Investment in Unconsolidated Entities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities [Abstract]

Equity and cost method investments

Investments in unconsolidated entities consist of amounts invested in wireless and wireline entities in which TDS holds a noncontrolling interest.  These investments are accounted for using either the equity or cost method as shown in the following table:

December31,	2016		2015
(Dollars in millions)
Equity method investments:
Capital contributions, loans, advances and adjustments	$	118	$	123
Cumulative share of income		1,613		1,468
Cumulative share of distributions		(1,298)		(1,205)
Total equity method investments		433		386
Cost method investments		18		16
Total investments in unconsolidated entities	$	451	$	402

Equity method investments, summarized financial position

The following tables, which are based on information provided in part by third parties, summarize the combined assets, liabilities and equity, and results of operations of TDS’ equity method investments:

December31,	2016		2015
(Dollars in millions)
Assets
Current	$	776	$	671
Due from affiliates		386		89
Property and other		4,666		4,604
Total assets	$	5,828	$	5,364
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities	$	468	$	810
Deferred credits		189		242
Long-term liabilities		197		158
Long-term capital lease obligations		6		2
Partners’ capital and shareholders’ equity		4,968		4,152
Total liabilities and equity	$	5,828	$	5,364

Equity method investments, summarized results of operations

Year Ended December31,	2016		2015		2014
(Dollars in millions)
Results of Operations
Revenues	$	6,769	$	6,979	$	6,700
Operating expenses		5,068		5,245		5,064
Operating income		1,701		1,734		1,636
Other income (expense), net		(13)		(9)		7
Net income	$	1,688	$	1,725	$	1,643