Long-Term Debt

As of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, long-term debt was as follows:



(dollars in millions)	December 31, 2012			December 31, 2011
Senior Secured Term Loan*	$	2,614		$	2,600
9.25% Senior Notes due 2014	—			807
Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2015 (4.469% as of December 31, 2012 and 4.202% as of December 31, 2011)	300			300
8.75% Senior Notes due 2017	—			700
10% Senior Notes due 2018	640			640
11.875% Senior Notes due 2019	605			605
9.375% Senior Notes due 2019	500			500
8.125% Senior Notes due 2019	1,200			1,200
8.875% Senior Notes due 2019	300			—
8.625% Senior Notes due 2020	900			—
7% Senior Notes due 2020	775			—
15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013	172			272
7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015	200			200
7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 Series B	275			275
6.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016	201			201
9.86% Commercial Mortgage due 2015	—			65
Capital Leases	86			131
Other	12			32
Total Debt Obligations	8,780			8,528
Unamortized (Discount) Premium:
Discount on Senior Secured Term Loan	(11		)	(33		)
Premium on 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014	—			3
Discount on 10% Senior Notes due 2018	(10		)	(11		)
Discount on 11.875%Senior Notes due 2019	(9		)	(10		)
Discount on 9.375% Senior Notes due 2019	(8		)	(9		)
Discount on 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019	(8		)	(9		)
Discount on 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015	(2		)	(2		)
Discount due to embedded derivative contracts	—			(7		)
Total Unamortized (Discount) Premium	(48		)	(78		)
Carrying Value of Debt	8,732			8,450
Less current portion	(216		)	(65		)
Long-term Debt, less current portion	$	8,516		$	8,385

* The $599 million Tranche B 2016 Term Loan due 2016, the $815 million Tranche B 2019 Term Loan due 2019 and the $1.2 billion Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan due 2019 had interest rates of 4.75%, 5.25% and 4.75% as of December 31, 2012, respectively. The $1.4 billion Tranche A Term Loan due 2014, that was prepaid in 2012, had an effective interest rate of 2.65% as of December 31, 2011, excluding the effect of the $1 billion notional amount interest rate swaps. The $650 million Tranche B II Term Loan and $550 million Tranche B III Term Loan due 2018, that were prepaid in 2012, had interest rates of 5.75% as of December 31, 2011.

2012 Debt Issuances, Redemptions, Exchanges and Registrations

During the fourth quarter of 2012, Level 3 Financing, Inc., a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Level 3 Communications, Inc. ("Level 3 Financing") refinanced its existing $650 million Tranche B II Term Loan and $550 million Tranche B III Term Loan under its existing senior secured credit facility through the creation of a new term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $1.2 billion. The new term loan was borrowed pursuant to an amended and restated credit agreement. The new term loan consists of a $1.2 billion senior secured term loan which matures on August 1, 2019 (the "Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan"). The interest rate on the loan is LIBOR plus 3.25%, with LIBOR set at a minimum of 1.5%. The Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan was priced at par. Debt issuance costs of approximately $13 million, were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan as interest expense using the effective interest method. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $50 million as a result this transaction.

During the third quarter of 2012, Level 3 Financing refinanced its existing $1.4 billion Tranche A Term Loan under its existing senior secured credit facility through the creation of new term loans in the aggregate principal amount of $1.415 billion (the "New Term Loans") and cash on hand. The New Term Loans were borrowed pursuant to an amended and restated credit agreement. The New Term Loans consist of: (a) $600 million senior secured term loan which matures on February 1, 2016 (the “Tranche B 2016 Term Loan”), and (b) $815 million senior secured term loan which matures on August 1, 2019 (the “Tranche B 2019 Term Loan”). The interest rates on the loans are LIBOR plus 3.25% for the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and LIBOR plus 3.75% for the Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, with LIBOR set at a minimum of 1.5% on both loans. The Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and the Tranche B 2019 Term Loan were priced at 99.5% and 99.0% of par, respectively. Debt issuance discounts of approximately $3 million and $8 million were reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and are being amortized as interest expense over the term of the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, respectively, using the effective interest method. The Company used the remaining net proceeds to repay $15 million in principal amount plus a premium for existing vendor financing obligations. Debt issuance costs of approximately $9 million and $12 million were capitalized and are being amortized over terms of the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, respectively, as interest expense using the effective interest method. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $9 million as a result of this transaction. In connection with the refinancing of the Tranche A Term Loan, the Company recognized a $60 million non-cash loss on two interest rate swap agreements that had previously hedged changes in the interest rate on $1 billion notional amount of floating rate debt.

Also during the third quarter of 2012, Level 3 Financing completed the offering of $775 million aggregate principal amount of its 7% Senior Notes due 2020 (the "7% Senior Notes"). The net proceeds from the offering of the notes, along with cash on hand were used to redeem all of the outstanding 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 issued by Level 3 Financing, including the payment of accrued interest and applicable premiums, and in connection with that redemption, the indenture relating to the 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 was discharged. Level 3 Financing redeemed its 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 at a price of 104.375% of the principal amount and recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $40 million. The 7% Senior Notes were priced at 100% of their principal amount and will mature on June 1, 2020. Interest on the notes accrues from August 6, 2012 and will be payable on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2012. Debt issuance costs of approximately $15 million, were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 7% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The 7% Senior Notes are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold except pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and applicable state securities laws. The 7% Senior Notes became fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, LLC during the fourth quarter of 2012.

Additionally during the third quarter of 2012, Level 3 Communications, Inc. completed the offering of $300 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.875% Senior Notes due 2019 (the "8.875% Senior Notes"). The net proceeds from the offering of the notes are being used for general corporate purposes, including the potential repurchase, redemption, repayment or refinancing of the Company's and its subsidiaries' existing indebtedness from time to time. The 8.875% Senior Notes were priced at 100% of their principal amount and will mature on June 1, 2019. Interest on the notes accrues from August 1, 2012 and will be payable on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2012. Debt issuance costs of approximately $7 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.875% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The 8.875% Senior Notes are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold except pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and applicable state securities laws.

Also in the third quarter of 2012, the outstanding principal amount of the Commercial Mortgage due 2015 was fully repaid along with accrued interest.

During the second quarter of 2012, all of the originally placed 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 were exchanged for a new issue of 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable. The 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 became fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, LLC during the first quarter of 2012.

During the first quarter of 2012, Level 3 Financing completed the offering of $900 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.625% Senior Notes due 2020 (the "8.625% Senior Notes"). A portion of the net proceeds from the offering of the 8.625% Senior Notes were used to redeem all of Level 3 Financing's outstanding 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 in aggregate principal amount of $807 million. Level 3 Financing redeemed its 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 at a price of 102.313% of the principal amount and recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $22 million. The remaining net proceeds constituted purchase money indebtedness under the existing senior secured credit agreement and indentures of the Company and Level 3 Financing and were used solely to fund the cost of construction, installation, acquisition, lease, development or improvement of any Telecommunications/IS assets (as defined in the existing senior secured credit agreement and indentures of Level 3). The 8.625% Senior Notes will mature on July 15, 2020. Interest on the notes accrues from January 13, 2012 and will be payable on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on July 15, 2012. Debt issuance costs of approximately $20 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.625% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. During the second quarter of 2012, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 8.625% Senior Notes due 2020 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable. The 8.625% Senior Notes became fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, LLC during the second quarter of 2012.

Also in the first quarter of 2012, the Company entered into an exchange agreement for a portion of its 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013. Pursuant to the agreement, approximately $100 million aggregate principal amount of Level 3's outstanding 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 was exchanged for approximately 3.7 million shares of Level 3 common stock into which the notes were convertible plus an additional 1.7 million shares for a total of approximately 5.4 million shares. The consideration was based on the market price for these notes which included an inducement premium and included a payment for accrued and unpaid interest from January 15, 2012 through March 15, 2012 of approximately $2 million. This transaction did not include the payment by the Company of any cash. The Company recognized a loss on inducement included in loss on extinguishment of debt of $39 million.

2011 Debt Issuances, Redemptions, Exchanges and Conversions

In the fourth quarter of 2011, the major debt obligations of Global Crossing that were outstanding at the time of the Amalgamation were repaid.

During the fourth quarter of 2011, in connection with the closing of the Amalgamation (see Note 2 - Events Associated with the Amalgamation of Global Crossing), Level 3 Financing amended its existing credit agreement to incur an additional $650 million of borrowings through an additional tranche (the "Tranche B II Term Loan"). The Company borrowed the Tranche B II Term Loan from investors at a price of 99% of its principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $7 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt. The Tranche B II Term Loan accrued interest at 4.25% plus LIBOR, (with a LIBOR minimum of 1.5%), with interest payments due quarterly. The net proceeds from the Tranche B II Term Loan were used to refinance certain existing indebtedness of Global Crossing and for general corporate purposes. The Tranche B II Term Loan which was to mature on September 1, 2018 was prepaid in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Also during the fourth quarter of 2011, Level 3 Financing amended its existing credit agreement to incur an additional $550 million of borrowings through an additional tranche (the "Tranche B III Term Loan"). The Company borrowed the Tranche B III Term Loan from investors at a price of 95% of its principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $28 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt. The Tranche B III Term Loan accrued interest at 4.25% plus LIBOR, (with a LIBOR minimum of 1.5%), with interest payments due quarterly. The net proceeds from the Tranche B III Term Loan were used along with cash on hand to refinance the $280 million Tranche B Term Loan that was outstanding under the existing senior secured credit facility and the $274 million aggregate principal amount of Level 3 Communications, Inc.'s 3.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2012. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $12 million and $15 million associated with the redemption and prepayment of the 3.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2012 and the Tranche B Term Loan, respectively. The Tranche B III Term Loan which was to mature on September 1, 2018 was prepaid in the fourth quarter of 2012.

In the third quarter of 2011, the Company repurchased approximately $20 million of its 3.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2012 at a price of 98.875% of the principal amount and recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of less than $1 million.

Also in the third quarter of 2011, certain holders converted approximately $128 million of the Company's 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 to common equity. Upon conversion, the Company issued an aggregate of approximately 5 million shares of Level 3 common stock, representing the approximately 37 shares per $1,000 note into which the notes were then convertible. The Company also paid an aggregate of approximately $29 million in cash, equivalent to $225 per $1,000 note, representing interest that would have been due from conversion through the maturity date, which was recognized as a loss on inducement and included in the loss on extinguishment of debt. The remaining 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 were repaid at maturity on January 15, 2013.

During the second quarter of 2011, Level 3 Escrow, Inc., an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Level 3 Communications, Inc., issued $600 million in aggregate principal amount of its 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 (the “8.125% Senior Notes”) at a price of 99.264% of their principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $4 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the beginning initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. As a result of certain conditions that could have required Level 3 Escrow, Inc. to redeem the notes on or before April 10, 2012, discussed further below, the initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes was deemed to be through April 2012. When the contingency was resolved, the Company reclassified these notes into long-term debt and the remaining related debt issuance discount is being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method.

Further in the third quarter of 2011, Level 3 Escrow, Inc. issued an additional $600 million in aggregate principal amount of its 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 under the same indenture as the 8.125% Senior Notes, which are treated under that indenture as a single series of notes. The new 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 were priced to investors at 98.545% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest from June 9, 2011 when the original notes were issued, and will mature on July 1, 2019. Debt issuance discount of approximately $9 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the beginning initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. As a result of certain conditions that could have required Level 3 Escrow, Inc. to redeem the 8.125% Senior Notes on or before April 10, 2012, the initial term of these notes was deemed to be through April 2012. When the contingency was resolved in connection with the Amalgamation, the Company reclassified these notes into long-term debt and the remaining related debt issuance discount is being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method.

The gross proceeds from the offering of the 8.125% Senior Notes were deposited into a segregated escrow account and remained in escrow until the date of the satisfaction of certain escrow conditions including, but not limited to, the substantially concurrent consummation of the Amalgamation and the assumption of the 8.125% Senior Notes by Level 3 Financing (the “Notes Assumption”). In conjunction with the completion of the Amalgamation on October 4, 2011 (see Note 2 - Events Associated with the Amalgamation of Global Crossing), the escrow conditions were satisfied. Debt issuance costs of approximately $32 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.125% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method.

During the first quarter of 2011, Level 3 Financing issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of its 9.375% Senior Notes due 2019 (the “9.375% Senior Notes”) at a price of 98.001% of their principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $10 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the term of the 9.375% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. Debt issuance costs of approximately $11 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 9.375% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The net proceeds from the offering, were used to redeem a portion of Level 3 Financing’s outstanding 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 during the second quarter of 2011. Level 3 Financing redeemed approximately $443 million aggregate principal amount of its 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 at a price of 104.625% of the principal amount. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt for the portion of the aggregate principal amount of the 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 retired of approximately $23 million.

Also during the first quarter of 2011, in two separate transactions, Level 3 Communications, Inc. issued a total of $605 million aggregate principal amount of its 11.875% Senior Notes due 2019 (the “11.875% Senior Notes”). The Company issued its 11.875% Senior Notes to investors at a price of 98.173% of their principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $11 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the term of the 11.875% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. Debt issuance costs of approximately $8 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 11.875% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The net proceeds from the issuance of the 11.875% Senior Notes were used to redeem the Company’s 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2011 and exchange the 9% Convertible Senior Discount Notes due 2013. As a result of the Company's redemption of the outstanding $196 million aggregate principal amount of 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2011 at a price of 100.75% of the principal amount and exchange of the outstanding $295 million aggregate principal amount of 9% Convertible Senior Discount Notes due 2013, the Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $20 million.

Senior Secured Term Loans

On March 13, 2007, Level 3 Communications, Inc., as guarantor, Level 3 Financing, as borrower, Merrill Lynch Capital Corporation, as administrative agent and collateral agent, and certain other agents and certain lenders entered into a Credit Agreement, pursuant to which the lenders extended a $1.4 billion senior secured term loan to Level 3 Financing. The $1.4 billion senior secured term loan (the "Tranche A Term Loan") had an interest rate of LIBOR plus an applicable margin of 2.25% per annum. In addition, during the second quarter of 2009, Level 3 Financing amended and restated its existing senior secured Credit Agreement to increase the borrowings through the creation of a $280 million Tranche B Term Loan (the "Tranche B Term Loan") and had an interest rate of LIBOR plus 8.5% per annum, with LIBOR set at a minimum of 3.00%. The Tranche A Term Loan and Tranche B Term Loan which were to mature on March 13, 2014 were prepaid in August 2012 and November 2011, respectively. The $1.4 billion Tranche A Term Loan had an effective interest rate of 2.65% as of December 31, 2011, excluding the effect of the $1 billion notional amount interest rate swaps. As of December 31, 2011, the capitalized unamortized debt issuance costs remaining on the Tranche A Term Loan was $6 million.

The Company used a portion of the original net proceeds after transaction costs to repay Level 3 Financing's $730 million Senior Secured Term Loan due 2011 under that certain credit agreement dated June 27, 2006. In addition, the Company used a portion of the net proceeds to fund the purchase of certain of its existing debt securities.

On October 4, 2011, in connection with the closing of the Amalgamation (see Note 2 - Events Associated with the Amalgamation of Global Crossing), Level 3 Financing amended its existing Credit Agreement to incur an additional $650 million of borrowings through an additional tranche. The Company borrowed the Tranche B II Term Loan from investors at a price of 99% of its principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $7 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt. The Tranche B II Term Loan accrued interest at 4.25% plus LIBOR, (with a LIBOR minimum of 1.5%), with interest payments due quarterly. The Tranche B II Term Loan which was to mature on September 1, 2018 was prepaid in October 2012. The net proceeds from the Tranche B II Term Loan were used to refinance certain existing indebtedness of Global Crossing in connection with the consummation of the Amalgamation and for general corporate purposes.

Additionally, on November 10, 2011, Level 3 Financing amended its existing Credit Agreement to incur an additional $550 million of borrowings through an additional tranche. The Company borrowed the Tranche B III Term Loan from investors at a price of 95% of its principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $28 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt. The Tranche B III Term Loan accrued interest at 4.25% plus LIBOR, (with a LIBOR minimum of 1.5%), with interest payments due quarterly. The Tranche B III Term Loan which was to mature on September 1, 2018 was prepaid in October 2012. The net proceeds from the Tranche B III Term Loan were used along with cash on hand to prepay the $280 million Tranche B Term Loan that was outstanding under the existing senior secured credit facility and the $274 million aggregate principal amount of Level 3 Communications, Inc.'s 3.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2012.

As of December 31, 2011, debt issuance discounts on the Tranche B II Term Loan and Tranche B III Term Loan, were $6 million and $27 million, respectively. The capitalized unamortized debt issuance costs for the Tranche B II Term Loan and Tranche B III Term Loan were $14 million and $8 million at December 31, 2011, respectively.

On August 6, 2012, Level 3 Financing refinanced its existing $1.4 billion Tranche A Term Loan under its existing senior secured credit facility through the creation of new term loans in the aggregate principal amount of $1.415 billion. The New Term Loans were borrowed pursuant to an amended and restated Credit Agreement, which reflects the amendments approved by the lenders. The New Term Loans consist of: (a) $600 million senior secured term loan which matures on February 1, 2016, and (b) $815 million senior secured term loan which matures on August 1, 2019. The Tranche B 2016 Term Loan requires repayment of 0.25% of the aggregate principal amount on the last day of each March, June, September and December, beginning with December 31, 2012 and ending with such last day to occur prior to maturity. The interest rates on the loans are LIBOR plus 3.25% for the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and LIBOR plus 3.75% for the Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, with LIBOR set at a minimum of 1.5% on both loans. The Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and the Tranche B 2019 Term Loan were priced at 99.5% and 99.0% of par, respectively. Debt issuance discounts of approximately $3 million and $8 million were reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and are being amortized as interest expense over the term of the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, respectively, using the effective interest method. The Company used the net proceeds from the New Term Loans, along with cash on hand, to prepay Level 3 Financing's $1.4 billion Tranche A Term Loan under the existing Credit Agreement which was to mature in March 2014 and used remaining net proceeds to repay $15 million in principal amount plus premium for existing vendor financing obligations. Debt issuance costs for the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and the Tranche B 2019 Term Loan of approximately $9 million and $12 million, respectively, were capitalized and are being amortized over the respective terms of those term loans as interest expense using the effective interest method.

As of December 31, 2012, debt issuance discounts on the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and Tranche B 2019 Term Loan, were $3 million and $8 million, respectively. The capitalized unamortized debt issuance costs for the Tranche B 2016 Term Loan and Tranche B 2019 Term Loan were $8 million and $11 million at December 31, 2012, respectively.

On October 4, 2012, Level 3 Financing refinanced its existing $650 million Tranche B II Term Loan and $550 million Tranche B III Term Loan under its existing senior secured credit facility through the creation of a new term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $1.2 billion. The Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan was borrowed pursuant to an amended and restated Credit Agreement. The Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan consists of a $1.2 billion senior secured term loan which matures on August 1, 2019. The interest rate on the loan is LIBOR plus 3.25%, with LIBOR set at a minimum of 1.5%. The Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan was priced at par. The Company used the net proceeds from the Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan, along with cash on hand, to prepay Level 3 Financing's $650 million Tranche B II Term Loan and $550 million Tranche B III Term Loan under the existing Credit Agreement which were to mature in September 2018. Debt issuance costs of approximately $13 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Tranche B-II 2019 Term Loan as interest expense using the effective interest method. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $13 million at December 31, 2012.

Level 3 Financing has the option of electing one, two, three or six month LIBOR at the end of each interest period and may elect different options with respect to different portions of the Senior Secured Term Loan. Interest is payable in cash at the end of each LIBOR period elected in arrears, provided that in the case of a six month interest period, interim interest payments are required at the end of the first three months.

Level 3 Financing's obligations under this term loan are, subject to certain exceptions, secured by certain assets of the Company and certain of the Company's material domestic subsidiaries that are engaged in the telecommunications business. The Senior Secured Term Loan includes certain negative covenants which restrict the ability of the Company, Level 3 Financing and any restricted subsidiary to engage in certain activities. The Senior Secured Term Loan also contains certain events of default. It does not require the Company or Level 3 Financing to maintain specific financial ratios or other financial metrics.

Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2015 and the redeemed 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017

On February 14, 2007, Level 3 Financing received $982 million of net proceeds after transaction costs, from a private offering of $700 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 (the "8.75% Senior Notes") and $300 million aggregate principal amount of its Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2015 (the "2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes"). The Notes were subsequently registered through a public exchange offer. The 8.75% Senior Notes were redeemed at a price of 104.375% of the principal amount in the third quarter of 2012.

The 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes are senior unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Level 3 Financing ranking equal in right of payment with all other senior unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Level 3 Financing. Level 3 Communications, Inc. and Level 3 Communications, LLC have guaranteed the 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes (see Note 17 - Condensed Consolidating Financial Information). Interest on the 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes accrues at LIBOR plus 3.75% per annum, reset semiannually. The interest rate was 4.469% at December 31, 2012. Interest on the 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes is payable semiannually in cash on February 15 and August 15 beginning August 15, 2007. The principal amount of the 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes will be due on February 15, 2015. Level 3 Financing may redeem the 2015 Floating Rate Notes, in whole or in part, at any time, without the payment of a premium. The 2015 Floating Rate Senior Notes contain certain covenants, which among other things, limit additional indebtedness, dividend payments, certain investments and transactions with affiliates.

Debt issuance costs of approximately $6 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2015 as interest expense using the effective interest method. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $2 million at December 31, 2012.

10% Senior Notes due 2018

On January 20, 2010, Level 3 Financing received $613 million proceeds, after deducting a $13 million debt issuance discount and approximately $14 million of debt issuance costs, from a private offering of $640 million in aggregate principal amount of its 10% Senior Notes due 2018 (the "10% Senior Notes"). The net proceeds were used to fund Level 3 Financing's purchase of its 12.25% Senior Notes due 2013 in a concurrent tender offer and consent solicitation. The 10% Senior Notes will mature on February 1, 2018 and are senior unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Level 3 Financing ranking equal in right of payment with all other senior unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Level 3 Financing. The 10% Senior Notes are guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, Inc. and Level 3 Communications, LLC (see Note 17 - Condensed Consolidating Financial Information). Interest on the notes accrues at 10% per year and is payable on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning August 1, 2010.

As of December 31, 2012, debt issuance discount remaining was $10 million. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $10 million at December 31, 2012.

The 10% Senior Notes are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Financing in whole or in part, at any time before February 1, 2014, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest. Level 3 Financing may redeem the 10% Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time on or after February 1, 2014. If a redemption occurs before February 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2014	105.000	%
2015	102.500	%
2016	100.000	%

The offering of the 10% Senior Notes was not originally registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and included a registration rights agreement. In June 2010, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 10% Senior Notes due 2018 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable.

11.875% Senior Notes due 2019

In January 2011, in two separate transactions, Level 3 Communications, Inc. issued a total of $605 million aggregate principal amount of its 11.875% Senior Notes due 2019. The Company issued its 11.875% Senior Notes due 2019 to investors at a price of 98.173% of their principal amount. The net proceeds from the issuance of the 11.875% Senior Notes, which included an $11 million debt issuance discount, were used to redeem the Company’s 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2011 and exchange the 9% Convertible Senior Discount Notes due 2013 during the first quarter of 2011. Debt issuance discount of approximately $11 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the term of the 11.875% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. The 11.875% Senior Notes will mature on February 1, 2019 and are not guaranteed by the Company’s subsidiaries. Interest on the notes accrues at 11.875% per year and is payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning April 1, 2011. Debt issuance costs of approximately $8 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 11.875% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method.

As of December 31, 2012, debt issuance discount remaining was $9 million. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $7 million at December 31, 2012.

The 11.875% Senior Notes are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Communications, Inc. in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, prior to February 1, 2015, at 100% of the principal amount of 11.875% Senior Notes so redeemed plus (A) the applicable make-whole premium set forth in the Indenture, as of the redemption date and (B) accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including, the redemption date, and on or after February 1, 2015 at the redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve months beginning February 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2015	105.938	%
2016	102.969	%
2017	100.000	%

At any time or from time to time on or prior to February 1, 2014, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 11.875% Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 111.875% of the principal amount of the 11.875% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including, the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Level 3 from one or more private placements of Level 3 or underwritten public offerings of common stock of Level 3 resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in the aggregate. However, at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 11.875% Senior Notes must remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days following such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice.

The offering of the 11.875% Senior Notes was not originally registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and included a registration rights agreement. In July 2011, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 11.875% Senior Notes due 2019 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable.

9.375% Senior Notes due 2019

On March 4, 2011, Level 3 Financing issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of its 9.375% Senior Notes due 2019 at a price of 98.001% of their principal amount. The net proceeds from the offering, were used to redeem a portion of Level 3 Financing’s outstanding 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 on April 4, 2011. Debt issuance discount of approximately $10 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the term of the 9.375% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. The 9.375% Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Level 3 Financing ranking equal in right of payment with all other senior unsecured obligations of Level 3 Financing. The Company and Level 3 Communications, LLC have guaranteed the 9.375% Senior Notes. The 9.375% Senior Notes will mature on April 1, 2019. Interest on the Notes will be payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on October 1, 2011. Debt issuance costs of approximately $11 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 9.375% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method.

As of December 31, 2012, debt issuance discount remaining was $8 million. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $9 million at December 31, 2012.

The 9.375% Senior Notes Due 2019 are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Financing in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, prior to April 1, 2015, at 100% of the principal amount of 9.375% Senior Notes so redeemed plus (A) the applicable make-whole premium set forth in the Indenture, as of the redemption date and (B) accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including, the redemption date, and on or after April 1, 2015 at the redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve months beginning April 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2015	104.688	%
2016	102.344	%
2017	100.000	%

At any time or from time to time on or prior to April 1, 2014, Level 3 Financing may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 9.375% Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 109.375% of the principal amount of the 9.375% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including, the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Level 3 Financing from one or more private placements or underwritten public offerings of common stock of the Company resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in the aggregate. However, at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 9.375% Senior Notes must remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days following such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice.

The offering of the 9.375% Senior Notes was not originally registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and included a registration rights agreement. In July 2011, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 9.375% Senior Notes due 2019 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable.

8.125% Senior Notes due 2019

On June 9, 2011, Level 3 Escrow, Inc., an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Level 3 Communications, Inc., issued $600 million in aggregate principal amount of its 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019. Level 3 Escrow, Inc. issued the 8.125% Senior Notes to investors at a price of 99.264% of their principal amount. Debt issuance discount of approximately $4 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and was amortized as interest expense over the beginning initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. As a result of certain conditions that could have required Level 3 Escrow, Inc. to redeem the notes on or before April 10, 2012, discussed further below, the initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes was deemed to be through April 2012. When the contingency was resolved, the Company reclassified these notes into long-term debt and the remaining related debt issuance discount is being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. The 8.125% Senior Notes will mature on July 1, 2019 and are unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated unsecured basis by Level 3 and Level 3 Communications LLC. Interest on the notes accrues at 8.125% per year and is payable on January 1 and July 1, beginning on January 1, 2012.

On July 28, 2011, Level 3 Escrow, Inc. issued an additional $600 million in aggregate principal amount of its 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 ("Series B") under the same indenture as the 8.125% Senior Notes issued in June 9, 2011, which are treated under that indenture as a single series of notes. The new 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 were priced to investors at 98.545% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest from June 9, 2011 when the original notes were issued, and will mature on July 1, 2019. Debt issuance discount of approximately $9 million was reflected as a reduction in long-term debt and is being amortized as interest expense over the beginning initial term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. As a result of certain conditions that could have required Level 3 Escrow, Inc. to redeem the $1.2 billion of 8.125% Senior Notes on or before April 10, 2012, the initial term of these notes was deemed to be through April 2012. When the contingency was resolved in connection with the Amalgamation, the Company reclassified these notes into long-term debt and the remaining related debt issuance discount is being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method.

The gross proceeds from the offering of the 8.125% Senior Notes were deposited into a segregated escrow account and were to remain in escrow until the date of the satisfaction of certain escrow conditions including, but not limited to, the substantially concurrent consummation of the Amalgamation and the assumption of the 8.125% Senior Notes by Level 3 Financing (the “Notes Assumption”). In conjunction with the completion of the Amalgamation on October 4, 2011 (see Note 2 - Events Associated with the Amalgamation of Global Crossing), the escrow conditions were satisfied. Debt issuance costs of approximately $32 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.125% Senior Notes using the effective interest method. Level 3 Financing assumed the obligations under the8.125% Senior Notes and the notes were reclassified to long-term debt in the third quarter of 2011. Following the release of the escrowed funds in connection with the Notes Assumption, the escrowed funds were used to refinance certain existing indebtedness of Global Crossing in connection with the closing of the Amalgamation.

As of December 31, 2012, debt issuance discount remaining was $8 million. As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $29 million at December 31, 2012.

The 8.125% Senior Notes will be subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Financing, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice, (i) prior to July 1, 2015, at 100% of the principal amount of 8.125% Senior Notes so redeemed plus (A) the applicable make-whole premium set forth in the Indenture, as of the redemption date and (B) accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including, the redemption date, and on and after July 1, 2015, at the redemption prices set forth below (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including the redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve months beginning July 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2015	104.063	%
2016	102.031	%
2017	100.000	%

At any time or from time to time after the Notes Assumption and on or prior to July 1, 2014, up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.125% Senior Notes may be redeemed at a redemption price equal to 108.125% of the principal amount of the 8.125% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) up to, but not including the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds contributed from one or more private placements of Level 3 or underwritten public offerings of common stock of Level 3 resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in the aggregate. However, at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.125% Senior Notes must remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days following such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice.

The offering of the 8.125% Senior Notes was not originally registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and included a registration rights agreement. In April 2012, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 8.125% Senior Notes due 2019 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable.

8.875% Senior Notes due 2019

On August 1, 2012, Level 3 Communications, Inc. completed the offering of $300 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.875% Senior Notes due 2019. Debt issuance costs of approximately $7 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.875% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The net proceeds from the offering of the notes are being used for general corporate purposes, including the potential repurchase, redemption, repayment or refinancing of the Company's and its subsidiaries' existing indebtedness from time to time. The 8.875% Senior Notes were priced at 100% of their principal amount and will mature on June 1, 2019. Interest on the notes accrues from August 1, 2012 and will be payable on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2012. The notes are senior unsecured obligations of Level 3 Communications, Inc., ranking equal in right of payment with all other senior unsecured obligations of Level 3. The notes will not be guaranteed by any of the Company's subsidiaries.

As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $6 million at December 31, 2012.

The 8.875% Senior Notes are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 in whole or in part, at any time before June 1, 2015 at the redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest. On and after June 1, 2015, Level 3 may redeem all or part of the 8.875% Senior Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice, at the redemption prices set forth below (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to, but not including, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the twelve months beginning June 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2015	104.438	%
2016	102.219	%
2017	100.000	%

In addition, at any time or from time to time on or prior to June 1, 2015, Level 3 may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.875% Senior Notes (including any additional 8.875% Senior Notes) at a redemption price equal to 108.875% of the principal amount of the 8.875% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), with the net cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Level 3 of one or more private placements to persons other than affiliates of Level 3 or underwritten public offerings of common stock of Level 3 resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in aggregate; provided, however, that at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.875% Senior Notes (including any additional 8.875% Senior Notes) would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days of such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice.

The 8.875% Senior Notes are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold except pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and applicable state securities laws. In connection with the offering, Level 3 entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which Level 3 agreed to file a registration statement to exchange the offered notes with new notes that are substantially identical in all material respects, and to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the registration statement to be declared effective no later than 270 days after the issuance of the offered notes.

8.625% Senior Notes due 2020

On January 13, 2012, Level 3 Financing completed the offering of $900 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.625% Senior Notes due 2020. Debt issuance costs of approximately $20 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 8.625% Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. In February 2012, a portion of the net proceeds from the offering of the 8.625% Senior Notes were used to redeem all of Level 3 Financing's outstanding 9.25% Senior Notes due 2014 in aggregate principal amount of $807 million.

The remaining net proceeds constituted purchase money indebtedness under the existing senior secured credit agreement and indentures of the Company and Level 3 Financing and were used solely to fund the cost of construction, installation, acquisition, lease, development or improvement of any Telecommunications/IS assets (as defined in the existing senior secured credit agreement and indentures of Level 3).

The 8.625% Senior Notes will mature on July 15, 2020. Interest on the notes accrues from January 13, 2012 and will be payable on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on July 15, 2012. The notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated unsecured basis by the Company and became fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, LLC in the second quarter of 2012. The notes are unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Level 3 Financing ranking equal in right of payment with all existing and future unsubordinated indebtedness of Level 3 Financing and are senior in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness of Level 3 Financing expressly subordinated in right of payment to the notes.

As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $18 million at December 31, 2012.

The 8.625% Senior Notes are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Financing in whole or in part, at any time before January 15, 2016 at the redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest. On and after January 15, 2016, Level 3 Financing may redeem all or part of the 8.625% Senior Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice, at the redemption prices set forth below (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to, but not including, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the twelve months beginning January 15, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2016	104.313	%
2017	102.156	%
2018	100.000	%

In addition, at any time or from time to time on or prior to January 15, 2015, Level 3 Financing may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.625% Senior Notes (including any additional 8.625% Senior Notes) at a redemption price equal to 108.625% of the principal amount of the 8.625% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), with the net cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Level 3 Financing of one or more private placements to persons other than affiliates of Level 3 or underwritten public offerings of common stock of Level 3 resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in aggregate; provided, however, that at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 8.625% Senior Notes (including any additional 8.625% Senior Notes) would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days of such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice. The 8.625% Senior Notes due 2020 issued by Level 3 Financing were not originally registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

During the second quarter of 2012, all of the originally placed notes were exchanged for a new issue of 8.625% Senior Notes due 2020 with identical terms and conditions, other than those related to registration rights, in a registered exchange offer and are now freely tradeable. The 8.625% Senior Notes became fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Level 3 Communications, LLC during the second quarter of 2012.

7% Senior Notes due 2020

On August 6, 2012, Level 3 Financing completed the offering of $775 million aggregate principal amount of its 7% Senior Notes due 2020. Debt issuance costs of approximately $15 million were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 7% Senior Notes as interest using the effective interest method. The net proceeds from the offering of the notes, along with cash on hand were used to redeem all of the outstanding 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 issued by Level 3 Financing, including the payment of accrued interest and applicable premiums, and in connection with that redemption, the indenture relating to the 8.75% Senior Notes due 2017 was discharged. The 7% Senior Notes were priced at 100% of their principal amount and will mature on June 1, 2020. Interest on the notes accrues from August 6, 2012 and will be payable on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2012. The notes are senior unsecured obligations of Level 3 Financing, ranking equal in right of payment with all other senior unsecured obligations of Level 3 Financing. The 7% Senior Notes are guaranteed on an unsecured basis by Level 3 Communications, Inc. and by Level 3 Communications, LLC.

As a result of amortization, the capitalized debt issuance costs have been reduced to $14 million at December 31, 2012.

The 7% Senior Notes are subject to redemption at the option of Level 3 Financing in whole or in part, at any time before June 1, 2016 at the redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest. On or after June 1, 2016, Level 3 Financing may redeem all or part of the 7% Senior Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice, at the redemption prices set forth below (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to, but not including, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the twelve months beginning June 1, of the years indicated below:



Year	Redemption Price
2016	103.500	%
2017	101.750	%
2018	100.000	%

In addition, at any time or from time to time on or prior to June 1, 2015, Level 3 Financing may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes (including any additional 7% Senior Notes) at a redemption price equal to 107% of the principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes so redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), with the net cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Level 3 Financing of one or more private placements to persons other than affiliates of Level 3 or underwritten public offerings of common stock of Level 3 resulting, in each case, in gross proceeds of at least $100 million in aggregate; provided, however, that at least 65% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes (including any additional 7% Senior Notes) would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such redemption shall be made within 90 days of such private placement or public offering upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice.

The 7% Senior Notes are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold except pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and applicable state securities laws. In connection with the offering, the Company and Level 3 Financing entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which Level 3 and Level 3 Financing agreed to file a registration statement to exchange the offered notes with new notes that are substantially identical in all material respects, and to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the registration statement to be declared effective no later than 270 days after the issuance of the 7% Senior Notes.

15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013

On December 24, 2008, Level 3 Communications, Inc. received gross proceeds of $374 million and on December 31, 2008, the Company received gross proceeds of $26 million from the issuance of its $400 million 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 (the "15% Convertible Senior Notes"). The proceeds from this issuance were primarily used to repurchase, through tender offers, a portion of the Company's 6% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2009, 6% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010 and 2.875% Convertible Senior Notes due 2010. The 15% Convertible Senior Notes were priced at 100% of the principal amount. The 15% Convertible Senior Notes are unsecured and unsubordinated obligations and will rank equally with all the Company's existing and future unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The 15% Convertible Senior Notes will mature on January 15, 2013. Interest on the notes will accrue from the date of original issuance at a rate of 15% per year and will be payable on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on January 15, 2009. The 15% Convertible Senior Notes contain limited covenants which restrict additional liens on assets of the Company.

The 15% Convertible Senior Notes are convertible by holders into shares of the Company's common stock at a conversion price of $27 per share (which is equivalent to a conversion rate of approximately 37 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes), subject to adjustment upon certain events, at any time before the close of business on January 15, 2013. If at any time following the date of original issuance of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes and prior to the close of business on January 15, 2013 the closing per share sale price of the Company's common stock exceeds 222.2% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days within any 30 consecutive trading day period, the 15% Convertible Senior Notes will automatically convert into shares of Level 3 common stock, plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to, but excluding the automatic conversion date, which date will be designated by the Company following such automatic conversion event.

Holders of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes may require the Company to repurchase all or any part of their notes upon the occurrence of a designated event at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the repurchase date, if any.

In addition, if a holder elects to convert its 15% Convertible Senior Notes in connection with certain changes in control, the Company could be required to pay a make-whole premium by increasing the number of shares deliverable upon conversion of such notes. Any make-whole premium will have the effect of increasing the number of shares due to holders of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes upon conversion.

On July 6, 2011, certain holders converted approximately $128 million of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes to common equity. Upon conversion, the Company issued an aggregate of approximately 5 million shares of Level 3 common stock, representing the approximately 37 shares per $1,000 note into which the notes were then convertible. The Company also paid an aggregate of approximately $29 million in cash, equivalent to $225 per $1,000 note, representing interest that would have been due from conversion through the maturity date, which was recognized as a loss on inducement and included in the loss on extinguishment of debt.

On March 13, 2012, the Company entered into an exchange agreement for a portion of its 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013. Pursuant to the agreement, approximately $100 million aggregate principal amount of Level 3's outstanding 15% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 was exchanged for approximately 3.7 million shares of Level 3 common stock into which the notes were convertible plus an additional 1.7 million shares for a total of approximately 5.4 million shares. The consideration was based on the market price for these notes which included an inducement premium and included a payment for accrued and unpaid interest from January 15, 2012 through March 15, 2012 of approximately $2 million. This transaction did not include the payment by the Company of any cash.

On January 15, 2013, the Company repaid at maturity approximately $172 million of its 15% Convertible Senior Notes.

Debt issuance costs of $3 million were originally capitalized and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 15% Convertible Senior Notes. The unamortized debt issuance costs were less than $1 million at December 31, 2012.

7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015

On June 26, 2009, Level 3 Communications, Inc. issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 under an indenture between Level 3 and The Bank of New York, as trustee. The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 were issued in conjunction with the exchange of approximately $142 million aggregate principal amount of the Company's 6% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2010 and approximately $140 million aggregate principal amount of its 2.875% Convertible Senior Notes due 2010. As part of this exchange, Level 3 also paid $78 million in cash, including accrued and unpaid interest for the notes exchanged.

On October 15, 2009, Level 3 issued $275 million aggregate principal amount of 7% Convertible Senior due 2015, Series B under a second supplemental indenture between Level 3 and The Bank of New York, as trustee. The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015, Series B are substantially similar in all respects to the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015. The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015, together with the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015, Series B are referred to as the "7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015".

The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 mature on March 15, 2015 and bear interest at a rate of 7% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on March 15 and September 15. Interest payments commence for the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 on September 15, 2009 and on March 15, 2010 for the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015, Series B. The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 rank equally in right of payment with all other existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of Level 3 Communications, Inc.

The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 are convertible into shares of Level 3 common stock, at the option of the holder, at any time prior to maturity, unless previously repurchased or redeemed, or unless Level 3 has caused the conversion rights to expire. The 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 may be converted at the rate of approximately 37 shares of common stock per each $1,000 principal amount of notes, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. This is equivalent to a conversion price of approximately $27 per share.

Upon the occurrence of a designated event (a change of control or a termination of trading), holders of the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 will have the right, subject to certain exceptions and conditions, to require Level 3 to repurchase all or any part of the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to, but excluding, the designated event purchase date. In addition, if an event treated as a change in control of Level 3 occurs, Level 3 will be obligated, subject to certain conditions, to offer to purchase all of the outstanding 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 at a purchase price of 100% of the principal amount, plus a "make whole" premium, by increasing the conversion rate applicable to such 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015.

Debt issuance costs of $4 million were originally capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 7% Convertible Senior Notes due 2015 as interest expense using the effective interest method. The capitalized unamortized debt issuance costs were $2 million at December 31, 2012.

6.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016

On September 20, 2010, Level 3 Communications, Inc. received $170 million of net proceeds after transaction costs, from a public offering of $175 million aggregate principal amount of its 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016 (the "6.5% Convertible Senior Notes"). On October 5, 2010, in connection with the underwriters' exercise of the $26 million over-allotment option associated with the 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes, the Company received an additional $25.5 million net proceeds after transaction costs of less than $1 million. The 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank equally in right of payment with all other existing and future unsubordinated indebtedness of Level 3 Communications, Inc. The 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes will mature on October 1, 2016. Interest on the notes accrues at 6.5% per year and is payable semiannually on April 1 and October 1, beginning April 1, 2011.

The 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes are convertible by holders into shares of the Company's common stock at any time prior maturity, unless previously redeemed, repurchased or unless the Company has caused the conversion rights to expire. The conversion rate is approximately 54 shares per each $1,000 principal amount of 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. This is equivalent to a conversion price of approximately $18.525 per share. In addition, if a designated event (a change in control or a termination of trading) occurs, Level 3 will be obligated, subject to certain conditions, to offer to purchase all of the outstanding 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016 at a purchase price of 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon. If an event treated as a change in control occurs, the Company will be obligated, subject to certain conditions, to offer to purchase all of the outstanding 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes at a purchase price of 100% of the principal amount plus a "make whole" premium, by increasing the conversion rate applicable to such 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016.

Debt issuance costs of $6 million were originally capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 6.5% Convertible Senior Notes as interest expense using the effective interest method. The capitalized unamortized debt issuance costs were $4 million at December 31, 2012.

Capital Leases

As of December 31, 2012, the Company had $86 million of capital leases. The Company leases property, equipment, certain dark fiber facilities and metro fiber under noncancelable IRU agreements that are accounted for as capital leases. Interest rates on these capital leases approximated 9.2% on average as of December 31, 2012.

Other Debt

As of December 31, 2012, the Company had $12 million of other debt with an average interest rate of 5.7%.

Covenant Compliance

At December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company was in compliance with the covenants on all outstanding debt issuances.

Long-Term Debt Maturities

Aggregate future contractual maturities of long-term debt and capital leases (excluding discounts and fair value adjustments) were as follows as of December 31, 2012 (dollars in millions):



2013	$	216
2014	23
2015	788
2016	788
2017	6
Thereafter	6,959
	$	8,780