings under Tranche B4. The debt-for-debt exchange and repayment were accounted for under the extinguishment method of accounting and as a result, Windstream Services recognized a loss due to the extinguishment of the aforementioned debt obligations of $15.9 million in 2015. Debentures and Notes Repaid in 2016 2017 Notes – On September 30, 2016, Windstream Services redeemed the remaining $369.5 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of its 7.875 percent senior unsecured notes due November 1, 2017, (the “2017 Notes”) at a redemption price of $396.4 million , which included a premium payable to creditors of $26.9 million . At the time of redemption, there was $2.7 million in unamortized net discount and debt issuance costs related to these notes. During 2016, Windstream Services also repurchased $93.5 million aggregate principal amount of the 2017 Notes at a repurchase price of $99.5 million , including accrued and unpaid interest, under a debt repurchase program authorized by Windstream Services’ board of directors. In addition, on March 29, 2016, Windstream Services repurchased $441.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 2017 Notes for total consideration of $477.5 million , plus accrued interest, pursuant to a cash tender offer. Under the tender offer, Windstream Services paid total consideration of $1,082.50 per $1,000 principal amount of the 2017 Notes, which included a $30 early tender payment, plus accrued and unpaid interest. At the time of the repurchases, there was $5.7 million in unamortized net discount and debt issuance costs related to the repurchased notes. Proceeds from the issuance of the Tranche B6 term loan and available borrowings under the amended revolving line of credit were used to fund the redemption and repurchases of the 2017 Notes, which were accounted for as debt extinguishments. Partial Repurchase of Senior Notes – Pursuant to the debt repurchase program discussed above, during 2016, Windstream Services also repurchased in the open market $466.8 million aggregate principal amount of its senior unsecured notes consisting of the following: • $111.1 million aggregate principal amount of 7.750 percent senior unsecured notes due October 1, 2021, (the “2021 Notes”), at a repurchase price of $95.2 million , including accrued and unpaid interest; • $44.8 million aggregate principal amount of 7.500 percent senior unsecured notes due June 1, 2022, (the “2022 Notes”), at a repurchase price of $37.0 million , including accrued and unpaid interest; and • $196.6 million aggregate principal amount of 7.500 percent senior unsecured notes due April 1, 2023 and $114.3 million aggregate principal amount of 6.375 percent senior unsecured notes due August 1, 2023, (collectively the “2023 Notes”) at a repurchase price of $171.4 million and $101.0 million , including accrued and unpaid interest, respectively. The repurchases were funded utilizing available borrowings under the amended revolving line of credit. At the time of repurchase, there was $5.3 million in unamortized premium and debt issuance costs related to the repurchased notes. The partial repurchases were accounted for under the extinguishment method of accounting, and as a result, Windstream Services recognized a net gain on the early extinguishment of these debt obligations. 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: Debentures and Notes Repaid in 2015 Partial Repurchase of Senior Notes – Under the debt repurchase program, during 2015 Windstream Services repurchased in the open market $299.5 million aggregate principal amount of its senior unsecured notes consisting of the following: • $195.9 million aggregate principal amount of the 2017 Notes at a repurchase price of $209.6 million , including accrued and unpaid interest; • $29.6 million aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes, at a repurchase price of $25.8 million , including accrued and unpaid interest; • $14.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 2022 Notes, at a repurchase price of $11.5 million , including accrued and unpaid interest; and • $59.9 million aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Notes at a repurchase price of $50.2 million , including accrued and unpaid interest. At the time of repurchase, there was $3.9 million in unamortized net discount and debt issuance costs related to the repurchased notes. The partial repurchases were funded utilizing available borrowings under the amended revolving line of credit and were accounted for under the extinguishment method of accounting and, as a result, Windstream Services recognized a total pre-tax gain of $7.0 million in 2015. 2018 Notes – On May 27, 2015, Windstream Services redeemed all of its $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.125 percent senior unsecured notes due September 1, 2018 (the “2018 Notes”), at a redemption price payable in cash equal to $1,040.63 per $1,000 principal amount of the notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest. At the time of redemption, there was $1.4 million and $4.0 million in unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, respectively, related to the 2018 Notes. PAETEC 2018 Notes – On May 27, 2015, PAETEC Holding, LLC (“PAETEC”), a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Windstream Services, redeemed all $450.0 million of the outstanding aggregate principal amount of 9.875 percent notes due 2018 (the “PAETEC 2018 Notes”), at a redemption price payable in cash equal to $1,049.38 per $1,000 principal amount of the notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest. At the time of redemption, there was $16.9 million in unamortized premium related to the PAETEC 2018 Notes. Windstream used a portion of the $1.035 billion cash payment received from CS&L in the spin-off of certain telecommunication network assets to redeem the 2018 Notes and the PAETEC 2018 Notes. The redemptions were accounted for as extinguishments and Windstream Services recognized a loss in connection with the early extinguishment of these two debt obligations. Cinergy Communications Company – On April 24, 2015, Windstream Services repaid all $1.9 million of the outstanding aggregate principal amount of these unsecured notes utilizing available borrowings under the amended revolving line of credit. Windstream Services may call certain debentures and notes at various premiums on early redemption. These debentures and notes consist of $700.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.750 percent senior notes due October 15, 2020, the remaining aggregate principal amounts due related to the 2021, 2022, and 2023 Notes. In addition, Windstream Services may call debt issued by Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. at various premiums upon early redemption. 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: Maturities for long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2016 , excluding $7.2 million of unamortized net discount and $51.0 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, were as follows for the years ended December 31: Year (Millions) 2017 $ 14.9 2018 14.9 2019 569.5 2020 1,183.9 2021 1,668.2 Thereafter 1,470.4 Total $ 4,921.8 Net Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt The net loss on early extinguishment of debt was as follows for the year ended December 31 : (Millions) 2016 2015 Senior secured credit facility: Premium on early redemption $ — $ (6.6 ) Third-party fees for early redemption — (0.7 ) Unamortized discount on original issuance (1.7 ) — Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (1.4 ) (8.6 ) Loss on early extinguishment of senior secured credit facility (3.1 ) (15.9 ) 2017 Notes: Premium on early redemption (26.9 ) — Premium on repurchases (40.6 ) (8.6 ) Third-party fees for repurchases (2.4 ) — Unamortized discount on original issuance (3.0 ) (0.9 ) Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (5.4 ) (1.8 ) Loss on early extinguishment of 2017 Notes (78.3 ) (11.3 ) 2018 Notes: Premium on early redemption — (16.3 ) Unamortized discount on original issuance — (1.4 ) Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance — (4.0 ) Loss on early extinguishment of 2018 Notes — (21.7 ) Partial repurchase of 2021, 2022 and 2023 Notes: Discount on early repurchase 68.7 19.4 Unamortized net premium on original issuance 0.9 0.3 Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (6.2 ) (1.4 ) Gain on early extinguishment from partial repurchases of 2021, 2022 and 2023 Notes 63.4 18.3 PAETEC 2018 Notes: Premium on early redemption — (22.2 ) Unamortized premium on original issuance — 16.9 Loss on early extinguishment of PAETEC 2018 Notes — (5.3 ) Cinergy Communications Company Notes: Premium on early redemption — (0.5 ) Loss on early extinguishment of Cinergy Communication Company Notes — (0.5 ) Net loss on early extinguishment of debt $ (18.0 ) $ (36.4 ) 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: Long-term Lease Obligations Leaseback of Telecommunications Network Assets – Following the spin-off transaction (see Note 3), on April 24, 2015, Windstream Holdings entered into a long-term triple-net master lease with CS&L to lease back the telecommunications network assets. Under terms of the master lease, Windstream Holdings has the exclusive right to use the telecommunications network assets for an initial term of 15 years with up to four , five -year renewal options. Windstream Holdings is required to pay all property taxes, insurance, and repair or maintenance costs associated with the leased property. The master lease provides for an annual rent of $650.0 million paid in equal monthly installments in advance and is fixed for the first three years. Thereafter, rent will increase on an annual basis at a base rent escalator of 0.5 percent . Future lease payments due under the agreement reset to fair market rental rates upon Windstream Holdings’ execution of the renewal options. During December 2015, we requested and CS&L agreed to fund $43.1 million of capital expenditures. As a result, the annual lease payment increased at a rate of 8.125 percent of the funds received from CS&L, or from $650.0 million to $653.5 million . CS&L also has the right, but not the obligation, upon Windstream’s request, to fund additional capital expenditures of Windstream in an aggregate amount of up to $250.0 million for a maximum period of five years . Monthly rent paid by us to CS&L will increase in accordance with the master lease effective as of the date of the funding. If CS&L exercises this right, the lease payments under the master lease will be adjusted at a rate of 8.125 percent of the capital expenditures funded by CS&L during the first two years and at a floating rate based on CS&L’s cost of capital thereafter. Additionally, if CS&L agrees to fund the entire $250.0 million , the initial term of the master lease will be increased from 15 years to 20 years and the number of renewal terms will be reduced from four renewal terms of five years each to three renewal terms of five years each. Due to various forms of continuing involvement, including Windstream Services or its subsidiaries, retaining bare legal title (but not beneficial ownership) to the various easements, permits and pole attachments related to the telecommunications network assets, we accounted for the transaction as a failed spin-leaseback for financial reporting purposes. As a result, the net book value of the network assets transferred to CS&L continue to be reported in our consolidated balance sheet and all depreciable assets will be fully depreciated over the initial lease term of 15 years . At inception of the master lease, we recorded a long-term lease obligation of approximately $5.1 billion equal to the sum of the minimum future annual lease payments over the 15 -year lease term discounted to the present value based on Windstream Services’ incremental borrowing rate. Funding received from CS&L in December 2015 for capital expenditures was recorded as an increase to the long-term lease obligation. The effective interest rate on the long-term lease obligation is approximately 10.1 percent . As annual lease payments are made, a portion of the payment will decrease the long-term lease obligation with the balance of the payment charged to interest expense using the effective interest method. As the master lease was entered into by Windstream Holdings for the direct benefit of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries, Windstream Services is also deemed to have continuing involvement due to retaining its regulatory obligations associated with operating the telecommunications network assets. Accordingly, the effects of the failed spin-leaseback transaction have also been reflected in the standalone consolidated financial statements of Windstream Services. Notwithstanding the foregoing accounting treatment, neither Windstream Services or its subsidiaries is a counterparty or obligor to the master lease agreement. Leaseback of Real Estate Contributed to Pension Plan – During 2014, we contributed certain of our owned real property to the Windstream Pension Plan and then entered into agreements to leaseback the properties for continued use by our operating subsidiaries. Independent appraisals of the properties contributed were obtained and at the dates of contribution the properties’ aggregate fair value was $80.9 million . The lease agreements include initial lease terms of 10 years for certain properties and 20 years for the remaining properties at an aggregate annual rent of approximately $6.3 million . The lease agreements provide for annual rent increases ranging from 2.0 percent to 3.0 percent over the initial lease term and may be renewed for up to three additional five -year terms. The properties are managed on behalf of the Windstream Pension Plan by an independent fiduciary and terms of the lease agreements were negotiated with the fiduciary on an arm’s-length basis. During the fourth quarter of 2015 in conjunction with the sale of the data center business, Windstream Services repurchased at fair value one of the properties contributed to the Windstream Pension Plan for $8.2 million in cash. As a result, we derecognized a portion of the associated long-term lease obligation of $8.7 million and recorded a pre-tax gain of $0.5 million . Following the repurchase, aggregate annual rent due under the lease agreements declined from approximately $6.3 million to $6.0 million . 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: Due to various forms of continuing involvement, including Windstream Services’ benefit from the future appreciation of the property, the transaction has been accounted for as a failed contribution-leaseback. Accordingly, the properties continue to be reported as assets of Windstream and depreciated over their remaining useful lives until termination of the lease agreement. We recorded a long-term lease obligation equal to the fair value of the properties at the date of contribution. No gain or loss was recognized on the contribution. As lease payments are made to the Windstream Pension Plan, a portion of the payment is applied to the long-term lease obligation with the balance of the payment charged to interest expense using the effective interest method. A summary of the current and noncurrent portions of the long-term lease obligations was as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (Millions) Current Noncurrent Total Current Noncurrent Total Assets Subject to Leaseback: Telecommunications network assets $ 168.7 $ 4,759.0 $ 4,927.7 $ 152.7 $ 4,927.7 $ 5,080.4 Real estate contributed to pension plan — 72.9 72.9 — 72.7 72.7 Total $ 168.7 $ 4,831.9 $ 5,000.6 $ 152.7 $ 5,000.4 $ 5,153.1 Undiscounted future minimum payments during the initial terms of the leases were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) Leaseback of Telecommunications Network Assets Leaseback of Real Estate Contributed to Pension Plan Total Year 2017 $ 653.5 $ 6.2 $ 659.7 2018 655.7 6.3 662.0 2019 658.9 6.5 665.4 2020 662.2 6.7 668.9 2021 665.6 6.9 672.5 Thereafter 5,663.6 69.4 5,733.0 Total $ 8,959.5 $ 102.0 $ 9,061.5 Capital Lease Obligations We lease facilities and equipment for use in our operations. These facilities and equipment are included in outside communications plant in property, plant and equipment in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Lease agreements that include a bargain purchase option, transfer of ownership, contractual lease term equal to or greater than 75 percent of the remaining estimated economic life of the leased facilities or equipment or minimum lease payments equal to or greater than 90 percent of the fair value of the leased facilities or equipment are accounted for as capital leases in accordance with authoritative guidance for capital leases. These capital lease obligations are included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets within other current liabilities and other liabilities. During 2016 and 2015, we acquired equipment under capital leases of $50.8 million and $36.4 million , respectively. 6. Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations, Continued: Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations were as follows for the years ended December 31: Year (Millions) 2017 $ 27.1 2018 18.3 2019 10.7 2020 0.6 2021 0.4 Thereafter 0.7 Total future payments 57.8 Less: Amounts representing interest 3.5 Present value of minimum lease payments $ 54.3 Interest Expense Interest expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Interest expense - long-term debt $ 350.9 $ 442.0 $ 539.9 Interest expense - long-term lease obligations: Telecommunications network assets 500.8 351.6 — Real estate contributed to pension plan 5.8 6.7 2.8 Impact of interest rate swaps 11.0 20.5 29.0 Interest on capital leases and other 2.8 2.8 3.8 Less capitalized interest expense (10.7 ) (10.4 ) (3.7 ) Total interest expense $ 860.6 $ 813.2 $ 571.8 Debt Compliance The terms of Windstream Services’ credit facility and indentures include customary covenants that, among other things, require maintenance of certain financial ratios and restrict Windstream Services’ ability to incur additional indebtedness. These financial ratios include a maximum leverage ratio of 4.5 to 1.0 and a minimum interest coverage ratio of 2.75 to 1.0 . In addition, the covenants include restrictions on dividend and certain other types of payments. As of December 31, 2016 , Windstream Services was in compliance with all of these covenants. In addition, certain of Windstream Services’ debt agreements contain various covenants and restrictions specific to the subsidiary that is the legal counterparty to the agreement. Under Windstream Services’ long-term debt agreements, acceleration of principal payments would occur upon payment default, violation of debt covenants not cured within 30 days, a change in control including a person or group obtaining 50 percent or more of Windstream Services’ outstanding voting stock, or breach of certain other conditions set forth in the borrowing agreements. Windstream Services and its subsidiaries were in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2016

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivatives [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]	Derivative Instruments: Windstream Services enters into interest rate swap agreements to mitigate the interest rate risk inherent in its variable rate senior secured credit facility. Derivative instruments are accounted for in accordance with authoritative guidance for recognition, measurement and disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities, including when a derivative or other financial instrument can be designated as a hedge. This guidance requires recognition of all derivative instruments at fair value, and accounting for the changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative has been designated as, qualifies as and is effective as a hedge. Changes in fair value of the effective portions of cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income(loss) in the current period. Any ineffective portion of the hedges is recognized in earnings in the current period. Prior to September 21, 2016, Windstream Services was party to three pay fixed, receive variable interest rate swap agreements to serve as cash flow hedges of the interest rate risk inherent in its senior secured credit facility. The swaps had a notional value of $675.0 million and were scheduled to mature on October 17, 2019. The average fixed interest rate paid was 3.604 percent and included a component which served to settle the liability existing on Windstream Services swaps at the time of the transaction. The variable rate received reset on the seventeenth day of each month to the one-month LIBOR. In transactions completed on September 21, 2016 and September 23, 2016, Windstream Services renegotiated its three existing swaps and reduced the average fixed interest rate it pays on the interest rate swaps from 3.604 percent to 2.984 percent , effective October 17, 2016, and extended the maturity of swaps to October 17, 2021. The variable interest rate on the swaps continues to be based on one-month LIBOR and resets on the seventeenth day of each month. On September 21, 2016, Windstream Services also entered into an additional pay fixed, receive variable interest rate swap agreement with a bank counterparty with a notional value of $200.0 million , fixed interest rate paid of 1.1275 percent and a maturity date of October 17, 2021. Similar to Windstream Services’ other swaps, the variable rate received on the new swap is the one-month LIBOR and resets on the seventeenth day of each month. Windstream Services has designated each of its four swaps as cash flow hedges of the interest rate risk inherent in borrowings outstanding under its senior secured credit facility due to changes in the LIBOR benchmark interest rate. All of the swaps are hedging probable variable cash flows which extend up to one year beyond the maturity of certain components of Windstream Services’ variable rate debt. Consistent with past practice, Windstream Services expects to extend or otherwise replace these components of its debt with variable rate debt. The three renegotiated swaps are off-market swaps, meaning they contain an embedded financing element, which the swap counterparties recover through an incremental charge in the fixed rate over what would be charged for an at-market swap. As such, a portion of the cash payment on the swaps represents the rate that Windstream Services would pay on a hypothetical at-market interest rate swap and is recognized in interest expense. The remaining portion represents the repayment of the embedded financing element and reduces the initial swap liability. As a result of refinancing transactions completed in 2013, April 2015 and September 2016, Windstream Services de-designated certain interest rate swaps and froze the accumulated net gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to those swaps. The frozen balance is amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to interest expense over the remaining life of the original swaps. All derivative instruments are recognized at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as either assets or liabilities, depending on the rights or obligations under the related contracts. Set forth below is information related to our interest rate swap agreements: (Millions, except for percentages) 2016 2015 Designated portion, measured at fair value Other assets $ 6.3 $ — Other current liabilities $ 13.4 $ 18.3 Other non-current liabilities $ 21.9 $ 33.4 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 22.3 $ (0.9 ) De-designated portion, unamortized value Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (10.7 ) $ (0.2 ) Weighted average fixed rate paid 1.82 % 2.99 % Variable rate received 0.74 % 0.35 % Derivatives are assessed for effectiveness each quarter and any ineffectiveness is recognized in other (expense) income, net in our consolidated statements of operations. Ineffectiveness recognized on the cash flow hedges was $1.4 million , $(3.7) million and $(0.3) million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. 7. Derivative Instruments, Continued: All or a portion of the change in fair value of Windstream Services’ interest rate swap agreements recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income may be recognized in earnings in certain situations. If Windstream Services extinguishes all of its variable rate debt, or a portion of its variable rate debt such that the variable rate interest received on the swaps exceeds the variable rate interest paid on its debt, all or a portion of the change in fair value of the swaps may be recognized in earnings. In addition, the change in fair value of the swaps may be recognized in earnings if Windstream Services determines it is no longer probable that it will have future variable rate cash flows to hedge against or if a swap agreement is terminated prior to maturity. Windstream Services has assessed the counterparty risk and determined that no substantial risk of default exists as of December 31, 2016 . Each counterparty is a bank with a current credit rating at or above A , as determined by Moody’s Investors Service, Standard & Poor’s Corporation and Fitch Ratings. Windstream Services expects to recognize losses of $4.9 million , net of taxes, in interest expense in the next twelve months related to the unamortized value of the de-designated portion of interest rate swap agreements and the interest settlements for the three remaining interest swap agreements at December 31, 2016 . Payments on the swaps are presented in the financing activities section of the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows due to the embedded financing element discussed above. Changes in the value of these derivative instruments were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Changes in fair value of effective portion, net of tax (a) $ 4.9 $ (5.4 ) $ (14.3 ) Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps, net of tax (a) $ 2.9 $ 7.1 $ 9.8 (a) Included as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and will be reclassified into earnings as the hedged transaction affects earnings. The agreements with each of the derivative counterparties contain cross-default provisions, whereby if Windstream Services were to default on certain indebtedness, it could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations and may be required to net settle any outstanding derivative liability positions with its counterparties at the swap termination value of $37.3 million including accrued interest and excluding the credit valuation adjustment to measure non-performance risk. In addition, certain of the agreements with the counterparties contain provisions where if a specified event or condition, such as a merger, occurs that materially changes Windstream Services’ creditworthiness in an adverse manner, Windstream Services may be required to fully collateralize its derivative obligations. At December 31, 2016 , Windstream Services had not posted any collateral related to its interest rate swap agreements. Balance Sheet Offsetting Windstream Services is party to master netting arrangements, which are designed to reduce credit risk by permitting net settlement of transactions, with counterparties. For financial statement presentation purposes, Windstream Services does not offset assets and liabilities under these arrangements. The following tables present the assets and liabilities subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 . As of December 31, 2015 , all swap agreements with counterparties were in a liability position and, accordingly, there were no assets to be recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of that date. 7. Derivative Instruments, Continued: Information pertaining to derivative assets was as follows: Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Millions) Gross Amount of Recognized Assets Net Amount of Assets presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Financial Instruments Cash Collateral Received Net Amount December 31, 2016: Interest rate swaps $ 6.3 $ 6.3 $ — $ — $ 6.3 Information pertaining to derivative liabilities was as follows: Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Millions) Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities Net Amount of Liabilities presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Financial Instruments Cash Collateral Received Net Amount December 31, 2016: Interest rate swaps $ 35.3 $ 35.3 $ — $ — $ 35.3 December 31, 2015: Interest rate swaps $ 51.7 $ 51.7 $ — $ — $ 51.7

Fair Value Measurements_

Fair Value Measurements:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements:	Fair Value Measurements: Fair value of financial and non-financial assets and liabilities is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Authoritative guidance defines the following three tier hierarchy for assessing the inputs used in fair value measurements: Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities Level 3 – Unobservable inputs The highest priority is given to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority is given to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurement). Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. Our non-financial assets and liabilities, including property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangible assets and asset retirement obligations, are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. No event occurred during the year ended December 31, 2016 requiring these non-financial assets and liabilities to be subsequently recognized at fair value. Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, investment in CS&L common stock, accounts payable, long-term debt and interest rate swaps. The carrying amount of cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable was estimated by management to approximate fair value due to the relatively short period of time to maturity for those instruments. Cash equivalents, investment in CS&L common stock, long-term debt and interest rate swaps are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Cash equivalents were not significant as of December 31, 2016 or 2015. 8. Fair Value Measurements, Continued: The fair values of cash equivalents, investment in CS&L common stock, interest rate swaps and long-term debt were determined using the following inputs at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Recorded at Fair Value in the Financial Statements: Investment in CS&L common stock - Level 1 $ — $ 549.2 Derivatives: Interest rate swap assets - Level 2 $ 6.3 $ — Interest rate swap liabilities - Level 2 $ 35.3 $ 51.7 Not Recorded at Fair Value in the Financial Statements: (a) Long-term debt, including current maturities - Level 2 $ 4,884.4 $ 4,452.7 (a) Recognized at carrying value of $4,914.6 million and $5,233.3 million in long-term debt, including current maturities, and excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The fair value of CS&L common stock was based on the quoted market price of the shares on the last day of the reporting period. The CS&L common stock trades on NASDAQ. The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows using observable, quoted LIBOR swap rates for the full term of the swaps and also incorporate credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both Windstream Services’ own non-performance risk and non-performance risk of the respective counterparties. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the fair values of the interest rate swaps were reduced by $1.7 million and $2.9 million , respectively, to reflect non-performance risk. In calculating the fair value of Windstream Services’ long-term debt, the fair value of the debentures and notes was calculated based on quoted market prices of the specific issuances in an active market when available. The fair value of the other debt obligations was estimated based on appropriate market interest rates applied to the debt instruments. In calculating the fair value of the Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. notes, an appropriate market price of similar instruments in an active market considering credit quality, nonperformance risk and maturity of the instrument was used. We do not have any assets or liabilities measured for purposes of the fair value hierarchy at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). We recognize transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy as of the end of the reporting period. There were no other transfers within the fair value hierarchy during the year ended December 31, 2016 .

Employee Benefit Plans and Post

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits:	Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: We maintain a non-contributory qualified defined benefit pension plan. Future benefit accruals for all eligible nonbargaining employees covered by the pension plan have ceased. We also maintain supplemental executive retirement plans that provide unfunded, non-qualified supplemental retirement benefits to a select group of management employees. Additionally, we provide postretirement healthcare and life insurance benefits for eligible employees. Employees share in, and we fund, the costs of these plans as benefits are paid. The components of pension benefit expense (including provision for executive retirement agreements) and postretirement benefits income were as follows for the years ended December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Benefits earned during the year $ 8.7 $ 9.5 $ 8.2 $ — $ — $ — Interest cost on benefit obligation 53.2 53.2 58.9 1.3 1.3 1.3 Net actuarial loss 60.7 8.7 128.6 — — — Amortization of net actuarial loss — — — 0.2 1.0 0.1 Amortization of prior service credit (0.3 ) (0.1 ) (0.1 ) (0.8 ) (3.8 ) (5.8 ) Plan curtailments and settlements 0.1 — — (5.5 ) (18.0 ) (11.5 ) Expected return on plan assets (63.3 ) (70.1 ) (67.3 ) — — — Net periodic benefit expense (income) $ 59.1 $ 1.2 $ 128.3 $ (4.8 ) $ (19.5 ) $ (15.9 ) During October 2016, Windstream Services settled $138.5 million of its pension benefit obligations by irrevocably transferring the retiree pension liabilities to an insurance company through the purchase of group annuity contracts. The purchase of the annuity contracts was funded with pension plan assets. In connection with the settlement, Windstream Services re-measured its pension benefit obligations as of the settlement date. In accordance with our accounting policy, we immediately recognize as net periodic benefit expense any actuarial gains or losses arising due to changes in actuarial assumptions at year-end or whenever an interim re-measurement is required. As a result, Windstream Services recognized a pre-tax actuarial loss of $68.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2016. The actuarial loss primarily resulted from a reduction in the discount rate used to measure the pension benefit obligations from 4.55 percent at January 1, 2016 to 3.80 percent as of the settlement date. The actuarial loss from the settlement was partially offset by a pre-tax actuarial gain due to the annual year-end measurement of our pension benefit obligations and reflected the effects of an increase in the discount rate from 3.80 percent to 4.19 percent at December 31, 2016. During 2016, we made changes to our postretirement medical plan, eliminating medical and prescription drug subsidies primarily for certain active participants effective March 14, 2016. As a result, we remeasured the plan and recognized curtailment gains totaling $5.5 million , of which $4.5 million was recognized in cost of services and $1.0 million was recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses, with the offsetting effect recorded as a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive loss. During 2015, we made changes to our postretirement medical plan, eliminating medical and prescription drug subsidies primarily for certain active participants effective on June 8, 2015, October 1, 2015, and November 1, 2015. As a result, we remeasured the plan and recognized curtailment gains totaling $18.0 million , of which $14.3 million was recognized in cost of services expenses and $3.7 million was recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses, with the offsetting effects recorded as a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive income of $18.0 million . During 2014, we made changes to our postretirement medical plan, eliminating medical and prescription drug subsidies primarily for certain active participants effective on April 1, 2014, April 3, 2014, May 1, 2014, and May 31, 2014. We also eliminated the subsidies for certain active and current retirees effective January 1, 2015. As a result, we remeasured the plan and recognized curtailment and settlement gains totaling $11.5 million , of which $7.1 million was recognized in cost of services expenses and $4.4 million was recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses, with the offsetting effects recorded as a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive income of $10.0 million and other liabilities of $1.5 million . In determining our annual postretirement benefits cost, we amortize unrecognized actuarial gains and losses exceeding 10.0 percent of the projected benefit obligation over the lesser of 10 years or the average remaining service life of active employees. We do not amortize unrecognized actuarial gains and losses below the 10.0 percent corridor. 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: A summary of plan assets, projected benefit obligation and funded status of the plans (including executive retirement agreements) were as follows at December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 966.6 $ 1,042.0 $ 0.4 $ 0.3 Actual return on plan assets 46.5 (1.6 ) — — Employer contributions 2.2 0.9 2.5 2.5 Participant contributions — — 3.6 4.3 Benefits paid (a) (68.7 ) (74.7 ) (6.1 ) (6.7 ) Settlements (147.2 ) — — — Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 799.4 $ 966.6 $ 0.4 $ 0.4 Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 1,255.5 $ 1,331.8 $ 29.0 $ 30.6 Interest cost on projected benefit obligations 53.2 53.2 1.3 1.3 Service costs 8.7 9.5 — — Participant contributions — — 3.6 4.3 Plan amendments — (1.4 ) — (0.4 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 43.8 (62.9 ) 0.2 (0.1 ) Benefits paid (a) (68.7 ) (74.7 ) (6.1 ) (6.7 ) Settlements (147.1 ) — — — Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 1,145.4 $ 1,255.5 $ 28.0 $ 29.0 Plan assets less than projected benefit obligation recognized in the consolidated balance sheet: Current liabilities $ (27.9 ) $ (1.9 ) $ (1.9 ) $ (2.1 ) Noncurrent liabilities (318.1 ) (287.0 ) (25.7 ) (26.5 ) Funded status recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (346.0 ) $ (288.9 ) $ (27.6 ) $ (28.6 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Net actuarial loss $ — $ — $ (4.7 ) $ (4.7 ) Prior service credits 1.5 1.8 1.5 7.8 Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 1.5 $ 1.8 $ (3.2 ) $ 3.1 (a) Pension benefits paid from Windstream’s assets totaled $0.9 million in both 2016 and 2015 . All postretirement benefits in both years were paid from Windstream’s assets in both years. Estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit expense (income) in 2017, including executive retirement agreements, are as follows: (Millions) Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits Net actuarial loss $ — $ 0.2 Prior service credits $ (0.4 ) $ (0.4 ) The accumulated benefit obligation of our pension plan and executive retirement agreements, was $1,105.5 million , $1,236.9 million and $1,309.7 million at December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: Assumptions – Actuarial assumptions used to calculate pension and postretirement benefits expense (income) were as follows for the years ended December 31: Pension Benefits (a) Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Discount rate 4.40 % 4.14 % 5.01 % 4.67 % 4.21 % 4.76 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 2.00 % 2.00 % 2.00 % — % — % — % (a) As a result of the remeasurement of our pension benefit obligation due to the purchase of annuities as previously discussed, key assumptions including the discount rate were updated as of the remeasurement date. Actuarial assumptions used to calculate the projected benefit obligations were as follows at December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2016 2015 2016 2015 Discount rate 4.19 % 4.55 % 4.26 % 4.67 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 2.00 % 2.00 % — % — % In developing the expected long-term rate of return assumption, we considered the plan’s historical rate of return, as well as input from our investment advisors. Projected returns on qualified pension plan assets were based on broad equity and bond indices and include a targeted asset allocation of 29.0 percent to equities, 56.0 percent to fixed income securities, and 15.0 percent to alternative investments, with an aggregate expected long-term rate of return of approximately 7.0 percent . Information regarding the healthcare cost trend rate was as follows for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year 6.75 % 7.00 % Rate that the cost trend ultimately declines to 5.00 % 5.00 % Year that the rate reaches the terminal rate 2024 2024 For the year ended December 31, 2016 , a one percent increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would increase the postretirement benefit cost by approximately $0.1 million , while a one percent decrease in the rate would reduce the postretirement benefit cost by approximately $0.1 million . As of December 31, 2016 , a one percent increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would increase the postretirement benefit obligation by approximately $2.4 million , while a one percent decrease in the rate would reduce the postretirement benefit obligation by approximately $2.0 million . Plan Assets – Our pension plan assets are allocated to asset categories based on the specific strategy employed by the asset’s investment manager. The asset allocation for our pension plan by asset category was as follows for the years ended December 31: Target Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets Asset Category 2017 2016 2015 Equity securities 22.5% - 34.5% 27.8 % 23.3 % Fixed income securities 41.3% - 68.3% 54.3 % 53.4 % Alternative investments 10.2% - 20.2% 16.5 % 21.8 % Money market and other short-term interest bearing securities 0.0% - 2.5% 1.4 % 1.5 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: We utilize a third party to assist in evaluating the allocation of the total assets in the pension trust, taking into consideration the pension liabilities and funded status of the pension plan. Assets are managed utilizing a liability driven investment approach, meaning that assets are managed within a risk management framework which addresses the need to generate incremental returns in the context of an appropriate level of risk, based on plan liability profiles and changes in funded status. The return objectives are to satisfy funding obligations when and as prescribed by law and to keep pace with the growth of the pension plan liabilities. Given the long time horizon for paying out benefits and our strong financial condition, the pension plan can accept an average level of risk relative to other similar plans. The liquidity needs of the pension plan are manageable given that lump sum payments are not available to most participants. Equity securities include stocks of both large and small capitalization domestic and international companies. Equity securities are expected to provide both diversification and long-term real asset growth. Domestic equities may include modest holdings of non-U.S. equities, purchased by domestic equity managers as long as they are traded in the U.S and denominated in U.S. dollars and both active and passive (index) investment strategies. International equities provide a broad exposure to return opportunities and investment characteristics associated with the world equity markets outside the U.S. The pension plan’s equity holdings are diversified by investment style, market capitalization, market or region, and economic sector. The pension plan is permitted to make investments in our common stock. Fixed income securities include securities issued by the U.S. Government and other governmental agencies, asset-backed securities and debt securities issued by domestic and international entities, and derivative instruments comprised of swaps, futures, forwards and options. These securities are expected to provide diversification benefits, and are expected to reduce asset volatility and pension funding volatility, and a stable source of income. Alternative investments may include hedge funds and hedge funds of funds, commodities, both private and public real estate and private equity investments. In addition to attractive diversification benefits, the alternative investments are expected to provide both income and capital appreciation. Investments in money market and other short-term interest bearing securities are maintained to provide liquidity for benefit payments with protection of principal being the primary objective. The fair values of our pension plan assets were determined using the following inputs as of December 31, 2016 : Quoted Price in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs (Millions) Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market fund (a) $ 54.6 $ — $ 54.6 $ — Common collective trust funds (b) 183.2 — 183.2 — Government and agency securities (c) 224.8 — 224.8 — Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) 30.5 — 30.5 — Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) 31.3 31.3 — — Common and preferred stocks - international (c) 22.5 22.5 — — Mutual fund (c) 49.1 49.1 — — Real estate LLCs (d) 78.4 — — 78.4 Derivative financial instruments (e) 8.9 — 8.9 — Other investments (f) 1.3 0.5 — 0.8 Investments included in fair value hierarchy 684.6 $ 103.4 $ 502.0 $ 79.2 Other investments measured at NAV: Hedge and pooled funds (g) 84.2 Real estate and private equity funds (h) 34.3 Total investments 803.1 Dividends and interest receivable 7.2 Pending trades and other liabilities (10.9 ) Total plan assets $ 799.4 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: The fair values of our pension plan assets were determined using the following inputs as of December 31, 2015 : Quoted Price in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs (Millions) Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market fund (a) $ 70.1 $ — $ 70.1 $ — Common collective trust funds (b) 235.5 — 235.5 — Government and agency securities (c) 281.5 — 281.5 — Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) 30.9 — 30.9 — Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) 40.0 39.9 — 0.1 Common and preferred stocks - international (c) 23.1 23.1 — — Mutual fund (c) 61.0 61.0 — — Real estate LLCs (d) 76.6 — — 76.6 Derivative financial instruments (e) 19.0 — 19.0 — Other investments (f) 1.9 0.8 — 1.1 Investments included in fair value hierarchy 839.6 $ 124.8 $ 637.0 $ 77.8 Other investments measured at NAV: Hedge and pooled funds (g) 81.9 Real estate and private equity funds (h) 69.0 Total investments 990.5 Dividends and interest receivable 5.2 Pending trades and other liabilities (29.1 ) Total plan assets $ 966.6 (a) Money market fund is valued based on the fair value of the underlying assets held as determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The underlying assets are mostly comprised of certificates of deposit, time deposits and commercial paper valued at amortized cost. (b) Units in common collective trust funds are valued by reference to the funds' underlying assets and are based on the net asset value as reported by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The underlying assets are mostly comprised of publicly traded equity securities and fixed income securities. These securities are valued at the official closing price of, or the last reported sale prices as of the close of business or, in the absence of any sales, at the latest available bid price. (c) Government and agency securities, corporate bonds and asset backed securities, common and preferred stocks, and mutual funds traded in active markets on securities exchanges are valued at their quoted market price on the last day of the year. Securities traded in markets that are not considered active are valued based on quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotes or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. (d) This category consists of real estate properties contributed by Windstream to limited liability companies ("LLCs") wholly- owned by the pension plan. The fair value of these properties is based on independent appraisals. (See also Note 6.) (e) Derivative financial instruments consist primarily of swaps and are valued at fair value based on models that reflect the contractual terms of the instruments. Inputs include primarily observable market information, such as swap curves, benchmark yields, rating updates and interdealer broker quotes at the end of the year. (f) Other investments consist of a guaranteed annuity contract and investments in foreign currency. The guaranteed annuity contract is reported at contract value which approximates fair value and is based on the value of the underlying contracts as determined by the insurance company. Investments in foreign currency are valued at their quoted market price on the last day of the year. 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: (g) For both 2016 and 2015, the hedge funds of funds consist of two funds that hold a portfolio of other investment funds instead of directly investing in specific securities, commodities or other financial instruments. The funds are valued based on the net asset value of the fund determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The net asset value is derived from the fair value of each underlying fund comprising the hedge funds of funds. There are two pooled investment funds in 2016 and one in 2015. For 2016, one fund holds a portfolio of other investment funds and does not invest directly in specific securities or financial instruments, while the other fund primarily invests in common stocks of international entities. The pooled investment fund in 2015 primarily invested in the commodities markets through futures and forward contracts and other commodity-related or commodity-linked financial instruments. The pooled investment funds are valued based on the net asset value of the fund as determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year, and is derived from the fair value of each underlying investment held by the pooled fund. These investments have not been classified within the fair value hierarchy in accordance with ASU 2015-07. (h) The real estate fund is valued based on the net asset value of the fund on the last business day of the year. The net asset value is derived from the fair value of the underlying net assets of the fund. Private equity funds consist of investments in limited partnerships and are valued based on the pension plan's capital account balance at year end as reported in the audited financial statements of the partnership. These investments have not been classified within the fair value hierarchy in accordance with ASU 2015-07. The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of pension plan assets that are measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs: (Millions) Domestic equities Real estate LLCs Guaranteed annuity contract Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 0.1 $ 81.8 $ 1.4 $ 83.3 Gains related to plan assets sold during the year — 0.2 — 0.2 Gains on plan assets still held at year-end — 2.7 0.1 2.8 Purchases and sales, net — (8.1 ) (0.4 ) (8.5 ) Transfers in and/or out of level 3 — — — — Balance at December 31, 2015 0.1 76.6 1.1 77.8 Gains related to plan assets sold during the year — — — — (Loss) gains on plan assets still held at year-end (0.1 ) 1.8 0.1 1.8 Purchases and sales, net — — (0.4 ) (0.4 ) Transfers in and/or out of level 3 — — — — Balance at December 31, 2016 $ — $ 78.4 $ 0.8 $ 79.2 Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are recognized at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers in or out of levels 1, 2, or 3 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. There have been no significant changes in the methodology used to value investments from prior year. The valuation methods used may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, although the valuation methods are consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date. 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: Estimated Future Employer Contributions and Benefit Payments – Estimated future employer contributions, benefit payments, including executive retirement agreements, are as follows as of December 31, 2016 : (Millions) Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits Expected employer contributions in 2017 $ 27.9 $ 1.9 Expected benefit payments: 2017 $ 71.7 $ 1.9 2018 70.3 1.8 2019 71.9 1.7 2020 72.9 1.5 2021 75.0 1.5 2022-2026 368.1 7.4 The 2017 expected employer contribution for pension benefits consists of $27.0 million to the qualified pension plan to meet our 2017 funding requirements and $0.9 million necessary to fund the expected benefit payments of our unfunded supplemental executive retirement pension plans to avoid certain benefit restrictions. We intend to fund these contributions using cash, our common stock or a combination thereof. Employee Savings Plan – We also sponsor an employee savings plan under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, which covers substantially all salaried employees and certain bargaining unit employees. Windstream matches on an annual basis up to a maximum of 4.0 percent of employee pre-tax contributions to the plan for employees contributing up to 5.0 percent of their eligible pre-tax compensation. Excluding amounts capitalized, we recorded expense of $21.1 million , $19.3 million and $18.3 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, related to our matching contribution under the employee savings plan, which was included in cost of services and selling, general and administrative in our consolidated statements of operations. Expense related to our annual matching contribution expected to be made in Windstream stock is included in share-based compensation expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flow. During 2016, we contributed 3.2 million shares of our common stock with a value of $24.0 million to the plan for the 2015 annual matching contribution. During both 2015 and 2014, we contributed 2.7 million shares of our common stock to the plan for the 2014 and 2013 annual matching contribution. At the time of these contributions, the shares had a value of approximately $21.6 million in both years as determined by the plan trustee.

Share-Based Compensation Plans_

Share-Based Compensation Plans:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation Plans:	Share-Based Compensation Plans: Under the Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), we may issue a maximum of 24.3 million equity stock awards in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights or stock options. As of December 31, 2016 , the Incentive Plan had remaining capacity of 6.1 million awards. As of December 31, 2016 , we had additional remaining capacity of 0.3 million awards under a similar equity incentive plan assumed in a prior acquisition. Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units - Our Board of Directors approves grants of restricted stock and restricted stock units to officers, executives, non-employee directors and certain management employees. These grants include the standard annual grants to these employee and director groups as a key component of their annual incentive compensation plan and one-time grants may include time-based and performance-based awards. Time-based awards granted to employees vest over a service period of two or three years. Each recipient of the performance-based restricted stock units may vest in a number of shares from zero to 150.0 percent of their award based on attainment of certain operating targets, some of which are indexed to the performance of Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index, over a three -year period. The 2016 annual and three-year operating targets for these performance based restricted stock units were approved by the Board of Directors in February 2016. For performance-based restricted stock units granted in 2015 the operating targets for the first vesting period were approved by the Board of Directors in May 2015 . For the performance-based restricted stock granted in 2014 , the operating targets for the first two vesting periods were approved by the Board of Directors in March 2014 and February 2015 . For the 2016 and 2015 measurement period, each of the operating targets were met by the end of their respective measurement periods. The operating targets for the 2014 measurement period were not met and these awards were forfeited. For equity awards that contain only service conditions for vesting, we calculate the fair value of the award based on Windstream Holdings’ closing price on the grant date determined in accordance with the applicable authoritative guidance. 10. Share-Based Compensation Plans, Continued: The vesting periods and grant date fair value for restricted stock and restricted stock units issued were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Number of shares in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock: Vest ratably over a three-year service period 1,380.9 2,739.2 488.2 Vest ratably over a two-year service period — — 3.1 Vest variably over a three-year service period — 62.6 41.2 Vest one year from date of grant, service based - granted to non-employee directors 198.0 73.7 20.2 Vest two years from date of grant, service based 53.2 6.9 — Vest three years from date of grant, service based 53.6 381.1 31.6 Total granted 1,685.7 3,263.5 584.3 Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions) $ 9.9 $ 35.0 $ 29.7 Restricted stock units: Vest contingently at the end of the respective performance period 1,380.0 283.4 196.1 Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions) $ 7.9 $ 2.9 $ 7.1 Restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: (Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share Non-vested at December 31, 2015 3,252.4 $ 15.36 Granted 1,685.7 $ 5.90 Vested (1,135.5 ) $ 17.96 Forfeited (518.8 ) $ 11.16 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 3,283.8 $ 10.27 Restricted stock unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: (Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share Non-vested at December 31, 2015 113.7 $ 21.67 Granted 1,380.0 $ 5.34 Vested (113.7 ) $ 21.67 Forfeited (173.7 ) $ 6.07 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 1,206.3 $ 5.64 At December 31, 2016 , unrecognized compensation expense totaled $20.6 million and is expected to be recognized over the weighted average vesting period of 1.6 years . Unrecognized compensation expense is included in additional paid-in capital in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of shareholders’ and member equity. The total fair value of shares vested was $22.9 million , $23.9 million and $28.5 million during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Share-based compensation expense recognized for restricted stock and restricted stock units was $19.9 million , $25.0 million and $22.0 million for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. 10. Share-Based Compensation Plans, Continued: Stock Options - At December 31, 2016, we had approximately 0.3 million of vested stock option awards outstanding, all of which had been issued in conjunction with past acquisitions as replacement awards to former employees of the acquired companies. Substantially all of these options have exercise prices that are significantly higher than the current market price of our common stock and therefore are not likely to be exercised during the next twelve months. No other stock options have been granted by us during the three-year period ended December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, there was no unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to stock options granted. In 2014, compensation expense related to stock options was $0.1 million . In addition to including amounts related to restricted stock and restricted units, share-based compensation expense presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flow also includes amounts related to certain management incentive compensation plans and the matching contribution to the employee savings plan for which payments to eligible participants are expected to be made in Windstream Holdings common stock. Except for 2015 and the second and third quarters of 2014, payments made under the applicable management incentive compensation plans had been in the form of cash. A summary of share-based compensation expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock and restricted units and stock options $ 19.9 $ 25.0 $ 22.1 Employee savings plan (See Note 9) 21.1 19.3 18.3 Management incentive compensation plans 0.6 11.0 1.4 Share-based compensation expense $ 41.6 $ 55.3 $ 41.8

Merger, Integration and Other C

Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Merger Integration and Restructuring Charges [Abstract]
Merger, Integration and Restructuring Charges:	Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges: We incur costs to complete a merger or acquisition and integrate its operations into our business, which are presented as merger and integration expense in our consolidated results of operations. These costs include transaction costs, such as accounting, legal and broker fees; severance and related costs; IT and network conversion; rebranding; and consulting fees. During 2015, we also incurred investment banking fees, legal, accounting and other consulting fees related to the REIT spin-off and the sale of a portion of our data center business. During the fourth quarter of 2015, we began a network optimization project designed to consolidate traffic onto network facilities operated by us and reduce the usage of other carriers’ networks in our acquired CLEC markets. In undertaking this initiative, we incurred costs to migrate traffic to lower cost circuits and to terminate existing contracts prior to their expiration. We will complete this project in 2017. Costs related to the network optimization project and our pending merger with EarthLink Holdings Corp. (“EarthLink”), as further discussed in Note 18, account for the merger, integration and other costs incurred in 2016. In connection with the PAETEC acquisition, we incurred lease termination costs related to the exit from an office facility obtained in the acquisition. During the fourth quarter of 2016, we renegotiated the terms of the lease resulting in the elimination of any future rental payments due under the original lease agreement. As a result, we recorded a $2.0 million reduction in the liability associated with this lease. Restructuring charges are primarily incurred as a result of evaluations of our operating structure. Among other things, these evaluations explore opportunities to provide greater flexibility in managing and financing existing and future strategic operations, for task automation and the balancing of our workforce based on the current needs of our customers. Severance, lease exit costs and other related charges are included in restructuring charges. During 2016 and 2015, restructuring charges primarily consisted of severance and other employee-related costs totaling $18.7 million and $15.6 million , respectively, related to the completion of several small workforce reductions. Additionally, we incurred charges of $3.1 million in 2015 related to a special shareholder meeting held on February 20, 2015 to approve the one -for- six reverse stock split and the conversion of Windstream Corporation to Windstream Services. 11. Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges, Continued: During 2014, we completed two workforce reductions to increase operational efficiency by eliminating a total of approximately 750 positions, including 295 resulting from voluntary separation initiatives. We also completed several smaller workforce reductions throughout the year. In connection with these workforce reductions, we incurred pre-tax restructuring charges of $24.1 million during 2014, primarily consisting of severance and other employee benefit costs. As a result of certain changes in our executive management team, we also incurred severance-related costs of $6.3 million in 2014. The following is a summary of the merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges recorded for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Merger, integration and other costs: Information technology conversion costs $ 0.3 $ 7.5 $ 20.8 Costs related to REIT spin-off (See Note 3) — 65.1 15.5 Costs related to sale of data center business 0.9 10.3 — Costs related to pending merger with EarthLink 2.7 — — Network optimization and contract termination costs 11.9 5.9 — Consulting and other costs — 6.2 4.1 Reversal of lease termination costs (2.0 ) — — Total merger, integration and other costs 13.8 95.0 40.4 Restructuring charges 20.3 20.7 35.9 Total merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges $ 34.1 $ 115.7 $ 76.3 After giving consideration to tax benefits on deductible items, the effect of merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges decreased net income $21.0 million , $71.2 million and $46.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The following is a summary of the activity related to the liabilities associated with our merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Balance, beginning of period $ 5.1 $ 11.2 Merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges 36.1 115.7 Reversal of accrued lease termination costs (2.0 ) — Cash outlays during the period (33.4 ) (121.8 ) Balance, end of period $ 5.8 $ 5.1 As of December 31, 2016 , unpaid merger, integration and other costs and restructuring liabilities consisted of $4.3 million associated with the restructuring initiatives and $1.5 million related to merger and integration activities. Payments of these liabilities will be funded through operating cash flows. During 2016 , cash outlays were $14.8 million related to merger, integration and other activities and $18.6 million for restructuring initiatives.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss): Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances, net of tax, were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Pension and postretirement plans $ (1.2 ) $ 2.8 $ 14.5 Unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities — (286.5 ) — Unrealized holding gains (losses) on interest rate swaps Designated portion 13.7 (0.6 ) 3.1 De-designated portion (6.6 ) (0.1 ) (5.5 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 5.9 $ (284.4 ) $ 12.1 12. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Continued: Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances, net of tax, were as follows: (Millions) Unrealized Holding Loss on Available-for-Sale Securities Net (Gains) Losses on Interest Rate Swaps Pension and Postretirement Plans Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (286.5 ) $ (0.7 ) $ 2.8 $ (284.4 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 156.1 4.9 (0.1 ) 160.9 Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a) 130.4 2.9 (3.9 ) 129.4 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ — $ 7.1 $ (1.2 ) $ 5.9 (a) See separate table below for details about these reclassifications. Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows for the years ended December 31: Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components (Millions) Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations 2016 2015 2014 Available-for-sale securities: Gain on disposal recognized in the period $ (51.5 ) $ — $ — Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock Other-than-temporary impairment recognized in the period 181.9 — — Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock 130.4 — — Net (loss) income Losses on interest rate swaps: Amortization of net unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps 4.8 11.6 15.8 Interest expense 4.8 11.6 15.8 (Loss) income before income taxes (1.9 ) (4.5 ) (6.0 ) Income tax (benefit) expense 2.9 7.1 9.8 Net (loss) income Pension and postretirement plans: Plan curtailment (5.5 ) (18.0 ) (10.0 ) (a) Amortization of net actuarial loss 0.2 1.0 0.1 (a) Amortization of prior service credits (1.1 ) (3.9 ) (5.9 ) (a) (6.4 ) (20.9 ) (15.8 ) (Loss) income before income taxes 2.5 8.0 6.1 Income tax (benefit) expense (3.9 ) (12.9 ) (9.7 ) Net (loss) income Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax $ 129.4 $ (5.8 ) $ 0.1 Net (loss) income (a) These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit expense (income) (See Note 9).

Income Taxes_

Income Taxes:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes:	Income Taxes: Income tax (benefit) expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Current: Federal $ (2.7 ) $ 9.1 $ 0.8 State 1.0 23.2 (12.5 ) (1.7 ) 32.3 (11.7 ) Deferred: Federal (130.2 ) 15.0 (18.3 ) State (8.1 ) (31.3 ) 4.9 (138.3 ) (16.3 ) (13.4 ) Income tax (benefit) expense $ (140.0 ) $ 16.0 $ (25.1 ) Deferred income tax (benefit) expense for all three years primarily resulted from temporary differences between depreciation and amortization expense for income tax purposes and depreciation and amortization expense recorded in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Goodwill is not amortized for financial statement purposes in accordance with authoritative guidance on goodwill and other intangible assets. Differences between the federal income tax statutory rates and effective income tax rates, which include both federal and state income taxes, were as follows for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 Statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Increase (decrease) State income taxes, net of federal benefit 3.7 4.0 4.7 Adjust deferred taxes for state net operating loss carryforward (0.6 ) 16.0 — Transaction costs (0.2 ) 18.7 (8.0 ) Tax refunds — — 7.3 Valuation allowance — (48.4 ) (15.4 ) Income tax reserves 0.1 12.2 (0.4 ) Research and development credit 0.8 (8.4 ) 12.1 Adjustment of deferred taxes for legal entity restructuring — 6.8 — Disallowed loss (12.1 ) — (2.9 ) Tax credits — (1.0 ) 2.2 Other items, net — 2.0 4.3 Effective income tax rate 26.7 % 36.9 % 38.9 % In connection with the spin-off, we adjusted our deferred tax assets and liabilities, including our valuation allowance related to our federal and state net operating loss carryforwards, to reflect the transfer of the telecommunication network assets and consumer CLEC business to CS&L and the recognition of the long-term lease obligation related to the master lease with CS&L. For income tax purposes, the spin-off of the telecommunication network assets is treated as an operating lease. The disallowed loss in 2016 was attributable to the disposal of the CS&L common stock. 13. Income Taxes, Continued: The significant components of the net deferred income tax liability (asset) were as follows at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Property, plant and equipment $ 1,395.8 $ 1,472.8 Goodwill and other intangible assets 1,265.6 1,295.8 Operating loss and credit carryforward (528.8 ) (462.5 ) Postretirement and other employee benefits (142.4 ) (120.1 ) Unrealized holding loss and interest rate swaps (0.2 ) (5.2 ) Deferred compensation (4.0 ) (4.9 ) Bad debt (19.4 ) (25.1 ) Long-term lease obligations (1,932.7 ) (1,993.7 ) Deferred debt costs 8.9 (2.0 ) Restricted stock (9.4 ) (9.7 ) Other, net (28.4 ) (5.9 ) 5.0 139.5 Valuation allowance 146.5 147.9 Deferred income taxes, net $ 151.5 $ 287.4 Deferred tax assets $ (2,695.9 ) $ (2,670.6 ) Deferred tax liabilities 2,847.4 2,958.0 Deferred income taxes, net $ 151.5 $ 287.4 At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we had federal net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $1,094.2 million and $907.0 million , respectively, which expire in varying amounts from 2023 through 2036. The loss carryforwards at December 31, 2016 were primarily losses acquired in conjunction with our prior acquisitions including PAETEC. The 2016 increase is primarily associated with the amount generated for the year. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we had state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $1,788.8 million and $1,802.4 million , respectively, which expire annually in varying amounts from 2017 through 2036. The loss carryforwards at December 31, 2016 , were primarily losses acquired in conjunction with our prior acquisitions including PAETEC. Federal and state tax rules limit the deductibility of loss carryforwards in years following an ownership change. As a result of these limitations or the expected lack of sufficient future taxable income, we believe that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain federal and state loss carryforwards will not be realized prior to their expiration. On May 12, 2016, our shareholders ratified a shareholder rights plan, previously adopted by Windstream Holdings’ board of directors. This plan is designed to protect our net operating loss carryforwards from the effect of limitations imposed by federal and state tax rules following an ownership change. This plan was designed to deter an ownership change (as defined in IRC Section 382) from occurring, and therefore protect our ability to utilize our federal and state net operating loss carryforwards in the future. The plan is not meant to be an anti-takeover measure and our board of directors has established a procedure to consider requests to exempt the acquisition of Windstream common stock from the rights plan, if such acquisition would not limit or impair the availability of our net loss carryforwards. We establish valuation allowances when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to amounts expected to be realized. Therefore, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we recorded valuation allowances of $140.3 million and $140.9 million , respectively, related to federal and state loss carryforwards which are expected to expire before they are utilized. The amount of federal tax credit carryforward at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , was approximately $48.7 million and $46.1 million , respectively, which expire in varying amounts from 2031 through 2036. The amount of state tax credit carryforward at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , was approximately $22.7 million and $24.4 million , respectively, which expire in varying amounts from 2017 through 2027. Due to the expected lack of sufficient future taxable income, we believe that it is more likely than not that the benefit from some of the state tax credit carryforwards will not be realized prior to their expiration. Therefore, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance of approximately $6.2 million and $7.0 million , net of federal benefit, respectively, to reduce our state deferred tax assets to amounts expected to be realized. 13. Income Taxes, Continued: We account for uncertainty in taxes in accordance with authoritative guidance. A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 10.1 $ 5.6 $ 4.6 Additions based on tax positions related to current year 0.7 5.0 2.3 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (1.6 ) (0.5 ) (0.1 ) Reduction as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations — — (0.2 ) Settlements (0.4 ) — (1.0 ) Ending balance $ 8.8 $ 10.1 $ 5.6 We do not expect or anticipate a significant increase or decrease over the next twelve months in the unrecognized tax benefits reported above. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affec t the effective tax rate are $8.6 million , $9.9 million and $5.0 million (net of indirect benefits) for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014, respectively. Included in the balance at December 31, 2014, are $0.6 million of gross tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductibility. No such amounts existed at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Because of the impact of the deferred tax accounting, other than interest and penalties, the disallowance of the shorter deductibility period would not affect the annual effective tax rate but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authority to an earlier period. These unrecognized tax benefits are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states. With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2013. However, due to acquired net operating losses, tax authorities have the ability to adjust those net operating losses related to closed years. We have identified Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia as “major” state taxing jurisdictions. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014, we recognized approximately $0.1 million each year in interest and penalties. Furthermore, we had approximately $0.1 million of interest and penalties accrued at each of December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014.

Commitments and Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies:	Commitments and Contingencies: Lease Commitments Minimum rental commitments for all non-cancellable operating leases, consisting principally of leases for network facilities, real estate, office space and office equipment were as follows as of December 31, 2016 : Year (Millions) 2017 $ 108.8 2018 86.8 2019 72.4 2020 49.7 2021 38.2 Thereafter 123.4 Total $ 479.3 Rental expense totaled $115.5 million , $128.0 million and $134.5 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. 14. Commitments and Contingencies, Continued: Litigation On February 9, 2015, a putative stockholder filed a Shareholder Class Action Complaint in the Delaware Court of Chancery (the “Court”), captioned Doppelt v. Windstream Holdings, Inc., et al. , C.A. No. 10629-VCN, against the Company and its Board of Directors. This complaint was accompanied by a motion for a preliminary injunction seeking to enjoin the spin-off. The Court, ruling from the bench on February 19, 2015 - the day before a special meeting of stockholders was scheduled to vote on a reverse stock split and amended governing documents (the “Proposals”) - denied plaintiff’s motion for a preliminary injunction, reasoning that much of the information sought by plaintiff had been disclosed in public filings available on the United States Securities and Exchange Commission’s website, the Windstream Holdings’ Board of Directors was in no way conflicted, and while approval of the Proposals would facilitate the spin-off, approval was not necessary to effect the spin-off. On March 16, 2015, plaintiff, joined by a second putative Windstream stockholder, filed an Amended Shareholder Class Action Complaint alleging breaches of fiduciary duty by the Company and its Board concerning Windstream’s disclosures and seeking to rescind the spin-off and unspecified monetary damages. On February 5, 2016, the Court granted in part and denied in part defendants’ motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The Court dismissed Windstream, and plaintiffs’ demand to rescind the spin-off, but otherwise denied the motion. On or about January 27, 2017, the plaintiffs filed a motion seeking class certification, and Windstream has responded to the motion. In addition, numerous copyright holders represented by RightsCorp, Inc. (“RightsCorp”) have asserted that our customers have utilized our services to allegedly illegally download and share alleged copyrighted material via peer-to-peer or “filesharing” programs. These holders maintain that Windstream is responsible for alleged infringement because after notification, Windstream did not shut off service to customers alleged to be repeat infringers, and, further, that Windstream may not claim safe harbor pursuant to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998. On June 27, 2016, Windstream filed a complaint for declaratory judgment in the United States District Court - Southern District of New York against RightsCorp and BMG Rights Management (US) LLC, a client of RightsCorp, seeking a declaration that it is not liable under applicable laws for any alleged copyright infringement and that the defendants are not entitled to any alleged damages from Windstream for alleged copyright infringement. We believe that we have valid defenses to the claims asserted in the lawsuit and the claims asserted by RightsCorp and its client that are the subject matter of Windstream’s declaratory action, and we plan to vigorously defend the claims being pursued against us in both matters. While the ultimate resolution of the matters is not currently predictable, if there are adverse rulings against Windstream in either of these two matters, either ruling could constitute a material adverse outcome on the future consolidated results of our income, cash flows, or financial condition. We are party to various legal proceedings and the ultimate resolution of these legal proceedings cannot be determined at this time. However, based on current circumstances, management does not believe such proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the future consolidated results of our income, cash flows or financial condition. Finally, management is currently not aware of any environmental matters, individually or in the aggregate, that would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition or results of our operations.

Segment Information_ (Notes)

Segment Information: (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	Segment Information: Our business unit organizational structure is focused on our core customer relationships. Enterprise customers consist of those relationships that have the propensity now or in the future to generate at least $1,500 or more in monthly recurring revenue. Business customers not meeting this criterion are classified as small business. Our small business customer base is further disaggregated between those customers located in service areas in which we are the incumbent local exchange carrier (“ILEC”) and provide services over network facilities operated by us and those customers located in service areas in which we are a competitive local exchange carrier (“CLEC”) and provide services over network facilities primarily leased from other carriers. In classifying our business customers, we consider the maximum potential revenue to be generated from the customer relationship for both our existing customer base and any new customers in determining which business unit can best support the customer. Accordingly, over time, we may prospectively change the classification of a particular business customer between enterprise and small business. During the third quarter of 2016, we changed the name of our Carrier segment to Wholesale to better reflect our customer base and the products and services we are selling in the marketplace. Historically, we were solely focused on serving telecom companies based in the United States, but over the past year, we have expanded our focus to sell our products and services to non-traditional telecom companies, including content providers, data center operators and international carriers requiring voice and data transport services in the United States. Following this name change, we operate and report these four customer-based segments: 15. Segment Information, Continued: • Consumer and Small Business - ILEC - We manage as one business our residential and small business operations in those markets in which we are the ILEC due to the similarities with respect to service offerings, marketing strategies and customer service delivery. Products and services offered to customers include traditional local and long-distance voice services and high-speed Internet services, which are delivered primarily over network facilities operated by us. We offer consumer video services primarily through a relationship with Dish Network LLC and we also own and operate cable television franchises in some of our service areas. We offer Kinetic, a complete video entertainment offering in our Lincoln, Nebraska, Lexington, Kentucky, and Sugar Land, Texas markets. Residential customers can bundle voice, high-speed Internet and video services, to provide one convenient billing solution and receive bundle discounts. Small Business - ILEC services offer a wide range of advanced Internet, voice, and web conferencing products. These services are equipped to deliver high-speed Internet with competitive speeds, value added services to enhance business productivity and options to bundle services for a global business solution to meet our small business customer needs. • Wholesale - Our wholesale operations are focused on providing products and services to other communications services providers. Our service offerings leverage Windstream’s extensive fiber network to provide wave transport services, carrier Ethernet services, fiber-to-tower connections to support backhaul services to wireless carriers, and high speed Internet access. We also offer traditional services including special access services and Time Division Multiplexing (“TDM”) private line transport. The combination of these services allow wholesale customers to provide voice and data services to their customers through the use of our network or in combination with their own networks. • Enterprise - Products and services offered by our enterprise operations include integrated voice and data services, which deliver voice and broadband services over a single Internet connection, multi-site networking services which provide a fast and private connection between business locations, as well as a variety of other data services, including cloud computing and collocation and managed services as an alternative to traditional information technology infrastructure. • Small Business - CLEC - Products and services offered to customers include integrated voice and data services, advanced data and traditional voice and long-distance services, as well as value added services including online backup, managed web design and web hosting, and various e-mail services. The accounting policies used in measuring segment operating results are the same as those described in Note 2. We evaluate performance of the segments based on segment income, which is computed as segment revenues and sales less segment operating expenses. As further discussed below, certain operating revenues and expenses are not assigned to our segments. Segment revenues are based upon each customer’s classification to an individual segment and include all services provided to that customer. Certain operating revenues are derived from activities that are centrally-managed by us and, accordingly, these revenues are not included in any of our four segments presented below. These other operating revenues include revenue from federal and state universal service funds, CAF Phase II support, and funds received from federal access recovery mechanisms. We also generate other service revenues from providing switched access services, which include usage-based revenues from long-distance companies and other carriers for access to our network to complete long-distance calls, as well as reciprocal compensation received from wireless and other local connecting carriers for the use of network facilities. Other operating revenues also include certain surcharges assessed to our customers, including billings for our required contributions to federal and state USF programs, product sales to contractors and consumer revenues generated in markets where we lease the connection to the customer premise. Revenues attributable to disposed businesses are not assigned to the segments and are also included in other service revenues for all periods prior to the dates of disposal. For the periods presented, the disposed operations consist of the sold data center and directory publishing businesses completed in December and April of 2015, respectively, as well as, the consumer CLEC business transferred to CS&L in connection with the REIT spin-off. 15. Segment Information, Continued: Segment expenses include specific expenses incurred as a direct result of providing services and products to segment customers; selling, general and administrative expenses that are directly associated with specific segment customers or activities; and certain allocated expenses which include network expenses, facilities expenses and other expenses, such as vehicle and real estate-related expenses. We do not assign depreciation and amortization expense, merger, integration and other costs, restructuring charges, share-based compensation and pension costs to our segments, because these expenses are centrally managed and are not monitored by or reported to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) by segment. Similarly, certain regulatory fees, cost of products sold to contractors, interconnection costs in consumer markets where we lease the connection to the customer premise and centrally-managed administrative functions, such as accounting and finance, information technology, engineering, network management, legal and human resources, are not assigned to our segments. Interest expense and net loss on early extinguishment of debt have also been excluded from segment operating results because we manage our financing activities on a total company basis and have not assigned any long-term debt obligations to the segments. Amounts related to our investment in CS&L common stock consisting of dividend income, net gain on disposal and other-than-temporary impairment loss, as well as other (expense) income, net, and income tax benefit are not monitored as a part of our segment operations and, therefore, these items also have been excluded from our segment operating results. Asset information by segment is not monitored or reported to the CODM and therefore has not been presented. All of our customers are located in the United States and we do not have any single customer that provides more than 10 percent of our total consolidated revenues and sales. The following table summarizes our segment results for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Consumer and Small Business - ILEC: Revenues and sales $ 1,579.7 $ 1,605.5 $ 1,644.4 Costs and expenses 680.7 671.0 696.9 Segment income 899.0 934.5 947.5 Wholesale: Revenues 631.0 687.9 729.7 Costs and expenses 178.8 185.6 172.5 Segment income 452.2 502.3 557.2 Enterprise: Revenues and sales 2,031.2 2,067.2 2,003.0 Costs and expenses 1,712.5 1,826.6 1,757.4 Segment income 318.7 240.6 245.6 Small Business - CLEC: Revenues 483.8 559.0 658.3 Costs and expenses 328.7 378.2 408.7 Segment income 155.1 180.8 249.6 Total segment revenues and sales 4,725.7 4,919.6 5,035.4 Total segment costs and expenses 2,900.7 3,061.4 3,035.5 Total segment income $ 1,825.0 $ 1,858.2 $ 1,999.9 The following table reconciles total segment revenue and sales to total consolidated revenue and sales for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Total segment revenues and sales $ 4,725.7 $ 4,919.6 $ 5,035.4 Regulatory and other operating revenues and sales 661.3 714.5 639.6 Revenue and sales related to disposed businesses — 131.2 154.5 Total consolidated revenues and sales $ 5,387.0 $ 5,765.3 $ 5,829.5 15. Segment Information, Continued: The following table reconciles segment income to consolidated net (loss) income for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Total segment income $ 1,825.0 $ 1,858.2 $ 1,999.9 Revenues and sales related to disposed businesses — 131.2 154.5 Regulatory and other operating revenues and sales 661.3 714.5 639.6 Depreciation and amortization (1,263.5 ) (1,366.5 ) (1,386.4 ) Other unassigned operating expenses (707.4 ) (739.7 ) (798.9 ) Operating expenses related to disposed businesses — (88.3 ) (101.6 ) Dividend income on CS&L common stock 17.6 48.2 — Other (expense) income, net (1.2 ) 9.3 0.1 Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock 15.2 — — (Loss) gain on sale of data center business (10.0 ) 326.1 — Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (18.0 ) (36.4 ) — Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock (181.9 ) — — Interest expense (860.6 ) (813.2 ) (571.8 ) Income tax (benefit) expense 140.0 (16.0 ) 25.1 Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 )

Supplemental Guarantor Informat

Supplemental Guarantor Information:	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Supplemental Guarantor Information:	Supplemental Guarantor Information: Debentures and notes, without collateral, issued by Windstream Services, LLC In connection with the issuance of the 7.750 percent senior notes due October 15, 2020, the 7.750 percent senior notes due October 1, 2021, the 7.500 percent senior notes due June 1, 2022, the 7.500 percent senior notes due April 1, 2023 and the 6.375 percent senior notes due August 1, 2023 (“the guaranteed notes”), certain of Windstream Services’ wholly owned subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”), provide guarantees of those debentures. These guarantees are full and unconditional, subject to certain customary release provisions, as well as joint and several. All personal property assets and related operations of the Guarantors are pledged as collateral on the senior secured credit facility of Windstream Services. Certain Guarantors may be subject to restrictions on their ability to distribute earnings to Windstream Services. The remaining subsidiaries of Windstream Services (the “Non-Guarantors”) are not guarantors of the guaranteed notes. Windstream Holdings is not a guarantor of any Windstream Services debt instruments. Effective July 1, 2016, the guaranteed notes were amended to include a subsidiary as a Guarantor. Previously, this subsidiary was classified as a Non-Guarantor. As a result, prior period information has been revised to reflect the change in the guarantor reporting structure. In addition to revising the condensed consolidating financial statements for the change in the guarantor reporting structure, we also made revisions to correct certain errors that were not material to the condensed consolidating balance sheet as of December 31, 2015, which impacted Windstream Services, the Guarantors and Non-Guarantors with applicable offsetting adjustments in the Eliminations column. These revisions had no impact to the condensed consolidating statements of comprehensive income (loss) or cash flows for any period. The effects of the revisions were as follows: For Windstream Services, we reduced investment in consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates payable, net by $118.3 million . For Guarantors, we increased investment in consolidated subsidiaries by $43.0 million , decreased affiliates receivable, net by $166.1 million and increased accumulated deficit by $123.1 million . For Non-Guarantors, we increased investment in consolidated subsidiaries by $0.8 million , increased affiliates receivable, net by $61.1 million and increased retained earnings by $61.9 million . The applicable offsetting effects of these corrections were included in the Eliminations column. The following information presents condensed consolidating and combined statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , condensed consolidating and combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , and condensed consolidating and combined statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 of Windstream Services, the Guarantors and the Non-Guarantors. Investments consist of investments in net assets of subsidiaries held by Windstream Services and other subsidiaries, and have been presented using the equity method of accounting. 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,011.0 $ 4,304.9 $ (36.0 ) $ 5,279.9 Product sales — 96.4 10.7 — 107.1 Total revenues and sales — 1,107.4 4,315.6 (36.0 ) 5,387.0 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 417.0 2,294.0 (33.2 ) 2,677.8 Cost of products sold — 86.7 11.8 — 98.5 Selling, general and administrative — 150.7 648.1 (2.8 ) 796.0 Depreciation and amortization 13.8 301.4 948.3 — 1,263.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 13.8 — 13.8 Restructuring charges — 2.9 17.4 — 20.3 Total costs and expenses 13.8 958.7 3,933.4 (36.0 ) 4,869.9 Operating (loss) income (13.8 ) 148.7 382.2 — 517.1 Losses from consolidated subsidiaries (65.1 ) (65.7 ) (15.1 ) 145.9 — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 17.6 — — — 17.6 Other income (expense), net 1.8 (0.8 ) (2.2 ) — (1.2 ) Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock 15.2 — — — 15.2 Loss on sale of data center business — — (10.0 ) — (10.0 ) Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (18.0 ) — — — (18.0 ) Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock (181.9 ) — — — (181.9 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 116.6 (44.6 ) (72.0 ) — — Interest expense (355.1 ) (149.5 ) (356.0 ) — (860.6 ) Loss before income taxes (482.7 ) (111.9 ) (73.1 ) 145.9 (521.8 ) Income tax benefit (100.2 ) (16.3 ) (22.8 ) — (139.3 ) Net loss $ (382.5 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (382.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (92.2 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (92.2 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,163.2 $ 4,461.0 $ (25.6 ) $ 5,598.6 Product sales — 145.3 21.4 — 166.7 Total revenues and sales — 1,308.5 4,482.4 (25.6 ) 5,765.3 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 493.6 2,290.6 (22.2 ) 2,762.0 Cost of products sold — 125.0 20.2 — 145.2 Selling, general and administrative — 186.8 681.1 (3.4 ) 864.5 Depreciation and amortization 18.3 334.5 1,013.7 — 1,366.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 95.0 — 95.0 Restructuring charges — 9.4 11.3 — 20.7 Total costs and expenses 18.3 1,149.3 4,111.9 (25.6 ) 5,253.9 Operating (loss) income (18.3 ) 159.2 370.5 — 511.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 239.6 (149.9 ) (7.8 ) (81.9 ) — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 48.2 — — — 48.2 Other (expenses) income, net (2.5 ) 0.8 11.0 — 9.3 Gain on sale of data center business — — 326.1 — 326.1 Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (30.7 ) (5.3 ) (0.4 ) — (36.4 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 115.9 (46.5 ) (69.4 ) — — Interest expense (440.1 ) (122.0 ) (251.1 ) — (813.2 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (87.9 ) (163.7 ) 378.9 (81.9 ) 45.4 Income tax (benefit) expense (116.5 ) (15.8 ) 149.1 — 16.8 Net income (loss) $ 28.6 $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ 28.6 Comprehensive (loss) income $ (267.9 ) $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ (267.9 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,178.5 $ 4,494.1 $ (25.0 ) $ 5,647.6 Product sales — 154.7 27.2 — 181.9 Total revenues and sales — 1,333.2 4,521.3 (25.0 ) 5,829.5 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 517.7 2,276.3 (20.7 ) 2,773.3 Cost of products sold — 131.2 25.4 — 156.6 Selling, general and administrative — 166.8 765.0 (4.3 ) 927.5 Depreciation and amortization 21.9 337.7 1,026.8 — 1,386.4 Merger, integration and other costs — — 40.4 — 40.4 Restructuring charges — 8.1 27.8 — 35.9 Total costs and expenses 21.9 1,161.5 4,161.7 (25.0 ) 5,320.1 Operating (loss) income (21.9 ) 171.7 359.6 — 509.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 217.3 (210.3 ) 4.0 (11.0 ) — Other (expense) income, net (0.2 ) 162.9 (162.6 ) — 0.1 Intercompany interest income (expense) 127.2 (53.7 ) (73.5 ) — — Interest expense (523.9 ) (44.8 ) (3.1 ) — (571.8 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (201.5 ) 25.8 124.4 (11.0 ) (62.3 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (163.4 ) 100.0 39.2 — (24.2 ) Net (loss) income $ (38.1 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (38.1 ) Comprehensive (loss) income $ (54.5 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (54.5 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 Accounts receivable, net — 178.9 439.7 — 618.6 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 531.9 2,106.8 (2,638.7 ) — Inventories — 65.9 11.6 — 77.5 Prepaid expenses and other 10.1 36.5 65.1 — 111.7 Total current assets 10.1 820.2 2,680.1 (2,643.5 ) 866.9 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,081.8 297.7 231.4 (6,610.9 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 310.5 — (310.5 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 515.2 258.8 546.5 — 1,320.5 Net property, plant and equipment 6.9 1,234.3 4,042.3 — 5,283.5 Deferred income taxes — 320.2 102.5 (422.7 ) — Other assets 19.5 16.0 50.0 — 85.5 Total Assets $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 14.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 14.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 49.5 119.2 — 168.7 Accounts payable — 101.5 288.7 — 390.2 Affiliates payable, net 2,653.7 — — (2,638.7 ) 15.0 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 40.9 137.2 — 178.1 Accrued taxes — 21.3 56.7 — 78.0 Accrued interest 55.4 1.8 0.9 — 58.1 Other current liabilities 17.9 69.9 263.8 — 351.6 Total current liabilities 2,741.9 284.9 871.3 (2,643.5 ) 1,254.6 Long-term debt 4,749.2 99.5 — — 4,848.7 Long-term lease obligations — 1,405.3 3,426.6 — 4,831.9 Notes payable - affiliate — — 310.5 (310.5 ) — Deferred income taxes 574.2 — — (422.7 ) 151.5 Other liabilities 34.9 53.2 425.2 — 513.3 Total liabilities 8,100.2 1,842.9 5,033.6 (3,376.7 ) 11,600.0 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 556.1 3,143.3 825.3 (3,968.6 ) 556.1 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 — (1.2 ) 1.2 5.9 (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (392.0 ) (403.5 ) 2,925.7 (2,522.2 ) (392.0 ) Total equity 170.0 2,779.2 3,831.7 (6,610.9 ) 170.0 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 Accounts receivable, net — 219.4 424.5 — 643.9 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 449.4 2,486.8 (2,936.2 ) — Inventories — 69.1 10.4 — 79.5 Prepaid expenses and other 321.8 32.6 64.4 (298.2 ) 120.6 Total current assets 321.8 776.4 3,019.6 (3,242.5 ) 875.3 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,214.0 363.5 256.7 (6,834.2 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 314.1 — (314.1 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 554.3 282.8 667.6 — 1,504.7 Net property, plant and equipment 8.4 1,249.7 4,021.7 — 5,279.8 Investment in CS&L common stock 549.2 — — — 549.2 Deferred income taxes — 299.4 217.1 (516.5 ) — Other assets 14.2 56.3 25.0 — 95.5 Total Assets $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 5.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 5.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 44.4 108.3 — 152.7 Accounts payable — 93.2 336.9 — 430.1 Affiliates payable, net 2,951.3 — — (2,936.2 ) 15.1 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 27.0 166.9 — 193.9 Accrued taxes 0.3 11.3 370.7 (298.2 ) 84.1 Accrued interest 75.3 1.9 1.2 — 78.4 Other current liabilities 42.6 47.8 216.5 — 306.9 Total current liabilities 3,075.4 225.6 1,205.3 (3,239.2 ) 1,267.1 Long-term debt 5,065.1 99.5 — — 5,164.6 Long-term lease obligations — 1,455.2 3,545.2 — 5,000.4 Notes payable - affiliate — — 314.1 (314.1 ) — Deferred income taxes 803.9 — — (516.5 ) 287.4 Other liabilities 47.8 25.2 419.2 — 492.2 Total liabilities 8,992.2 1,805.5 5,483.8 (4,069.8 ) 12,211.7 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 600.3 3,150.9 825.3 (3,976.2 ) 600.3 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (284.4 ) — 2.8 (2.8 ) (284.4 ) (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (9.5 ) (289.2 ) 3,026.4 (2,737.2 ) (9.5 ) Total equity 306.4 2,901.1 3,936.4 (6,837.5 ) 306.4 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (143.2 ) $ 363.2 $ 705.4 $ — $ 925.4 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (0.6 ) (177.6 ) (811.6 ) — (989.8 ) Proceeds from the sale of property — 1.0 5.3 — 6.3 Other, net (4.1 ) — (2.4 ) — (6.5 ) Net cash used in investing activities (4.7 ) (176.6 ) (808.7 ) — (990.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (88.5 ) — — — (88.5 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (3,263.7 ) — — — (3,263.7 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 3,674.5 — — — 3,674.5 Debt issuance costs (12.4 ) — — — (12.4 ) Intercompany transactions, net (155.0 ) (142.5 ) 294.2 3.3 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (44.9 ) (107.9 ) — (152.8 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (1.7 ) (56.0 ) — (57.7 ) Other, net (7.0 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (7.0 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 147.9 (185.5 ) 126.7 3.3 92.4 Increase in cash and cash equivalents — 1.1 23.4 3.3 27.8 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 1.1 33.5 (3.3 ) 31.3 End of period $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (337.4 ) $ 259.8 $ 1,105.4 $ — $ 1,027.8 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.0 ) (187.2 ) (867.1 ) — (1,055.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 6.7 — — — 6.7 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 23.5 — — — 23.5 Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — (18.6 ) (55.3 ) — (73.9 ) Disposition of data center business — — 574.2 — 574.2 Other, net (9.6 ) 0.1 12.3 — 2.8 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 19.6 (205.7 ) (335.9 ) — (522.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (416.6 ) — — — (416.6 ) Payment received from CS&L in spin-off 1,035.0 — — — 1,035.0 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 19.6 23.5 — 43.1 Repayments of debt and swaps (2,898.9 ) (450.0 ) (2.0 ) — (3,350.9 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 2,335.0 — — — 2,335.0 Debt issuance costs (4.3 ) — — — (4.3 ) Intercompany transactions, net 277.1 409.8 (709.6 ) 22.7 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (35.6 ) (67.0 ) — (102.6 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (4.2 ) (27.3 ) — (31.5 ) Other, net (9.5 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.5 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 317.8 (56.8 ) (786.0 ) 22.7 (502.3 ) Decrease in cash and cash equivalents — (2.7 ) (16.5 ) 22.7 3.5 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 3.8 50.0 (26.0 ) 27.8 End of period $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (129.2 ) $ 449.0 $ 1,148.9 $ — $ 1,468.7 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.8 ) (117.2 ) (667.5 ) — (786.5 ) Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants — (0.3 ) (13.0 ) — (13.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 3.0 — — — 3.0 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 33.2 — — — 33.2 Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — 9.4 16.6 — 26.0 Network expansion funded by Connect America — (1.3 ) (11.5 ) — (12.8 ) Acquisition of a business (22.6 ) — — — (22.6 ) Other, net — — 3.9 — 3.9 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 11.8 (109.4 ) (671.5 ) — (769.1 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (603.6 ) — — — (603.6 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (1,394.4 ) (0.9 ) (0.1 ) — (1,395.4 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 1,315.0 — — — 1,315.0 Intercompany transactions, net 795.9 (341.0 ) (428.9 ) (26.0 ) — Payments under capital lease obligations — (0.6 ) (26.2 ) — (26.8 ) Other, net (9.2 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.2 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 103.7 (338.9 ) (458.8 ) (26.0 ) (720.0 ) Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents (13.7 ) 0.7 18.6 (26.0 ) (20.4 ) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period 13.7 3.1 31.4 — 48.2 End of period $ — $ 3.8 $ 50.0 $ (26.0 ) $ 27.8

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information - (Unaudited):	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information - (Unaudited):	Quarterly Financial Information – (Unaudited): For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions, except per share amounts) Total 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Revenues and sales $ 5,387.0 $ 1,309.1 $ 1,344.9 $ 1,359.6 $ 1,373.4 Operating income $ 515.4 $ 73.7 $ 129.4 $ 154.6 $ 157.7 Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ (86.9 ) $ (66.2 ) $ 1.5 $ (231.9 ) Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: (a) Net (loss) income ($4.11 ) ($.94 ) ($.72 ) $.01 ($2.52 ) (a) Quarterly (loss) earnings per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year. Significant items affecting our historical operating trends in the quarterly periods of 2016 were as follows: • As discussed in Note 9, we recognize actuarial gains and losses for pension benefits as a component of net periodic benefit expense (income) in the fourth quarter of each year, unless an earlier measurement date is required. Results of operations for the fourth quarter of 2016 include net pre-tax actuarial losses related to pension benefits of $60.7 million or an after-tax charge of $37.2 million , respectively. • Operating income in each of the first three quarters of 2016 was favorably impacted by decreases in depreciation and amortization expense when compared to the same periods a year ago. The decreases were primarily attributable to fully depreciating at the end of 2015 a large number of assets acquired in connection with acquisitions completed in 2010 and 2011 and the 2015 disposals of the data center, consumer CLEC and directory publishing operations. • Net (loss) income for the first and second quarters of 2016 was adversely impacted by additional interest expense of $126.9 million and $125.4 million , respectively, attributable to the long-term lease obligation under the master lease agreement with CS&L. This additional interest expense increased the net loss $77.9 million and $76.9 million in the first and second quarters of 2016, respectively. (See Note 6). • Net (loss) income for the first quarter of 2016 included an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $181.9 million related to our investment in CS&L. (See Note 5). For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions, except per share amounts) Total 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Revenues and sales $ 5,765.3 $ 1,427.0 $ 1,498.6 $ 1,421.1 $ 1,418.6 Operating income $ 509.4 $ 131.7 $ 178.5 $ 79.3 $ 119.9 Net income (loss) $ 27.4 $ 140.5 $ (7.2 ) $ (111.2 ) $ 5.3 Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: (a) Net income (loss) $.24 $1.41 ($.08 ) ($1.13 ) $.05 (a) Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year. Significant items affecting our historical operating trends in the quarterly periods of 2015 were as follows: • As discussed in Note 2, we recognized a pre-tax gain of $326.1 million from the sale of our data center business in the fourth quarter of 2015. This gain increased net income by $199.7 million . • Results of operations for the fourth quarter of 2015 include pre-tax actuarial losses related to pension benefits of $8.7 million or an after-tax charge of $5.3 million . • Revenues and sales and operating income for the third quarter of 2015 were favorably impacted by $72.8 million of incremental CAF Phase II support received in August that was retroactive to January 1, 2015. 17. Quarterly Financial Information – (Unaudited), Continued: • Net income (loss) for the second, third and fourth quarters of 2015 was adversely impacted by additional interest expense of $96.0 million , $128.2 million and $127.4 million , respectively, attributable to the long-term lease obligation under the master lease agreement with CS&L. This additional interest expense decreased net income $78.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2015 and increased the net loss $58.8 million and $78.5 million in the second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. (See Note 6). • Operating income for the second quarter of 2015 was adversely impacted by $54.5 million of transaction costs related to the REIT spin-off, including investment banker, legal and accounting fees. (See Note 11).

Subsequent Event (Notes)

Subsequent Event (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events:	Subsequent Events: On February 17, 2017, Windstream Services issued an aggregate principal amount of $580.0 million in borrowings under Tranche B7 of its senior secured credit facility, the proceeds of which were used to pay down amounts outstanding under Tranche B5, including accrued interest, and to pay related fees and expenses. The incremental Tranche B7 term loan matures on February 17, 2024 and was issued at a price of 99.5 percent of the principal amount of the loan. Interest rates applicable to the Tranche B7 term loan are, at Windstream Services’ option, equal to either a base rate plus a margin of 2.25 percent per annum or LIBOR plus a margin of 3.25 percent per annum. LIBOR for the Tranche B7 term loan shall at no time be less than 0.75 percent . The Tranche B7 term loan is subject to quarterly amortization payments in an aggregate amount equal to 0.25 percent of the initial principal amount of such term loans, with the remaining balance payable at maturity. On February 27, 2017, Windstream Holdings completed its merger with Earthlink Holdings Corp. (“Earthlink”), pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) dated November 5, 2016,whereby EarthLink merged into Europa Merger Sub, Inc., an wholly-owned subsidiary of Windstream Services, LLC, and survived, and immediately following, merged with Europa Merger Sub, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Windstream Services, LLC, with Merger Sub surviving and changing its name to EarthLink Holdings, LLC (the “Merger”). Earthlink Holdings, LLC is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of Windstream Services and provides data, voice and managed network services to retail and wholesale business customers and nationwide Internet access and related value-added services to residential customers. As a result of the Merger, Windstream added approximately 700,000 customers and approximately 16,000 incremental route fiber miles. In the Merger, each share of EarthLink common stock was exchanged for .818 of Windstream Holdings common stock. In the aggregate, Windstream Holdings issued approximately 93 million shares of its common stock. Windstream also assumed approximately $435 million of EarthLink’s long-term debt, which Windstream refinanced, as further discussed below. The Merger was approved by stockholders of both Windstream Holdings and EarthLink on February 24, 2017. The transaction is valued at approximately $1.1 billion . The Merger qualifies as a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Upon closing of the Merger, Windstream Holdings’ stockholders own approximately fifty-one percent (51%) and EarthLink stockholders own approximately forty-nine percent (49%) of the combined company. We will record the Merger with EarthLink using the acquisition method of accounting and will recognize the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their fair values as of the date of the acquisition. The results of EarthLink's operations will be included in our consolidated results of operations beginning on the date of the Merger. We expect to complete the initial purchase price allocation during the first quarter of 2017. On the date of closing, Windstream Services amended its existing senior secured credit agreement to provide for the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $450.0 million in incremental borrowings under Tranche B6, the proceeds of which were used to repay amounts outstanding under EarthLink's credit facility and to deposit in trust funds for the redemption of EarthLink's outstanding 8.875 percent Senior Notes due 2019 and 7.375 percent Senior Secured Notes due 2020. The incremental loans were issued at a price of 99.0 percent of the principal amount of the loan. Interest on the incremental loans accrue at LIBOR plus a margin of 4.00 percent per annum, with LIBOR subject to a 0.75 percent floor. The incremental loans are subject to quarterly amortization in an aggregate amount of approximately 0.25 percent of the initial principal amount of the loans, with the remaining balance payable on March 29, 2021. The incremental loans will be repayable at any time, subject to soft call protection for the first six months following incurrence. In conjunction with voting for the approval of the Merger, Windstream shareholders also approved an amendment to our restated certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 166.7 million to 375.0 million . 18. Subsequent Events, Continued: On February 27, 2017, Windstream Services entered into two new pay fixed, receive variable interest rate swap agreements with bank counterparties with a total notional value of $500.0 million and maturing on October 17, 2021. The fixed rate paid on the new swaps is 1.8812 percent and the variable rate received is the one-month LIBOR, subject to a floor of .75 percent , which resets on the seventeenth day of each month. Windstream Services has designated the two new swaps as cash flow hedges of the interest rate risk inherent in borrowings outstanding under its senior secured credit facility due to changes in the LIBOR benchmark interest rate.

Summary of Significant Accoun35

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The estimates and assumptions used in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are based upon management’s evaluation of the relevant facts and circumstances as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in preparing the accompanying consolidated financial statements, and such differences could be material.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable – Accounts receivable consist principally of trade receivables from customers and are generally unsecured and due within 30 days. Expected credit losses related to trade accounts receivable are recorded as an allowance for doubtful accounts in the consolidated balance sheets. In establishing the allowance for doubtful accounts, we consider a number of factors, including historical collection experience, aging of the accounts receivable balances, current economic conditions and a specific customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations. When internal collection efforts on accounts have been exhausted, the accounts are written off by reducing the allowance for doubtful accounts. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up our customer base. Due to varying customer billing cycle cut-off, we must estimate service revenues earned but not yet billed at the end of each reporting period. Included in accounts receivable are unbilled receivables related to communications services and product sales of $33.0 million and $41.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively.
Inventories	Inventories – Inventories consist of finished goods and are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined using either an average original cost or specific identification method of valuation.
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets – Prepaid expenses and other current assets consist of prepaid services, rent, insurance, maintenance contracts and refundable deposits. Prepayments are expensed on a straight-line basis over the corresponding life of the underlying agreements.
Connect America Fund Support	Connect America Fund Support – In conjunction with reforming USF, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) established the Connect America Fund (“CAF”) which provides incremental broadband funding to a number of unserved and underserved locations. CAF includes both short-term (“ CAF Phase I”) and a longer-term (“CAF Phase II”) framework. We received $86.7 million in CAF Phase I support for upgrades and new deployments of broadband service. Pursuant to commitments we made with the FCC, we agreed to match, on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis, the total amount of CAF Phase I support we received. As construction projects which utilized CAF Phase I support were initiated, a portion of the CAF Phase I support received was reclassified from other liabilities as an offset to construction in progress to effectively reduce the capitalized cost of the constructed asset. For each construction dollar we spent, an equal amount was transferred from other liabilities to construction in progress to reflect our dollar-for-dollar matching requirement. As of December 31, 2015, we had utilized all CAF Phase I support we had received. CAF Phase I support received and used to construct network assets during each annual period has been presented within the investing activities section of the consolidated statements of cash flows. In August 2015, we notified the FCC of our acceptance of CAF Phase II support of approximately $175.0 million per year for a six year period to fund the deployment of voice and high-speed Internet capable infrastructures for approximately 400,000 eligible locations in 17 of the 18 states in which we are the incumbent provider. The CAF Phase II support in these 17 states will substantially replace funding we received under the federal USF high-cost support program. We declined the annual statewide funding in one state, New Mexico, where our projected cost to comply with the FCC’s deployment requirements greatly exceeded the funding offer. We are still eligible to participate in a competitive bidding process for the CAF Phase II support in New Mexico, along with other interested eligible competitors; however, the rules for the competitive bidding process are still under consideration by the FCC, and have not yet been finalized. We will continue to receive annual USF support in New Mexico frozen at 2011 levels until the CAF Phase II competitive bidding process is completed. Funds received under CAF Phase II are recognized as service revenues ratably over the period to which the funding pertains.
Asset Disposals	Asset Disposals – On December 18, 2015, Windstream Services completed the sale of a substantial portion of our data center business to TierPoint LLC (“TierPoint”) for $574.2 million in cash, net of the $0.8 million working capital settlement, and recorded a pre-tax gain of $326.1 million . Excluding the effects of the gain, pre-tax losses for the data center business were $(0.5) million and $(17.6) million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. The sale of the data center business did not represent a strategic shift in our business nor had a major effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows, and accordingly, did not qualify for reporting as a discontinued operation. As part of the transaction, we established an ongoing reciprocal strategic partnership with TierPoint, allowing both companies to sell their respective products and services to each other’s prospective customers through referrals. Pursuant to the terms of the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, Windstream Services agreed to indemnify TierPoint for certain losses attributable to any alleged breaches of representations and warranties made by us with such indemnification liability capped at $10.0 million . On November 22, 2016, TierPoint submitted a notice of a claim to us for indemnification and payment of $10.0 million . We are reviewing the claims and developing defenses thereto and we have requested and received additional documentation from TierPoint. Due to the nature of the claims and the potential difficulty in defending against such claims, as of December 31, 2016, we have recorded a loss of $10.0 million related to the indemnification claim.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets – Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired through various business combinations. The cost of acquired entities at the date of the acquisition is allocated to identifiable assets, and the excess of the total purchase price over the amounts assigned to identifiable assets has been recorded as goodwill. In accordance with authoritative guidance, goodwill is to be assigned to a company’s reporting units and tested for impairment at least annually using a consistent measurement date. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment, referred to as a component. A component of an operating segment is a reporting unit for which discrete financial information is available and our executive management team regularly reviews the operating results of that component. Additionally, components of an operating segment can be combined as a single reporting unit if the components have similar economic characteristics. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is not impaired and no further testing is performed. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then a second step must be performed, and the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill must be determined and compared to the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, then an impairment loss equal to the difference will be recorded. Prior to performing the two step evaluation, an entity has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value. Under the qualitative assessment, if an entity determines that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value exceeds its carrying value, then the entity is not required to complete the two step goodwill impairment evaluation. During the fourth quarter of 2015, we changed our annual goodwill impairment assessment date to November 1 st of each year to better align with the timing of our internal strategic planning process. As of November 1, 2016, our reporting units consisted of our four reportable operating segments and excluded corporate activities. Our reporting units are not separate legal entities with discrete balance sheet information. Accordingly, in determining the reporting unit’s carrying value, assets and liabilities were assigned to the reporting units using specification identification or were allocated to the reporting units using consistent and reasonable allocation methodologies. We estimated the fair value of our reporting units using an income approach. The income approach is based on the present value of projected cash flows and a terminal value, which represents the expected normalized cash flows of the reporting unit beyond the cash flows from the discrete projection period of five years. We discounted the estimated cash flows for each of the reporting units using a rate that represents a market participant’s weighted average cost of capital commensurate with the reporting unit’s underlying business operations. We corroborated the results of the income approach by aggregating the fair values of the reporting units and comparing the total value to overall market multiples for guideline public companies operating in the same lines of business as our reporting units. We also reconciled the estimated fair value of our reporting units to our total invested capital. Based on the results of our quantitative analysis, we determined that no goodwill impairment existed as of November 1, 2016. Other intangible assets arising from business combinations such as franchise rights, customer lists, and cable franchise rights are initially recorded at estimated fair value. We amortize customer lists using the sum-of-the-digits method over an estimated life of 9 to 15 years . All other intangible assets are amortized using a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives. (See Note 4 for additional information.)
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	Net Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment are stated at original cost, less accumulated depreciation. Property, plant and equipment consists of central office equipment, office and warehouse facilities, outside communications plant, customer premise equipment, furniture, fixtures, vehicles, machinery, other equipment and software to support the business units in the distribution of telecommunications products. The costs of additions, replacements, substantial improvements and extension of the network to the customer premise, including related labor costs, are capitalized, while the costs of maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Capitalized labor costs include non-cash share-based compensation and the matching stock contribution to the employee savings plan for those employees directly involved with construction activities. Depreciation expense amounted to $1,078.3 million , $1,146.3 million , and $1,130.3 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Net property, plant and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31: (Millions) Depreciable Lives 2016 2015 Land $ 42.8 $ 43.4 Building and improvements 3-40 years 608.8 604.9 Central office equipment 3-40 years 6,493.6 6,013.9 Outside communications plant 7-47 years 7,390.9 7,245.3 Furniture, vehicles and other equipment 1-23 years 1,835.5 1,660.2 Construction in progress 618.8 527.6 16,990.4 16,095.3 Less accumulated depreciation (11,706.9 ) (10,815.5 ) Net property, plant and equipment $ 5,283.5 $ 5,279.8 Of the total net property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2016 and 2015 listed above, approximately $2.2 billion and $2.4 billion , respectively, has been legally transferred to Communications Sales & Leasing, Inc. (“CS&L”) as a result of the spin-off and leaseback by Windstream Holdings (see Note 3). Under the master lease agreement with CS&L, any capital improvements, including upgrades or replacements to the leased network assets, funded by us become the property of CS&L at the time such improvements are placed in service. As further discussed in Note 6, we accounted for the spin-off transaction as a failed spin-leaseback for financial reporting purposes and, as a result the net book value of the assets initially transferred to CS&L and any subsequent capital improvements made by us continue to be reported in our consolidated balance sheet as property, plant and equipment and are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the initial lease term of 15 years . Our regulated operations use a group composite depreciation method. Under this method, when plant is retired, the original cost, net of salvage value, is charged against accumulated depreciation and no immediate gain or loss is recognized on the disposition of the plant. For our non-regulated operations, when depreciable plant is retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are deducted from the plant accounts, with the corresponding gain or loss reflected in operating results. In accordance with the terms of certain broadband stimulus grants we received from the Rural Utilities Service (“RUS”) to fund 75 percent of the costs related to specified construction projects, the RUS retained a security interest in the assets funded by these grants for the duration of their economic life, which varies by grant for periods up to 23 years . In the event of default of terms of the agreement, the RUS could exercise the rights under its retained security interest to gain control and ownership of these assets. In addition, in the event of a proposed change in control of Windstream, the acquiring party would need to receive approval from the RUS prior to consummating the proposed transaction, for which pre-approval will not be reasonably withheld. At December 31, 2016, the net book value of assets funded by broadband stimulus grants was $106.9 million . We capitalize interest in connection with the acquisition or construction of plant assets. Capitalized interest is included in the cost of the asset with a corresponding reduction in interest expense. Capitalized interest amounted to $10.7 million , $10.4 million and $3.7 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.
Asset Retirement Obligations	Asset Retirement Obligations – We recognize asset retirement obligations in accordance with authoritative guidance on accounting for asset retirement obligations and conditional asset retirement obligations, which requires recognition of a liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation if the amount can be reasonably estimated. Our asset retirement obligations include legal obligations to remediate the asbestos in certain buildings if we exit them, to properly dispose of our chemically-treated telephone poles at the time they are removed from service and to restore certain leased properties to their previous condition upon exit from the lease. These asset retirement obligations totaled $53.3 million and $53.1 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and are included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets – We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable from future, undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group. If the asset group is not fully recoverable, an impairment loss would be recognized for the difference between the carrying value of the asset group and its estimated fair value based on discounted net future cash flows.
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments – Windstream Services enters into interest rate swap agreements to mitigate the interest rate risk inherent in its variable rate senior secured credit facility. Derivative instruments are accounted for in accordance with authoritative guidance for recognition, measurement and disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities, including when a derivative or other financial instrument can be designated as a hedge. This guidance requires recognition of all derivative instruments at fair value, and accounting for the changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative has been designated as, qualifies as and is effective as a hedge. Changes in fair value of the effective portions of cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of other comprehensive (loss) income in the current period. Any ineffective portion of the hedges is recognized in earnings in the current period.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition – Service revenues are primarily derived from providing access to or usage of our networks and facilities. Service revenues are recognized over the period that the corresponding services are rendered to customers. Revenues that are billed in advance include monthly recurring network access and data services, special access and monthly recurring voice, Internet and other related charges. The unearned portion of these revenues is included in advance payments and customer deposits in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Revenues derived from other telecommunications services, including interconnection, long-distance and enhanced service revenues are recognized monthly as services are provided. Revenue from sales of indefeasible rights to use fiber optic network facilities (“IRUs”) and the related telecommunications network maintenance arrangements is generally recognized over the term of the related lease or contract. Sales of communications products including customer premise equipment and modems are recognized when products are delivered to and accepted by customers. Fees assessed to customers for service activation are deferred upon service activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected life of the customer relationship in accordance with authoritative guidance on multiple element arrangements. Certain costs associated with activating such services are deferred and recognized as an operating expense over the same period. In determining whether to include in revenues and expenses the taxes and surcharges assessed and collected from customers and remitted to government authorities, including USF charges, sales, use, value added and excise taxes, we evaluate, among other factors, whether we are the primary obligor or principal tax payer for the fees and taxes assessed in each jurisdiction in which we operate. In those jurisdictions for which we are the primary obligor, we record the taxes and surcharges on a gross basis and include in revenues and costs of services and products. In jurisdictions in which we function as a collection agent for the government authority, we record the taxes on a net basis and exclude the amounts from our revenues and costs of services and products.
Advertising	Advertising – Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense totaled $44.0 million , $52.9 million and $59.5 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation – In accordance with authoritative guidance on share-based compensation, we value all time-based awards to employees at fair value on the date of the grant, and recognize that value as compensation expense over the period that each award vests. Performance-based awards are valued at fair value when performance targets are set. Share-based compensation expense for performance-based awards is recognized when it is probable and estimable as measured against performance metrics. Share-based compensation expense is included in cost of services and selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Pension Benefits	Pension Benefits – We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and actuarial gains and losses due to actual experience differing from actuarial assumptions, as a component of net periodic benefit (income) expense in the fourth quarter in the year in which the gains and losses occur, and if applicable in any quarter in which an interim remeasurement is required. The remaining components of net periodic benefit (income) expense, primarily benefits earned, interest cost and expected return on plan assets, are recognized ratably on a quarterly basis.
Operating Leases	Operating Leases – Certain of our operating lease agreements include scheduled rent escalations during the initial lease term and/or during succeeding optional renewal periods. We account for these operating leases in accordance with authoritative guidance for operating leases with non-level rent payments. Accordingly, the scheduled increases in rent expense are recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term and those renewal periods that are reasonably assured. The difference between rent expense and rent paid is recorded as deferred rent and is included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term, including renewal option periods that are reasonably assured.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes – We account for income taxes in accordance with guidance on accounting for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax balances are adjusted to reflect tax rates based on currently enacted tax laws, which will be in effect in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the results of operations in the period of the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets unless it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with authoritative guidance which prescribes a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. Our evaluations of tax positions consider various factors including, but not limited to, changes in tax law, the measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in tax returns, the effective settlement of matters subject to audit, information obtained during in process audit activities and changes in facts or circumstances related to a tax position. We also accrue for potential interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense (benefit). Windstream Holdings and its domestic subsidiaries, including Windstream Services, file a consolidated federal income tax return. As such, Windstream Services and its subsidiaries are not separate taxable entities for federal and certain state income tax purposes. In instances when Windstream Services does not file a separate return, income taxes as presented within the accompanying consolidated financial statements attribute current and deferred income taxes of Windstream Holdings to Windstream Services and its subsidiaries in a manner that is systematic, rational and consistent with the asset and liability method. Income tax provisions presented for Windstream Services and its subsidiaries are prepared under the “separate return method.” The separate return method represents a hypothetical computation assuming that the reported revenue and expenses of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries were incurred by separate taxable entities.
(Loss) Earnings Per Share	(Loss) Earnings Per Share – We compute basic (loss) earnings per share by dividing net (loss) income applicable to common shares by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Our non-vested restricted shares containing a non-forfeitable right to receive dividends on a one-to-one per share ratio to common shares are considered participating securities, and the impact is included in the computation of (loss) earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. Calculations of (loss) earnings per share under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator. Diluted (loss) earnings per share is computed by dividing net (loss) income applicable to common shares by the weighted average number of common shares adjusted to include the effect of potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities include incremental shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants. Diluted (loss) earnings per share excludes all potentially dilutive securities if their effect is anti-dilutive. We also issue performance-based restricted stock units as part of our share-based compensation plan. Certain of these restricted stock units contain a forfeitable right to receive dividends. Because dividends attributable to these shares are forfeited if the vesting provisions are not met, they are considered non-participating restricted shares and are not dilutive under the two-class method until the performance conditions have been satisfied. Options and warrants granted in conjunction with past acquisitions are included in the computation of dilutive (loss) earnings per share using the treasury stock method. 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes, Continued: A reconciliation of net (loss) income and number of shares used in computing basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Numerator: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Income allocable to participating securities (2.5 ) (3.5 ) (5.0 ) Net (loss) income attributable to common shares $ (386.0 ) $ 23.9 $ (44.5 ) Denominator: Basic and diluted shares outstanding Weighted average shares outstanding 99.1 102.0 100.3 Weighted average participating securities (5.2 ) (3.1 ) (0.8 ) Weighted average basic and diluted shares outstanding 93.9 98.9 99.5 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Net (loss) income ($4.11 ) $.24 ($.45 ) Options to purchase shares of stock issuable under share-based compensation plans that were excluded from the computation of diluted shares outstanding because the exercise prices were greater than the average market price of our common stock and, therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive, totaled approximately 0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 0.5 million shares for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

Schedule I - Condensed Financ36

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Operating revenues: Leasing income from subsidiaries $ 653.6 $ 446.0 $ — Total operating revenues 653.6 446.0 — Costs and expenses: Selling, general and administrative 1.7 2.0 2.3 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Total costs and expenses 355.7 241.7 2.3 Operating income (loss) 297.9 204.3 (2.3 ) Interest expense on long-term lease obligation with CS&L (500.8 ) (351.6 ) — Loss before income taxes and equity in subsidiaries (202.9 ) (147.3 ) (2.3 ) Income tax benefit (78.4 ) (57.0 ) (0.9 ) Loss before equity in subsidiaries (124.5 ) (90.3 ) (1.4 ) Equity (losses) earnings from subsidiaries (259.0 ) 117.7 (38.1 ) Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (93.2 ) $ (269.1 ) $ (55.9 ) See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,011.0 $ 4,304.9 $ (36.0 ) $ 5,279.9 Product sales — 96.4 10.7 — 107.1 Total revenues and sales — 1,107.4 4,315.6 (36.0 ) 5,387.0 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 417.0 2,294.0 (33.2 ) 2,677.8 Cost of products sold — 86.7 11.8 — 98.5 Selling, general and administrative — 150.7 648.1 (2.8 ) 796.0 Depreciation and amortization 13.8 301.4 948.3 — 1,263.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 13.8 — 13.8 Restructuring charges — 2.9 17.4 — 20.3 Total costs and expenses 13.8 958.7 3,933.4 (36.0 ) 4,869.9 Operating (loss) income (13.8 ) 148.7 382.2 — 517.1 Losses from consolidated subsidiaries (65.1 ) (65.7 ) (15.1 ) 145.9 — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 17.6 — — — 17.6 Other income (expense), net 1.8 (0.8 ) (2.2 ) — (1.2 ) Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock 15.2 — — — 15.2 Loss on sale of data center business — — (10.0 ) — (10.0 ) Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (18.0 ) — — — (18.0 ) Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock (181.9 ) — — — (181.9 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 116.6 (44.6 ) (72.0 ) — — Interest expense (355.1 ) (149.5 ) (356.0 ) — (860.6 ) Loss before income taxes (482.7 ) (111.9 ) (73.1 ) 145.9 (521.8 ) Income tax benefit (100.2 ) (16.3 ) (22.8 ) — (139.3 ) Net loss $ (382.5 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (382.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (92.2 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (92.2 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,163.2 $ 4,461.0 $ (25.6 ) $ 5,598.6 Product sales — 145.3 21.4 — 166.7 Total revenues and sales — 1,308.5 4,482.4 (25.6 ) 5,765.3 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 493.6 2,290.6 (22.2 ) 2,762.0 Cost of products sold — 125.0 20.2 — 145.2 Selling, general and administrative — 186.8 681.1 (3.4 ) 864.5 Depreciation and amortization 18.3 334.5 1,013.7 — 1,366.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 95.0 — 95.0 Restructuring charges — 9.4 11.3 — 20.7 Total costs and expenses 18.3 1,149.3 4,111.9 (25.6 ) 5,253.9 Operating (loss) income (18.3 ) 159.2 370.5 — 511.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 239.6 (149.9 ) (7.8 ) (81.9 ) — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 48.2 — — — 48.2 Other (expenses) income, net (2.5 ) 0.8 11.0 — 9.3 Gain on sale of data center business — — 326.1 — 326.1 Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (30.7 ) (5.3 ) (0.4 ) — (36.4 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 115.9 (46.5 ) (69.4 ) — — Interest expense (440.1 ) (122.0 ) (251.1 ) — (813.2 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (87.9 ) (163.7 ) 378.9 (81.9 ) 45.4 Income tax (benefit) expense (116.5 ) (15.8 ) 149.1 — 16.8 Net income (loss) $ 28.6 $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ 28.6 Comprehensive (loss) income $ (267.9 ) $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ (267.9 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,178.5 $ 4,494.1 $ (25.0 ) $ 5,647.6 Product sales — 154.7 27.2 — 181.9 Total revenues and sales — 1,333.2 4,521.3 (25.0 ) 5,829.5 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 517.7 2,276.3 (20.7 ) 2,773.3 Cost of products sold — 131.2 25.4 — 156.6 Selling, general and administrative — 166.8 765.0 (4.3 ) 927.5 Depreciation and amortization 21.9 337.7 1,026.8 — 1,386.4 Merger, integration and other costs — — 40.4 — 40.4 Restructuring charges — 8.1 27.8 — 35.9 Total costs and expenses 21.9 1,161.5 4,161.7 (25.0 ) 5,320.1 Operating (loss) income (21.9 ) 171.7 359.6 — 509.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 217.3 (210.3 ) 4.0 (11.0 ) — Other (expense) income, net (0.2 ) 162.9 (162.6 ) — 0.1 Intercompany interest income (expense) 127.2 (53.7 ) (73.5 ) — — Interest expense (523.9 ) (44.8 ) (3.1 ) — (571.8 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (201.5 ) 25.8 124.4 (11.0 ) (62.3 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (163.4 ) 100.0 39.2 — (24.2 ) Net (loss) income $ (38.1 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (38.1 ) Comprehensive (loss) income $ (54.5 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (54.5 )
Balance Sheets	BALANCE SHEETS (Millions, except par value) Assets 2016 2015 Current Assets: Distributions receivable from Windstream Services $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Total current assets 15.0 15.1 Investment and affiliate related balances 1,937.5 2,009.5 Net property, plant and equipment 1,947.3 2,301.3 Deferred income taxes 1,212.9 1,076.0 Total Assets $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Current liabilities: Accrued dividends $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Current portion of long-term lease obligation 168.7 152.7 Total current liabilities 183.7 167.8 Long-term lease obligation 4,759.0 4,927.7 Total liabilities 4,942.7 5,095.5 Shareholders’ Equity: Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively — — Additional paid-in capital 559.7 602.9 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 (284.4 ) Accumulated deficit (395.6 ) (12.1 ) Total shareholders’ equity 170.0 306.4 Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 Accounts receivable, net — 178.9 439.7 — 618.6 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 531.9 2,106.8 (2,638.7 ) — Inventories — 65.9 11.6 — 77.5 Prepaid expenses and other 10.1 36.5 65.1 — 111.7 Total current assets 10.1 820.2 2,680.1 (2,643.5 ) 866.9 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,081.8 297.7 231.4 (6,610.9 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 310.5 — (310.5 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 515.2 258.8 546.5 — 1,320.5 Net property, plant and equipment 6.9 1,234.3 4,042.3 — 5,283.5 Deferred income taxes — 320.2 102.5 (422.7 ) — Other assets 19.5 16.0 50.0 — 85.5 Total Assets $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 14.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 14.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 49.5 119.2 — 168.7 Accounts payable — 101.5 288.7 — 390.2 Affiliates payable, net 2,653.7 — — (2,638.7 ) 15.0 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 40.9 137.2 — 178.1 Accrued taxes — 21.3 56.7 — 78.0 Accrued interest 55.4 1.8 0.9 — 58.1 Other current liabilities 17.9 69.9 263.8 — 351.6 Total current liabilities 2,741.9 284.9 871.3 (2,643.5 ) 1,254.6 Long-term debt 4,749.2 99.5 — — 4,848.7 Long-term lease obligations — 1,405.3 3,426.6 — 4,831.9 Notes payable - affiliate — — 310.5 (310.5 ) — Deferred income taxes 574.2 — — (422.7 ) 151.5 Other liabilities 34.9 53.2 425.2 — 513.3 Total liabilities 8,100.2 1,842.9 5,033.6 (3,376.7 ) 11,600.0 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 556.1 3,143.3 825.3 (3,968.6 ) 556.1 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 — (1.2 ) 1.2 5.9 (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (392.0 ) (403.5 ) 2,925.7 (2,522.2 ) (392.0 ) Total equity 170.0 2,779.2 3,831.7 (6,610.9 ) 170.0 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 Accounts receivable, net — 219.4 424.5 — 643.9 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 449.4 2,486.8 (2,936.2 ) — Inventories — 69.1 10.4 — 79.5 Prepaid expenses and other 321.8 32.6 64.4 (298.2 ) 120.6 Total current assets 321.8 776.4 3,019.6 (3,242.5 ) 875.3 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,214.0 363.5 256.7 (6,834.2 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 314.1 — (314.1 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 554.3 282.8 667.6 — 1,504.7 Net property, plant and equipment 8.4 1,249.7 4,021.7 — 5,279.8 Investment in CS&L common stock 549.2 — — — 549.2 Deferred income taxes — 299.4 217.1 (516.5 ) — Other assets 14.2 56.3 25.0 — 95.5 Total Assets $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 5.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 5.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 44.4 108.3 — 152.7 Accounts payable — 93.2 336.9 — 430.1 Affiliates payable, net 2,951.3 — — (2,936.2 ) 15.1 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 27.0 166.9 — 193.9 Accrued taxes 0.3 11.3 370.7 (298.2 ) 84.1 Accrued interest 75.3 1.9 1.2 — 78.4 Other current liabilities 42.6 47.8 216.5 — 306.9 Total current liabilities 3,075.4 225.6 1,205.3 (3,239.2 ) 1,267.1 Long-term debt 5,065.1 99.5 — — 5,164.6 Long-term lease obligations — 1,455.2 3,545.2 — 5,000.4 Notes payable - affiliate — — 314.1 (314.1 ) — Deferred income taxes 803.9 — — (516.5 ) 287.4 Other liabilities 47.8 25.2 419.2 — 492.2 Total liabilities 8,992.2 1,805.5 5,483.8 (4,069.8 ) 12,211.7 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 600.3 3,150.9 825.3 (3,976.2 ) 600.3 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (284.4 ) — 2.8 (2.8 ) (284.4 ) (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (9.5 ) (289.2 ) 3,026.4 (2,737.2 ) (9.5 ) Total equity 306.4 2,901.1 3,936.4 (6,837.5 ) 306.4 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1
Statements of Cash Flows	STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations: Equity losses (earnings) from subsidiaries 259.0 (117.7 ) 38.1 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Deferred income taxes (77.7 ) (56.2 ) — Net cash provided from (used in) operating activities 151.8 93.2 (1.4 ) Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment — (43.1 ) — Net cash used in investing activities — (43.1 ) — Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions from Windstream Services 88.5 416.6 603.6 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 43.1 — Dividends paid to shareholders (58.6 ) (369.2 ) (602.2 ) Stock repurchases (28.9 ) (46.2 ) — Payments under long-term lease obligation (152.8 ) (94.4 ) — Net cash (used in) provided from financing activities (151.8 ) (50.1 ) 1.4 Change in cash and cash equivalents — — — Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — — — End of period $ — $ — $ — See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (143.2 ) $ 363.2 $ 705.4 $ — $ 925.4 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (0.6 ) (177.6 ) (811.6 ) — (989.8 ) Proceeds from the sale of property — 1.0 5.3 — 6.3 Other, net (4.1 ) — (2.4 ) — (6.5 ) Net cash used in investing activities (4.7 ) (176.6 ) (808.7 ) — (990.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (88.5 ) — — — (88.5 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (3,263.7 ) — — — (3,263.7 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 3,674.5 — — — 3,674.5 Debt issuance costs (12.4 ) — — — (12.4 ) Intercompany transactions, net (155.0 ) (142.5 ) 294.2 3.3 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (44.9 ) (107.9 ) — (152.8 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (1.7 ) (56.0 ) — (57.7 ) Other, net (7.0 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (7.0 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 147.9 (185.5 ) 126.7 3.3 92.4 Increase in cash and cash equivalents — 1.1 23.4 3.3 27.8 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 1.1 33.5 (3.3 ) 31.3 End of period $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (337.4 ) $ 259.8 $ 1,105.4 $ — $ 1,027.8 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.0 ) (187.2 ) (867.1 ) — (1,055.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 6.7 — — — 6.7 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 23.5 — — — 23.5 Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — (18.6 ) (55.3 ) — (73.9 ) Disposition of data center business — — 574.2 — 574.2 Other, net (9.6 ) 0.1 12.3 — 2.8 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 19.6 (205.7 ) (335.9 ) — (522.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (416.6 ) — — — (416.6 ) Payment received from CS&L in spin-off 1,035.0 — — — 1,035.0 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 19.6 23.5 — 43.1 Repayments of debt and swaps (2,898.9 ) (450.0 ) (2.0 ) — (3,350.9 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 2,335.0 — — — 2,335.0 Debt issuance costs (4.3 ) — — — (4.3 ) Intercompany transactions, net 277.1 409.8 (709.6 ) 22.7 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (35.6 ) (67.0 ) — (102.6 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (4.2 ) (27.3 ) — (31.5 ) Other, net (9.5 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.5 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 317.8 (56.8 ) (786.0 ) 22.7 (502.3 ) Decrease in cash and cash equivalents — (2.7 ) (16.5 ) 22.7 3.5 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 3.8 50.0 (26.0 ) 27.8 End of period $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (129.2 ) $ 449.0 $ 1,148.9 $ — $ 1,468.7 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.8 ) (117.2 ) (667.5 ) — (786.5 ) Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants — (0.3 ) (13.0 ) — (13.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 3.0 — — — 3.0 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 33.2 — — — 33.2 Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — 9.4 16.6 — 26.0 Network expansion funded by Connect America — (1.3 ) (11.5 ) — (12.8 ) Acquisition of a business (22.6 ) — — — (22.6 ) Other, net — — 3.9 — 3.9 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 11.8 (109.4 ) (671.5 ) — (769.1 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (603.6 ) — — — (603.6 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (1,394.4 ) (0.9 ) (0.1 ) — (1,395.4 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 1,315.0 — — — 1,315.0 Intercompany transactions, net 795.9 (341.0 ) (428.9 ) (26.0 ) — Payments under capital lease obligations — (0.6 ) (26.2 ) — (26.8 ) Other, net (9.2 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.2 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 103.7 (338.9 ) (458.8 ) (26.0 ) (720.0 ) Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents (13.7 ) 0.7 18.6 (26.0 ) (20.4 ) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period 13.7 3.1 31.4 — 48.2 End of period $ — $ 3.8 $ 50.0 $ (26.0 ) $ 27.8
Other Parent Company Disclosures	Background and Basis of Presentation: Notwithstanding the accounting treatment for the spin-off transaction as further discussed below, Windstream Holdings, Inc. (“Windstream Holdings”) has no material assets or operations other than its ownership in Windstream Services, LLC (“Windstream Services”) and its subsidiaries. Windstream Holdings owns a 100 percent interest in Windstream Services. On April 24, 2015, Windstream Holdings completed the spin-off of certain telecommunications network assets and other real estate, into an independent, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”), Communications Sales & Leasing, Inc. (“CS&L”). Following the spin-off transaction, Windstream Holdings entered into a long-term triple-net master lease with CS&L to lease back the telecommunications network assets. Due to various forms of continuing involvement, including Windstream Services or its subsidiaries, retaining bare legal title (but not beneficial ownership) to the various easements, permits and pole attachments related to the telecommunications network assets, the transaction was accounted for as a failed spin-leaseback for financial reporting purposes. As a result, the accompanying condensed parent company financial statements include the telecommunications network assets and other real estate assets, the long-term lease obligation associated with the master lease and the related deferred income taxes. As the master lease was entered into by Windstream Holdings for the direct benefit of Windstream Services and its subsidiaries, Windstream Services is also deemed to have continuing involvement due to retaining its regulatory obligations associated with operating the telecommunications network assets. Accordingly, the effects of the failed spin-leaseback transaction have also been reflected in the standalone consolidated financial statements of Windstream Services (collectively referred to as “CS&L spin transactions”). Certain covenants within Windstream Services’ senior secured credit facility may restrict its ability to distribute funds to Windstream Holdings in the form of dividends, loans or advances. Accordingly, these condensed financial statements of Windstream Holdings have been presented on a “Parent Only” basis. Under this basis of presentation, Windstream Holdings’ investment in its consolidated subsidiaries are presented under the equity method of accounting. Amounts reflected in these condensed parent company financial statements for investment and affiliated related balances and equity earnings from subsidiaries have been adjusted to account for the effects of the telecommunications network assets, long-term lease obligation, depreciation expense, principal and interest payments on the long-term lease obligation and related income tax effects that are also included in the net income and equity of Windstream Services. Equity income (losses) from subsidiaries for 2016 and 2015 includes $123.5 million and 89.1 million , respectively, of intercompany income related to the CS&L spin transactions. The condensed parent company financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes of Windstream Holdings and subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Summary of Significant Accoun37

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure	Net property, plant and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31: (Millions) Depreciable Lives 2016 2015 Land $ 42.8 $ 43.4 Building and improvements 3-40 years 608.8 604.9 Central office equipment 3-40 years 6,493.6 6,013.9 Outside communications plant 7-47 years 7,390.9 7,245.3 Furniture, vehicles and other equipment 1-23 years 1,835.5 1,660.2 Construction in progress 618.8 527.6 16,990.4 16,095.3 Less accumulated depreciation (11,706.9 ) (10,815.5 ) Net property, plant and equipment $ 5,283.5 $ 5,279.8
Reconciliation of Earnings Per Share	A reconciliation of net (loss) income and number of shares used in computing basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Numerator: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Income allocable to participating securities (2.5 ) (3.5 ) (5.0 ) Net (loss) income attributable to common shares $ (386.0 ) $ 23.9 $ (44.5 ) Denominator: Basic and diluted shares outstanding Weighted average shares outstanding 99.1 102.0 100.3 Weighted average participating securities (5.2 ) (3.1 ) (0.8 ) Weighted average basic and diluted shares outstanding 93.9 98.9 99.5 Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: Net (loss) income ($4.11 ) $.24 ($.45 )

Goodwill and Other Intangible38

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows: (Millions) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 4,352.8 Dispositions during the period: Consumer CLEC business transferred to CS&L in conjunction with the spin-off (a) (12.8 ) Data center business sold to TierPoint (a) (126.4 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 and 2016 $ 4,213.6 (a) Represents the portion of historical goodwill allocated to the disposed businesses. Goodwill assigned to our four operating segments at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: (Millions) Consumer and Small Business - ILEC $ 2,321.2 Wholesale 1,176.4 Enterprise 598.0 Small Business - CLEC 118.0 Total goodwill $ 4,213.6
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	Intangible assets were as follows at December 31: 2016 2015 (Millions) Gross Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Gross Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Franchise rights $ 1,285.1 $ (328.9 ) $ 956.2 $ 1,285.1 $ (286.1 ) $ 999.0 Customer lists (a) 1,791.7 (1,442.4 ) 349.3 1,791.7 (1,304.7 ) 487.0 Cable franchise rights 17.3 (8.0 ) 9.3 17.3 (6.8 ) 10.5 Other (b) 10.6 (4.9 ) 5.7 9.6 (1.4 ) 8.2 Balance $ 3,104.7 $ (1,784.2 ) $ 1,320.5 $ 3,103.7 $ (1,599.0 ) $ 1,504.7 (a) In connection with the spin-off, we transferred customer lists with a gross cost of $34.5 million and a net carrying value of $13.1 million to CS&L (see Note 3). At the date of sale of the data center business to TierPoint, customer lists associated with the data center operations had a gross cost of $87.8 million and a net carrying value of $35.7 million . (b) During 2016 and 2015, we acquired for cash non-exclusive licenses to various patents, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 3 years .
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Methodology and Estimated Useful Life	Intangible asset amortization methodology and useful lives were as follows as of December 31, 2016 : Intangible Assets Amortization Methodology Estimated Useful Life Franchise rights straight-line 30 years Customer lists sum of years digits 9 - 15 years Cable franchise rights straight-line 15 years Other straight-line 3 years
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization was estimated to be as follows for each of the years ended December 31 : Year (Millions) 2017 $ 159.1 2018 132.3 2019 104.9 2020 86.4 2021 68.3 Thereafter 769.5 Total $ 1,320.5

Investment in CS&L Common Sto39

Investment in CS&L Common Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]	(Millions) Cost Fair Value Carrying Value Unrealized Loss CS&L common stock $835.7 $549.2 $549.2 $(286.5)

Long-term Debt and Lease Obli40

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments	Long-term debt was as follows at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Issued by Windstream Services: Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B5 – variable rates, due August 8, 2019 $ 572.3 $ 578.2 Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) 894.8 — Senior secured credit facility, Revolving line of credit – variable rates, due 475.0 300.0 Debentures and notes, without collateral: 2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017 — 904.1 2020 Notes – 7.750%, due October 15, 2020 700.0 700.0 2021 Notes – 7.750%, due October 1, 2021 809.3 920.4 2022 Notes – 7.500%, due June 1, 2022 441.2 485.9 2023 Notes – 7.500%, due April 1, 2023 343.5 540.1 2023 Notes – 6.375%, due August 1, 2023 585.7 700.0 Issued by subsidiaries of the Company: Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. – 6.75%, due April 1, 2028 (b) 100.0 100.0 Net (discount) premium on long-term debt (c) (7.2 ) 4.6 Unamortized debt issuance costs (c) (51.0 ) (62.8 ) 4,863.6 5,170.5 Less current maturities (14.9 ) (5.9 ) Total long-term debt $ 4,848.7 $ 5,164.6 Weighted average interest rate 7.0 % 6.8 % Weighted maturity 4.7 years 5.3 years
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	Maturities for long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2016 , excluding $7.2 million of unamortized net discount and $51.0 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, were as follows for the years ended December 31: Year (Millions) 2017 $ 14.9 2018 14.9 2019 569.5 2020 1,183.9 2021 1,668.2 Thereafter 1,470.4 Total $ 4,921.8
Schedule of Current and Noncurrent Other Lease Obligations [Table Text Block]	A summary of the current and noncurrent portions of the long-term lease obligations was as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (Millions) Current Noncurrent Total Current Noncurrent Total Assets Subject to Leaseback: Telecommunications network assets $ 168.7 $ 4,759.0 $ 4,927.7 $ 152.7 $ 4,927.7 $ 5,080.4 Real estate contributed to pension plan — 72.9 72.9 — 72.7 72.7 Total $ 168.7 $ 4,831.9 $ 5,000.6 $ 152.7 $ 5,000.4 $ 5,153.1
Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt	The net loss on early extinguishment of debt was as follows for the year ended December 31 : (Millions) 2016 2015 Senior secured credit facility: Premium on early redemption $ — $ (6.6 ) Third-party fees for early redemption — (0.7 ) Unamortized discount on original issuance (1.7 ) — Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (1.4 ) (8.6 ) Loss on early extinguishment of senior secured credit facility (3.1 ) (15.9 ) 2017 Notes: Premium on early redemption (26.9 ) — Premium on repurchases (40.6 ) (8.6 ) Third-party fees for repurchases (2.4 ) — Unamortized discount on original issuance (3.0 ) (0.9 ) Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (5.4 ) (1.8 ) Loss on early extinguishment of 2017 Notes (78.3 ) (11.3 ) 2018 Notes: Premium on early redemption — (16.3 ) Unamortized discount on original issuance — (1.4 ) Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance — (4.0 ) Loss on early extinguishment of 2018 Notes — (21.7 ) Partial repurchase of 2021, 2022 and 2023 Notes: Discount on early repurchase 68.7 19.4 Unamortized net premium on original issuance 0.9 0.3 Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance (6.2 ) (1.4 ) Gain on early extinguishment from partial repurchases of 2021, 2022 and 2023 Notes 63.4 18.3 PAETEC 2018 Notes: Premium on early redemption — (22.2 ) Unamortized premium on original issuance — 16.9 Loss on early extinguishment of PAETEC 2018 Notes — (5.3 ) Cinergy Communications Company Notes: Premium on early redemption — (0.5 ) Loss on early extinguishment of Cinergy Communication Company Notes — (0.5 ) Net loss on early extinguishment of debt $ (18.0 ) $ (36.4 )
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases	Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations were as follows for the years ended December 31: Year (Millions) 2017 $ 27.1 2018 18.3 2019 10.7 2020 0.6 2021 0.4 Thereafter 0.7 Total future payments 57.8 Less: Amounts representing interest 3.5 Present value of minimum lease payments $ 54.3
Interest Expense, Net Disclosure	Interest expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Interest expense - long-term debt $ 350.9 $ 442.0 $ 539.9 Interest expense - long-term lease obligations: Telecommunications network assets 500.8 351.6 — Real estate contributed to pension plan 5.8 6.7 2.8 Impact of interest rate swaps 11.0 20.5 29.0 Interest on capital leases and other 2.8 2.8 3.8 Less capitalized interest expense (10.7 ) (10.4 ) (3.7 ) Total interest expense $ 860.6 $ 813.2 $ 571.8
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Other Lease Obligations [Table Text Block]	Undiscounted future minimum payments during the initial terms of the leases were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) Leaseback of Telecommunications Network Assets Leaseback of Real Estate Contributed to Pension Plan Total Year 2017 $ 653.5 $ 6.2 $ 659.7 2018 655.7 6.3 662.0 2019 658.9 6.5 665.4 2020 662.2 6.7 668.9 2021 665.6 6.9 672.5 Thereafter 5,663.6 69.4 5,733.0 Total $ 8,959.5 $ 102.0 $ 9,061.5

Derivatives Schedule of Derivat

Derivatives Schedule of Derivatives (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments	Set forth below is information related to our interest rate swap agreements: (Millions, except for percentages) 2016 2015 Designated portion, measured at fair value Other assets $ 6.3 $ — Other current liabilities $ 13.4 $ 18.3 Other non-current liabilities $ 21.9 $ 33.4 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 22.3 $ (0.9 ) De-designated portion, unamortized value Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (10.7 ) $ (0.2 ) Weighted average fixed rate paid 1.82 % 2.99 % Variable rate received 0.74 % 0.35 %
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	Changes in the value of these derivative instruments were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Changes in fair value of effective portion, net of tax (a) $ 4.9 $ (5.4 ) $ (14.3 ) Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps, net of tax (a) $ 2.9 $ 7.1 $ 9.8 (a) Included as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and will be reclassified into earnings as the hedged transaction affects earnings.
Offsetting Assets	Information pertaining to derivative assets was as follows: Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Millions) Gross Amount of Recognized Assets Net Amount of Assets presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Financial Instruments Cash Collateral Received Net Amount December 31, 2016: Interest rate swaps $ 6.3 $ 6.3 $ — $ — $ 6.3
Offsetting Liabilities	Information pertaining to derivative liabilities was as follows: Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Millions) Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities Net Amount of Liabilities presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Financial Instruments Cash Collateral Received Net Amount December 31, 2016: Interest rate swaps $ 35.3 $ 35.3 $ — $ — $ 35.3 December 31, 2015: Interest rate swaps $ 51.7 $ 51.7 $ — $ — $ 51.7

Fair Value Measurements_ (Table

Fair Value Measurements: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of cash equivalents and interest rate swaps	The fair values of cash equivalents, investment in CS&L common stock, interest rate swaps and long-term debt were determined using the following inputs at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Recorded at Fair Value in the Financial Statements: Investment in CS&L common stock - Level 1 $ — $ 549.2 Derivatives: Interest rate swap assets - Level 2 $ 6.3 $ — Interest rate swap liabilities - Level 2 $ 35.3 $ 51.7 Not Recorded at Fair Value in the Financial Statements: (a) Long-term debt, including current maturities - Level 2 $ 4,884.4 $ 4,452.7 (a) Recognized at carrying value of $4,914.6 million and $5,233.3 million in long-term debt, including current maturities, and excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively.

Employee Benefit Plans and Po43

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits, Net Periodic Benefit Costs, Disclosure	The components of pension benefit expense (including provision for executive retirement agreements) and postretirement benefits income were as follows for the years ended December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Benefits earned during the year $ 8.7 $ 9.5 $ 8.2 $ — $ — $ — Interest cost on benefit obligation 53.2 53.2 58.9 1.3 1.3 1.3 Net actuarial loss 60.7 8.7 128.6 — — — Amortization of net actuarial loss — — — 0.2 1.0 0.1 Amortization of prior service credit (0.3 ) (0.1 ) (0.1 ) (0.8 ) (3.8 ) (5.8 ) Plan curtailments and settlements 0.1 — — (5.5 ) (18.0 ) (11.5 ) Expected return on plan assets (63.3 ) (70.1 ) (67.3 ) — — — Net periodic benefit expense (income) $ 59.1 $ 1.2 $ 128.3 $ (4.8 ) $ (19.5 ) $ (15.9 )
Summary of plan assets, projected benefit obligation and funded status of the plans	A summary of plan assets, projected benefit obligation and funded status of the plans (including executive retirement agreements) were as follows at December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 966.6 $ 1,042.0 $ 0.4 $ 0.3 Actual return on plan assets 46.5 (1.6 ) — — Employer contributions 2.2 0.9 2.5 2.5 Participant contributions — — 3.6 4.3 Benefits paid (a) (68.7 ) (74.7 ) (6.1 ) (6.7 ) Settlements (147.2 ) — — — Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 799.4 $ 966.6 $ 0.4 $ 0.4 Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 1,255.5 $ 1,331.8 $ 29.0 $ 30.6 Interest cost on projected benefit obligations 53.2 53.2 1.3 1.3 Service costs 8.7 9.5 — — Participant contributions — — 3.6 4.3 Plan amendments — (1.4 ) — (0.4 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 43.8 (62.9 ) 0.2 (0.1 ) Benefits paid (a) (68.7 ) (74.7 ) (6.1 ) (6.7 ) Settlements (147.1 ) — — — Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 1,145.4 $ 1,255.5 $ 28.0 $ 29.0 Plan assets less than projected benefit obligation recognized in the consolidated balance sheet: Current liabilities $ (27.9 ) $ (1.9 ) $ (1.9 ) $ (2.1 ) Noncurrent liabilities (318.1 ) (287.0 ) (25.7 ) (26.5 ) Funded status recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (346.0 ) $ (288.9 ) $ (27.6 ) $ (28.6 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Net actuarial loss $ — $ — $ (4.7 ) $ (4.7 ) Prior service credits 1.5 1.8 1.5 7.8 Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 1.5 $ 1.8 $ (3.2 ) $ 3.1 (a) Pension benefits paid from Windstream’s assets totaled $0.9 million in both 2016 and 2015 . All postretirement benefits in both years were paid from Windstream’s assets in both years.
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits, Expected Amortization Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Disclosure	Estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit expense (income) in 2017, including executive retirement agreements, are as follows: (Millions) Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits Net actuarial loss $ — $ 0.2 Prior service credits $ (0.4 ) $ (0.4 )
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits, Net Periodic Benefit Costs Weighted Average Assumptions Disclosure	Actuarial assumptions used to calculate pension and postretirement benefits expense (income) were as follows for the years ended December 31: Pension Benefits (a) Postretirement Benefits (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Discount rate 4.40 % 4.14 % 5.01 % 4.67 % 4.21 % 4.76 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 2.00 % 2.00 % 2.00 % — % — % — % (a) As a result of the remeasurement of our pension benefit obligation due to the purchase of annuities as previously discussed, key assumptions including the discount rate were updated as of the remeasurement date.
Benefit Obligations Weighted Average Assumptions Disclosure	Actuarial assumptions used to calculate the projected benefit obligations were as follows at December 31: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2016 2015 2016 2015 Discount rate 4.19 % 4.55 % 4.26 % 4.67 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 2.00 % 2.00 % — % — %
Health Care Cost Trend Rates Assumptions Disclosure	Information regarding the healthcare cost trend rate was as follows for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year 6.75 % 7.00 % Rate that the cost trend ultimately declines to 5.00 % 5.00 % Year that the rate reaches the terminal rate 2024 2024
Weighted-Average Allocation of Assets Related to Defined Benefit Plans Disclosure	The asset allocation for our pension plan by asset category was as follows for the years ended December 31: Target Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets Asset Category 2017 2016 2015 Equity securities 22.5% - 34.5% 27.8 % 23.3 % Fixed income securities 41.3% - 68.3% 54.3 % 53.4 % Alternative investments 10.2% - 20.2% 16.5 % 21.8 % Money market and other short-term interest bearing securities 0.0% - 2.5% 1.4 % 1.5 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures	The fair values of our pension plan assets were determined using the following inputs as of December 31, 2016 : Quoted Price in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs (Millions) Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market fund (a) $ 54.6 $ — $ 54.6 $ — Common collective trust funds (b) 183.2 — 183.2 — Government and agency securities (c) 224.8 — 224.8 — Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) 30.5 — 30.5 — Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) 31.3 31.3 — — Common and preferred stocks - international (c) 22.5 22.5 — — Mutual fund (c) 49.1 49.1 — — Real estate LLCs (d) 78.4 — — 78.4 Derivative financial instruments (e) 8.9 — 8.9 — Other investments (f) 1.3 0.5 — 0.8 Investments included in fair value hierarchy 684.6 $ 103.4 $ 502.0 $ 79.2 Other investments measured at NAV: Hedge and pooled funds (g) 84.2 Real estate and private equity funds (h) 34.3 Total investments 803.1 Dividends and interest receivable 7.2 Pending trades and other liabilities (10.9 ) Total plan assets $ 799.4 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: The fair values of our pension plan assets were determined using the following inputs as of December 31, 2015 : Quoted Price in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs (Millions) Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market fund (a) $ 70.1 $ — $ 70.1 $ — Common collective trust funds (b) 235.5 — 235.5 — Government and agency securities (c) 281.5 — 281.5 — Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) 30.9 — 30.9 — Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) 40.0 39.9 — 0.1 Common and preferred stocks - international (c) 23.1 23.1 — — Mutual fund (c) 61.0 61.0 — — Real estate LLCs (d) 76.6 — — 76.6 Derivative financial instruments (e) 19.0 — 19.0 — Other investments (f) 1.9 0.8 — 1.1 Investments included in fair value hierarchy 839.6 $ 124.8 $ 637.0 $ 77.8 Other investments measured at NAV: Hedge and pooled funds (g) 81.9 Real estate and private equity funds (h) 69.0 Total investments 990.5 Dividends and interest receivable 5.2 Pending trades and other liabilities (29.1 ) Total plan assets $ 966.6 (a) Money market fund is valued based on the fair value of the underlying assets held as determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The underlying assets are mostly comprised of certificates of deposit, time deposits and commercial paper valued at amortized cost. (b) Units in common collective trust funds are valued by reference to the funds' underlying assets and are based on the net asset value as reported by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The underlying assets are mostly comprised of publicly traded equity securities and fixed income securities. These securities are valued at the official closing price of, or the last reported sale prices as of the close of business or, in the absence of any sales, at the latest available bid price. (c) Government and agency securities, corporate bonds and asset backed securities, common and preferred stocks, and mutual funds traded in active markets on securities exchanges are valued at their quoted market price on the last day of the year. Securities traded in markets that are not considered active are valued based on quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotes or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. (d) This category consists of real estate properties contributed by Windstream to limited liability companies ("LLCs") wholly- owned by the pension plan. The fair value of these properties is based on independent appraisals. (See also Note 6.) (e) Derivative financial instruments consist primarily of swaps and are valued at fair value based on models that reflect the contractual terms of the instruments. Inputs include primarily observable market information, such as swap curves, benchmark yields, rating updates and interdealer broker quotes at the end of the year. (f) Other investments consist of a guaranteed annuity contract and investments in foreign currency. The guaranteed annuity contract is reported at contract value which approximates fair value and is based on the value of the underlying contracts as determined by the insurance company. Investments in foreign currency are valued at their quoted market price on the last day of the year. 9. Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits, Continued: (g) For both 2016 and 2015, the hedge funds of funds consist of two funds that hold a portfolio of other investment funds instead of directly investing in specific securities, commodities or other financial instruments. The funds are valued based on the net asset value of the fund determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year. The net asset value is derived from the fair value of each underlying fund comprising the hedge funds of funds. There are two pooled investment funds in 2016 and one in 2015. For 2016, one fund holds a portfolio of other investment funds and does not invest directly in specific securities or financial instruments, while the other fund primarily invests in common stocks of international entities. The pooled investment fund in 2015 primarily invested in the commodities markets through futures and forward contracts and other commodity-related or commodity-linked financial instruments. The pooled investment funds are valued based on the net asset value of the fund as determined by the fund manager on the last business day of the year, and is derived from the fair value of each underlying investment held by the pooled fund. These investments have not been classified within the fair value hierarchy in accordance with ASU 2015-07. (h) The real estate fund is valued based on the net asset value of the fund on the last business day of the year. The net asset value is derived from the fair value of the underlying net assets of the fund. Private equity funds consist of investments in limited partnerships and are valued based on the pension plan's capital account balance at year end as reported in the audited financial statements of the partnership. These investments have not been classified within the fair value hierarchy in accordance with ASU 2015-07.
Pension Plan Assets, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of pension plan assets that are measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs: (Millions) Domestic equities Real estate LLCs Guaranteed annuity contract Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 0.1 $ 81.8 $ 1.4 $ 83.3 Gains related to plan assets sold during the year — 0.2 — 0.2 Gains on plan assets still held at year-end — 2.7 0.1 2.8 Purchases and sales, net — (8.1 ) (0.4 ) (8.5 ) Transfers in and/or out of level 3 — — — — Balance at December 31, 2015 0.1 76.6 1.1 77.8 Gains related to plan assets sold during the year — — — — (Loss) gains on plan assets still held at year-end (0.1 ) 1.8 0.1 1.8 Purchases and sales, net — — (0.4 ) (0.4 ) Transfers in and/or out of level 3 — — — — Balance at December 31, 2016 $ — $ 78.4 $ 0.8 $ 79.2
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits, Expected Benefit Payments Disclosure	Estimated future employer contributions, benefit payments, including executive retirement agreements, are as follows as of December 31, 2016 : (Millions) Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits Expected employer contributions in 2017 $ 27.9 $ 1.9 Expected benefit payments: 2017 $ 71.7 $ 1.9 2018 70.3 1.8 2019 71.9 1.7 2020 72.9 1.5 2021 75.0 1.5 2022-2026 368.1 7.4

Share-Based Compensation Plan44

Share-Based Compensation Plans: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity	The vesting periods and grant date fair value for restricted stock and restricted stock units issued were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Number of shares in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock: Vest ratably over a three-year service period 1,380.9 2,739.2 488.2 Vest ratably over a two-year service period — — 3.1 Vest variably over a three-year service period — 62.6 41.2 Vest one year from date of grant, service based - granted to non-employee directors 198.0 73.7 20.2 Vest two years from date of grant, service based 53.2 6.9 — Vest three years from date of grant, service based 53.6 381.1 31.6 Total granted 1,685.7 3,263.5 584.3 Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions) $ 9.9 $ 35.0 $ 29.7 Restricted stock units: Vest contingently at the end of the respective performance period 1,380.0 283.4 196.1 Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions) $ 7.9 $ 2.9 $ 7.1
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity	Restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: (Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share Non-vested at December 31, 2015 3,252.4 $ 15.36 Granted 1,685.7 $ 5.90 Vested (1,135.5 ) $ 17.96 Forfeited (518.8 ) $ 11.16 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 3,283.8 $ 10.27 Restricted stock unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: (Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share Non-vested at December 31, 2015 113.7 $ 21.67 Granted 1,380.0 $ 5.34 Vested (113.7 ) $ 21.67 Forfeited (173.7 ) $ 6.07 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 1,206.3 $ 5.64
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]	A summary of share-based compensation expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock and restricted units and stock options $ 19.9 $ 25.0 $ 22.1 Employee savings plan (See Note 9) 21.1 19.3 18.3 Management incentive compensation plans 0.6 11.0 1.4 Share-based compensation expense $ 41.6 $ 55.3 $ 41.8

Merger, Integration and Other45

Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Merger Integration and Restructuring Charges [Abstract]
Schedule of Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Activities	The following is a summary of the merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges recorded for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Merger, integration and other costs: Information technology conversion costs $ 0.3 $ 7.5 $ 20.8 Costs related to REIT spin-off (See Note 3) — 65.1 15.5 Costs related to sale of data center business 0.9 10.3 — Costs related to pending merger with EarthLink 2.7 — — Network optimization and contract termination costs 11.9 5.9 — Consulting and other costs — 6.2 4.1 Reversal of lease termination costs (2.0 ) — — Total merger, integration and other costs 13.8 95.0 40.4 Restructuring charges 20.3 20.7 35.9 Total merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges $ 34.1 $ 115.7 $ 76.3
Schedule of Restructuring and Reorganization Costs (Benefits), Net	The following is a summary of the activity related to the liabilities associated with our merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Balance, beginning of period $ 5.1 $ 11.2 Merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges 36.1 115.7 Reversal of accrued lease termination costs (2.0 ) — Cash outlays during the period (33.4 ) (121.8 ) Balance, end of period $ 5.8 $ 5.1

Accumulated Other Comprehensi46

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss): (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances, net of tax, were as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Pension and postretirement plans $ (1.2 ) $ 2.8 $ 14.5 Unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities — (286.5 ) — Unrealized holding gains (losses) on interest rate swaps Designated portion 13.7 (0.6 ) 3.1 De-designated portion (6.6 ) (0.1 ) (5.5 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 5.9 $ (284.4 ) $ 12.1
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances, net of tax, were as follows: (Millions) Unrealized Holding Loss on Available-for-Sale Securities Net (Gains) Losses on Interest Rate Swaps Pension and Postretirement Plans Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (286.5 ) $ (0.7 ) $ 2.8 $ (284.4 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 156.1 4.9 (0.1 ) 160.9 Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a) 130.4 2.9 (3.9 ) 129.4 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ — $ 7.1 $ (1.2 ) $ 5.9 (a) See separate table below for details about these reclassifications.
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income	Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows for the years ended December 31: Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components (Millions) Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations 2016 2015 2014 Available-for-sale securities: Gain on disposal recognized in the period $ (51.5 ) $ — $ — Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock Other-than-temporary impairment recognized in the period 181.9 — — Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock 130.4 — — Net (loss) income Losses on interest rate swaps: Amortization of net unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps 4.8 11.6 15.8 Interest expense 4.8 11.6 15.8 (Loss) income before income taxes (1.9 ) (4.5 ) (6.0 ) Income tax (benefit) expense 2.9 7.1 9.8 Net (loss) income Pension and postretirement plans: Plan curtailment (5.5 ) (18.0 ) (10.0 ) (a) Amortization of net actuarial loss 0.2 1.0 0.1 (a) Amortization of prior service credits (1.1 ) (3.9 ) (5.9 ) (a) (6.4 ) (20.9 ) (15.8 ) (Loss) income before income taxes 2.5 8.0 6.1 Income tax (benefit) expense (3.9 ) (12.9 ) (9.7 ) Net (loss) income Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax $ 129.4 $ (5.8 ) $ 0.1 Net (loss) income (a) These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit expense (income) (See Note 9).

Income Taxes_ Income Taxes_ (Ta

Income Taxes: Income Taxes: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure Table	Income tax (benefit) expense was as follows for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Current: Federal $ (2.7 ) $ 9.1 $ 0.8 State 1.0 23.2 (12.5 ) (1.7 ) 32.3 (11.7 ) Deferred: Federal (130.2 ) 15.0 (18.3 ) State (8.1 ) (31.3 ) 4.9 (138.3 ) (16.3 ) (13.4 ) Income tax (benefit) expense $ (140.0 ) $ 16.0 $ (25.1 )
Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	Differences between the federal income tax statutory rates and effective income tax rates, which include both federal and state income taxes, were as follows for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 Statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Increase (decrease) State income taxes, net of federal benefit 3.7 4.0 4.7 Adjust deferred taxes for state net operating loss carryforward (0.6 ) 16.0 — Transaction costs (0.2 ) 18.7 (8.0 ) Tax refunds — — 7.3 Valuation allowance — (48.4 ) (15.4 ) Income tax reserves 0.1 12.2 (0.4 ) Research and development credit 0.8 (8.4 ) 12.1 Adjustment of deferred taxes for legal entity restructuring — 6.8 — Disallowed loss (12.1 ) — (2.9 ) Tax credits — (1.0 ) 2.2 Other items, net — 2.0 4.3 Effective income tax rate 26.7 % 36.9 % 38.9 %
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The significant components of the net deferred income tax liability (asset) were as follows at December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 Property, plant and equipment $ 1,395.8 $ 1,472.8 Goodwill and other intangible assets 1,265.6 1,295.8 Operating loss and credit carryforward (528.8 ) (462.5 ) Postretirement and other employee benefits (142.4 ) (120.1 ) Unrealized holding loss and interest rate swaps (0.2 ) (5.2 ) Deferred compensation (4.0 ) (4.9 ) Bad debt (19.4 ) (25.1 ) Long-term lease obligations (1,932.7 ) (1,993.7 ) Deferred debt costs 8.9 (2.0 ) Restricted stock (9.4 ) (9.7 ) Other, net (28.4 ) (5.9 ) 5.0 139.5 Valuation allowance 146.5 147.9 Deferred income taxes, net $ 151.5 $ 287.4 Deferred tax assets $ (2,695.9 ) $ (2,670.6 ) Deferred tax liabilities 2,847.4 2,958.0 Deferred income taxes, net $ 151.5 $ 287.4
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation, Table	We account for uncertainty in taxes in accordance with authoritative guidance. A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 10.1 $ 5.6 $ 4.6 Additions based on tax positions related to current year 0.7 5.0 2.3 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (1.6 ) (0.5 ) (0.1 ) Reduction as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations — — (0.2 ) Settlements (0.4 ) — (1.0 ) Ending balance $ 8.8 $ 10.1 $ 5.6

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure	Minimum rental commitments for all non-cancellable operating leases, consisting principally of leases for network facilities, real estate, office space and office equipment were as follows as of December 31, 2016 : Year (Millions) 2017 $ 108.8 2018 86.8 2019 72.4 2020 49.7 2021 38.2 Thereafter 123.4 Total $ 479.3

Segment Information_ (Tables)

Segment Information: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes our segment results for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Consumer and Small Business - ILEC: Revenues and sales $ 1,579.7 $ 1,605.5 $ 1,644.4 Costs and expenses 680.7 671.0 696.9 Segment income 899.0 934.5 947.5 Wholesale: Revenues 631.0 687.9 729.7 Costs and expenses 178.8 185.6 172.5 Segment income 452.2 502.3 557.2 Enterprise: Revenues and sales 2,031.2 2,067.2 2,003.0 Costs and expenses 1,712.5 1,826.6 1,757.4 Segment income 318.7 240.6 245.6 Small Business - CLEC: Revenues 483.8 559.0 658.3 Costs and expenses 328.7 378.2 408.7 Segment income 155.1 180.8 249.6 Total segment revenues and sales 4,725.7 4,919.6 5,035.4 Total segment costs and expenses 2,900.7 3,061.4 3,035.5 Total segment income $ 1,825.0 $ 1,858.2 $ 1,999.9
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	The following table reconciles total segment revenue and sales to total consolidated revenue and sales for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Total segment revenues and sales $ 4,725.7 $ 4,919.6 $ 5,035.4 Regulatory and other operating revenues and sales 661.3 714.5 639.6 Revenue and sales related to disposed businesses — 131.2 154.5 Total consolidated revenues and sales $ 5,387.0 $ 5,765.3 $ 5,829.5
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	The following table reconciles segment income to consolidated net (loss) income for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Total segment income $ 1,825.0 $ 1,858.2 $ 1,999.9 Revenues and sales related to disposed businesses — 131.2 154.5 Regulatory and other operating revenues and sales 661.3 714.5 639.6 Depreciation and amortization (1,263.5 ) (1,366.5 ) (1,386.4 ) Other unassigned operating expenses (707.4 ) (739.7 ) (798.9 ) Operating expenses related to disposed businesses — (88.3 ) (101.6 ) Dividend income on CS&L common stock 17.6 48.2 — Other (expense) income, net (1.2 ) 9.3 0.1 Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock 15.2 — — (Loss) gain on sale of data center business (10.0 ) 326.1 — Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (18.0 ) (36.4 ) — Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock (181.9 ) — — Interest expense (860.6 ) (813.2 ) (571.8 ) Income tax (benefit) expense 140.0 (16.0 ) 25.1 Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 )

Supplemental Guarantor Inform50

Supplemental Guarantor Information: (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Operating revenues: Leasing income from subsidiaries $ 653.6 $ 446.0 $ — Total operating revenues 653.6 446.0 — Costs and expenses: Selling, general and administrative 1.7 2.0 2.3 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Total costs and expenses 355.7 241.7 2.3 Operating income (loss) 297.9 204.3 (2.3 ) Interest expense on long-term lease obligation with CS&L (500.8 ) (351.6 ) — Loss before income taxes and equity in subsidiaries (202.9 ) (147.3 ) (2.3 ) Income tax benefit (78.4 ) (57.0 ) (0.9 ) Loss before equity in subsidiaries (124.5 ) (90.3 ) (1.4 ) Equity (losses) earnings from subsidiaries (259.0 ) 117.7 (38.1 ) Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (93.2 ) $ (269.1 ) $ (55.9 ) See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,011.0 $ 4,304.9 $ (36.0 ) $ 5,279.9 Product sales — 96.4 10.7 — 107.1 Total revenues and sales — 1,107.4 4,315.6 (36.0 ) 5,387.0 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 417.0 2,294.0 (33.2 ) 2,677.8 Cost of products sold — 86.7 11.8 — 98.5 Selling, general and administrative — 150.7 648.1 (2.8 ) 796.0 Depreciation and amortization 13.8 301.4 948.3 — 1,263.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 13.8 — 13.8 Restructuring charges — 2.9 17.4 — 20.3 Total costs and expenses 13.8 958.7 3,933.4 (36.0 ) 4,869.9 Operating (loss) income (13.8 ) 148.7 382.2 — 517.1 Losses from consolidated subsidiaries (65.1 ) (65.7 ) (15.1 ) 145.9 — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 17.6 — — — 17.6 Other income (expense), net 1.8 (0.8 ) (2.2 ) — (1.2 ) Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock 15.2 — — — 15.2 Loss on sale of data center business — — (10.0 ) — (10.0 ) Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (18.0 ) — — — (18.0 ) Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock (181.9 ) — — — (181.9 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 116.6 (44.6 ) (72.0 ) — — Interest expense (355.1 ) (149.5 ) (356.0 ) — (860.6 ) Loss before income taxes (482.7 ) (111.9 ) (73.1 ) 145.9 (521.8 ) Income tax benefit (100.2 ) (16.3 ) (22.8 ) — (139.3 ) Net loss $ (382.5 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (382.5 ) Comprehensive loss $ (92.2 ) $ (95.6 ) $ (50.3 ) $ 145.9 $ (92.2 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,163.2 $ 4,461.0 $ (25.6 ) $ 5,598.6 Product sales — 145.3 21.4 — 166.7 Total revenues and sales — 1,308.5 4,482.4 (25.6 ) 5,765.3 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 493.6 2,290.6 (22.2 ) 2,762.0 Cost of products sold — 125.0 20.2 — 145.2 Selling, general and administrative — 186.8 681.1 (3.4 ) 864.5 Depreciation and amortization 18.3 334.5 1,013.7 — 1,366.5 Merger, integration and other costs — — 95.0 — 95.0 Restructuring charges — 9.4 11.3 — 20.7 Total costs and expenses 18.3 1,149.3 4,111.9 (25.6 ) 5,253.9 Operating (loss) income (18.3 ) 159.2 370.5 — 511.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 239.6 (149.9 ) (7.8 ) (81.9 ) — Dividend income on CS&L common stock 48.2 — — — 48.2 Other (expenses) income, net (2.5 ) 0.8 11.0 — 9.3 Gain on sale of data center business — — 326.1 — 326.1 Net loss on early extinguishment of debt (30.7 ) (5.3 ) (0.4 ) — (36.4 ) Intercompany interest income (expense) 115.9 (46.5 ) (69.4 ) — — Interest expense (440.1 ) (122.0 ) (251.1 ) — (813.2 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (87.9 ) (163.7 ) 378.9 (81.9 ) 45.4 Income tax (benefit) expense (116.5 ) (15.8 ) 149.1 — 16.8 Net income (loss) $ 28.6 $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ 28.6 Comprehensive (loss) income $ (267.9 ) $ (147.9 ) $ 229.8 $ (81.9 ) $ (267.9 ) 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Revenues and sales: Service revenues $ — $ 1,178.5 $ 4,494.1 $ (25.0 ) $ 5,647.6 Product sales — 154.7 27.2 — 181.9 Total revenues and sales — 1,333.2 4,521.3 (25.0 ) 5,829.5 Costs and expenses: Cost of services — 517.7 2,276.3 (20.7 ) 2,773.3 Cost of products sold — 131.2 25.4 — 156.6 Selling, general and administrative — 166.8 765.0 (4.3 ) 927.5 Depreciation and amortization 21.9 337.7 1,026.8 — 1,386.4 Merger, integration and other costs — — 40.4 — 40.4 Restructuring charges — 8.1 27.8 — 35.9 Total costs and expenses 21.9 1,161.5 4,161.7 (25.0 ) 5,320.1 Operating (loss) income (21.9 ) 171.7 359.6 — 509.4 Earnings (losses) from consolidated subsidiaries 217.3 (210.3 ) 4.0 (11.0 ) — Other (expense) income, net (0.2 ) 162.9 (162.6 ) — 0.1 Intercompany interest income (expense) 127.2 (53.7 ) (73.5 ) — — Interest expense (523.9 ) (44.8 ) (3.1 ) — (571.8 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (201.5 ) 25.8 124.4 (11.0 ) (62.3 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (163.4 ) 100.0 39.2 — (24.2 ) Net (loss) income $ (38.1 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (38.1 ) Comprehensive (loss) income $ (54.5 ) $ (74.2 ) $ 85.2 $ (11.0 ) $ (54.5 )
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet	BALANCE SHEETS (Millions, except par value) Assets 2016 2015 Current Assets: Distributions receivable from Windstream Services $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Total current assets 15.0 15.1 Investment and affiliate related balances 1,937.5 2,009.5 Net property, plant and equipment 1,947.3 2,301.3 Deferred income taxes 1,212.9 1,076.0 Total Assets $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Current liabilities: Accrued dividends $ 15.0 $ 15.1 Current portion of long-term lease obligation 168.7 152.7 Total current liabilities 183.7 167.8 Long-term lease obligation 4,759.0 4,927.7 Total liabilities 4,942.7 5,095.5 Shareholders’ Equity: Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively — — Additional paid-in capital 559.7 602.9 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 (284.4 ) Accumulated deficit (395.6 ) (12.1 ) Total shareholders’ equity 170.0 306.4 Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $ 5,112.7 $ 5,401.9 See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 Accounts receivable, net — 178.9 439.7 — 618.6 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 531.9 2,106.8 (2,638.7 ) — Inventories — 65.9 11.6 — 77.5 Prepaid expenses and other 10.1 36.5 65.1 — 111.7 Total current assets 10.1 820.2 2,680.1 (2,643.5 ) 866.9 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,081.8 297.7 231.4 (6,610.9 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 310.5 — (310.5 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 515.2 258.8 546.5 — 1,320.5 Net property, plant and equipment 6.9 1,234.3 4,042.3 — 5,283.5 Deferred income taxes — 320.2 102.5 (422.7 ) — Other assets 19.5 16.0 50.0 — 85.5 Total Assets $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 14.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 14.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 49.5 119.2 — 168.7 Accounts payable — 101.5 288.7 — 390.2 Affiliates payable, net 2,653.7 — — (2,638.7 ) 15.0 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 40.9 137.2 — 178.1 Accrued taxes — 21.3 56.7 — 78.0 Accrued interest 55.4 1.8 0.9 — 58.1 Other current liabilities 17.9 69.9 263.8 — 351.6 Total current liabilities 2,741.9 284.9 871.3 (2,643.5 ) 1,254.6 Long-term debt 4,749.2 99.5 — — 4,848.7 Long-term lease obligations — 1,405.3 3,426.6 — 4,831.9 Notes payable - affiliate — — 310.5 (310.5 ) — Deferred income taxes 574.2 — — (422.7 ) 151.5 Other liabilities 34.9 53.2 425.2 — 513.3 Total liabilities 8,100.2 1,842.9 5,033.6 (3,376.7 ) 11,600.0 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 556.1 3,143.3 825.3 (3,968.6 ) 556.1 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.9 — (1.2 ) 1.2 5.9 (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (392.0 ) (403.5 ) 2,925.7 (2,522.2 ) (392.0 ) Total equity 170.0 2,779.2 3,831.7 (6,610.9 ) 170.0 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 8,270.2 $ 4,622.1 $ 8,865.3 $ (9,987.6 ) $ 11,770.0 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 Accounts receivable, net — 219.4 424.5 — 643.9 Notes receivable - affiliate — 4.8 — (4.8 ) — Affiliates receivable, net — 449.4 2,486.8 (2,936.2 ) — Inventories — 69.1 10.4 — 79.5 Prepaid expenses and other 321.8 32.6 64.4 (298.2 ) 120.6 Total current assets 321.8 776.4 3,019.6 (3,242.5 ) 875.3 Investments in consolidated subsidiaries 6,214.0 363.5 256.7 (6,834.2 ) — Notes receivable - affiliate — 314.1 — (314.1 ) — Goodwill 1,636.7 1,364.4 1,212.5 — 4,213.6 Other intangibles, net 554.3 282.8 667.6 — 1,504.7 Net property, plant and equipment 8.4 1,249.7 4,021.7 — 5,279.8 Investment in CS&L common stock 549.2 — — — 549.2 Deferred income taxes — 299.4 217.1 (516.5 ) — Other assets 14.2 56.3 25.0 — 95.5 Total Assets $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1 Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 5.9 $ — $ — $ — $ 5.9 Current portion of long-term lease obligations — 44.4 108.3 — 152.7 Accounts payable — 93.2 336.9 — 430.1 Affiliates payable, net 2,951.3 — — (2,936.2 ) 15.1 Notes payable - affiliate — — 4.8 (4.8 ) — Advance payments and customer deposits — 27.0 166.9 — 193.9 Accrued taxes 0.3 11.3 370.7 (298.2 ) 84.1 Accrued interest 75.3 1.9 1.2 — 78.4 Other current liabilities 42.6 47.8 216.5 — 306.9 Total current liabilities 3,075.4 225.6 1,205.3 (3,239.2 ) 1,267.1 Long-term debt 5,065.1 99.5 — — 5,164.6 Long-term lease obligations — 1,455.2 3,545.2 — 5,000.4 Notes payable - affiliate — — 314.1 (314.1 ) — Deferred income taxes 803.9 — — (516.5 ) 287.4 Other liabilities 47.8 25.2 419.2 — 492.2 Total liabilities 8,992.2 1,805.5 5,483.8 (4,069.8 ) 12,211.7 Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14) Equity: Common stock — 39.4 81.9 (121.3 ) — Additional paid-in capital 600.3 3,150.9 825.3 (3,976.2 ) 600.3 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (284.4 ) — 2.8 (2.8 ) (284.4 ) (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (9.5 ) (289.2 ) 3,026.4 (2,737.2 ) (9.5 ) Total equity 306.4 2,901.1 3,936.4 (6,837.5 ) 306.4 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 9,298.6 $ 4,706.6 $ 9,420.2 $ (10,907.3 ) $ 12,518.1
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows	STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS For the years ended December 31, (Millions) 2016 2015 2014 Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ 27.4 $ (39.5 ) Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided from operations: Equity losses (earnings) from subsidiaries 259.0 (117.7 ) 38.1 Depreciation expense 354.0 239.7 — Deferred income taxes (77.7 ) (56.2 ) — Net cash provided from (used in) operating activities 151.8 93.2 (1.4 ) Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment — (43.1 ) — Net cash used in investing activities — (43.1 ) — Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions from Windstream Services 88.5 416.6 603.6 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 43.1 — Dividends paid to shareholders (58.6 ) (369.2 ) (602.2 ) Stock repurchases (28.9 ) (46.2 ) — Payments under long-term lease obligation (152.8 ) (94.4 ) — Net cash (used in) provided from financing activities (151.8 ) (50.1 ) 1.4 Change in cash and cash equivalents — — — Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — — — End of period $ — $ — $ — See Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Windstream Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries included in the Financial Supplement Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (143.2 ) $ 363.2 $ 705.4 $ — $ 925.4 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (0.6 ) (177.6 ) (811.6 ) — (989.8 ) Proceeds from the sale of property — 1.0 5.3 — 6.3 Other, net (4.1 ) — (2.4 ) — (6.5 ) Net cash used in investing activities (4.7 ) (176.6 ) (808.7 ) — (990.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (88.5 ) — — — (88.5 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (3,263.7 ) — — — (3,263.7 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 3,674.5 — — — 3,674.5 Debt issuance costs (12.4 ) — — — (12.4 ) Intercompany transactions, net (155.0 ) (142.5 ) 294.2 3.3 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (44.9 ) (107.9 ) — (152.8 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (1.7 ) (56.0 ) — (57.7 ) Other, net (7.0 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (7.0 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 147.9 (185.5 ) 126.7 3.3 92.4 Increase in cash and cash equivalents — 1.1 23.4 3.3 27.8 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 1.1 33.5 (3.3 ) 31.3 End of period $ — $ 2.2 $ 56.9 $ — $ 59.1 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (337.4 ) $ 259.8 $ 1,105.4 $ — $ 1,027.8 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.0 ) (187.2 ) (867.1 ) — (1,055.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 6.7 — — — 6.7 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 23.5 — — — 23.5 Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — (18.6 ) (55.3 ) — (73.9 ) Disposition of data center business — — 574.2 — 574.2 Other, net (9.6 ) 0.1 12.3 — 2.8 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 19.6 (205.7 ) (335.9 ) — (522.0 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (416.6 ) — — — (416.6 ) Payment received from CS&L in spin-off 1,035.0 — — — 1,035.0 Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements — 19.6 23.5 — 43.1 Repayments of debt and swaps (2,898.9 ) (450.0 ) (2.0 ) — (3,350.9 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 2,335.0 — — — 2,335.0 Debt issuance costs (4.3 ) — — — (4.3 ) Intercompany transactions, net 277.1 409.8 (709.6 ) 22.7 — Payments under long-term lease obligations — (35.6 ) (67.0 ) — (102.6 ) Payments under capital lease obligations — (4.2 ) (27.3 ) — (31.5 ) Other, net (9.5 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.5 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 317.8 (56.8 ) (786.0 ) 22.7 (502.3 ) Decrease in cash and cash equivalents — (2.7 ) (16.5 ) 22.7 3.5 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period — 3.8 50.0 (26.0 ) 27.8 End of period $ — $ 1.1 $ 33.5 $ (3.3 ) $ 31.3 16. Supplemental Guarantor Information, Continued: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (Millions) Windstream Services Guarantors Non- Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated Cash Provided from Operating Activities: Net cash (used in) provided from operating activities $ (129.2 ) $ 449.0 $ 1,148.9 $ — $ 1,468.7 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (1.8 ) (117.2 ) (667.5 ) — (786.5 ) Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants — (0.3 ) (13.0 ) — (13.3 ) Changes in restricted cash 3.0 — — — 3.0 Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects 33.2 — — — 33.2 Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase 1 — 9.4 16.6 — 26.0 Network expansion funded by Connect America — (1.3 ) (11.5 ) — (12.8 ) Acquisition of a business (22.6 ) — — — (22.6 ) Other, net — — 3.9 — 3.9 Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities 11.8 (109.4 ) (671.5 ) — (769.1 ) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc. (603.6 ) — — — (603.6 ) Repayments of debt and swaps (1,394.4 ) (0.9 ) (0.1 ) — (1,395.4 ) Proceeds of debt issuance 1,315.0 — — — 1,315.0 Intercompany transactions, net 795.9 (341.0 ) (428.9 ) (26.0 ) — Payments under capital lease obligations — (0.6 ) (26.2 ) — (26.8 ) Other, net (9.2 ) 3.6 (3.6 ) — (9.2 ) Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities 103.7 (338.9 ) (458.8 ) (26.0 ) (720.0 ) Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents (13.7 ) 0.7 18.6 (26.0 ) (20.4 ) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period 13.7 3.1 31.4 — 48.2 End of period $ — $ 3.8 $ 50.0 $ (26.0 ) $ 27.8

Quarterly Financial Informati51

Quarterly Financial Information - (Unaudited): Quarterly Financial Information - (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Millions, except per share amounts) Total 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Revenues and sales $ 5,387.0 $ 1,309.1 $ 1,344.9 $ 1,359.6 $ 1,373.4 Operating income $ 515.4 $ 73.7 $ 129.4 $ 154.6 $ 157.7 Net (loss) income $ (383.5 ) $ (86.9 ) $ (66.2 ) $ 1.5 $ (231.9 ) Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: (a) Net (loss) income ($4.11 ) ($.94 ) ($.72 ) $.01 ($2.52 ) (a) Quarterly (loss) earnings per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year. Significant items affecting our historical operating trends in the quarterly periods of 2016 were as follows: • As discussed in Note 9, we recognize actuarial gains and losses for pension benefits as a component of net periodic benefit expense (income) in the fourth quarter of each year, unless an earlier measurement date is required. Results of operations for the fourth quarter of 2016 include net pre-tax actuarial losses related to pension benefits of $60.7 million or an after-tax charge of $37.2 million , respectively. • Operating income in each of the first three quarters of 2016 was favorably impacted by decreases in depreciation and amortization expense when compared to the same periods a year ago. The decreases were primarily attributable to fully depreciating at the end of 2015 a large number of assets acquired in connection with acquisitions completed in 2010 and 2011 and the 2015 disposals of the data center, consumer CLEC and directory publishing operations. • Net (loss) income for the first and second quarters of 2016 was adversely impacted by additional interest expense of $126.9 million and $125.4 million , respectively, attributable to the long-term lease obligation under the master lease agreement with CS&L. This additional interest expense increased the net loss $77.9 million and $76.9 million in the first and second quarters of 2016, respectively. (See Note 6). • Net (loss) income for the first quarter of 2016 included an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $181.9 million related to our investment in CS&L. (See Note 5). For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Millions, except per share amounts) Total 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Revenues and sales $ 5,765.3 $ 1,427.0 $ 1,498.6 $ 1,421.1 $ 1,418.6 Operating income $ 509.4 $ 131.7 $ 178.5 $ 79.3 $ 119.9 Net income (loss) $ 27.4 $ 140.5 $ (7.2 ) $ (111.2 ) $ 5.3 Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: (a) Net income (loss) $.24 $1.41 ($.08 ) ($1.13 ) $.05 (a) Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year.

Schedule I - Condensed Financ52

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company) Statement of Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative									$ 797.7	$ 866.5	$ 929.8
Depreciation expense									1,078.3	1,146.3	1,130.3
Total costs and expenses									4,871.6	5,255.9	5,322.4
Operating income	$ 73.7	$ 129.4	$ 154.6	$ 157.7	$ 131.7	$ 178.5	$ 79.3	$ 119.9	515.4	509.4	507.1
Loss before income taxes and equity in subsidiaries									(523.5)	43.4	(64.6)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(140)	16	(25.1)
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)	$ (66.2)	1.5	(231.9)	140.5	(7.2)	(111.2)	$ 5.3	(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(93.2)	(269.1)	(55.9)
Winstream Holdings, Inc. [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Leasing income from subsidiaries									653.6	446	0
Total operating revenues									653.6	446	0
Selling, general and administrative									1.7	2	2.3
Depreciation expense									354	239.7	0
Total costs and expenses									355.7	241.7	2.3
Operating income									297.9	204.3	(2.3)
Loss before income taxes and equity in subsidiaries									(202.9)	(147.3)	(2.3)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(78.4)	(57)	(0.9)
Loss before equity in subsidiaries									(124.5)	(90.3)	(1.4)
Equity (losses) earnings from subsidiaries									(259)	117.7	(38.1)
Net (loss) income									(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(93.2)	(269.1)	(55.9)
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Interest expense on long-term lease obligation with CS&L			$ (125.4)	$ (126.9)	$ (127.4)	$ (128.2)	$ (96)		(500.8)	(351.6)	0
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain] | Winstream Holdings, Inc. [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Interest expense on long-term lease obligation with CS&L									$ (500.8)	$ (351.6)	$ 0

Schedule I - Condensed Financ53

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company) Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Total current assets	$ 866.9	$ 875.3
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	559.7	602.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)	$ 12.1
Accumulated deficit	(395.6)	(12.1)
Total shareholders’ equity	170	306.4	$ 224.8	$ 840.2
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$ 11,770	$ 12,518.1
Common stock, shares authorized	166,700,000	166,700,000
Common stock, shares issued	96,300,000	96,700,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	96,300,000	96,700,000
Winstream Holdings, Inc. [Member]
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Distributions receivable from Windstream Services	$ 15	$ 15.1
Total current assets	15	15.1
Investment and affiliate related balances	1,937.5	2,009.5
Net property, plant and equipment	1,947.3	2,301.3
Deferred income taxes	1,212.9	1,076
Total Assets	5,112.7	5,401.9
Accrued dividends	15	15.1
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Total current liabilities	183.7	167.8
Long-term lease obligations	4,759	4,927.7
Total liabilities	4,942.7	5,095.5
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 166.7 shares authorized, 96.3 and 96.7 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	559.7	602.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)
Accumulated deficit	(395.6)	(12.1)
Total shareholders’ equity	170	306.4
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$ 5,112.7	$ 5,401.9
Common stock, shares authorized	166,700,000	166,700,000
Common stock, shares issued	96,300,000	96,700,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	96,300,000	96,700,000

Schedule I - Condensed Financ54

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company) Statement of Cash Flow (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)	$ (66.2)	$ 1.5	$ (231.9)	$ 140.5	$ (7.2)	$ (111.2)	$ 5.3	$ (383.5)	$ 27.4	$ (39.5)
Depreciation expense									1,078.3	1,146.3	1,130.3
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)									(138.3)	(16.3)	(13.4)
Net cash (used in) provided from operations									924.4	1,026.6	1,467.3
Additions to property, plant and equipment									(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities									(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements									0	43.1	0
Dividends paid to shareholders									(58.6)	(369.2)	(602.2)
Stock repurchases									(28.9)	(46.2)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations									(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities									93.4	(501.1)	(718.6)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents									27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Cash and cash equivalents	59.1			31.3	31.3			27.8	31.3	27.8	48.2
Beginning of period				31.3				27.8	31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	59.1				31.3				59.1	31.3	27.8
Winstream Holdings, Inc. [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net (loss) income									(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Equity earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									259	(117.7)	38.1
Depreciation expense									354	239.7	0
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)									(77.7)	(56.2)	0
Net cash (used in) provided from operations									151.8	93.2	(1.4)
Additions to property, plant and equipment									0	(43.1)	0
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities									0	(43.1)	0
Distributions from Windstream Services									88.5	416.6	603.6
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements									0	43.1	0
Dividends paid to shareholders									(58.6)	(369.2)	(602.2)
Stock repurchases									(28.9)	(46.2)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations									(152.8)	(94.4)	0
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities									(151.8)	(50.1)	1.4
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents									0	0	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Cash and cash equivalents	0			0	0			0	0	0	0
Beginning of period				$ 0				$ 0	0	0	0
End of period	$ 0				$ 0				$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Schedule I - Condensed Financ55

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant (Parent Company) Background and Presentation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest	100.00%
Windstream Holdings, Inc. [Domain]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Intercompany Income Related to the Spin-Off Transaction	$ 123.5	$ 89.1

Schedule II - Valuation and Q56

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Reversal of accrued liabilities	$ 2	$ 0	$ 0
Allowance for doubtful accounts, customers and others:
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Period	33.1	43.4	40
Additions Charged to Cost and Expenses	43.8	47.1	54.8
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Deductions	49.8	57.4	51.4
Balance at End of Period	27.1	33.1	43.4
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets:
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Period	147.9	94.9	84.9
Additions Charged to Cost and Expenses	0	3.8	10
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	75.4	0
Deductions	1.4	26.2	0
Balance at End of Period	146.5	147.9	94.9
Accrued liabilities related to merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges:
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Period	5.1	11.2	14
Additions Charged to Cost and Expenses	34.1	115.7	76.3
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Deductions	33.4	121.8	79.1
Balance at End of Period	$ 5.8	$ 5.1	$ 11.2

Background and Basis for Pres57

Background and Basis for Presentation: (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016Mi
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest	100.00%
Local and long-haul fiber-optic network	131,000

Net Property, Plant and Equipme

Net Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Apr. 24, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Land		$ 42.8	$ 43.4
Building and improvements		608.8	604.9
Central office equipment		6,493.6	6,013.9
Outside communications plant		7,390.9	7,245.3
Furniture, vehicles and other equipment		1,835.5	1,660.2
Construction in progress		618.8	527.6
Gross property, plant and equipment		16,990.4	16,095.3
Less accumulated depreciation		(11,706.9)	(10,815.5)
Net property, plant and equipment		5,283.5	5,279.8
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Net property, plant and equipment		$ 2,200	$ 2,400
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Long-term Lease Obligation, Lease Terms	15 years

Reconciliation of Net Income an

Reconciliation of Net Income and Number of Shares Used in Computing Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	[1]	Sep. 30, 2016	[1]	Jun. 30, 2016	[1]	Mar. 31, 2016	[1]	Dec. 31, 2015	[1]	Sep. 30, 2015	[1]	Jun. 30, 2015	[1]	Mar. 31, 2015	[1]	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Numerator:
Net (loss) income																	$ (383.5)		$ 27.4		$ (39.5)
Income allocable to participating securities																	(2.5)		(3.5)		(5)
Net (loss) income attributable to common shares																	$ (386)		$ 23.9		$ (44.5)
Basic and diluted shares outstanding
Weighted average shares outstanding																	99.1		102		100.3
Weighted average participating securities																	(5.2)		(3.1)		(0.8)
Weighted average basic and diluted shares outstanding																	93.9		98.9		99.5
Net (loss) income	$ (0.94)		$ (0.72)		$ 0.01		$ (2.52)		$ 1.41		$ (0.08)		$ (1.13)		$ 0.05		$ (4.11)	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ (0.45)
[1]	Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year.

Summary of Significant Accoun60

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: (Details) shares in Millions	3 Months Ended	10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)statessegmentshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Unbilled Contracts Receivable	$ 41,500,000		$ 33,000,000	$ 41,500,000
Total authorized Connect America Fund Support			86,700,000
Estimated Annual Connect America Fund Phase II Support			$ 175,000,000
Number of Years of Connect America Fund Phase II Funding			6 years
Eligible locations for Connect America Fund Phase II Support			400,000
Number of States Accepted Connect America Funding | states			17
Number of States Incumbent Provider | states			18
Number of States Declined Connect America Fund Phase II Funding | states			1
Disposition of data center business	574,200,000		$ 0	574,200,000	$ 0
Reductions in Proceeds from Divestiture of Business	800,000
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business	326,100,000		$ (10,000,000)	326,100,000	0
Income (Loss) from Individually Significant Component Disposed of or Held-for-sale, Excluding Discontinued Operations, Attributable to Parent, before Income Tax				(500,000)	(17,600,000)
Number of Reportable Segments | segment			4
Goodwill, Impairment Loss		$ 0
Net property, plant and equipment	5,279,800,000		$ 5,283,500,000	5,279,800,000
Percentage of Receivable Broadband Stimulus Recorded to Construction in Progress			75.00%
Economic life of assets funded by Broadband Stimulus Grants			23 years
Net book value of assets funded by broadband stimulus grants			$ 106,900,000
Interest Costs Capitalized			10,700,000	10,400,000	3,700,000
Asset retirement obligation	$ 53,100,000		53,300,000	53,100,000
Advertising expense			$ 44,000,000	$ 52,900,000	$ 59,500,000
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount | shares			0.4	0.5	0.5

Summary of Significant Accoun61

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes (Phantom) (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions	10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount		0.4	0.5	0.5
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 0
Minimum | Building and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		3 years
Minimum | Central office equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		3 years
Minimum | Outside communications plant
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		7 years
Minimum | Furniture, vehicles and other equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		1 year
Maximum | Building and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		40 years
Maximum | Central office equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		40 years
Maximum | Outside communications plant
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		47 years
Maximum | Furniture, vehicles and other equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		23 years
Customer lists (a) | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		9 years
Customer lists (a) | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years

Summary of Significant Accoun62

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Changes: Change in Accounting Estimate (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Change in Accounting Estimate, Description																	The calculation of depreciation and amortization expense is based on the estimated economic useful lives of the underlying property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets. We periodically obtain updated depreciation studies to evaluate whether certain useful lives remain appropriate in accordance with authoritative guidance. With the assistance of a third-party valuation advisor, we completed analyses of the depreciable lives of assets held for use of certain subsidiaries during 2016. Based on the results of the analyses, we implemented new depreciation rates in the fourth quarter of 2016, the effects of which resulted in an increase to depreciation expense. Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2016, we reassessed the estimated useful lives of certain fiber assets, extending the useful life of such assets from 20 to 25 years. The net impact of these changes resulted in an increase to depreciation expense of $8.8 million and an increase in net loss of $5.4 million or $.06 per share for the year ended December 31, 2016. We anticipate the net impact of these changes to increase depreciation expense by $35.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Depreciation																	$ 1,078.3		$ 1,146.3		$ 1,130.3
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)		$ (66.2)		$ 1.5		$ (231.9)		$ 140.5		$ (7.2)		$ (111.2)		$ 5.3		$ (383.5)		$ 27.4		$ (39.5)
Per Share	$ (0.94)	[1]	$ (0.72)	[1]	$ 0.01	[1]	$ (2.52)	[1]	$ 1.41	[1]	$ (0.08)	[1]	$ (1.13)	[1]	$ 0.05	[1]	$ (4.11)	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ (0.45)
Service Life [Member]
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Depreciation																	$ 8.8
Net (loss) income																	$ 5.4
Per Share																	$ 0.06
Depreciation, net impact next twelve months	$ 35.3																$ 35.3
[1]	Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year.

Completion of Spin-off of Cer63

Completion of Spin-off of Certain Network and Real Estate Assets: (Details)	Apr. 26, 2015shares	Apr. 24, 2015USD ($)shares	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 20, 2016USD ($)
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Spin-off transaction date		Apr. 24, 2015
Dividends, Cash				$ 58,200,000	$ 231,500,000	$ 602,900,000
Number of swaps terminated		7
Common stock, shares authorized | shares				166,700,000	166,700,000
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net book value of Network Assets transferred to CS&L		$ 2,500,000,000
Percent of REIT Shares Distributed		80.40%
Dividends, Cash		$ 1,035,000,000
REIT debt issued to Windstream Services, LLC.		$ 2,500,000,000
Number of Shares, Stock Dividend Ratio, REIT | shares		1
Number of Shares, Stock Dividend Ratio, Windstream Holdings, Inc. | shares		5
Costs Associated with Debt Exchange		$ 35,400,000
Costs associated with Termination of Swaps		$ 22,700,000
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners		19.60%
Windstream Holdings, Inc. [Domain]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Common stock, shares authorized, Pre-Reverse Stock Split | shares	1,000,000,000
Common stock, shares authorized | shares				166,700,000
Number of WIndstream Holdings, Inc. Common Shares After Reverse Stock Split | shares	1				1
Common stock, shares outstanding | shares	6				6
Windstream Holdings, Inc. [Domain] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Senior Notes		$ 1,700,000,000
Real Estate Investment Trust [Member] [Domain] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Senior Notes		2,140,000,000
Line of Credit
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Repayments of Lines of Credit			$ 672,000,000	$ 672,000,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total Debt Issued to Windstream		1,077,300,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Real Estate Investment Trust [Member] [Domain] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Notes Payable		$ 1,110,000,000
Interest rate		8.25%
Secured Debt | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total Debt Issued to Windstream		$ 400,000,000
Secured Debt | Real Estate Investment Trust [Member] [Domain] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Notes Payable		$ 400,000,000
Interest rate		6.00%
Term Loans [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total Debt Issued to Windstream		$ 970,200,000
Revolving Line of Credit, Due 2020 [Member] | Line of Credit | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Repayments of Lines of Credit		$ 752,200,000
Interest Rate Swap
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held				4			3
Interest Rate Swap | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held		10

Goodwill and Other Intangible64

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Schedule of Goodwill (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, Beginning of Period	$ 4,352.8
Balance, End of Period	4,213.6
Consumer CLEC Business [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	(12.8)	[1]
Data Center Business [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	(126.4)	[1]
Consumer and Small Business - ILEC [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, End of Period	2,321.2
Wholesale [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, End of Period	1,176.4
Enterprise [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, End of Period	598
Small Business - CLEC [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, End of Period	$ 118
[1]	(a) Represents the portion of historical goodwill allocated to the disposed businesses.

Intangible Assets (Details)

Intangible Assets (Details) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 18, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 24, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Number of Reportable Segments | segment		4
Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization		$ 185.2	$ 220.2	$ 256.1
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost		3,104.7	3,103.7
Accumulated Amortization		(1,784.2)	(1,599)
Net Carrying Value		1,320.5	1,504.7
Franchise rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost		1,285.1	1,285.1
Accumulated Amortization		(328.9)	(286.1)
Net Carrying Value		$ 956.2	999
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		30 years
Customer lists (a)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost	[1]	$ 1,791.7	1,791.7
Accumulated Amortization	[1]	(1,442.4)	(1,304.7)
Net Carrying Value	[1]	349.3	487
Cable franchise rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost		17.3	17.3
Accumulated Amortization		(8)	(6.8)
Net Carrying Value		$ 9.3	10.5
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years
Other (b)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost	[2]	$ 10.6	9.6
Accumulated Amortization	[2]	(4.9)	(1.4)
Net Carrying Value	[2]	$ 5.7	$ 8.2
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		3 years
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member] | Customer lists (a)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost						$ 34.5
Net Carrying Value						$ 13.1
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] | Customer lists (a)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Cost					$ 87.8
Net Carrying Value					$ 35.7
Maximum | Customer lists (a)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years
[1]	In connection with the spin-off, we transferred customer lists with a gross cost of $34.5 million and a net carrying value of $13.1 million to CS&L (see Note 3). At the date of sale of the data center business to TierPoint, customer lists associated with the data center operations had a gross cost of $87.8 million and a net carrying value of $35.7 million.
[2]	During 2016 and 2015, we acquired for cash non-exclusive licenses to various patents, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 3 years.

Intangible Asset Amortization M

Intangible Asset Amortization Methodology and Useful Lives (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 4,213.6	$ 4,213.6	$ 4,352.8
Franchise rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization Methodology	straight-line
Estimated useful life (in years)	30 years
Customer lists (a)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization Methodology	sum of years digits
Customer lists (a) | Minimum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	9 years
Customer lists (a) | Maximum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	15 years
Cable franchise rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization Methodology	straight-line
Estimated useful life (in years)	15 years
Other (b)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization Methodology	straight-line
Estimated useful life (in years)	3 years
Consumer and Small Business - ILEC [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 2,321.2	2,321.2
Wholesale [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	1,176.4	1,176.4
Enterprise [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	598	598
Small Business - CLEC [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 118	$ 118

Goodwill and Other Intangible67

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
2,017	$ 159.1
2,018	132.3
2,019	104.9
2,020	86.4
2,021	68.3
Thereafter	769.5
Net Carrying Value	$ 1,320.5	$ 1,504.7

Investment in CS&L Common Sto68

Investment in CS&L Common Stock (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		$ (138.3)	$ (16.3)	$ (13.4)
Carrying Value		0	549.2
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock		$ 181.9	0	0
Number of Debt-for-Equity Exchanges		2
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock		$ 15.2	0	$ 0
Common Stock [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Cost			835.7
Fair Value			549.2		$ 653.8
Carrying Value			549.2
Unrealized Loss			$ (286.5)
Line of Credit
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Repayments of Lines of Credit	$ 672	$ 672

Long-Term Debt (Details)

Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Mar. 29, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Net (discount) premium on long-term debt (c)	[1]	$ (7.2)	$ 4.6
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	[1]	(51)	(62.8)
Carrying value		4,863.6	5,170.5
Less current maturities		(14.9)	(5.9)
Total long-term debt		$ 4,848.7	$ 5,164.6
Weighted average interest rate		7.00%	6.80%
Weighted maturity		4 years 8 months	5 years 4 months
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B5 – variable rates, due August 8, 2019 | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		$ 572.3	$ 578.2
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes	[2]	894.8	0
Net (discount) premium on long-term debt (c)		(1.5)		$ (15)
Senior secured credit facility, Revolving line of credit – variable rates, due April 24, 2020 | Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit		$ 475	$ 300
Weighted average interest rate		2.55%	2.39%
2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		$ 0	$ 904.1
2020 Notes – 7.750%, due October 15, 2020 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		700	700
2021 Notes – 7.750%, due October 1, 2021 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		809.3	920.4
2022 Notes – 7.500%, due June 1, 2022 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		441.2	485.9
2023 Notes – 7.500%, due April 1, 2023 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		343.5	540.1
2023 Notes – 6.375%, due August 1, 2023 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable		585.7	700
Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. | Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. – 6.75%, due April 1, 2028 (b) | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debentures and notes issued by subsidiaries	[3]	$ 100	$ 100
[1]	The net (discount) premium balance and unamortized debt issuance costs are amortized using the interest method over the life of the related debt instrument.
[2]	If the maturity of the revolving line of credit is not extended prior to April 24, 2020, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be April 24, 2020; provided further, if the 2020 Notes have not been repaid or refinanced prior to July 15, 2020 with indebtedness having a maturity date no earlier than March 29, 2021, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be July 15, 2020.
[3]	These bonds are secured equally with the senior secured credit facility with respect to the assets of Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc.

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2016	Aug. 23, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	May 27, 2015	Apr. 24, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis point interest rate increase				1.00%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net			$ 2,700,000
2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount	$ 441,100,000	$ 93,500,000	369,500,000		$ 195,900,000
Repayments of Debt	477,500,000	$ 99,500,000	$ 396,400,000		209,600,000
Interest rate				7.875%
Debt Repurchase, Total Consideration Paid per $1,000	1,082.50
Debt Repurchase, Principal Amount on Which Total Consideration Paid	1,000
Debt Repurchase, Early Tender Payment	30
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net	$ 5,700,000
2018 Notes – 8.125%, due September 1, 2018 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate				8.125%
2020 Notes – 7.750%, due October 15, 2020 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate				7.75%
2021 Notes – 7.750%, due October 1, 2021 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount				$ 111,100,000	29,600,000
Repayments of Debt				$ 95,200,000	25,800,000
Interest rate				7.75%
2022 Notes – 7.500%, due June 1, 2022 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount				$ 44,800,000	14,100,000
Repayments of Debt				$ 37,000,000	11,500,000
Interest rate				7.50%
2023 Notes – 7.500%, due April 1, 2023 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount				$ 196,600,000	59,900,000
Repayments of Debt				$ 171,400,000	$ 50,200,000
Interest rate				7.50%
2023 Notes – 6.375%, due August 1, 2023 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate				6.375%
Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. | Windstream Holdings of the Midwest, Inc. – 6.75%, due April 1, 2028 (b) | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate				6.75%
Cinergy Communications Company | Cinergy Communications Company – 6.58%, due January 1, 2022 | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount							$ 1,900,000
PAETEC Holding Corp. | PAETEC 2018 Notes – 9.875%, due December 1, 2018 | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount						$ 450,000,000
Interest rate				9.875%

Debt - Additional Information (

Debt - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)		Mar. 29, 2016	May 27, 2015	Apr. 24, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Aug. 23, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facility, new borrowings, related fees and expenses					$ 1,200,000						$ 1,200,000
Senior secured credit facility, new borrowings, issuance percent					99.00%						99.00%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease)									1.00%
Dividends, Cash											$ 58,200,000	$ 231,500,000	$ 602,900,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate					7.00%						7.00%	6.80%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net	[1]				$ 7,200,000						$ 7,200,000	$ (4,600,000)
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt											(18,000,000)	(36,400,000)	$ 0
Equipment acquired under capital leases											50,800,000	36,400,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer, Non Cash, Value							$ 80,900,000
Other Lease Obligation, Lease Terms							10 years
Annual Rent Escalations							2.00%
Number of Renewal Options							3
Lease Term of Renewal Options							5
Gain Recognized, Repurchase of Property Contributed to Pension Plan					500,000
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	[1]				$ 51,000,000						51,000,000	62,800,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net									$ 2,700,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Notes 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt											$ 95,200,000	25,800,000
Interest rate					7.75%						7.75%
Notes Payable					$ 809,300,000						$ 809,300,000	920,400,000
Net debt assumed					111,100,000						111,100,000	29,600,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Notes 2023 [Member] [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt											101,000,000
Net debt assumed					$ 114,300,000						114,300,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2018 Notes – 8.125%, due September 1, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt											$ 0	(16,300,000)
Interest rate					8.125%						8.125%
Notes Payable			$ 400,000,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt											$ 0	(21,700,000)
Debt instrument, Redemption Price Payable per $1,000			1,040.63
Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium)			1,400,000								0	1,400,000
Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost			4,000,000								$ 0	4,000,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2020 Notes – 7.750%, due October 15, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					7.75%						7.75%
Notes Payable					$ 700,000,000						$ 700,000,000	700,000,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2022 Notes – 7.500%, due June 1, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt											$ 37,000,000	11,500,000
Interest rate					7.50%						7.50%
Notes Payable					$ 441,200,000						$ 441,200,000	485,900,000
Net debt assumed					$ 44,800,000						44,800,000	14,100,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2023 Notes – 7.500%, due April 1, 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt											$ 171,400,000	50,200,000
Interest rate					7.50%						7.50%
Notes Payable					$ 343,500,000						$ 343,500,000	540,100,000
Net debt assumed					196,600,000						196,600,000	59,900,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Partial Repurchase of 2017, 2021, 2022, 2023 Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized Net Discount and Debt Issuance Costs												3,900,000
Net debt assumed					466,800,000						466,800,000	299,500,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt												7,000,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net					$ 5,300,000						5,300,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		$ 477,500,000						$ 99,500,000	396,400,000			209,600,000
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt									(26,900,000)		$ (26,900,000)	0
Interest rate					7.875%						7.875%
Notes Payable					$ 0						$ 0	904,100,000
Net debt assumed		441,100,000						$ 93,500,000	369,500,000			195,900,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt											(78,300,000)	(11,300,000)
Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium)											3,000,000	900,000
Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost											5,400,000	1,800,000
Third party fees for early redemption											2,400,000	0
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net		5,700,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | PAETEC Holding Corp. | PAETEC 2018 Notes – 9.875%, due December 1, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt											$ 0	(22,200,000)
Interest rate					9.875%						9.875%
Net debt assumed			450,000,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt											$ 0	(5,300,000)
Debt instrument, Redemption Price Payable per $1,000			1,049.38
Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium)			$ 16,900,000								0	(16,900,000)
Secured Debt | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facilities, new borrowings		600,000,000			$ 150,000,000						150,000,000
Senior Notes	[2]				894,800,000						894,800,000	0
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net		15,000,000			1,500,000						1,500,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(3,100,000)
Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Gross		$ 11,700,000
Senior Secured Credit Facilities, Repriced									597,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net									150,000,000
Third party fees for early redemption									6,700,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net									$ 24,400,000
Secured Debt | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B5 – variable rates, due August 8, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes					572,300,000						572,300,000	578,200,000
Secured Debt | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B4 – variable rates, due January 23, 2020 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt				$ 241,800,000
Secured Debt | Cinergy Communications Company | Cinergy Communications Company – 6.58%, due January 1, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Net debt assumed				$ 1,900,000
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Lines of Credit						$ 672,000,000					672,000,000
Line of Credit | Senior secured credit facility, Revolving line of credit – variable rates, due April 24, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Increase, Additional Borrowings											2,791,000,000	2,355,000,000
Repayments of Lines of Credit											2,616,000,000	$ 2,660,000,000
Letters of Credit under Revolving Line of Credit, Maximum					30,000,000						30,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity					1,250,000,000						1,250,000,000
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount					24,200,000						24,200,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity					$ 750,800,000						$ 750,800,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate					2.55%						2.55%	2.39%
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Other Lease Obligation, Lease Terms							20 years
Other Lease Obligation, Annual Rental Payments							$ 6,300,000
Annual Rent Escalations							3.00%
Repurchase of Property Contributed to Pension Plan, Fair Value					$ 8,200,000
Portion of Long-term Lease Obligation Derecognized					$ 8,700,000
Lease Obligation, Annual Rent Adjusted for Repurchase of Data Center											$ 6,000,000
Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage											0.50%
Leverage ratio under covenant					4.5						4.5
Maximum | Line of Credit | Revolving Line of Credit, Due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					4.50%						4.50%	4.50%
Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage											0.40%
Interest coverage ratio under covenant					2.75						2.75
Minimum | Line of Credit | Revolving Line of Credit, Due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					2.25%						2.25%	2.19%
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Lease Obligation, Lease Terms				15 years
Effective interest rate, Master Lease Agreement				10.10%
Long-term Lease Obligation				$ 5,100,000,000
Other Lease Obligation, Lease Terms, with CapEx Funding				20 years
Number of Renewal Options				4
Lease Term of Renewal Options				5 years
Number of Renewal Options, Reduced				3
Other Long-term Lease Obligation, Annual Rental Payments				$ 650,000,000
Other Long-term Lease Obligation, Annual Rental Payment Adjusted for Funding of Capital Expenditures				653,500,000
Amount of Capital Expenditures that could be Funded by the REIT				$ 250,000,000
Annual Rent Escalations After Third Year of Initial Lease Term				0.50%
2015 Funding Request for CapEx to be paid by CS&L				$ 43,100,000
Adjustment to Rate of Master Lease if CapEx Funded				8.125%
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Dividends, Cash				$ 1,035,000,000
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt										$ 15,900,000
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member] | Windstream Holdings, Inc. [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes				1,700,000,000
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff [Member] | Line of Credit | Revolving Line of Credit, Due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Lines of Credit				$ 752,200,000
Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Quarterly Amortization Payment on Term Loans, Stated As A Percent of Initial Principal Amount											0.25%
Base Rate [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											1.00%
Base Rate [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											0.25%
Base Rate [Member] | Secured Debt | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											1.75%
Base Rate [Member] | Secured Debt | Maximum | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											4.00%
Base Rate [Member] | Secured Debt | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											0.75%
Base Rate [Member] | Secured Debt | Minimum | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate									0.75%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											2.00%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											1.25%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate											2.75%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Secured Debt | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate									5.00%		4.00%
Long-term Debt [Member] | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Third party fees for early redemption									$ 600,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net									21,300,000
Interest Expense [Member] | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Third party fees for early redemption									$ 6,100,000
[1]	The net (discount) premium balance and unamortized debt issuance costs are amortized using the interest method over the life of the related debt instrument.
[2]	If the maturity of the revolving line of credit is not extended prior to April 24, 2020, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be April 24, 2020; provided further, if the 2020 Notes have not been repaid or refinanced prior to July 15, 2020 with indebtedness having a maturity date no earlier than March 29, 2021, the maturity date of the Tranche B6 term loan will be July 15, 2020.

Long-term Debt and Lease Obli72

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: Long-term debt, Maturities, Repayments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Long-term debt, Maturities, Repayments [Abstract]
2,016	$ 14.9
2,017	14.9
2,018	569.5
2,019	1,183.9
2,020	1,668.2
Thereafter	1,470.4
Total	$ 4,921.8

Loss on Extinguishment of Debt

Loss on Extinguishment of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	May 27, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			$ (18)	$ (36.4)	$ 0
Unsecured Debt | 2017 Notes – 7.875%, due November 1, 2017
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt		$ (26.9)	(26.9)	0
Discount (Premium) on repurchases of debt			(40.6)	(8.6)
Third-party fees for early redemption			(2.4)	0
Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance			(5.4)	(1.8)
Unamortized premium on original issuance			(3)	(0.9)
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			(78.3)	(11.3)
Unsecured Debt | Partial Repurchase of 2021, 2022, 2023 Notes [Domain]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt			68.7	19.4
Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance			(6.2)	(1.4)
Unamortized premium on original issuance			0.9	0.3
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			63.4	18.3
Unsecured Debt | 2018 Notes – 8.125%, due September 1, 2018
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt			0	(16.3)
Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance	$ (4)		0	(4)
Unamortized premium on original issuance	(1.4)		0	(1.4)
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			0	(21.7)
Unsecured Debt | Cinergy Communications Company
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt			0	(0.5)
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			0	(0.5)
Unsecured Debt | PAETEC Holding Corp. | Notes, December 2018 [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt			0	(22.2)
Unamortized premium on original issuance	$ (16.9)		0	16.9
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			0	(5.3)
Secured Debt | Senior Notes [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Discount (Premium) on early extinguishment of debt			0	(6.6)
Third-party fees for early redemption			0	(0.7)
Unamortized debt issuance costs on original issuance			(1.4)	(8.6)
Unamortized premium on original issuance			(1.7)	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt			$ (3.1)	$ (15.9)

Long-term Debt and Lease Obli74

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: Current and Noncurrent Assets Subject to Leaseback (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Current and Noncurrent Long-Term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
Long-term Lease Obligations, Current Portion	$ 168.7	$ 152.7
Long-term Lease Obligations, Excluding Current Portion	4,831.9	5,000.4
Total Long-Term Lease Obligation	5,000.6	5,153.1
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Schedule of Current and Noncurrent Long-Term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
Long-term Lease Obligations, Current Portion	168.7	152.7
Long-term Lease Obligations, Excluding Current Portion	4,759	4,927.7
Total Long-Term Lease Obligation	4,927.7	5,080.4
Long-term Lease Obligation, Defined Benefit Plan, Non Cash Contribution [Domain]
Schedule of Current and Noncurrent Long-Term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
Long-term Lease Obligations, Current Portion	0	0
Long-term Lease Obligations, Excluding Current Portion	72.9	72.7
Total Long-Term Lease Obligation	$ 72.9	$ 72.7

Long-term Debt and Lease Obli75

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: Long-term Lease Obligations (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Long-term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
2,016	$ 659.7
2,017	662
2,018	665.4
2,019	668.9
2,020	672.5
Thereafter	5,733
Total maturities of other lease obligations	9,061.5
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Long-term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
2,016	653.5
2,017	655.7
2,018	658.9
2,019	662.2
2,020	665.6
Thereafter	5,663.6
Total maturities of other lease obligations	8,959.5
Long-term Lease Obligation, Defined Benefit Plan, Non Cash Contribution [Domain]
Long-term Lease Obligations [Line Items]
2,016	6.2
2,017	6.3
2,018	6.5
2,019	6.7
2,020	6.9
Thereafter	69.4
Total maturities of other lease obligations	$ 102

Long-term Debt and Lease Obli76

Long-term Debt and Lease Obligations: Capital Lease Obligations (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Capital Leases [Abstract]
2,016	$ 27.1
2,017	18.3
2,018	10.7
2,019	0.6
2,020	0.4
Thereafter	0.7
Total future payments	57.8
Less: Amounts representing interest	3.5
Present value of minimum lease payments	$ 54.3

Interest Expense (Details)

Interest Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Interest Expense, Net Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest expense - long-term debt						$ 350.9	$ 442	$ 539.9
Impact of interest rate swaps						11	20.5	29
Interest on capital leases and other						2.8	2.8	3.8
Less capitalized interest expense						(10.7)	(10.4)	(3.7)
Total interest expense						860.6	813.2	571.8
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Interest Expense, Net Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest expense related to long-term lease obligations	$ 125.4	$ 126.9	$ 127.4	$ 128.2	$ 96	500.8	351.6	0
Long-term Lease Obligation, Defined Benefit Plan, Non Cash Contribution [Domain]
Interest Expense, Net Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest expense related to long-term lease obligations						$ 5.8	$ 6.7	$ 2.8

Derivative Instruments_ Schedul

Derivative Instruments: Schedule of Derivative Instruments (Details) - Interest Rate Swap - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Weighted Average Fixed Interest Rate	1.82%	2.99%
Variable rate received	0.74%	0.35%
Other Assets | Designated portion, measured at fair value
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net	$ (6.3)	$ 0
Other current liabilities | Designated portion, measured at fair value
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net	13.4	18.3
Other noncurrent liabilities | Designated portion, measured at fair value
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net	21.9	33.4
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Designated portion, measured at fair value
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net	(22.3)	0.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | De-designated portion, unamortized value
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net	$ 10.7	$ 0.2

Derivative Instruments_ Derivat

Derivative Instruments: Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) (Details) - Interest Rate Swap - Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Changes in fair value of effective portion, net of tax (a)	[1]	$ 4.9	$ (5.4)	$ (14.3)
De-Designated Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amortization of unrealized losses on de-designated interest rate swaps, net of tax (a)	[1]	$ 2.9	$ 7.1	$ 9.8
[1]	Included as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and will be reclassified into earnings as the hedged transaction affects earnings.

Derivative Instruments_ Deriv80

Derivative Instruments: Derivatives Offsetting Assets (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Gross Amount of Recognized Assets	$ 6.3
Net Amount of Assets presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets	6.3
Financial Instruments, Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	0
Cash Collateral Received, Derivative Asset	0
Net Amount, Interest rate swaps	$ 6.3

Derivatives Offsetting Liabilti

Derivatives Offsetting Liabilties (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities, Derivatives	$ 35.3	$ 51.7
Net Amount of Liabilities, Derivatives, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	35.3	51.7
Financial Instruments, Derivative Liabilities, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	0	0
Cash Collateral Received, Derivative Liabilities	0	0
Net Amount, Derivatives	$ 35.3	$ 51.7

Derivatives Additional informat

Derivatives Additional information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 20, 2016
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value	$ 37,300,000
Other Expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net	$ 1,400,000	$ (3,700,000)	$ (300,000)
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held	4			3
Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives	$ 200,000,000			$ 675,000,000
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate	1.1275%
Weighted average fixed rate paid	2.984%			3.604%
Debt Instrument, Credit Rating	A
De-Designated Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months, Net	$ (4,900,000)

Fair Value Measurements_ (Detai

Fair Value Measurements: (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Item]
Interest rate swap liabilities - Level 2		$ 35.3	$ 51.7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 measurements:
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Item]
Investment in CS&L common stock - Level 1		0	549.2
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 measurements:
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Item]
Long-term debt, including current maturities	[1]	4,884.4	4,452.7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 measurements: | Other Liabilities | Interest Rate Swap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Item]
Interest rate swap assets - Level 2		6.3	0
Interest rate swap liabilities - Level 2		$ 35.3	$ 51.7
[1]	Recognized at carrying value of $4,914.6 million and $5,233.3 million in long-term debt, including current maturities, and excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Fair Value Measurements_ Fair V

Fair Value Measurements: Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Option, Events Triggering Election, Reasons	No
Interest Rate Swap | Other Liabilities
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Decrease in fair value of interest rate swaps to reflect non-performance risk	$ 1.7	$ 2.9
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, including current maturities	$ 4,914.6	$ 5,233.3

Employee Benefit Plans and Po85

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Components of Pension Expense and Postretirement Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Benefits earned during the year	$ 8.7	$ 9.5	$ 8.2
Interest cost on benefit obligation	53.2	53.2	58.9
Net actuarial loss (gain)	60.7	8.7	128.6
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service credit	(0.3)	(0.1)	(0.1)
Plan curtailments and settlements	0.1	0	0
Expected return on plan assets	(63.3)	(70.1)	(67.3)
Net periodic benefit expense (income)	59.1	1.2	128.3
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Benefits earned during the year	0	0	0
Interest cost on benefit obligation	1.3	1.3	1.3
Net actuarial loss (gain)	0	0	0
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0.2	1	0.1
Amortization of prior service credit	(0.8)	(3.8)	(5.8)
Plan curtailments and settlements	(5.5)	(18)	(11.5)
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit expense (income)	$ (4.8)	$ (19.5)	$ (15.9)

Employee Benefit Plans and Po86

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Summary of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation and Funded Status of Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 14, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		$ 966.6
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		799.4	$ 966.6
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation
Settlements	$ (138.5)
Pension Benefits
Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		966.6	1,042
Actual return on plan assets		46.5	(1.6)
Employer contributions		2.2	0.9
Participant contributions		0	0
Benefits paid		(68.7)	(74.7)
Settlements		(147.2)	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		799.4	966.6	$ 1,042
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year		1,255.5	1,331.8
Interest cost on projected benefit obligations		53.2	53.2	58.9
Service costs		8.7	9.5	8.2
Participant contributions		0	0
Plan amendments		0	(1.4)
Benefits paid		(68.7)	(74.7)
Settlements		(147.1)	0
Projected benefit obligation at end of year		1,145.4	1,255.5	1,331.8
Plan assets less than projected benefit obligation recognized in the consolidated balance sheet:
Current liabilities		(27.9)	(1.9)
Noncurrent liabilities		(318.1)	(287)
Funded status recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		(346)	(288.9)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Net actuarial loss		0	0
Prior service credits		1.5	1.8
Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income		1.5	1.8
Pension benefits paid from Company assets		0.9
Postretirement Benefits
Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		0.4	0.3
Actual return on plan assets		0	0
Employer contributions		2.5	2.5
Participant contributions		3.6	4.3
Benefits paid		(6.1)	(6.7)
Settlements		0	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		0.4	0.4	0.3
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year		29	30.6
Interest cost on projected benefit obligations		1.3	1.3	1.3
Service costs		0	0	0
Participant contributions		3.6	4.3
Plan amendments		0	(0.4)
Benefits paid		(6.1)	(6.7)
Settlements		0	0
Projected benefit obligation at end of year		28	29	$ 30.6
Plan assets less than projected benefit obligation recognized in the consolidated balance sheet:
Current liabilities		(1.9)	(2.1)
Noncurrent liabilities		(25.7)	(26.5)
Funded status recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		(27.6)	(28.6)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Net actuarial loss		(4.7)	(4.7)
Prior service credits		1.5	7.8
Net amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income		$ (3.2)	$ 3.1

Employee Benefit Plans and Po87

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Estimated Amounts to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Net actuarial loss	$ 0
Prior service credits	(0.4)
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Net actuarial loss	0.2
Prior service credits	$ (0.4)

Employee Benefit Plans and Po88

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Actuarial Assumptions Used to Calculate Pension and Postretirement Expense (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.40%	4.14%	5.01%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Rate of compensation increase	2.00%	2.00%	2.00%
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.67%	4.21%	4.76%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%

Employee Benefit Plans and Po89

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Actuarial Assumptions Used to Calculate the Projected Benefit Obligations (Details)	Dec. 31, 2016	Oct. 14, 2016	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.19%	3.80%	4.55%
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.19%			4.55%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%			7.00%
Rate of compensation increase	2.00%			2.00%
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.26%			4.67%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%			7.00%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%			0.00%

Employee Benefit Plans and Po90

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Information Regarding the Healthcare Cost Trend Rate (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year	6.75%	7.00%
Rate that the cost trend ultimately declines to	5.00%	5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the terminal rate	2,024	2,024

Employee Benefit Plans and Po91

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Asset Allocation for the Pension Plan, by Asset Category (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	27.80%	23.30%
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Target plan asset allocations, minimum	22.50%
Target plan asset allocations, maximum	34.50%
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	54.30%	53.40%
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Target plan asset allocations, minimum	41.30%
Target plan asset allocations, maximum	68.30%
Alternative Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	16.50%	21.80%
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Target plan asset allocations, minimum	10.20%
Target plan asset allocations, maximum	20.20%
Money market and other short-term interest bearing securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	1.40%	1.50%
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Target plan asset allocations, minimum	0.00%
Target plan asset allocations, maximum	2.50%

Employee Benefit Plans and Po92

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Fair Values of Pension and Post Retirement Benefit Plan Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	$ 799.4	$ 966.6
Investments
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	803.1	990.5
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	799.4	966.6	$ 1,042
Pension Benefits | Investments
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	684.6	839.6
Pension Benefits | Investments | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	103.4	124.8
Pension Benefits | Investments | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	502	637
Pension Benefits | Investments | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	79.2	77.8	83.3
Pension Benefits | Investments | Money market fund (a)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	54.6	70.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Money market fund (a) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Money market fund (a) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	54.6	70.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Money market fund (a) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common collective trust funds (b)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	183.2	235.5
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common collective trust funds (b) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common collective trust funds (b) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	183.2	235.5
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common collective trust funds (b) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Government and agency securities (c)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	224.8	281.5
Pension Benefits | Investments | Government and agency securities (c) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Government and agency securities (c) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	224.8	281.5
Pension Benefits | Investments | Government and agency securities (c) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	30.5	30.9
Pension Benefits | Investments | Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	30.5	30.9
Pension Benefits | Investments | Corporate bonds and asset backed securities (c) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	31.3	40
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	31.3	39.9
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - domestic (c) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0.1	0.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - international (c)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	22.5	23.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - international (c) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	22.5	23.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - international (c) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Common and preferred stocks - international (c) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Mutual fund (c)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	49.1	61
Pension Benefits | Investments | Mutual fund (c) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	49.1	61
Pension Benefits | Investments | Mutual fund (c) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Mutual fund (c) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	78.4	76.6
Pension Benefits | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	78.4	76.6	$ 81.8
Pension Benefits | Investments | Derivative [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	8.9	19
Pension Benefits | Investments | Derivative [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Derivative [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	8.9	19
Pension Benefits | Investments | Derivative [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Other investments (f)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	1.3	1.9
Pension Benefits | Investments | Other investments (f) | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0.5	0.8
Pension Benefits | Investments | Other investments (f) | Significant Other Observable Inputs - Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0	0
Pension Benefits | Investments | Other investments (f) | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	0.8	1.1
Pension Benefits | Investments | Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	84.2	81.9
Pension Benefits | Investments | Private Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	34.3	69
Pension Benefits | Dividends and interest receivable
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	7.2	5.2
Pension Benefits | Pending trades
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value	$ 10.9	$ 29.1

Employee Benefit Plans and Po93

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Pension Plan Assets, Unobservable Input Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$ 966,600,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	799,400,000	$ 966,600,000
Transfers In or Out of Levels 1, 2, or 3	0
Investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	990,500,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	803,100,000	990,500,000
Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	966,600,000	1,042,000,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	799,400,000	966,600,000
Pension Benefits | Investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	839,600,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	684,600,000	839,600,000
Pension Benefits | Investments | Domestic equities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	40,000,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	31,300,000	40,000,000
Pension Benefits | Investments | Hedge fund of funds
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	81,900,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	84,200,000	81,900,000
Pension Benefits | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	76,600,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	78,400,000	76,600,000
Pension Benefits | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3 | Investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Gains related to plan assets sold during the year	0	200,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	1,800,000	2,800,000
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	77,800,000	83,300,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	79,200,000	77,800,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(400,000)	(8,500,000)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net	0	0
Pension Benefits | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3 | Investments | Domestic equities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Gains related to plan assets sold during the year	0	0
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	(100,000)	0
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	100,000	100,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	100,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net	0	0
Pension Benefits | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3 | Investments | Real estate LLCs (d)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Gains related to plan assets sold during the year	0	200,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	1,800,000	2,700,000
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	76,600,000	81,800,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	78,400,000	76,600,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	(8,100,000)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net	0	0
Pension Benefits | Significant Unobservable Inputs - Level 3 | Investments | Guaranteed annuity contract
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Gains related to plan assets sold during the year	0	0
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	100,000	100,000
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	1,100,000	1,400,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	800,000	1,100,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(400,000)	(400,000)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net	$ 0	$ 0

Employee Benefit Plans and Po94

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: Estimated Future Employer Contributions, Benefit Payments, Including Executive Retirement Agreements (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Expected employer contributions in 2017	$ 27
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Expected employer contributions in 2017	27.9
Expected benefit payments:
2,015	71.7
2,016	70.3
2,017	71.9
2,018	72.9
2,019	75
2020-2024	368.1
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Expected employer contributions in 2017	1.9
Expected benefit payments:
2,015	1.9
2,016	1.8
2,017	1.7
2,018	1.5
2,019	1.5
2020-2024	$ 7.4

Employee Benefit Plans and Po95

Employee Benefit Plans and Postretirement Benefits: (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	Oct. 14, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 01, 2016
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation	$ 138.5
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year		$ 27
Matching contribution to employee savings accounts, maximum		4.00%
Matching contribution to employee savings accounts, employees contributions, minimum		5.00%
Recorded expenses related to the employee savings plan		$ 21.1	$ 19.3	$ 18.3
Annual matching contribution to defined contribution plan, Common Stock		3.2	2.7
Defined Contribution Plan, Contributions by Employer, Common Stock, Value		$ 24	$ 21.6
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)	$ (68.2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	3.80%	4.19%			4.55%
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation		$ 147.1	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation		$ 1,105.5	$ 1,236.9	1,309.7
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Expected Long Term Return on Assets		7.00%	7.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year		$ 27.9
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)		$ 43.8	$ (62.9)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate		4.19%	4.55%
Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation		$ 0	$ 0
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments		$ 5.5	$ 18	11.5
Minimum percentage of unrecognized actuarial gains or losses that are amortized over the lesser of 10 years or the average remaining service life of active employees		10.00%
Unrealized Actuarial Gains (Losses), Amortization Period, Maximum		10 years
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Expected Long Term Return on Assets		7.00%	7.00%
One percent increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate, increase in postretirement benefit cost		$ 0.1
One percent decrease in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate, decrease in postretirement benefit cost		0.1
One percent increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate, increase in postretirement benefit obligation		2.4
One percent decrease in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate, decrease in postretirement benefit obligation		2
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year		1.9
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)		$ 0.2	$ (0.1)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate		4.26%	4.67%
Other Pension Plan, Postretirement or Supplemental Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year		$ 0.9
Cost of services | Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments		4.5	$ 14.3	7.1
Selling, general and administrative [Member] | Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments		$ 1	3.7	4.4
Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations		29.00%
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations		56.00%
Alternative Investments [Member] | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations		15.00%
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments			$ 18	10
Other Liabilities | Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments				$ 1.5

Vesting Periods and Grant Date

Vesting Periods and Grant Date Fair Value for Shares Issued (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	3,283,800	3,252,400
Total granted	1,685,700	3,263,500	584,300
Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions)	$ 9.9	$ 35	$ 29.7
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	1,206,300	113,700
Total granted	1,380,000
Grant date fair value (Dollars in millions)	$ 7.9	$ 2.9	$ 7.1
Vest ratably over a three-year service period | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	1,380,900	2,739,200	488,200
Vest ratably over a two-year service period | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	0	0	3,100
Vest variably over a three-year service period | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	0	62,600	41,200
Vest one year from date of grant, service based - granted to non-employee directors | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	198,000	73,700	20,200
Vest two years from date of grant, service based | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	53,200	6,900	0
Vest three years from date of grant, service based | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	53,600	381,100	31,600
Vest contingently at the end of the respective performance period | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares	1,380,000	283,400	196,100

Restricted Share Activity (Deta

Restricted Share Activity (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
(Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares
Beginning balance	113,700
Granted	1,380,000
Vested	(113,700)
Forfeited	(173,700)
Ending balance	1,206,300	113,700
Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share
Beginning balance	$ 21.67
Granted	5.34
Vested	21.67
Forfeited	6.07
Ending balance	$ 5.64	$ 21.67
Restricted Stock [Member]
(Thousands) Underlying Number of Shares
Beginning balance	3,252,400
Granted	1,685,700	3,263,500	584,300
Vested	(1,135,500)
Forfeited	(518,800)
Ending balance	3,283,800	3,252,400
Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share
Beginning balance	$ 15.36
Granted	5.90
Vested	17.96
Forfeited	11.16
Ending balance	$ 10.27	$ 15.36

Share-Based Compensation Plan98

Share-Based Compensation Plans: Schedule of Share-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Expense [Line Items]
Employee savings plan (See Note 8)	$ 21.1	$ 19.3	$ 18.3
Management incentive compensation plans	0.6	11	1.4
Share-based compensation expense	41.6	55.3	41.8
Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital | Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Expense [Line Items]
Restricted stock and restricted units and stock options	$ 19.9	$ 25	$ 22.1

Share-Based Compensation Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Operating Target Consideration Period	3 years
Unrecognized compensation expense	$ 20,600,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 7 months
Fair value of shares vested	$ 22,900,000	$ 23,900,000	$ 28,500,000
Share-based compensation expense	$ 21,800,000	25,000,000	22,100,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number	0.3
Share-based compensation expense	$ 41,600,000	55,300,000	41,800,000
Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period	2 years
Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period	3 years
Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 21,800,000	25,000,000	22,100,000
Restricted Stock Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares available for issuance under the Windstream 2006 Equity Incentive Plan	24.3
Available shares for grant	6.1
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance-based restricted stock units, as a percentage of the award	150.00%
Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units | Common Stock and Additional Paid-In Capital
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 19,900,000	25,000,000	22,000,000
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	0
Share-based compensation expense			$ 100,000
PAETEC Holding Corp. | Restricted Stock Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Available shares for grant	0.3

Merger, Integration and Othe100

Merger, Integration and Other Costs and Restructuring Charges: (Details) $ in Millions	Apr. 26, 2015shares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)position
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Information technology conversion costs		$ 0.3	$ 7.5	$ 20.8
Costs related to REIT spin-off (See Note 3)		0	65.1	15.5
Costs related to sale of data center business		0.9	10.3	0
Costs related to pending merger with EarthLink		2.7	0	0
Network optimization and contract termination costs		11.9	5.9	0
Consulting and other costs		0	6.2	4.1
Reversal of lease termination costs		(2)	0	0
Total merger, integration and other costs		13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges		20.3	20.7	35.9
Total merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges		34.1	115.7	$ 76.3
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated | position				750
Decrease in net income due to merger, integration and restructuring charges		21	71.2	$ 46.6
Restructuring Integration and Merger Cost [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period		5.1	11.2
Merger, integration and other costs and restructuring charges		36.1	115.7
Reversal of accrued lease termination costs		(2)	0	0
Cash outlays during the period		(33.4)	(121.8)
Balance, end of period		5.8	5.1	$ 11.2
Workforce Reductions [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date		18.7	15.6
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date			$ 3.1
Voluntary Separation Initiative [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated | position				295
Restructuring Announcement [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date				$ 24.1
Restructuring Integration and Merger Cost [Roll Forward]
Cash outlays during the period		18.6
Balance, end of period		4.3
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date				$ 6.3
Other integration [Member]
Restructuring Integration and Merger Cost [Roll Forward]
Cash outlays during the period		14.8
Balance, end of period		$ 1.5
Windstream Holdings, Inc. [Domain]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of WIndstream Holdings, Inc. Common Shares After Reverse Stock Split | shares	1		1
Common stock, shares outstanding | shares	6		6

Accumulated Other Comprehens101

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Pension and postretirement plans	$ (1.2)	$ 2.8	$ 14.5
Unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities	0	(286.5)	0
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on interest rate swaps
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)	12.1
Interest Rate Swap
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on interest rate swaps
Designated portion	13.7	(0.6)	3.1
De-designated portion	$ (6.6)	$ (0.1)	$ (5.5)

Accumulated Other Comprehens102

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Roll-Forward) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		$ (284.4)		$ 12.1
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		160.9
Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a)		129.4	[1]	(5.8)	$ 0.1
Ending balance		5.9		(284.4)	12.1
Unrealized Holding Loss on Available-for-Sale Securities
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(286.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		156.1
Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a)	[1]	130.4
Ending balance		0		(286.5)
Net (Gains) Losses on Interest Rate Swaps
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(0.7)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		4.9
Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a)	[1]	2.9
Ending balance		7.1		(0.7)
Pension and Postretirement Plans
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		2.8
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		(0.1)
Amounts reclassified from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) (a)		(3.9)	[1]	(12.9)	$ (9.7)
Ending balance		$ (1.2)		$ 2.8
[1]	See separate table below for details about these reclassifications.

Accumulated Other Comprehens103

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Reclassifications) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock		$ 181.9		$ 0	$ 0
Net (loss) income		(386)		23.9	(44.5)
Interest expense		860.6		813.2	571.8
Income tax (benefit) expense		(140)		16	(25.1)
Net (loss) income		129.4	[1]	(5.8)	0.1
Losses on interest rate swaps:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net (loss) income	[1]	2.9
Pension and postretirement plans:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax		(6.4)		(20.9)	(15.8)
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax		2.5		8	6.1
Net (loss) income		(3.9)	[1]	(12.9)	(9.7)
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	[2]	(1.1)		(3.9)	(5.9)
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	[2]	0.2		1	0.1
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Plan Curtailment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	[2]	(5.5)		(18)	(10)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock		(51.5)		0	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock		181.9		0	0
Net (loss) income		130.4		0	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Losses on interest rate swaps:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net (loss) income		2.9		7.1	9.8
(Loss) income before income taxes		4.8		11.6	15.8
Income tax (benefit) expense		(1.9)		(4.5)	(6)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Interest Rate Swap | Losses on interest rate swaps:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Interest expense		$ 4.8		$ 11.6	$ 15.8
[1]	See separate table below for details about these reclassifications.
[2]	These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit expense (income) (See Note 9).

Income Taxes_ Income Taxes (Inc

Income Taxes: Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current:
Federal	$ (2.7)	$ 9.1	$ 0.8
State	1	23.2	(12.5)
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	(1.7)	32.3	(11.7)
Deferred:
Federal	(130.2)	15	(18.3)
State	(8.1)	(31.3)	4.9
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	(138.3)	(16.3)	(13.4)
Income tax (benefit) expense	$ (140)	$ 16	$ (25.1)

Income Taxes (Differences Betwe

Income Taxes (Differences Between Federal Income Tax Statutory Rates and Effective Income Tax Rates, Which Include Both Federal and State Income Taxes) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Increase (decrease)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	3.70%	4.00%	4.70%
Adjust deferred taxes for state net operating loss carryforward	(0.60%)	16.00%	0.00%
Transaction costs	(0.20%)	18.70%	(8.00%)
Tax refunds	0.00%	0.00%	7.30%
Valuation allowance	0.00%	(48.40%)	(15.40%)
Income tax reserves	0.10%	12.20%	(0.40%)
Research and development credit	0.80%	(8.40%)	12.10%
Adjustment of deferred taxes for legal entity restructuring	0.00%	6.80%	0.00%
Disallowed loss	(12.10%)	0.00%	(2.90%)
Tax credits	0.00%	(1.00%)	2.20%
Other items, net	0.00%	2.00%	4.30%
Effective income tax rate	26.70%	36.90%	38.90%

Income Taxes (Significant Compo

Income Taxes (Significant Components of the Net Deferred Income Tax Liability (Asset)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Property, plant and equipment	$ 1,395.8	$ 1,472.8
Goodwill and other intangible assets	1,265.6	1,295.8
Operating loss and credit carryforward	(528.8)	(462.5)
Postretirement and other employee benefits	(142.4)	(120.1)
Unrealized holding loss and interest rate swaps	(0.2)	(5.2)
Deferred compensation	(4)	(4.9)
Bad debt	(19.4)	(25.1)
Long-term lease obligations	(1,932.7)	(1,993.7)
Deferred debt costs	8.9	(2)
Restricted stock	(9.4)	(9.7)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	(28.4)	(5.9)
Deferred tax liability (asset), gross	5	139.5
Valuation allowance	146.5	147.9
Deferred income taxes, net	151.5	287.4
Deferred tax assets	(2,695.9)	(2,670.6)
Deferred tax liabilities	$ 2,847.4	$ 2,958

Income Taxes (Additional Inform

Income Taxes (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Valuation allowance	$ 140.3	$ 140.9
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount	6.2	7
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	1,094.2	907
Tax credit carryforwards	48.7	46.1
State and Local Jurisdiction
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	1,788.8	1,802.4
Tax credit carryforwards	$ 22.7	$ 24.4

Income Taxes_ Reconciliation of

Income Taxes: Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 10.1	$ 5.6	$ 4.6
Additions based on tax positions related to current year	0.7	5	2.3
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(1.6)	(0.5)	(0.1)
Reduction as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations	0	0	(0.2)
Settlements	(0.4)	0	(1)
Ending balance	8.8	10.1	5.6
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	8.6	9.9	5
Unrecognized Tax Benefits with Uncertain Timing for Deductibility			0.6
Interest and penalties recognized on unrecognized tax benefits	0.1	0.1	0.1
Interest and penalties accrued on unrecognized tax benefits	$ 0.1	$ 0.1	$ 0.1

Commitments and Contingencie109

Commitments and Contingencies (Minimum Rental Commitments for All Non-Cancelable Operating Leases) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 108.8
2,018	86.8
2,019	72.4
2,020	49.7
2,021	38.2
Thereafter	123.4
Total	479.3
Rental expense	$ 115.5	$ 128	$ 134.5

Segment Information_ (Details)

Segment Information: (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Segments | segment									4
Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Major Customers									.10
Costs and Expenses									$ 4,871.6	$ 5,255.9	$ 5,322.4
Segment income	$ 73.7	$ 129.4	$ 154.6	$ 157.7	$ 131.7	$ 178.5	$ 79.3	$ 119.9	515.4	509.4	507.1
Consumer and Small Business - ILEC [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									1,579.7	1,605.5	1,644.4
Costs and Expenses									680.7	671	696.9
Segment income									899	934.5	947.5
Wholesale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									631	687.9	729.7
Costs and Expenses									178.8	185.6	172.5
Segment income									$ 452.2	502.3	557.2
Enterprise [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Factors Used to Identify Entity's Reportable Segments									1,500
Revenues and Sales									$ 2,031.2	2,067.2	2,003
Costs and Expenses									1,712.5	1,826.6	1,757.4
Segment income									318.7	240.6	245.6
Small Business - CLEC [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									483.8	559	658.3
Costs and Expenses									328.7	378.2	408.7
Segment income									155.1	180.8	249.6
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									4,725.7	4,919.6	5,035.4
Costs and Expenses									2,900.7	3,061.4	3,035.5
Segment income									$ 1,825	$ 1,858.2	$ 1,999.9

Segment Information_ Reconcilia

Segment Information: Reconciliation of Segment Revenues to Consolidated Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total revenues and sales	$ 1,309.1	$ 1,344.9	$ 1,359.6	$ 1,373.4	$ 1,427	$ 1,498.6	$ 1,421.1	$ 1,418.6	$ 5,387	$ 5,765.3	$ 5,829.5
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									4,725.7	4,919.6	5,035.4
Regulatory and Other Service Revenues [Domain]
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									661.3	714.5	639.6
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									$ 0	$ 131.2	$ 154.5

Segment Information_ Reconci112

Segment Information: Reconciliation of Segment Income to Consolidated Net Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment income	$ 73.7	$ 129.4	$ 154.6	$ 157.7	$ 131.7	$ 178.5	$ 79.3	$ 119.9	$ 515.4	$ 509.4	$ 507.1
Depreciation and amortization									(1,263.5)	(1,366.5)	(1,386.4)
Costs and Expenses									(4,871.6)	(5,255.9)	(5,322.4)
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2	0
Other (expense) income, net									(1.2)	9.3	0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2	0	0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business					326.1				(10)	326.1	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(36.4)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)	0	0
Interest expense									(860.6)	(813.2)	(571.8)
Income tax (benefit) expense									140	(16)	25.1
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)	$ (66.2)	$ 1.5	$ (231.9)	$ 140.5	$ (7.2)	$ (111.2)	$ 5.3	(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Costs and Expenses									(707.4)	(739.7)	(798.9)
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment income									1,825	1,858.2	1,999.9
Revenues and Sales									4,725.7	4,919.6	5,035.4
Costs and Expenses									(2,900.7)	(3,061.4)	(3,035.5)
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									0	131.2	154.5
Costs and Expenses									0	(88.3)	(101.6)
Regulatory and Other Service Revenues [Domain]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Revenues and Sales									$ 661.3	$ 714.5	$ 639.6

Supplemental Guarantor Infor113

Supplemental Guarantor Information: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									$ 5,279.9	$ 5,598.6	$ 5,647.6
Product sales									107.1	166.7	181.9
Total revenues and sales	$ 1,309.1	$ 1,344.9	$ 1,359.6	$ 1,373.4	$ 1,427	$ 1,498.6	$ 1,421.1	$ 1,418.6	5,387	5,765.3	5,829.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									2,677.8	2,762	2,773.3
Cost of products sold									98.5	145.2	156.6
Selling, general and administrative									797.7	866.5	929.8
Depreciation and amortization									1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Merger, integration and other costs									13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges									20.3	20.7	35.9
Total costs and expenses									4,871.6	5,255.9	5,322.4
Operating income	73.7	129.4	154.6	157.7	131.7	178.5	79.3	119.9	515.4	509.4	507.1
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2	0
Other (expense) income, net									(1.2)	9.3	0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2	0	0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business					326.1				(10)	326.1	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(36.4)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)	0	0
Interest expense									(860.6)	(813.2)	(571.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(523.5)	43.4	(64.6)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(140)	16	(25.1)
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)	$ (66.2)	$ 1.5	$ (231.9)	$ 140.5	$ (7.2)	$ (111.2)	$ 5.3	(383.5)	27.4	(39.5)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(93.2)	(269.1)	(55.9)
Eliminations
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									(36)	(25.6)	(25)
Product sales									0	0	0
Total revenues and sales									(36)	(25.6)	(25)
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									(33.2)	(22.2)	(20.7)
Cost of products sold									0	0	0
Selling, general and administrative									(2.8)	(3.4)	(4.3)
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Merger, integration and other costs									0	0	0
Restructuring charges									0	0	0
Total costs and expenses									(36)	(25.6)	(25)
Operating income									0	0	0
Earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									145.9	(81.9)	(11)
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									0	0
Other (expense) income, net									0	0	0
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									0	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									0	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									0
Intercompany interest income (expense)									0	0	0
Interest expense									0	0	0
(Loss) income before income taxes									145.9	(81.9)	(11)
Income tax (benefit) expense									0	0	0
Net (loss) income									145.9	(81.9)	(11)
Comprehensive (loss) income									145.9	(81.9)	(11)
Consolidated
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									5,279.9	5,598.6	5,647.6
Product sales									107.1	166.7	181.9
Total revenues and sales									5,387	5,765.3	5,829.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									2,677.8	2,762	2,773.3
Cost of products sold									98.5	145.2	156.6
Selling, general and administrative									796	864.5	927.5
Depreciation and amortization									1,263.5	1,366.5	1,386.4
Merger, integration and other costs									13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges									20.3	20.7	35.9
Total costs and expenses									4,869.9	5,253.9	5,320.1
Operating income									517.1	511.4	509.4
Earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									0	0	0
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2	0
Other (expense) income, net									(1.2)	9.3	0.1
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2	0	0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									(10)	326.1	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(36.4)	0
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)	0	0
Intercompany interest income (expense)									0	0	0
Interest expense									(860.6)	(813.2)	(571.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(521.8)	45.4	(62.3)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(139.3)	16.8	(24.2)
Net (loss) income									(382.5)	28.6	(38.1)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(92.2)	(267.9)	(54.5)
Windstream Services
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									0	0	0
Product sales									0	0	0
Total revenues and sales									0	0	0
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									0	0	0
Cost of products sold									0	0	0
Selling, general and administrative									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									13.8	18.3	21.9
Merger, integration and other costs									0	0	0
Restructuring charges									0	0	0
Total costs and expenses									13.8	18.3	21.9
Operating income									(13.8)	(18.3)	(21.9)
Earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									(65.1)	239.6	217.3
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									17.6	48.2
Other (expense) income, net									1.8	(2.5)	(0.2)
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									15.2
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									0	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									(18)	(30.7)
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									(181.9)
Intercompany interest income (expense)									116.6	115.9	127.2
Interest expense									(355.1)	(440.1)	(523.9)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(482.7)	(87.9)	(201.5)
Income tax (benefit) expense									(100.2)	(116.5)	(163.4)
Net (loss) income									(382.5)	28.6	(38.1)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(92.2)	(267.9)	(54.5)
Guarantors
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									1,011	1,163.2	1,178.5
Product sales									96.4	145.3	154.7
Total revenues and sales									1,107.4	1,308.5	1,333.2
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									417	493.6	517.7
Cost of products sold									86.7	125	131.2
Selling, general and administrative									150.7	186.8	166.8
Depreciation and amortization									301.4	334.5	337.7
Merger, integration and other costs									0	0	0
Restructuring charges									2.9	9.4	8.1
Total costs and expenses									958.7	1,149.3	1,161.5
Operating income									148.7	159.2	171.7
Earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									(65.7)	(149.9)	(210.3)
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									0	0
Other (expense) income, net									(0.8)	0.8	162.9
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									0	0
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									0	(5.3)
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									0
Intercompany interest income (expense)									(44.6)	(46.5)	(53.7)
Interest expense									(149.5)	(122)	(44.8)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(111.9)	(163.7)	25.8
Income tax (benefit) expense									(16.3)	(15.8)	100
Net (loss) income									(95.6)	(147.9)	(74.2)
Comprehensive (loss) income									(95.6)	(147.9)	(74.2)
Non-Guarantors
Revenues and sales:
Service revenues									4,304.9	4,461	4,494.1
Product sales									10.7	21.4	27.2
Total revenues and sales									4,315.6	4,482.4	4,521.3
Costs and expenses:
Cost of services									2,294	2,290.6	2,276.3
Cost of products sold									11.8	20.2	25.4
Selling, general and administrative									648.1	681.1	765
Depreciation and amortization									948.3	1,013.7	1,026.8
Merger, integration and other costs									13.8	95	40.4
Restructuring charges									17.4	11.3	27.8
Total costs and expenses									3,933.4	4,111.9	4,161.7
Operating income									382.2	370.5	359.6
Earnings (losses) from subsidiaries									(15.1)	(7.8)	4
Dividend income on CS&L common stock									0	0
Other (expense) income, net									(2.2)	11	(162.6)
Net gain on disposal of investment in CS&L common stock									0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									(10)	326.1
Net loss on early extinguishment of debt									0	(0.4)
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock									0
Intercompany interest income (expense)									(72)	(69.4)	(73.5)
Interest expense									(356)	(251.1)	(3.1)
(Loss) income before income taxes									(73.1)	378.9	124.4
Income tax (benefit) expense									(22.8)	149.1	39.2
Net (loss) income									(50.3)	229.8	85.2
Comprehensive (loss) income									$ (50.3)	$ 229.8	$ 85.2

Supplemental Guarantor Infor114

Supplemental Guarantor Information: Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 59.1	$ 31.3	$ 27.8	$ 48.2
Accounts receivable, net	618.6	643.9
Inventories	77.5	79.5
Prepaid expenses and other	111.7	120.6
Total current assets	866.9	875.3
Goodwill	4,213.6	4,213.6	4,352.8
Other intangibles, net	1,320.5	1,504.7
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Investment in CS&L common stock	0	549.2
Other assets	85.5	95.5
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Accounts payable	390.2	430.1
Advance payments and customer deposits	178.1	193.9
Accrued taxes	78	84.1
Accrued interest	58.1	78.4
Other current liabilities	366.6	322
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term debt	4,848.7	5,164.6
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Deferred income taxes	151.5	287.4
Other liabilities	513.3	492.2
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	559.7	602.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)	12.1
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(395.6)	(12.1)
Total member equity	170	306.4	224.8	840.2
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	11,770	12,518.1
Consolidated
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	59.1	31.3	27.8	48.2
Accounts receivable, net	618.6	643.9
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Affiliates receivable, net	0	0
Inventories	77.5	79.5
Prepaid expenses and other	111.7	120.6
Total current assets	866.9	875.3
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	0	0
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Goodwill	4,213.6	4,213.6
Other intangibles, net	1,320.5	1,504.7
Net property, plant and equipment	5,283.5	5,279.8
Investment in CS&L common stock	0	549.2
Deferred income taxes	0	0
Other assets	85.5	95.5
Total Assets	11,770	12,518.1
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	168.7	152.7
Accounts payable	390.2	430.1
Affiliates payable, net	15	15.1
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Advance payments and customer deposits	178.1	193.9
Accrued taxes	78	84.1
Accrued interest	58.1	78.4
Other current liabilities	351.6	306.9
Total current liabilities	1,254.6	1,267.1
Long-term debt	4,848.7	5,164.6
Long-term lease obligations	4,831.9	5,000.4
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Deferred income taxes	151.5	287.4
Other liabilities	513.3	492.2
Total liabilities	11,600	12,211.7
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	556.1	600.3
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(392)	(9.5)
Total member equity	170	306.4	224.8	840.5
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	11,770	12,518.1
Windstream Services
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	13.7
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Affiliates receivable, net	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Prepaid expenses and other	10.1	321.8
Total current assets	10.1	321.8
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	6,081.8	6,214
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Goodwill	1,636.7	1,636.7
Other intangibles, net	515.2	554.3
Net property, plant and equipment	6.9	8.4
Investment in CS&L common stock		549.2
Deferred income taxes	0	0
Other assets	19.5	14.2
Total Assets	8,270.2	9,298.6
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14.9	5.9
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	0	0
Accounts payable	0	0
Affiliates payable, net	2,653.7	2,951.3
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Advance payments and customer deposits	0	0
Accrued taxes	0	0.3
Accrued interest	55.4	75.3
Other current liabilities	17.9	42.6
Total current liabilities	2,741.9	3,075.4
Long-term debt	4,749.2	5,065.1
Long-term lease obligations	0	0
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Deferred income taxes	574.2	803.9
Other liabilities	34.9	47.8
Total liabilities	8,100.2	8,992.2
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	556.1	600.3
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5.9	(284.4)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(392)	(9.5)
Total member equity	170	306.4
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	8,270.2	9,298.6
Guarantors
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	2.2	1.1	3.8	3.1
Accounts receivable, net	178.9	219.4
Notes receivable - affiliate	4.8	4.8
Affiliates receivable, net	531.9	449.4
Inventories	65.9	69.1
Prepaid expenses and other	36.5	32.6
Total current assets	820.2	776.4
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	297.7	363.5
Notes receivable - affiliate	310.5	314.1
Goodwill	1,364.4	1,364.4
Other intangibles, net	258.8	282.8
Net property, plant and equipment	1,234.3	1,249.7
Investment in CS&L common stock		0
Deferred income taxes	320.2	299.4
Other assets	16	56.3
Total Assets	4,622.1	4,706.6
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	0	0
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	49.5	44.4
Accounts payable	101.5	93.2
Affiliates payable, net	0	0
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Advance payments and customer deposits	40.9	27
Accrued taxes	21.3	11.3
Accrued interest	1.8	1.9
Other current liabilities	69.9	47.8
Total current liabilities	284.9	225.6
Long-term debt	99.5	99.5
Long-term lease obligations	1,405.3	1,455.2
Notes payable - affiliate	0	0
Deferred income taxes	0	0
Other liabilities	53.2	25.2
Total liabilities	1,842.9	1,805.5
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	39.4	39.4
Additional paid-in capital	3,143.3	3,150.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(403.5)	(289.2)
Total member equity	2,779.2	2,901.1
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	4,622.1	4,706.6
Non-Guarantors
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	56.9	33.5	50	31.4
Accounts receivable, net	439.7	424.5
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Affiliates receivable, net	2,106.8	2,486.8
Inventories	11.6	10.4
Prepaid expenses and other	65.1	64.4
Total current assets	2,680.1	3,019.6
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	231.4	256.7
Notes receivable - affiliate	0	0
Goodwill	1,212.5	1,212.5
Other intangibles, net	546.5	667.6
Net property, plant and equipment	4,042.3	4,021.7
Investment in CS&L common stock		0
Deferred income taxes	102.5	217.1
Other assets	50	25
Total Assets	8,865.3	9,420.2
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	0	0
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	119.2	108.3
Accounts payable	288.7	336.9
Affiliates payable, net	0	0
Notes payable - affiliate	4.8	4.8
Advance payments and customer deposits	137.2	166.9
Accrued taxes	56.7	370.7
Accrued interest	0.9	1.2
Other current liabilities	263.8	216.5
Total current liabilities	871.3	1,205.3
Long-term debt	0	0
Long-term lease obligations	3,426.6	3,545.2
Notes payable - affiliate	310.5	314.1
Deferred income taxes	0	0
Other liabilities	425.2	419.2
Total liabilities	5,033.6	5,483.8
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	81.9	81.9
Additional paid-in capital	825.3	825.3
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(1.2)	2.8
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	2,925.7	3,026.4
Total member equity	3,831.7	3,936.4
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	8,865.3	9,420.2
Eliminations
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	0	(3.3)	$ (26)	$ 0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Notes receivable - affiliate	(4.8)	(4.8)
Affiliates receivable, net	(2,638.7)	(2,936.2)
Inventories	0	0
Prepaid expenses and other	0	(298.2)
Total current assets	(2,643.5)	(3,242.5)
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	(6,610.9)	(6,834.2)
Notes receivable - affiliate	(310.5)	(314.1)
Goodwill	0	0
Other intangibles, net	0	0
Net property, plant and equipment	0	0
Investment in CS&L common stock		0
Deferred income taxes	(422.7)	(516.5)
Other assets	0	0
Total Assets	(9,987.6)	(10,907.3)
Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	0	0
Current portion of long-term lease obligations	0	0
Accounts payable	0	0
Affiliates payable, net	(2,638.7)	(2,936.2)
Notes payable - affiliate	(4.8)	(4.8)
Advance payments and customer deposits	0	0
Accrued taxes	0	(298.2)
Accrued interest	0	0
Other current liabilities	0	0
Total current liabilities	(2,643.5)	(3,239.2)
Long-term debt	0	0
Long-term lease obligations	0	0
Notes payable - affiliate	(310.5)	(314.1)
Deferred income taxes	(422.7)	(516.5)
Other liabilities	0	0
Total liabilities	(3,376.7)	(4,069.8)
Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 14)
Member Equity:
Common stock	(121.3)	(121.3)
Additional paid-in capital	(3,968.6)	(3,976.2)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	1.2	(2.8)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(2,522.2)	(2,737.2)
Total member equity	(6,610.9)	(6,837.5)
Total Liabilities and Member Equity	$ (9,987.6)	$ (10,907.3)

Supplemental Guarantor Infor115

Supplemental Guarantor Information: Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		$ 924.4	$ 1,026.6	$ 1,467.3
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Proceeds from the sale of property		6.3	0	0
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants		0	0	(13.3)
Changes in restricted cash		0	6.7	3
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects		0	23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I		0	0	26
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I		0	(73.9)	(12.8)
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	$ 574.2	0	574.2	0
Acquisition of a business		0	0	(22.6)
Other, net		(6.5)	2.8	3.9
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off		0	1,035	0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements		0	43.1	0
Repayments of debt and swaps		(3,263.7)	(3,350.9)	(1,395.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance		3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs		(12.4)	(4.3)	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations		(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Payments under capital lease obligations		(57.7)	(31.5)	(26.8)
Other, net		(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		93.4	(501.1)	(718.6)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	31.3	59.1	31.3	27.8
Consolidated
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		925.4	1,027.8	1,468.7
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		(989.8)	(1,055.3)	(786.5)
Proceeds from the sale of property		6.3	0	0
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants		0	0	(13.3)
Changes in restricted cash		0	6.7	3
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects		0	23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I		0	0	26
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I		0	(73.9)	(12.8)
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses		0	574.2	0
Acquisition of a business		0	0	(22.6)
Other, net		(6.5)	2.8	3.9
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		(990)	(522)	(769.1)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.		(88.5)	(416.6)	(603.6)
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off		0	1,035	0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements		0	43.1	0
Repayments of debt and swaps		(3,263.7)	(3,350.9)	(1,395.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance		3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs		(12.4)	(4.3)	0
Intercompany transactions, net		0	0	0
Payments under long-term lease obligations		(152.8)	(102.6)	0
Payments under capital lease obligations		(57.7)	(31.5)	(26.8)
Other, net		(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		92.4	(502.3)	(720)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		27.8	3.5	(20.4)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		31.3	27.8	48.2
End of period	31.3	59.1	31.3	27.8
Windstream Services
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		(143.2)	(337.4)	(129.2)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		(0.6)	(1)	(1.8)
Proceeds from the sale of property		0
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants				0
Changes in restricted cash			6.7	3
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects			23.5	33.2
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I				0
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I			0	0
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses			0
Acquisition of a business				(22.6)
Other, net		(4.1)	(9.6)	0
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		(4.7)	19.6	11.8
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.		(88.5)	(416.6)	(603.6)
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off			1,035
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements			0
Repayments of debt and swaps		(3,263.7)	(2,898.9)	(1,394.4)
Proceeds of debt issuance		3,674.5	2,335	1,315
Debt issuance costs		(12.4)	(4.3)
Intercompany transactions, net		(155)	277.1	795.9
Payments under long-term lease obligations		0	0
Payments under capital lease obligations		0	0	0
Other, net		(7)	(9.5)	(9.2)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		147.9	317.8	103.7
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		0	0	(13.7)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		0	0	13.7
End of period	0	0	0	0
Guarantors
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		363.2	259.8	449
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		(177.6)	(187.2)	(117.2)
Proceeds from the sale of property		1
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants				(0.3)
Changes in restricted cash			0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects			0	0
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I				9.4
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I			(18.6)	(1.3)
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses			0
Acquisition of a business				0
Other, net		0	0.1	0
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		(176.6)	(205.7)	(109.4)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.		0	0	0
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off			0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements			19.6
Repayments of debt and swaps		0	(450)	(0.9)
Proceeds of debt issuance		0	0	0
Debt issuance costs		0	0
Intercompany transactions, net		(142.5)	409.8	(341)
Payments under long-term lease obligations		(44.9)	(35.6)
Payments under capital lease obligations		(1.7)	(4.2)	(0.6)
Other, net		3.6	3.6	3.6
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		(185.5)	(56.8)	(338.9)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		1.1	(2.7)	0.7
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		1.1	3.8	3.1
End of period	1.1	2.2	1.1	3.8
Non-Guarantors
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		705.4	1,105.4	1,148.9
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		(811.6)	(867.1)	(667.5)
Proceeds from the sale of property		5.3
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants				(13)
Changes in restricted cash			0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects			0	0
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I				16.6
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I			(55.3)	(11.5)
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses			574.2
Acquisition of a business				0
Other, net		(2.4)	12.3	3.9
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		(808.7)	(335.9)	(671.5)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.		0	0	0
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off			0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements			23.5
Repayments of debt and swaps		0	(2)	(0.1)
Proceeds of debt issuance		0	0	0
Debt issuance costs		0	0
Intercompany transactions, net		294.2	(709.6)	(428.9)
Payments under long-term lease obligations		(107.9)	(67)
Payments under capital lease obligations		(56)	(27.3)	(26.2)
Other, net		(3.6)	(3.6)	(3.6)
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		126.7	(786)	(458.8)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		23.4	(16.5)	18.6
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		33.5	50	31.4
End of period	33.5	56.9	33.5	50
Eliminations
Cash Provided from Operating Activities:
Net cash (used in) provided from operations		0	0	0
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment		0	0	0
Proceeds from the sale of property		0
Broadband network expansion funded by stimulus grants				0
Changes in restricted cash			0	0
Grant funds received for broadband stimulus projects			0	0
Grant funds received from Connect America Fund - Phase I				0
Network expansion funded by Connect America Fund - Phase I			0	0
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses			0
Acquisition of a business				0
Other, net		0	0	0
Net cash provided from (used in) investing activities		0	0	0
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Distributions to Windstream Holdings, Inc.		0	0	0
Payment received from CS&L in spin-off			0
Funding received from CS&L for tenant capital improvements			0
Repayments of debt and swaps		0	0	0
Proceeds of debt issuance		0	0	0
Debt issuance costs		0	0
Intercompany transactions, net		3.3	22.7	(26)
Payments under long-term lease obligations		0	0
Payments under capital lease obligations		0	0	0
Other, net		0	0	0
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities		3.3	22.7	(26)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		3.3	22.7	(26)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of period		(3.3)	(26)	0
End of period	$ (3.3)	$ 0	$ (3.3)	$ (26)

Supplemental Guarantor Infor116

Supplemental Guarantor Information: Revision of Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Investment in consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates payable, net [Member] | Windstream Services, LLC [Member]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	$ 118.3
Investment in consolidated subsidiaries [Member] | Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	43
Investment in consolidated subsidiaries [Member] | Non-Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	0.8
Affiliates payable, net [Member] | Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	166.1
Affiliates payable, net [Member] | Non-Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	61.1
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) [Member] | Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	123.1
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) [Member] | Non-Guarantors
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	$ 61.9

Quarterly Financial Informat117

Quarterly Financial Information - (Unaudited): (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Revenues and sales	$ 1,309.1		$ 1,344.9		$ 1,359.6		$ 1,373.4		$ 1,427		$ 1,498.6		$ 1,421.1		$ 1,418.6		$ 5,387		$ 5,765.3		$ 5,829.5
Operating income	73.7		129.4		154.6		157.7		131.7		178.5		79.3		119.9		515.4		509.4		507.1
Net (loss) income	$ (86.9)		$ (66.2)		$ 1.5		$ (231.9)		$ 140.5		$ (7.2)		$ (111.2)		$ 5.3		$ (383.5)		$ 27.4		$ (39.5)
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share: (a)
Net (loss) income	$ (0.94)	[1]	$ (0.72)	[1]	$ 0.01	[1]	$ (2.52)	[1]	$ 1.41	[1]	$ (0.08)	[1]	$ (1.13)	[1]	$ 0.05	[1]	$ (4.11)	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ (0.45)
Notes to Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairment loss on investment in CS&L common stock																	$ 181.9		$ 0		$ 0
(Loss) gain on sale of data center business									$ 326.1								(10)		326.1		0
Gain (loss) on disposition of business, net of tax									199.7
CAF Phase II Incremental Support											$ 72.8
Costs related to REIT spin-off, net of tax													$ 54.5
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit
Notes to Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Recognized Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)																	60.7		8.7		128.6
Defined benefit plan, net periodic benefit cost, after tax																	37.2		5.3
Long-term Lease Obligation, Telecommunications Network Assets [Domain]
Notes to Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Interest expense related to long-term lease obligations					$ 125.4		$ 126.9		127.4		128.2		96				$ 500.8		$ 351.6		$ 0
Interest expense related to long-term lease obligations, net of tax					$ 76.9		$ 77.9		$ 78		$ 78.5		$ 58.8
[1]	Quarterly earnings (loss) per share amounts may not add to full-year earnings per share amounts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters compared to the weighted-average common shares for the year.

Subsequent Event (Details)

Subsequent Event (Details) $ in Millions	Feb. 27, 2017USD ($)Mishares	Feb. 17, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Mishares	Sep. 20, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015shares
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facility, new borrowings, issuance percent			99.00%
Common stock, shares authorized | shares			166,700,000			166,700,000
Number of Fiber Route Miles | Mi			131,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facility, new borrowings, issuance percent		99.50%
Common stock, shares authorized | shares	375,000,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed	$ 435
Transaction value	$ 1,100
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	51.00%
Quarterly Amortization Payment on Term Loans, Stated As A Percent of Initial Principal Amount		0.25%
Interest Rate Swap
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives			$ 200	$ 675
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate			1.1275%
Interest Rate Swap | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives	$ 500
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate	1.8812%
Derivative, Floor Interest Rate	0.75%
EarthLink [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of Customers | Mi	700,000
Number of Fiber Route Miles | Mi	16,000
Business Combination, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable | shares	0.818
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares | shares	93,000,000
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	49.00%
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) | Secured Debt
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facilities, new borrowings			$ 150		$ 600
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) | Secured Debt | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facilities, new borrowings	$ 450
Senior secured credit facility, new borrowings, issuance percent	99.00%
Quarterly Amortization Payment on Term Loans, Stated As A Percent of Initial Principal Amount	0.25%
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B7 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		2.25%
Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B7 [Member] | Secured Debt | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facilities, new borrowings		$ 580
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		3.25%
Maximum | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) | Secured Debt | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	4.00%
Minimum | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B6 – variable rates, due March 29, 2021 (a) | Secured Debt | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.75%
Minimum | Senior secured credit facility, Tranche B7 [Member] | Secured Debt | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		0.75%