Legal Definitions - one-time charge

A one-time charge refers to a fee or cost that is incurred only once, rather than being a recurring payment. It is a non-periodic payment for a specific service, item, or event, distinct from ongoing or subscription-based fees.

One-Time Charge

A "one-time charge" refers to a fee or cost that is imposed or incurred only a single time, rather than on a recurring or regular basis. It is typically associated with a specific, non-repeating event, service, or action.

Here are some examples illustrating a one-time charge:

• Example 1: New Utility Service Installation Fee

  When a homeowner signs up for a new internet service, the provider might charge a $99 "installation fee" to set up the equipment and activate the service. This fee is paid once when the service is initially established.

  This illustrates a one-time charge because the homeowner pays this specific fee only at the beginning of their service, not every month alongside their regular internet bill. It's a single cost for a non-recurring event – the initial setup.

• Example 2: Business Permit Application Fee

  A small business owner applying for a specific operating permit from their local city council might be required to pay a $250 "application fee." This fee covers the administrative costs of processing their application.

  This is a one-time charge because the business owner pays this fee only when they submit the application for that particular permit. They do not pay it annually or monthly; it's a single payment tied to the act of applying for that specific permit.

• Example 3: Real Estate Appraisal Fee

  During the process of purchasing a home, the buyer often pays an "appraisal fee" to a professional appraiser. This fee covers the cost of evaluating the property's value to ensure it aligns with the loan amount.

  This demonstrates a one-time charge because the appraisal is performed and paid for only once during the home buying transaction. It's a specific cost associated with that single purchase event, not a recurring expense of homeownership.