Nuvera Communications (NUVR) 10-Q 12 Nov 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Nov. 12, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'NEW ULM TELECOM INC	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	5,118,134
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000071557	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'
Entity Filer Category	'Smaller Reporting Company	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Inc

Consolidated Statements Of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
OPERATING REVENUES:	'	'	'	'
Local Service	$1,675,238	$1,448,759	$5,022,386	$4,364,582
Network Access	3,206,275	2,563,335	9,198,096	8,123,960
Video	1,865,303	1,494,017	5,410,824	4,420,306
Data	1,906,897	1,386,433	5,616,416	4,128,579
Long Distance	206,438	155,715	626,837	461,078
Other Non-Regulated	1,068,740	979,088	3,063,750	2,859,877
Total Operating Revenues	9,928,891	8,027,347	28,938,309	24,358,382
OPERATING EXPENSES:	'	'	'	'
Plant Operations (Excluding Depreciation and Amortization)	1,851,248	1,497,170	5,730,487	4,828,741
Cost of Video	1,627,853	1,283,744	4,777,795	3,785,252
Cost of Data	341,112	210,238	866,718	744,233
Cost of Other Nonregulated Services	575,995	417,227	1,566,774	1,215,876
Depreciation and Amortization	2,221,458	2,055,708	6,656,115	6,092,798
Selling, General and Administrative	1,583,172	1,339,482	5,056,095	4,573,112
Total Operating Expenses	8,200,838	6,803,569	24,653,984	21,240,012
OPERATING INCOME	1,728,053	1,223,778	4,284,325	3,118,370
OTHER (EXPENSE) INCOME	'	'	'	'
Interest Expense	-256,114	-556,562	-1,138,010	-1,665,981
Interest Income	26,197	808	122,390	81,276
Interest During Construction	3,656	6,217	9,026	16,922
Equity in Earnings of Hector Investment	'	218,372	'	711,073
CoBank Patronage Dividends	'	'	521,796	449,878
Other Investment Income	52,437	43,422	119,671	132,364
Total Other Income (Expense)	-173,824	-287,743	-365,127	-274,468
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	1,554,229	936,035	3,919,198	2,843,902
INCOME TAXES	652,778	392,910	1,646,065	1,193,816
NET INCOME	$901,451	$543,125	$2,273,133	$1,650,086
NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	$0.18	$0.11	$0.44	$0.32
DIVIDENDS PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	$0.09	$0.08	$0.25	$0.25
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING (in Shares)	5,118,134	5,132,518	5,111,816	5,123,027

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Com

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net Income	$901,451	$543,125	$2,273,133	$1,650,086
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):	'	'	'	'
Unrealized Gain (Loss) of Equity Method Investee	'	2,300	'	-14,702
Unrealized Gains on Interest Rate Swaps	'	237,364	303,851	664,414
Income Tax Expense Related to Unrealized	'	'	'	'
Gains on Interest Rate Swaps	'	-96,062	-124,538	-268,888
Other Comprehensive Income	'	143,602	179,313	380,824
Comprehensive Income	$901,451	$686,727	$2,452,446	$2,030,910

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
ASSETS	'	'
Cash	$1,735,505	$2,749,850
Receivables, Net of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts of $137,000 and $175,705	2,346,971	1,996,996
Income Taxes Receivable	149,526	201,270
Materials, Supplies, and Inventories	3,052,483	2,276,368
Deferred Income Taxes	796,667	795,375
Prepaid Expenses	566,049	610,265
Total Current Assets	8,647,201	8,630,124
INVESTMENTS & OTHER ASSETS:	'	'
Goodwill	39,975,906	39,975,906
Intangibles	26,755,769	28,609,193
Other Investments	6,661,186	6,491,513
Other Assets	126,353	77,478
Total Investments and Other Assets	73,519,214	75,154,090
PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT:	'	'
Telecommunications Plant	107,881,564	105,707,925
Other Property & Equipment	10,980,763	10,221,493
Video Plant	9,522,922	9,361,510
Total Property, Plant and Equipment	128,385,249	125,290,928
Less Accumulated Depreciation	84,658,508	80,466,903
Net Property, Plant & Equipment	43,726,741	44,824,025
TOTAL ASSETS	125,893,156	128,608,239
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	'	'
Current Portion of Long-Term Debt	4,338,000	4,113,000
Accounts Payable	1,659,044	1,988,390
Other Accrued Taxes	236,793	193,746
Financial Derivative Instruments	'	303,851
Deferred Compensation	65,206	67,614
Accrued Compensation	329,938	569,028
Other Accrued Liabilities	1,438,789	1,399,442
Total Current Liabilities	8,067,770	8,635,071
LONG-TERM DEBT, Less Current Portion	39,075,492	42,494,385
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES:	'	'
Loan Guarantees	281,998	303,627
Deferred Income Taxes	20,339,825	20,215,563
Unrecognized Tax Benefit	94,952	94,952
Other Accrued Liabilities	106,376	136,146
Deferred Compensation	941,224	997,869
Total Noncurrent Liabilities	21,764,375	21,748,157
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:	'	'
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:	'	'
Preferred Stock - $1.66 Par Value, 10,000,000 Shares Authorized, None Issued	'	'
Common Stock - $1.66 Par Value, 90,000,000 Shares Authorized, 5,118,134 and 5,103,918 Shares Issued and Outstanding	8,530,223	8,506,530
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'	-179,313
Retained Earnings	48,455,296	47,403,409
Total Stockholders' Equity	56,985,519	55,730,626
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$125,893,156	$128,608,239

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts (in Dollars)	$137,000	$175,705
Preferred stock par value (in Dollars per share)	$1.66	$1.66
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock par value (in Dollars per share)	$1.66	$1.66
Common stock, shares authorized	90,000,000	90,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	5,118,134	5,103,918
Common stock, shares outstanding	5,118,134	5,103,918

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Net Income	$2,273,133	$1,650,086
Depreciation and Amortization	6,685,167	6,121,850
Gain on Disposal of Assets	'	'
Undistributed Earnings of Hector Investment	'	-711,073
Undistributed Earnings of Other Equity Investments	-97,139	-130,927
Noncash Patronage Refund	-130,449	-157,457
Distributions from Equity Investments	14,616	200,000
Stock Issued in Lieu of Cash Payment	74,200	39,200
Receivables	-427,903	594,193
Income Taxes Receivable	51,744	-336,205
Inventories	-776,115	-740,243
Prepaid Expenses	62,416	106,366
Accounts Payable	-105,449	566,867
Checks Writeen in Excess of Cash Balance	'	720,027
Other Accrued Taxes	43,047	20,906
Other Accrued Liabilities	-229,513	-545,911
Deferred Income Tax	-1,569	319,981
Deferred Compensation	-59,053	-177,934
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities	7,377,133	7,539,726
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Additions to Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net	-3,929,302	-5,125,745
Other, Net	21,670	-41,384
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities	-3,907,632	-5,167,129
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Principal Payments of Long-Term Debt	-3,028,500	-2,589,383
Changes in Revolving Credit Facility	-165,393	854,379
Dividends Paid	-1,289,953	-1,268,895
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities	-4,483,846	-3,003,899
NET DECREASE IN CASH	-1,014,345	-631,302
CASH at Beginning of Period	2,749,850	1,221,717
CASH at End of Period	1,735,505	590,415
Supplemental cash flow information:	'	'
Cash paid for interest	1,123,358	1,643,596
Net cash paid for income taxes	$1,595,000	$1,210,000

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Total
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2011	$8,525,725	($814,234)	$45,972,430	$53,683,921
BALANCE (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	5,115,435	'	'	'
Director's Stock Plan	28,472	'	72,328	100,800
Director's Stock Plan (in Shares)	17,083	'	'	'
Retirement of Stock from HCC Spin-Off	-47,667	'	-123,934	-171,601
Retirement of Stock from HCC Spin-Off (in Shares)	-28,600	'	'	'
Net Income	'	'	3,174,914	3,174,914
Dividends	'	'	-1,692,329	-1,692,329
Other Comprehensive Income	'	634,921	'	634,921
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2012	8,506,530	-179,313	47,403,409	55,730,626
BALANCE (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	5,103,918	'	'	5,103,918
Director's Stock Plan	23,693	'	68,707	92,400
Director's Stock Plan (in Shares)	14,216	'	'	'
Net Income	'	'	2,273,133	2,273,133
Dividends	'	'	-1,289,953	-1,289,953
Other Comprehensive Income	'	179,313	'	179,313
BALANCE at Sep. 30, 2013	$8,530,223	'	$48,455,296	$56,985,519
BALANCE (in Shares) at Sep. 30, 2013	5,118,134	'	'	5,118,134

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Cons

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]	'
	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Consolidation
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of New Ulm Telecom, Inc. and its subsidiaries (NU Telecom) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Certain information and disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been omitted or condensed pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting only of normal and recurring accruals) considered necessary for the fair presentation of the financial statements and present fairly the results of operations, financial position and cash flows for the interim periods presented as required by Regulation S-X, Rule 10-01. These unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosures at the date of the financial statements and during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year as a whole or any other interim period.
	Our consolidated financial statements report the financial condition and results of operations for NU Telecom and its subsidiaries in one business segment: the Telecom Segment. Inter-company transactions have been eliminated from the consolidated financial statements.
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenue when (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) delivery of the product has occurred or a service has been provided, (iii) the price is fixed or determinable and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.
	Revenues are earned from our customers primarily through the connection to our local network, digital and commercial television programming, and Internet services (both dial-up and high-speed broadband). Revenues for these services are billed based on set rates for monthly service or based on the amount of time the customer is utilizing our facilities. The revenue for these services is recognized when the service is rendered.
	Revenues earned from interexchange carriers accessing our network are based on the utilization of our network by these carriers as measured by minutes of use on the network by the individual carriers. Revenues are billed at tariffed access rates for both interstate and intrastate calls. Revenues for these services are recognized based on the period the access is provided.
	Interstate access rates are established by a nationwide pooling of companies known as the National Exchange Carriers Association (NECA). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established NECA in 1983 to develop and administer interstate access service rates, terms and conditions. Revenues are pooled and redistributed on the basis of a company's actual or average costs. New Ulm Telecom’s and Sleepy Eye Telephone Company’s (SETC) settlements from the pools are based on its actual costs to provide service, while the settlements for NU Telecom subsidiaries – Western Telephone Company, Peoples Telephone Company and Hutchinson Telephone Company (HTC) are based on nationwide average schedules. Access revenues for New Ulm Telecom and SETC include an estimate of a cost study each year that is trued-up subsequent to the end of any given year. Our management believes the estimates included in our preliminary cost study are reasonable. We cannot predict the future impact that industry or regulatory changes will have on interstate access revenues.
	Intrastate access rates are filed with state regulatory commissions in Minnesota and Iowa.
	We derive revenues from system sales and services through the sale, installation and servicing of communication systems. In accordance with GAAP, these deliverables are accounted for separately. We recognize revenue from customer contracts for sales and installations using the completed-contract method, which recognizes income when the contract is substantially complete. We recognize rental revenues over the rental period.
	Cost of Services (excluding depreciation and amortization)
	Cost of services includes all costs related to delivery of communication services and products. These operating costs include all costs of performing services and providing related products including engineering, network monitoring and transport cost.
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses include direct and indirect selling expenses, customer service, billing and collections, advertising and all other general and administrative costs associated with the operations of the business.
	Depreciation and Amortization Expense
	We use the group life method (mass asset accounting) to depreciate the assets of our telephone companies. Telephone plant acquired in a given year is grouped into similar categories and depreciated over the remaining estimated useful life of the group. When an asset is retired, both the asset and the accumulated depreciation associated with that asset are removed from the books. Due to rapid changes in technology, selecting the estimated economic life of telecommunications plant and equipment requires a significant amount of judgment. We periodically review data on expected utilization of new equipment, asset retirement activity and net salvage values to determine adjustments to our depreciation rates. Depreciation expense was $4,802,690 and $4,535,234 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. We amortize our definite-lived intangible assets over their estimated useful lives. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment.
	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes consists of an amount for taxes currently payable and a provision for tax consequences deferred to future periods. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities, and their respective tax basis. Significant components of our deferred taxes arise from differences (i) in the basis of property, plant and equipment due to the use of accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes, as well as (ii) in partnership investments and intangible assets due to the difference between book and tax basis. Our effective income tax rate is normally higher than the United States tax rate due to state income taxes and permanent differences.
	We account for income taxes in accordance with GAAP. As required by GAAP, we recognize the financial statement benefit of tax positions only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more-likely-than-not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority.
	As of September 30, 2013 we had $143,866 of unrecognized tax benefits net of a federal tax benefit of $48,914, which if recognized would affect the effective tax rate. Currently, the State of Minnesota is examining Hector Communications Corporation’s (HCC) 2006 state tax return. The examination of this return is expected to be completed in 2013. As of September 30, 2012 we had no unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate.
	We are primarily subject to United States, Minnesota and Iowa income taxes. Tax years subsequent to 2009 remain open to examination by United States and state tax authorities. Our policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as income tax expense. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 we had $19,136 of accrued interest that related to income tax matters.
	Recent Accounting Developments
	In the first quarter of 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2013-02 to improve the disclosure of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The Update requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. Also, an entity is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income (only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period) either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our disclosures or consolidated financial statements.
	We reviewed all significant recently issued accounting pronouncements and determined they are either not applicable to our business or that no material effect is expected on our financial position and results of operations.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]	'
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	Note 2 – Acquisitions and Dispositions
	Hector Communications Corporation Spin-Off Agreement
	On December 31, 2012 NU Telecom completed a spin-off agreement with HCC. NU Telecom had originally acquired a one-third interest in HCC on November 3, 2006. HCC was equally owned by NU Telecom, Blue Earth Valley Communications, Inc. and Arvig Enterprises, Inc. Under the spin-off agreement, NU Telecom received all of the stock of SETC and other assets and investments and incurred $3.3 million of additional debt.
	The preliminary allocation of the spin-off value of HCC is shown below:
	Current Assets	$	439,664
	Property, plant and equipment		9,847,787
	Investments		2,412,938
	Customer relationship intangible		9,900,000
	Trade name intangible		570,000
	Excess cost over net assets acquired (Goodwill)		10,268,806
	Current liabilities		-300,621
	Deferred liabilities		-7,675,522
	Total price allocation		25,463,052
	Less Cash Acquired		-18,150
	Total Consideration For Acquisition, Net	$	25,444,902
	This spin-off was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations, and accordingly, the acquired assets were recorded at estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. Based upon our preliminary spin-off value allocation, the excess of the purchase price and acquisition costs over the fair value of the net identifiable tangible assets acquired was $20,738,806, which is not deductible for income tax purposes. The Company recorded an intangible asset related to the acquired company’s customer relationships of $9,900,000 and trade name intangible of $570,000. The estimated useful life of the customer relationship intangible is 14 years and trade name intangible is 5 years.
	The preliminary valuation allocation is subject to change based on pending operational true-ups related to accounts receivable and accounts payable.
	Pro Forma Financial Information
	Under the spin-off agreement, NU Telecom received all of the stock of SETC and other assets and investments. The following pro forma results presented are for three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 as if the spin-off had been completed on January 1, 2012. The Company provided these pro forma condensed Statements of Income to facilitate analysis of the 2012 Statement of Income.
		THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
										New Ulm
			Actual		Actual					Telecom, Inc.
			New Ulm		Sleepy Eye		Pro Forma			Pro Forma
			Telecom, Inc.		Telephone Co.		Adjustments			Combined
	REVENUES	$	8,027,347	$	1,353,183	$	-89,859		$	9,290,671
	NET INCOME	$	543,125	$	275,389	$	-369,445	*	$	449,069
	BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME
	PER SHARE	$	0.11	$	0.05	$	-0.07		$	0.09
	* These adjustments include depreciation, amortization, management services,
	equity income and interest expense, net of the related tax benefit.
		NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
										New Ulm
			Actual		Actual					Telecom, Inc.
			New Ulm		Sleepy Eye		Pro Forma			Pro Forma
			Telecom, Inc.		Telephone Co.		Adjustments			Combined
	REVENUES	$	24,358,382	$	4,091,927	$	-269,579		$	28,180,730
	NET INCOME	$	1,650,086	$	925,223	$	-1,108,334	*	$	1,466,975
	BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME
	PER SHARE	$	0.32	$	0.18	$	-0.21		$	0.29
	* These adjustments include depreciation, amortization, management services,
	equity income and interest expense, net of the related tax benefit.
	The operating results for SETC are included in the September 30, 2013 operating results of NU Telecom, but are not included in the operating results of NU Telecom as of September 30, 2012.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	Note 3 – Fair Value Measurements
	We have adopted the rules prescribed under GAAP for our financial assets and liabilities. GAAP includes a fair value hierarchy that is intended to increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures. The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity’s pricing based upon its own market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
	Level 1:   Inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2:   Inputs are quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in an active market, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, and market-corroborated inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.
	Level 3:   Inputs are derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or value drivers are unobservable.
	We have used financial derivative instruments to manage our overall cash flow exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. We accounted for derivative instruments in accordance with GAAP that requires derivative instruments to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in fair value of derivative instruments must be recognized in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met, in which case, the gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income rather than in earnings.
	We had entered into interest rate swaps with our lender, CoBank, ACB, to manage our cash flow exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. These instruments were designated as cash flow hedges and were effective at mitigating the risk of fluctuations on interest rates in the market place. Any gains or losses related to changes in the fair value of these derivatives are accounted for as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for as long as the hedge remains effective.
	The fair value of our interest rate swap agreements is discussed in Note 6 – “Interest Rate Swaps”. The fair value of our swap agreements were determined based on Level 2 inputs.
	Other Financial Instruments
	Other Investments - It is difficult to estimate a fair value for equity investments in companies carried on the equity or cost basis due to a lack of quoted market prices. We conducted an evaluation of our investments in all of our companies in connection with the preparation of our audited financial statements at December 31, 2012. We believe the carrying value of our investments is not impaired.
	Debt – We estimate the fair value of our long-term debt based on the discounted future cash flows we expect to pay using current rates of borrowing for similar types of debt. Fair value of the debt approximates carrying value.
	Other Financial Instruments - Our financial instruments also include cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable and accounts payable where the current carrying amounts approximate fair market value.

Goodwill_and_Intangibles

Goodwill and Intangibles	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 4 – Goodwill and Intangibles
	We account for goodwill and other intangible assets under GAAP. Under GAAP, goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are instead tested for impairment (i) on at least an annual basis and (ii) when changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of goodwill may be below its carrying value. Our goodwill totaled $39,975,906 at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.
	As required by GAAP, we do not amortize goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives, but test for impairment on an annual basis or earlier if an event occurs or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. These circumstances include, but are not limited to (i) a significant adverse change in the business climate, (ii) unanticipated competition or (iii) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Determining impairment involves estimating the fair value of a reporting unit using a combination of (i) the income or discounted cash flows approach and (ii) the market approach that utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then the amount of the impairment loss must be measured. The impairment loss is calculated by comparing the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying amount. In calculating the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of a reporting unit over the amount assigned to its other assets and liabilities is the implied value of goodwill. We recognize impairment loss when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.
	In 2012 and 2011, we engaged an independent valuation firm to complete our annual impairment testing for goodwill. For 2012 and 2011, the testing resulted in no impairment charge to goodwill as the determined fair value was sufficient to pass the first step of the impairment test.
	Our intangible assets subject to amortization consist of acquired customer relationships, regulatory rights and a noncompetition agreement. As of December 31, 2009, our management determined that our trade name intangible was no longer an indefinite-lived intangible asset due to the rebranding of HTC’s products and services. Our management anticipated that this rebranding process would take approximately three years to complete and would result in additional amortization expense of $266,667 per year, over the three years which began in 2010 and ended in 2012, due to this rebranding process.
	We amortize intangible assets with finite lives over their respective estimated useful lives. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment. In addition, we periodically reassess the carrying value, useful lives and classifications of our identifiable intangible assets.
	The components of our identified intangible assets are as follows:
				30-Sep-13				31-Dec-12
				Gross				Gross
		Useful		Carrying		Accumulated		Carrying		Accumulated
		Lives		Amount		Amortization		Amount		Amortization
	Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Customers Relationships	14-15 yrs	$	29,278,445	$	8,473,855	$	29,278,445	$	6,905,929
	Regulatory Rights	15 yrs		4,000,000		1,533,321		4,000,000		1,333,323
	Non-Competition Agreement	5 yrs		800,000		800,000		800,000		800,000
	Trade Name	3-5 yrs		1,370,000		885,500		1,370,000		800,000
	Indefinitely-Lived Intangible Assets
	Video Franchise			3,000,000		-		3,000,000		-
	Total		$	38,448,445	$	11,692,676	$	38,448,445	$	9,839,252
	Net Identified Intangible Assets				$	26,755,769			$	28,609,193
	Amortization expense related to the definite-lived intangible assets was $1,853,425 and $1,557,564 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
	Amortization expense for the remaining three months of 2013 and the five years subsequent to 2013 is estimated to be:
	(October 1 – December 31) - $617,808
	2014 - $2,471,233
	2015 - $2,471,233
	2016 - $2,469,256
	2017 - $2,469,083
	2018 - $2,355,083

Secured_Credit_Facility

Secured Credit Facility	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Secured Credit Facility [Abstract]	'
Secured Credit Facility [Text Block]	'
	Note 5 – Secured Credit Facility
	We have a credit facility with CoBank, ACB. Under the credit facility, we entered into separate Master Loan Agreements (MLAs) and a series of supplements to the respective MLAs.
	NU Telecom and its respective subsidiaries also have entered into security agreements under which substantially all of the assets of NU Telecom and its respective subsidiaries have been pledged to CoBank, ACB as collateral. In addition, NU Telecom and its respective subsidiaries have guaranteed all obligations under the credit facility.
	Our loan agreements include restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends to our stockholders. However, we are allowed to pay dividends (a) (i) in an amount up to $2,050,000 in any year and (ii) in any amount if our “Total Leverage Ratio”, that is, the ratio of our “Indebtedness” to “EBITDA” (in each case as defined in the loan documents) is equal to or less than 3:50 to 1:00, and (b) in either case if we are not in default or potential default under our loan agreements. Since September 30, 2012, our Total Leverage Ratio has been below the 3:50 to 1:00 ratio, thus eliminating any restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends to our stockholders.
	At September 30, 2013 and 2012, we were in compliance with all the stipulated financial ratios in our loan agreements.
	As described in Note 6  – “Interest Rate Swaps”, we had entered into interest rate swaps that effectively fixed  our interest rates. As of June 30, 2013 the remaining swap matured and we currently have no interest rate swaps in effect. The remaining debt of $47.4 million ($4.0 million available under the revolving credit  facilities and $43.4 million currently outstanding) remains subject to variable interest rates at an effective weighted average interest rate of 2.12%, as of September 30, 2013.

Interest_Rate_Swaps

Interest Rate Swaps	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]	'
Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 6 – Interest Rate Swaps
	We assess interest rate cash flow risk by continually identifying and monitoring changes in interest rate exposures that may adversely affect expected future cash flows and by evaluating hedging opportunities.
	We generally use variable-rate debt to finance our operations, capital expenditures and acquisitions. These variable-rate debt obligations expose us to variability in interest payments due to changes in interest rates. The terms of our credit facilities with CoBank, ACB required that we enter into interest rate agreements designed to protect us against fluctuations in interest rates, in an aggregate principal amount and for a duration determined under the credit facility.
	To meet this objective, we had entered into Interest Rate Swap Agreements with CoBank, ACB. Under these Interest Rate Swap Agreements and subsequent swaps that each covered  a specified notional dollar amount, we had  changed the variable-rate cash flow exposure on the debt obligations to fixed cash flows. Under the terms of those  interest rate swaps, we paid a fixed contractual interest rate and (i) made  an additional payment if the LIBOR variable rate payment was below a contractual rate or (ii) receive a payment if the LIBOR variable rate payment was above the contractual rate.
	As previously stated, our last remaining swap matured as of June 30, 2013 and we currently have no interest rate swaps in effect.
	Each month, we made interest payments to CoBank, ACB under its loan agreements based on the current applicable LIBOR Rate,  plus the contractual LIBOR margin then in effect with respect to each applicable loan, without reflecting any interest rate swaps. At the end of each calendar quarter, CoBank, ACB adjusted our aggregate interest payments based upon the difference, if any, between the amounts paid by us during the quarter and the current effective interest rate. Net interest payments are reported in our consolidated income statement as interest expense.
	Pursuant to these interest rate swap agreements, we entered into interest rate swaps covering (i) $39.0 million of our aggregate indebtedness to CoBank, ACB effective March 19, 2008 and (ii) an additional $6.0 million of our aggregate indebtedness to CoBank, ACB effective June 23, 2008. These swaps effectively locked in the interest rate on (i) $6.0 million of variable-rate debt through March 2011, (ii) $33.0 million of variable-rate debt through March 2013, (iii) $3.0 million of variable-rate debt through June 2011 and (iv) $3.0 million of variable-rate debt through June 2013.
	On March 31, 2013, $33,000,000 of our swaps matured on Loan RX0583-T1 ($11,250,000) and Loan RX0584-T1 ($21,750,000). No gain or loss was recognized on these swaps as they had reached their full maturities.
	On June 30, 2013, $3,000,000 of our swaps matured on Loan RX0583-T2 ($3,000,000). No gain or loss was recognized on this swap as it had reached its full maturity.
	The interest rate swaps qualified as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes under GAAP. We had reflected the effect of these hedging transactions in our financial statements. The unrealized gains were reported in other comprehensive income. If we had terminated our interest rate swap agreements, the cumulative change in fair value at the date of termination would have been reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, which is classified in stockholders’ equity, into earnings on the consolidated statements of income.
	The fair value of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements were determined based on valuations received from CoBank, ACB and were based on the present value of expected future cash flows using discount rates appropriate with the terms of the swap agreements. The fair value indicated an estimated amount we would have had to pay if the contracts were canceled or transferred to other parties.

Other_Investments

Other Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Other Investments [Abstract]	'
Other Investments [Text Block]	'
	Note 7 – Other Investments
	We are a co-investor with other rural telephone companies in several partnerships and limited liability companies. These joint ventures make it possible to offer services to customers, including digital video services and fiber optic transport services that we would have difficulty offering on our own. These joint ventures also make it possible to invest in new technologies with a lower level of financial risk. We recognize income and losses from these investments on the equity method of accounting. For a listing of our investments, see Note 10 – “Segment Information”.

Guarantees

Guarantees	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
Guarantees [Text Block]	'
	Note 8 – Guarantees
	On September 30, 2011, FiberComm, LC refinanced two existing loans with American State Bank with a new ten-year loan, maturing on September 30, 2021. As of September 30, 2013, we have recorded a liability of $281,998 in connection with the guarantee on this new loan. This guarantee may be exercised if FiberComm, LC does not make its required payments on this note.

Deferred_Compensation

Deferred Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]	'
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]	'
	Note 9 – Deferred Compensation
	As of September 30, 2013 and 2012, we have recorded other deferred compensation relating to executive compensation payable to certain former executives of past acquisitions.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 10 – Segment Information
	We operate in the Telecom Segment and have no other significant business segments. The Telecom Segment consists of voice, data and video communication services delivered to the customer over our local communications network. No single customer accounted for a material portion of our consolidated revenues.
	The Telecom Segment operates the following incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs) and competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs) and has investment ownership interests as follows:
	Telecom Segment
	● ILECs:
	▪  NU Telecom, the parent company;
	▪  Hutchinson Telephone Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NU Telecom;
	▪  Peoples Telephone Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NU Telecom;
	▪  Sleepy Eye Telephone Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NU Telecom; and
	▪  Western Telephone Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NU Telecom;
	● CLECs:
	▪  NU Telecom, located in Redwood Falls, Minnesota; and
	▪  Hutchinson Telecommunications, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of HTC, located in Litchfield, Minnesota;
	● Our investments and interests in the following entities include some management responsibilities:
	▪  FiberComm, LC – 18.27% subsidiary equity ownership interest. FiberComm, LC is located in Sioux City, Iowa;
	▪  Broadband Visions, LLC – 24.30% subsidiary equity ownership interest. Broadband Visions, LLC provides video headend and Internet services; and
	▪  Independent Emergency Services, LLC – 14.29% subsidiary equity ownership interest. Independent Emergency Services, LLC is a provider of E-911 services to the State of Minnesota as well as a number of counties located in Minnesota.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 11 – Commitments and Contingencies
	We are involved in certain contractual disputes in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe the ultimate resolution of any of these existing matters will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We did not experience any changes to material contractual obligations in the first nine months of 2013. Refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 for the discussion relating to commitments and contingencies.

Hector_Communications_Corporat

Hector Communications Corporation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 12 – Hector Communications Corporation
	On November 3, 2006 we acquired a one-third interest in HCC. HCC was equally owned by NU Telecom, Blue Earth Valley Communications, Inc. and Arvig Enterprises, Inc. Each of the owners provided  management and other operational services to HCC and its subsidiaries.
	On December 31, 2012 NU Telecom completed a spin-off agreement with HCC. NU Telecom had originally acquired a one-third interest in HCC on November 3, 2006. Under the spin-off agreement, NU Telecom received all of the stock of SETC and other assets and investments and incurred $3.3 million of additional debt.
	Our President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bill D. Otis, had  been named Chairman of the Board of Directors and President of HCC. Ms. Barbara A.J. Bornhoft, our Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, also served  on the Board of Directors of HCC.
	HCC had operating revenues of $6,734,525, operating income of $1,171,484 and net income of $655,118 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and operating revenues of $20,094,730, operating income of $3,679,295 and net income of $2,133,220 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	'
	Note 13 – Subsequent Events
	We have evaluated and disclosed subsequent events through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Accounting_Policies_by_Policy_

Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenue when (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) delivery of the product has occurred or a service has been provided, (iii) the price is fixed or determinable and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.
	Revenues are earned from our customers primarily through the connection to our local network, digital and commercial television programming, and Internet services (both dial-up and high-speed broadband). Revenues for these services are billed based on set rates for monthly service or based on the amount of time the customer is utilizing our facilities. The revenue for these services is recognized when the service is rendered.
	Revenues earned from interexchange carriers accessing our network are based on the utilization of our network by these carriers as measured by minutes of use on the network by the individual carriers. Revenues are billed at tariffed access rates for both interstate and intrastate calls. Revenues for these services are recognized based on the period the access is provided.
	Interstate access rates are established by a nationwide pooling of companies known as the National Exchange Carriers Association (NECA). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established NECA in 1983 to develop and administer interstate access service rates, terms and conditions. Revenues are pooled and redistributed on the basis of a company's actual or average costs. New Ulm Telecom’s and Sleepy Eye Telephone Company’s (SETC) settlements from the pools are based on its actual costs to provide service, while the settlements for NU Telecom subsidiaries – Western Telephone Company, Peoples Telephone Company and Hutchinson Telephone Company (HTC) are based on nationwide average schedules. Access revenues for New Ulm Telecom and SETC include an estimate of a cost study each year that is trued-up subsequent to the end of any given year. Our management believes the estimates included in our preliminary cost study are reasonable. We cannot predict the future impact that industry or regulatory changes will have on interstate access revenues.
	Intrastate access rates are filed with state regulatory commissions in Minnesota and Iowa.
	We derive revenues from system sales and services through the sale, installation and servicing of communication systems. In accordance with GAAP, these deliverables are accounted for separately. We recognize revenue from customer contracts for sales and installations using the completed-contract method, which recognizes income when the contract is substantially complete. We recognize rental revenues over the rental period.
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Cost of Services (excluding depreciation and amortization)
	Cost of services includes all costs related to delivery of communication services and products. These operating costs include all costs of performing services and providing related products including engineering, network monitoring and transport cost.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses include direct and indirect selling expenses, customer service, billing and collections, advertising and all other general and administrative costs associated with the operations of the business.
Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization [Policy Text Block]	'
	Depreciation and Amortization Expense
	We use the group life method (mass asset accounting) to depreciate the assets of our telephone companies. Telephone plant acquired in a given year is grouped into similar categories and depreciated over the remaining estimated useful life of the group. When an asset is retired, both the asset and the accumulated depreciation associated with that asset are removed from the books. Due to rapid changes in technology, selecting the estimated economic life of telecommunications plant and equipment requires a significant amount of judgment. We periodically review data on expected utilization of new equipment, asset retirement activity and net salvage values to determine adjustments to our depreciation rates. Depreciation expense was $4,802,690 and $4,535,234 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. We amortize our definite-lived intangible assets over their estimated useful lives. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes consists of an amount for taxes currently payable and a provision for tax consequences deferred to future periods. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities, and their respective tax basis. Significant components of our deferred taxes arise from differences (i) in the basis of property, plant and equipment due to the use of accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes, as well as (ii) in partnership investments and intangible assets due to the difference between book and tax basis. Our effective income tax rate is normally higher than the United States tax rate due to state income taxes and permanent differences.
	We account for income taxes in accordance with GAAP. As required by GAAP, we recognize the financial statement benefit of tax positions only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more-likely-than-not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority.
	As of September 30, 2013 we had $143,866 of unrecognized tax benefits net of a federal tax benefit of $48,914, which if recognized would affect the effective tax rate. Currently, the State of Minnesota is examining Hector Communications Corporation’s (HCC) 2006 state tax return. The examination of this return is expected to be completed in 2013. As of September 30, 2012 we had no unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate.
	We are primarily subject to United States, Minnesota and Iowa income taxes. Tax years subsequent to 2009 remain open to examination by United States and state tax authorities. Our policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as income tax expense. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 we had $19,136 of accrued interest that related to income tax matters.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Recent Accounting Developments
	In the first quarter of 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2013-02 to improve the disclosure of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The Update requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. Also, an entity is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income (only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period) either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our disclosures or consolidated financial statements.
	We reviewed all significant recently issued accounting pronouncements and determined they are either not applicable to our business or that no material effect is expected on our financial position and results of operations.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	'
	Current Assets	$	439,664
	Property, plant and equipment		9,847,787
	Investments		2,412,938
	Customer relationship intangible		9,900,000
	Trade name intangible		570,000
	Excess cost over net assets acquired (Goodwill)		10,268,806
	Current liabilities		-300,621
	Deferred liabilities		-7,675,522
	Total price allocation		25,463,052
	Less Cash Acquired		-18,150
	Total Consideration For Acquisition, Net	$	25,444,902
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	'
		THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
										New Ulm
			Actual		Actual					Telecom, Inc.
			New Ulm		Sleepy Eye		Pro Forma			Pro Forma
			Telecom, Inc.		Telephone Co.		Adjustments			Combined
	REVENUES	$	8,027,347	$	1,353,183	$	-89,859		$	9,290,671
	NET INCOME	$	543,125	$	275,389	$	-369,445	*	$	449,069
	BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME
	PER SHARE	$	0.11	$	0.05	$	-0.07		$	0.09
		NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
										New Ulm
			Actual		Actual					Telecom, Inc.
			New Ulm		Sleepy Eye		Pro Forma			Pro Forma
			Telecom, Inc.		Telephone Co.		Adjustments			Combined
	REVENUES	$	24,358,382	$	4,091,927	$	-269,579		$	28,180,730
	NET INCOME	$	1,650,086	$	925,223	$	-1,108,334	*	$	1,466,975
	BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME
	PER SHARE	$	0.32	$	0.18	$	-0.21		$	0.29

Goodwill_and_Intangibles_Table

Goodwill and Intangibles (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
	'
				30-Sep-13				31-Dec-12
				Gross				Gross
		Useful		Carrying		Accumulated		Carrying		Accumulated
		Lives		Amount		Amortization		Amount		Amortization
	Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Customers Relationships	14-15 yrs	$	29,278,445	$	8,473,855	$	29,278,445	$	6,905,929
	Regulatory Rights	15 yrs		4,000,000		1,533,321		4,000,000		1,333,323
	Non-Competition Agreement	5 yrs		800,000		800,000		800,000		800,000
	Trade Name	3-5 yrs		1,370,000		885,500		1,370,000		800,000
	Indefinitely-Lived Intangible Assets
	Video Franchise			3,000,000		-		3,000,000		-
	Total		$	38,448,445	$	11,692,676	$	38,448,445	$	9,839,252
	Net Identified Intangible Assets				$	26,755,769			$	28,609,193

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Cons1

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'
Depreciation (in Dollars)	$4,802,690	$4,535,234	'
Income Tax Examination Tax Positions Recognition Likelihood Threshold Percentage	50.00%	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate (in Dollars)	143,866	'	'
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations (in Dollars)	48,914	'	'
Income Tax Examination, Interest Accrued (in Dollars)	$19,136	'	$19,136

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_1

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) [Line Items]	'
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt	$3,300,000
Trade Names [Member] | Hector Communications Corporation HCC [Member]	'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) [Line Items]	'
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	570,000
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	'5 years
SETC [Member]	'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) [Line Items]	'
BusinessCombinationAssumedGoodwillAndIntangibles	20,738,806
Hector Communications Corporation HCC [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]	'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) [Line Items]	'
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles	$9,900,000
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	'14 years

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_2

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Allocation Of Assets and Liabilities (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
			Trade Names [Member]	Hector Communications Corporation HCC [Member]	Hector Communications Corporation HCC [Member]
			Hector Communications Corporation HCC [Member]	Customer Relationships [Member]
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Allocation Of Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Current Assets	'	'	'	'	$439,664
Property, plant and equipment	'	'	'	'	9,847,787
Investments	'	'	'	'	2,412,938
Customer relationship intangible	'	'	'	9,900,000	'
Trade name intangible	'	'	570,000	'	'
Excess cost over net assets acquired (Goodwill)	39,975,906	39,975,906	'	'	10,268,806
Current liabilities	'	'	'	'	-300,621
Deferred liabilities	'	'	'	'	-7,675,522
Total price allocation	'	'	'	'	25,463,052
Less Cash Acquired	'	'	'	'	-18,150
Total Consideration For Acquisition, Net	'	'	'	'	$25,444,902

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_3

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Pro Forma Financial Information (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012		Dec. 31, 2012
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Pro Forma Financial Information [Line Items]	'	'		'	'		'
REVENUES	'	$9,290,671		'	$28,180,730		'
NET INCOME	901,451	543,125		2,273,133	1,650,086		3,174,914
NET INCOME	'	449,069	[1]	'	1,466,975	[1]	'
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	$0.18	$0.11		$0.44	$0.32		'
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	'	$0.09		'	$0.29		'
Pro Forma Adjustments [Member]	'	'		'	'		'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Pro Forma Financial Information [Line Items]	'	'		'	'		'
REVENUES	'	-89,859		'	-269,579		'
NET INCOME	'	-369,445		'	-1,108,334		'
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	'	($0.07)		'	($0.21)		'
Parent Company [Member]	'	'		'	'		'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Pro Forma Financial Information [Line Items]	'	'		'	'		'
REVENUES	'	8,027,347		'	24,358,382		'
NET INCOME	'	543,125		'	1,650,086		'
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	'	$0.11		'	$0.32		'
SETC [Member]	'	'		'	'		'
Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - Pro Forma Financial Information [Line Items]	'	'		'	'		'
REVENUES	'	1,353,183		'	4,091,927		'
NET INCOME	'	$275,389		'	$925,223		'
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE (in Dollars per share)	'	$0.05		'	$0.18		'
[1]	These adjustments include depreciation, amortization, management services, equity income and interest expense, net of the related tax benefit.

Goodwill_and_Intangibles_Detai

Goodwill and Intangibles (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	$39,975,906	'	$39,975,906	'	'
Term of Rebranding Process Years	'3 years	'	'	'	'
AdditionalChargeToAmortizationExpense	'	'	266,667	266,667	266,667
Amortization of Intangible Assets	1,853,425	1,557,564	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year	617,808	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	2,471,233	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	2,471,233	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	2,469,256	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five	2,469,083	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	$2,355,083	'	'	'	'

Goodwill_and_Intangibles_Detai1

Goodwill and Intangibles (Details) - Components Of Identified Intangible Assets (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	$38,448,445	$38,448,445
Accumulated Amortization	11,692,676	9,839,252
Net Identified Intangible Assets	26,755,769	28,609,193
Customer Relationship [Member]	'	'
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Useful Lives	'14-15 yrs	'
Gross Carrying Amount	29,278,445	29,278,445
Accumulated Amortization	8,473,855	6,905,929
Regulatory Rights [Member]	'	'
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Useful Lives	'15 yrs	'
Gross Carrying Amount	4,000,000	4,000,000
Accumulated Amortization	1,533,321	1,333,323
Non Competition Agreement [Member]	'	'
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Useful Lives	'5 yrs	'
Gross Carrying Amount	800,000	800,000
Accumulated Amortization	800,000	800,000
Trade Names [Member]	'	'
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Useful Lives	'3-5 yrs	'
Gross Carrying Amount	1,370,000	1,370,000
Accumulated Amortization	885,500	800,000
Video Franchise [Member]	'	'
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	3,000,000	3,000,000
Accumulated Amortization	'	'

Secured_Credit_Facility_Detail

Secured Credit Facility (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Secured Credit Facility [Member]	'
Secured Credit Facility (Details) [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Covenant Description	'Our loan agreements include restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends to our stockholders. However, we are allowed to pay dividends (a) (i) in an amount up to $2,050,000 in any year and (ii) in any amount if our "Total Leverage Ratio", that is, the ratio of our "Indebtedness" to "EBITDA" (in each case as defined in the loan documents) is equal to or less than 3:50 to 1:00, and (b) in either case if we are not in default or potential default under our loan agreements. Since September 30, 2012, our Total Leverage Ratio has been below the 3:50 to 1:00 ratio, thus eliminating any restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends to our stockholders.
Debt Instrument Threshold Amount Dividends	$2,050,000
Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance	'At September 30, 2013 and 2012, we were in compliance with all the stipulated financial ratios in our loan agreements.
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	47,400,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	2.12%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	'
Secured Credit Facility (Details) [Line Items]	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	4,000,000
Secured Debt [Member]	'
Secured Credit Facility (Details) [Line Items]	'
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$43,400,000

Interest_Rate_Swaps_Details

Interest Rate Swaps (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Jun. 23, 2008	Mar. 19, 2008
		R X0583 T1 [Member]	R X0584 T1 [Member]	R X0583 T2 [Member]	Variable Rate Debt Through March Two Thousand Eleven [Member]	Variable Rate Debt Through March Two Thousand Thirteen [Member]	Variable Rate Debt Through June Two Thousand Eleven [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]
		Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Interest Rate Swaps (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	'	$11,250,000	$21,750,000	$3,000,000	'	'	'	$3,000,000	$33,000,000	$6,000,000	$39,000,000
Long-term Debt, Gross	$3,000,000	'	'	'	$6,000,000	$33,000,000	$3,000,000	'	'	'	'

Guarantees_Details

Guarantees (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
Guaranty Liabilities	$281,998

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013
Fiber Comm LC [Member]	'
Segment Information (Details) [Line Items]	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	18.27%
Broadband Visions LLC [Member]	'
Segment Information (Details) [Line Items]	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	24.30%
Independent Emergency Services LLC [Member]	'
Segment Information (Details) [Line Items]	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	14.29%

Hector_Communications_Corporat1

Hector Communications Corporation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt	'	'	$3,300,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	6,734,525	20,094,730	'
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Extraordinary Items	1,171,484	3,679,295	'
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	$655,118	$2,133,220	'