ALTICE USA, INC., 10-K filed on 2/16/2022
Annual Report
v3.22.0.1
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Feb. 11, 2022
Jun. 30, 2021
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]      
Title of 12(b) Security Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity File Number 001-38126    
Document Transition Report false    
Document Quarterly Report true    
Document Type 10-K    
Entity Central Index Key 0001702780    
Entity Registrant Name Altice USA, Inc.    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2020    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2021    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   454,654,354  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 7,528,969,035
Documents Incorporated by Reference Altice USA, Inc. intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, not later than 120 days after the close of its fiscal year, a definitive proxy statement or an amendment to this report filed under cover of Form 10-K/A containing the information required to be disclosed under Part III of Form 10-K.    
Entity Small Business false    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Tax Identification Number 38-3980194    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Address, Address Line One 1 Court Square West    
Entity Address, City or Town Long Island City,    
Entity Address, State or Province NY    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 11101    
City Area Code (516)    
Local Phone Number 803-2300    
Trading Symbol ATUS    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Auditor Name KPMG LLP    
Auditor Location New York, New York    
Auditor Firm ID 185    
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Audit Information
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Audit Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Name KPMG LLP
Auditor Firm ID 185
Auditor Location New York, New York
v3.22.0.1
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 195,711 $ 278,422
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27,931 and $25,198) 406,952 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ($3,776 and $4,262 due from affiliates) 186,707 255,299
Total current assets 789,634 976,566
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $7,142,852 and $6,431,843 6,340,467 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 222,124 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,161,937 2,250,854
Other assets 76,653 92,203
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,216,355 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,205,863 8,160,566
Total assets 33,215,034 33,376,660
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 1,023,045 795,576
Interest payable 244,934 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 124,941 142,116
Deferred revenue 94,943 109,798
Debt 917,313 1,245,713
Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) 329,943 552,840
Total current liabilities 2,735,119 3,098,103
Other liabilities 159,082 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,048,129 5,006,167
Liabilities under derivative contracts 276,933 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 237,226 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,629,447 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,085,936 34,554,036
Redeemable equity 0 25,763
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding 0 0
Paid-in capital 18,005 0
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) (848,836) (985,641)
Total stockholders' equity before accumulated other comprehensive Income and non-controlling interest (826,285) (980,810)
Treasury stock, at cost (20,887 and 6,629,415 Class A common shares at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively) 0 163,866
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 3,646
Total Altice USA stockholders' deficiency (819,788) (1,141,030)
Noncontrolling interests (51,114) (62,109)
Total stockholders' deficiency (870,902) (1,203,139)
Total liabilities and member's deficiency $ 33,215,034 $ 33,376,660
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 20,887 6,629,415
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization $ (7,142,852) $ (6,431,843)
Accumulated Amortization (5,051,149) (4,409,312)
Common Class A    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common Stock, Value, Issued 2,703 2,972
Common Class B    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common Stock, Value, Issued 1,843 1,859
Common Class C    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common Stock, Value, Issued 0 0
CSC Holdings    
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 193,154 277,938
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27,931 and $25,198) 406,952 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ($3,776 and $4,262 due from affiliates) 186,707 255,299
Total current assets 787,077 976,082
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $7,142,852 and $6,431,843 6,340,467 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 222,124 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,161,937 2,250,854
Other assets 76,653 92,203
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,216,355 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,205,863 8,160,566
Total assets 33,212,477 33,376,176
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 1,023,045 795,576
Interest payable 244,934 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 124,941 142,116
Deferred revenue 94,943 109,798
Debt 917,313 1,245,713
Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) 329,944 552,372
Total current liabilities 2,735,120 3,097,635
Other liabilities 159,082 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,067,442 5,033,980
Liabilities under derivative contracts 276,933 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 237,226 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,629,447 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,105,250 34,581,381
Redeemable equity 0 25,763
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 3,646
Noncontrolling interests (51,114) (62,109)
Total liabilities and member's deficiency 33,212,477 33,376,176
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (7,142,852) (6,431,843)
Accumulated Amortization $ 5,051,149 $ 4,409,312
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
ASSETS    
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts $ 27,931 $ 25,198
Due from Related Parties, Current 3,776  
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation 7,142,852 6,431,843
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization 5,051,149 4,409,312
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Due to Affiliate, Current $ 31,810 $ 8,538
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) 100,000,000 100,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 20,887 6,629,415
CSC Holdings    
ASSETS    
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts $ 27,931 $ 25,198
Due from Related Parties, Current   4,262
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation 7,142,852 6,431,843
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization (5,051,149) (4,409,312)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Due to Affiliate, Current $ 31,810 $ 8,538
Common Class A    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01  
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,000,000,000  
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 270,341,685 297,203,087
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 270,320,798 290,573,672
Common Class B    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01  
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 1,000,000,000  
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 490,086,674  
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 184,333,342 185,895,903
Common Class C    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01  
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,000,000,000  
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0  
v3.22.0.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $13,238, $14,729 and $3,974, respectively) (See Note 16) $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Operating expenses:      
Cost of Goods and Services Sold 3,382,129 3,340,442 3,300,528
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $11,989, $11,869 and $8,355 respectively) (See Note 16) 2,379,765 2,264,473 2,300,398
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Total operating expenses 7,566,222 7,779,353 7,937,048
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Other income (expense):      
Interest expense (1,266,751) (1,352,535) (1,536,559)
Interest income 160 2,194 5,709
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (88,898) 320,061 473,406
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net 85,911 (178,264) (282,713)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts 92,735 (78,606) (53,902)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712) (250,489) (243,806)
Other income, net 9,835 5,577 1,183
Total other income (expense) (1,218,720) (1,532,062) (1,636,682)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total 1,305,907 583,227 187,129
Income tax expense (294,975) (139,748) (47,190)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,010,932 443,479 139,939
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders $ 990,311 $ 436,183 $ 138,936
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]      
Basic income per share $ 2.16 $ 0.75 $ 0.21
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) 458,311 581,057 660,384
Diluted income per share $ 2.14 $ 0.75 $ 0.21
Diluted weighted average common shares (in thousands) 462,295 583,689 662,541
Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
v3.22.0.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Revenue $ 13,238 $ 14,729 $ 3,974
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest $ 1,010,932 $ 443,479 $ 139,939
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract]      
Defined benefit pension plans 4,772 12,333 13,806
Applicable income taxes (1,259) (3,270) (4,109)
Foreign currency translation adjustment (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Applicable income taxes 0 0 0
Defined benefit pension plans, net of income taxes 3,513 9,063 9,697
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Other comprehensive income 2,851 6,896 8,533
Comprehensive income 1,013,783 450,375 148,472
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Comprehensive income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders $ 993,162 $ 443,079 $ 147,469
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Total
CSC Holdings
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
CSC Holdings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Treasury Stock [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
CSC Holdings
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interests
CSC Holdings
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
CSC Holdings
Treasury Stock, Common
Common Class A
Common Stock
Common Class B
Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                              
Members' Equity                       $ 4,001,628      
Accumulated other comprehensive income               $ (11,783)              
Total member's deficiency       $ 3,989,845                      
Noncontrolling interests                   $ 9,295          
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   $ 3,999,140                          
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2018 $ 3,680,236   $ 3,670,941   $ 251,830   $ (11,783)   $ 9,295   $ 3,423,803     $ 4,961 $ 2,130
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                              
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 138,936 211,814 138,936 211,814 138,936                    
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,003 1,003             1,003 1,003          
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (9,697) (9,697) (9,697) (9,697)     (9,697) (9,697)              
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (1,164) (1,164) (1,164) (1,164)     (1,164) (1,164)              
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 99,077 99,077 99,077 99,077             99,077 99,077      
Redeemable equity vested 187,966 187,967 187,966 187,967             187,966 187,967      
Change in redeemable equity (166,511) (166,511) (166,511) (166,511)             (166,511) (166,511)      
Class A shares acquired through share repurchase program and retired (1,686,873)   (1,686,873)               (1,686,146)     (727)  
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares                           268 (268)
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan 7,122   7,122     $ 42         7,099     (65)  
Issuance of common shares to acquire partnership interests in Neptune LP           (163,862)         (163,862)        
Class A shares issued in connection with acquisition (10,773) 10,773 (10,773) 10,773             (10,768) 10,773   5  
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2019 2,279,262   2,269,964   390,766 (163,904) (3,250)   9,298   2,039,918     4,572 1,862
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                              
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses 1,000               1,000            
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders   1,000               1,000          
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net 151,455 151,455   (151,455)               151,455      
Members' Equity                       2,047,397      
Accumulated other comprehensive income               (3,250)              
Total member's deficiency       2,044,147                      
Noncontrolling interests                   9,298          
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   2,053,445                          
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 436,183 448,542 436,183 448,542                      
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 7,296 7,296             7,296 7,296          
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (9,063) (9,063) (9,063) (9,063)     (9,063) (9,063)              
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (2,167) (2,167) (2,167) (2,167)     (2,167) (2,167)              
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 122,811 122,811 122,811 122,811             122,811 122,811      
Redeemable equity vested 96,918 96,918 96,918 96,918             96,918 96,918      
Change in redeemable equity (14,130) (14,130) (14,130) (14,130)             (14,130) (14,130)      
Class A shares acquired through share repurchase program and retired (4,816,895)   (4,816,895)   1,812,590           (3,002,693)     (1,612)  
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares                           3 (3)
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan (15,752)   (15,752)               (15,705)   $ (38) (9)  
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary 650,270 (650,444) 741,471 (741,645)         91,201 (91,201) 741,471 (741,645)      
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2020 (1,203,139)   (1,141,030)   (985,641) (163,866) 3,646   (62,109)   0     2,972 1,859
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                              
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses   12,498               12,498          
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders (12,498)               (12,498)            
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net 178,720 178,720                   178,720      
Noncash distribution to parent       178,720                      
Members' Equity                       (1,172,505)      
Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,646 3,646           3,646              
Total member's deficiency   (1,168,859)   (1,168,859)                      
Noncontrolling interests (62,109) (62,109)               (62,109)          
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   (1,230,968)                          
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 990,311 988,176 990,311 988,176                      
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 20,621 20,621             20,621 20,621          
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (3,513) (3,513) (3,513) (3,513)     (3,513) (3,513)              
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (662) (662) (662) (662)     (662) (662)              
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 97,511 97,511 97,511 97,511 79,521           17,990 97,511      
Redeemable equity vested 23,749 23,749 23,749 23,749 23,749           0 23,749      
Change in redeemable equity 2,014 2,014 2,014 2,014 (2,014)           0 2,014      
Class A shares acquired through share repurchase program and retired (804,928)   (804,928)   804,692           0     (236)  
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares                           16 (16)
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan (13,900)   (13,900)   149,932           (15)   $ (163,866) 49  
Other 212 (212)   4,166 (4,166)       4,378 (4,378)   4,166   (4,166)  
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2021 (870,902)   $ (819,788)   $ (848,836) $ 0 $ 6,497   $ (51,114)   $ 18,005     $ 2,703 $ 1,843
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                              
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders   14,004               14,004          
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net (19,500)                            
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Non-cash Distributions Paid   (19,500)   (19,500)               (19,500)      
Members' Equity                       $ (848,156)      
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 6,497           $ 6,497              
Total member's deficiency   (841,659)   $ (841,659)                      
Noncontrolling interests $ (51,114) (51,114)               $ (51,114)          
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   $ (892,773)                          
v3.22.0.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest $ 1,010,932 $ 443,479 $ 139,939
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 88,898 (320,061) (473,406)
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts, net (85,911) 178,264 282,713
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs 51,712 250,489 243,806
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 91,226 91,127 106,214
Share-based compensation expense 98,296 125,087 105,538
Deferred income taxes 40,701 75,512 14,931
Decrease in right-of-use asset 43,820 45,995 46,581
Provision for Bad Debt 68,809 65,965 91,520
Other 4,928 34,079 18,558
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:      
Accounts receivable, trade (30,379) (50,747) (91,718)
Prepaid expenses and other assets 28,343 8,330 (60,854)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 23,758 3,594 (7,857)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (177,326) (118,388) (144,894)
Deferred revenue (40,929) (39,977) (10,384)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (149,952) 104,051 30,338
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,854,078 2,980,164 2,554,169
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures (1,231,715) (1,073,955) (1,355,350)
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (340,444) (149,973) (172,269)
Other, net (1,444) 3,502 2,150
Net cash used in investing activities (1,573,603) (1,220,426) (1,525,469)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from long-term debt 4,410,000 8,019,648 9,160,229
Repayment of long-term debt (4,870,108) (6,194,804) (8,159,914)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net 185,105 0 93,000
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0 0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (85,949) (43,083) (8,980)
Purchase of shares of Altice USA, Inc. Class A common stock, pursuant to a share repurchase program and Tender Offer (804,928) (4,816,379) (1,686,873)
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses 0 880,197 0
Other, net 11,539 26,624 21,874
Net cash used in financing activities (1,362,524) (2,181,045) (624,412)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents excluding effect of exchange rate changes (82,049) (421,307) 404,288
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (662) (2,167) (1,166)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (82,711) (423,474) 403,122
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,686 702,160 299,038
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year $ 195,975 $ 278,686 $ 702,160
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 195,711 $ 278,422
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27,931 and $25,198) 406,952 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ($3,776 and $4,262 due from affiliates) 186,707 255,299
Total current assets 789,634 976,566
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $7,142,852 and $6,431,843 6,340,467 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 222,124 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,161,937 2,250,854
Other assets 76,653 92,203
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,216,355 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,205,863 8,160,566
Total assets 33,215,034 33,376,660
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 1,023,045 795,576
Interest payable 244,934 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 124,941 142,116
Deferred revenue 94,943 109,798
Debt 917,313 1,245,713
Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) 329,943 552,840
Total current liabilities 2,735,119 3,098,103
Other liabilities 159,082 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,048,129 5,006,167
Liabilities under derivative contracts 276,933 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 237,226 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,629,447 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,085,936 34,554,036
Redeemable equity 0 25,763
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity [Abstract]    
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 3,646
Noncontrolling interests (51,114) (62,109)
Total liabilities and member's deficiency 33,215,034 33,376,660
CSC Holdings    
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 193,154 277,938
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $27,931 and $25,198) 406,952 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ($3,776 and $4,262 due from affiliates) 186,707 255,299
Total current assets 787,077 976,082
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $7,142,852 and $6,431,843 6,340,467 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 222,124 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,161,937 2,250,854
Other assets 76,653 92,203
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,216,355 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,205,863 8,160,566
Total assets 33,212,477 33,376,176
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 1,023,045 795,576
Interest payable 244,934 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 124,941 142,116
Deferred revenue 94,943 109,798
Debt 917,313 1,245,713
Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) 329,944 552,372
Total current liabilities 2,735,120 3,097,635
Other liabilities 159,082 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,067,442 5,033,980
Liabilities under derivative contracts 276,933 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 237,226 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,629,447 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,105,250 34,581,381
Redeemable equity 0 25,763
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity [Abstract]    
Member's deficiency (100 membership units issued and outstanding) (848,156) (1,172,505)
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 3,646
Total member's deficiency (841,659) (1,168,859)
Noncontrolling interests (51,114) (62,109)
Total deficiency (892,773) (1,230,968)
Total liabilities and member's deficiency 33,212,477 33,376,176
CSC Holdings | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Current Assets:    
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,093,387 2,573,856
CSC Holdings | Other Intangible Assets [Member]    
Current Assets:    
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 $ 16,094 $ 20,366
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parentheticals) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts $ (27,931) $ (25,198)
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (7,142,852) (6,431,843)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization 5,051,149 4,409,312
Due from Related Parties, Current 3,776  
Due to Affiliate, Current 31,810 8,538
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization 5,051,149 4,409,312
CSC Holdings    
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts (27,931) (25,198)
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (7,142,852) (6,431,843)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization (5,051,149) (4,409,312)
Due from Related Parties, Current   4,262
Due to Affiliate, Current 31,810 8,538
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization $ (5,051,149) (4,409,312)
Common Unit, Outstanding 100  
CSC Holdings | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization $ 4,020,282 3,478,742
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization 4,020,282 3,478,742
CSC Holdings | Other Intangible Assets [Member]    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization 42,304 36,381
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization $ 42,304 $ 36,381
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $13,238, $14,729 and $3,974, respectively) (See Note 16) $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Operating expenses:      
Cost of Goods and Services Sold 3,382,129 3,340,442 3,300,528
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $11,989, $11,869 and $8,355 respectively) (See Note 16) 2,379,765 2,264,473 2,300,398
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Total operating expenses 7,566,222 7,779,353 7,937,048
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Other income (expense):      
Interest expense (1,266,751) (1,352,535) (1,536,559)
Interest income 160 2,194 5,709
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (88,898) 320,061 473,406
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net 85,911 (178,264) (282,713)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts 92,735 (78,606) (53,902)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712) (250,489) (243,806)
Other income, net 9,835 5,577 1,183
Total other income (expense) (1,218,720) (1,532,062) (1,636,682)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total 1,305,907 583,227 187,129
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (294,975) (139,748) (47,190)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,010,932 443,479 139,939
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member 990,311 436,183 138,936
CSC Holdings      
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $13,238, $14,729 and $3,974, respectively) (See Note 16) 10,090,849 9,894,642 9,760,859
Operating expenses:      
Cost of Goods and Services Sold 3,382,129 3,340,442 3,300,528
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $11,989, $11,869 and $8,355 respectively) (See Note 16) 2,379,765 2,264,473 2,300,398
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Total operating expenses 7,566,222 7,779,353 7,937,048
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Other income (expense):      
Interest expense (1,266,751) (1,352,535) (1,455,302)
Interest income 160 2,194 5,709
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (88,898) 319,515 473,406
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net 85,911 (178,264) (282,713)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts 92,735 (78,606) (53,902)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712) (250,489) (228,130)
Other income, net 9,835 5,577 1,181
Total other income (expense) (1,218,720) (1,532,608) (1,539,751)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total 1,305,907 582,681 284,060
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (297,110) (126,843) (71,243)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,008,797 455,838 212,817
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member $ 988,176 $ 448,542 $ 211,814
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Revenue from affiliates $ 13,238 $ 14,729 $ 3,974
Programming and other direct costs from affiliates 17,167 13,346 11,580
Related Party Transaction, Other Operating Expense $ 11,989 $ 11,869 $ 8,355
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Net income $ 1,010,932 $ 443,479 $ 139,939
Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:      
Defined benefit pension plans 4,772 12,333 13,806
Applicable income taxes (1,259) (3,270) (4,109)
Defined benefit pension plans, net of income taxes 3,513 9,063 9,697
Foreign currency translation adjustment (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Applicable income taxes 0 0 0
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Other comprehensive income 2,851 6,896 8,533
Comprehensive income 1,013,783 450,375 148,472
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Comprehensive income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC's sole member 993,162 443,079 147,469
CSC Holdings      
Net income 1,008,797 455,838 212,817
Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:      
Defined benefit pension plans 4,772 12,333 13,806
Applicable income taxes (1,259) (3,270) (4,109)
Defined benefit pension plans, net of income taxes 3,513 9,063 9,697
Foreign currency translation adjustment (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Applicable income taxes 0 0 0
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (662) (2,167) (1,164)
Other comprehensive income 2,851 6,896 8,533
Comprehensive income 1,011,648 462,734 221,350
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Comprehensive income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC's sole member $ 991,027 $ 455,438 $ 220,347
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF MEMBER'S EQUITY - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Total
CSC Holdings
Retained Earnings
Member's Equity
Member's Equity
CSC Holdings
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
CSC Holdings
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
CSC Holdings
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interests
CSC Holdings
Members' Equity         $ 4,001,628            
Accumulated other comprehensive income             $ (11,783)        
Total member's deficiency                 $ 3,989,845    
Noncontrolling interests                     $ 9,295
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   $ 3,999,140                  
Net income (loss) attributable to members $ (138,936) (211,814) $ (138,936)         $ (138,936) (211,814)    
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,003 1,003               $ 1,003 1,003
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders   1,000                 1,000
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (9,697) (9,697)       $ (9,697) (9,697) (9,697) (9,697)    
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (1,164) (1,164)       (1,164) (1,164) (1,164) (1,164)    
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 99,077 99,077   $ 99,077 99,077     99,077 99,077    
Redeemable equity vested 187,966 187,967   187,966 187,967     187,966 187,967    
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock 166,511 166,511   166,511 166,511     166,511 166,511    
Distributions to Parent   2,279,472     2,279,472       2,279,472    
Class A shares issued in connection with acquisition (10,773) 10,773   (10,768) 10,773     (10,773) 10,773    
Debt exchange between parent and subsidiary   (169,334)     (169,334)       (169,334)    
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses 1,000                 1,000  
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan (7,122)     (7,099)       (7,122)      
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net 151,455 151,455     151,455       (151,455)    
Members' Equity         2,047,397            
Accumulated other comprehensive income             (3,250)        
Total member's deficiency                 2,044,147    
Noncontrolling interests                     9,298
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   2,053,445                  
Net income (loss) attributable to members (436,183) (448,542)           (436,183) (448,542)    
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 7,296 7,296               7,296 7,296
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (9,063) (9,063)       (9,063) (9,063) (9,063) (9,063)    
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (2,167) (2,167)       (2,167) (2,167) (2,167) (2,167)    
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 122,811 122,811   122,811 122,811     122,811 122,811    
Redeemable equity vested 96,918 96,918   96,918 96,918     96,918 96,918    
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock 14,130 14,130   14,130 14,130     14,130 14,130    
Distributions to Parent   4,794,408     4,794,408       4,794,408    
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses   12,498                 12,498
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan 15,752     15,705       15,752      
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary 650,270 (650,444)   741,471 (741,645)     741,471 (741,645) 91,201 (91,201)
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net 178,720 178,720     178,720            
Noncash distribution to parent                 178,720    
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) (985,641)                    
Member's deficiency (100 membership units issued and outstanding)   (1,172,505)                  
Members' Equity         (1,172,505)            
Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,646 3,646         3,646        
Total member's deficiency   (1,168,859)             (1,168,859)    
Noncontrolling interests (62,109) (62,109)                 (62,109)
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   (1,230,968)                  
Net income (loss) attributable to members (990,311) (988,176)           (990,311) (988,176)    
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 20,621 20,621               20,621 20,621
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders   14,004                 14,004
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes (3,513) (3,513)       (3,513) (3,513) (3,513) (3,513)    
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (662) (662)       $ (662) (662) (662) (662)    
Share-based compensation expense (equity classified) 97,511 97,511 79,521 17,990 97,511     97,511 97,511    
Redeemable equity vested 23,749 23,749 23,749 0 23,749     23,749 23,749    
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock (2,014) (2,014) 2,014 0 (2,014)     (2,014) (2,014)    
Distributions to Parent   763,435     763,435       763,435    
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Non-cash Distributions Paid   19,500     19,500       19,500    
Other (212) 212 4,166   (4,166)       (4,166) $ (4,378) 4,378
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan 13,900   $ (149,932) $ 15       $ 13,900      
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net (19,500)                    
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) (848,836)                    
Member's deficiency (100 membership units issued and outstanding)   (848,156)                  
Members' Equity         $ (848,156)            
Accumulated other comprehensive income 6,497 6,497         $ 6,497        
Total member's deficiency   (841,659)             $ (841,659)    
Noncontrolling interests $ (51,114) (51,114)                 $ (51,114)
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   $ (892,773)                  
v3.22.0.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income $ 1,010,932 $ 443,479 $ 139,939
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 88,898 (320,061) (473,406)
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts, net (85,911) 178,264 282,713
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs 51,712 250,489 243,806
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 91,226 91,127 106,214
Share-based compensation expense 98,296 125,087 105,538
Deferred income taxes 40,701 75,512 14,931
Decrease in right-of-use asset 43,820 45,995 46,581
Provision for Bad Debt 68,809 65,965 91,520
Other 4,928 34,079 18,558
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:      
Accounts receivable, trade (30,379) (50,747) (91,718)
Prepaid expenses and other assets 28,343 8,330 (60,854)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 23,758 3,594 (7,857)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (177,326) (118,388) (144,894)
Deferred revenue (40,929) (39,977) (10,384)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (149,952) 104,051 30,338
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,854,078 2,980,164 2,554,169
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures (1,231,715) (1,073,955) (1,355,350)
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (340,444) (149,973) (172,269)
Other, net (1,444) 3,502 2,150
Net cash used in investing activities (1,573,603) (1,220,426) (1,525,469)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from long-term debt 4,410,000 8,019,648 9,160,229
Repayment of long-term debt (4,870,108) (6,194,804) (8,159,914)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness, net 185,105 0 93,000
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0 0
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses 0 880,197 0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (85,949) (43,083) (8,980)
Net cash used in financing activities (1,362,524) (2,181,045) (624,412)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents excluding effect of exchange rate changes (82,049) (421,307) 404,288
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (662) (2,167) (1,166)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (82,711) (423,474) 403,122
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,686 702,160 299,038
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year 195,975 278,686 702,160
CSC Holdings      
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income 1,008,797 455,838 212,817
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 1,787,152 2,083,365 2,263,144
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 88,898 (319,515) (473,406)
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts, net (85,911) 178,264 282,713
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs 51,712 250,489 228,130
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 91,226 91,127 90,706
Share-based compensation expense 98,296 125,087 105,538
Deferred income taxes 32,201 101,217 (238,709)
Decrease in right-of-use asset 43,820 45,995 46,581
Provision for Bad Debt 68,809 65,965 91,520
Other 4,928 34,079 18,558
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:      
Accounts receivable, trade (30,379) (50,747) (91,718)
Prepaid expenses and other assets 28,343 8,328 (51,611)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 3,778 180,911 247,917
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (176,855) (334,055) (128,392)
Deferred revenue (40,929) (39,977) (10,384)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (149,952) 104,051 30,338
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,823,934 2,980,422 2,623,742
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures (1,231,715) (1,073,955) (1,355,350)
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (340,444) (149,973) (172,269)
Other, net (1,444) (706) 2,150
Net cash used in investing activities (1,573,603) (1,224,634) (1,525,469)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from long-term debt 4,410,000 8,019,648 9,160,229
Repayment of long-term debt (4,870,108) (6,194,804) (7,637,582)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness, net 185,105 0 93,000
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0 0
Distributions to parent 763,435 4,794,408 2,279,472
Proceeds from the sale of a noncontrolling interest in Lightpath, net of expenses 0 880,197 0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (85,949) (43,083) (8,980)
Other, net (24,961) (40,972) (25,083)
Net cash used in financing activities (1,334,453) (2,173,422) (697,888)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents excluding effect of exchange rate changes (84,122) (417,634) 400,385
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (662) (2,167) (1,166)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (84,784) (419,801) 399,219
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,202 698,003 298,784
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year $ 193,418 $ 278,202 $ 698,003
v3.22.0.1
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS
The Company and Related Matters
Altice USA, Inc. ("Altice USA") was incorporated in Delaware on September 14, 2015. Altice USA is majority-owned by Patrick Drahi through Next Alt. S.à.r.l. ("Next Alt"). Patrick Drahi also controls Altice Group Lux S.à.r.l, formerly Altice Europe N.V. ("Altice Europe") and its subsidiaries and other entities. Altice USA is a holding company that does not conduct any business operations of its own. Altice Europe, through a subsidiary, acquired Cequel Corporation ("Cequel") on December 21, 2015 (the "Cequel Acquisition") and Cequel was contributed to Altice USA on June 9, 2016. Altice USA acquired Cablevision Systems Corporation ("Cablevision") on June 21, 2016 (the "Cablevision Acquisition").
Altice USA, through CSC Holdings, LLC (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cablevision) and its consolidated subsidiaries ("CSC Holdings," and collectively with Altice USA, the "Company"), principally provides broadband communications and video services in the United States. It markets its residential services primarily under two brands: Optimum, primarily in the New York metropolitan area, and Suddenlink, principally in markets in the south-central United States. It operates enterprise services under the brands Lightpath, Altice Business, Optimum Business and Suddenlink Business. It delivers broadband, video, telephony services, proprietary content and advertising services to residential and business customers. In September 2019, the Company launched a full service mobile offering, to consumers across its footprint. As these brands are managed on a consolidated basis, the Company classifies its operations in one segment.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements ("consolidated financial statements") of Altice USA include the accounts of Altice USA and its majority-owned subsidiaries and the accompanying consolidated financial statements of CSC Holdings include the accounts of CSC Holdings and its majority-owned subsidiaries. The consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations of Altice USA are essentially identical to the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations of CSC Holdings, with the following exceptions: Altice USA has primarily additional cash and deferred taxes on its consolidated balance sheet. In addition, CSC Holdings and its subsidiaries have certain intercompany receivables from and payables to Altice USA. Differences between Altice USA's results of operations and those of CSC Holdings primarily include incremental interest expense for periods prior to the assumption of Cablevision senior notes by CSC Holdings in November 2019, interest income, loss on extinguishment of debt, the write-off of deferred financing costs, and income tax benefit (expense).
The combined notes to the consolidated financial statements relate to the Company, which, except as noted, are essentially identical for Altice USA and CSC Holdings. All significant intercompany transactions and balances between Altice USA and CSC Holdings and their respective consolidated subsidiaries are eliminated in both sets of consolidated financial statements. Intercompany transactions between Altice USA and CSC Holdings are not eliminated in the CSC Holdings consolidated financial statements, but are eliminated in the Altice USA consolidated financial statements.
The financial statements of CSC Holdings are included herein as supplemental information as CSC Holdings is not an SEC registrant.
Lightpath Transaction
In December 2020, the Company completed the sale of a 49.99% interest in its Lightpath fiber enterprise business (the "Lightpath Transaction") based on an implied enterprise value of $3,200,000.
The Company received total gross cash proceeds of approximately $2,355,000 ($890,000 from the sale and $1,465,000 from the related financing activity, excluding the discount on the term loan of $3,000). The excess of the cash received from the sale, net of related expenses, over the book value of the interest sold of $741,471, net of taxes of $228,489, was recorded in stockholders' equity (deficiency) by Altice USA. The Company retained a 50.01% interest in the Lightpath business and maintains control of Cablevision Lightpath LLC ("Lightpath"), the entity holding the interest in the Lightpath business. Accordingly, the Company continues to consolidate the operating results of the Lightpath business. Lightpath was financed independently outside of the CSC Holdings restricted group. Proceeds from this transaction were used to fund the Tender Offer (see discussion below). See Note 11 for additional information regarding the debt financing related to the Lightpath Transaction.
Acquisition of Neptune Holding US Limited Partnership
In December 2019, Altice USA entered into an agreement with CVC 3 B.V., an indirect subsidiary of Altice Europe ("CVC 3"), whereby CVC 3 assigned all of its interest (the "Partnership Interest") in Neptune Holding US Limited Partnership (“Neptune LP”) to Altice USA in exchange for 6,290,292 shares of Class A common stock of Altice USA with an aggregate value of $163,862. At the time of the assignment, the Partnership Interest represented 6,290,292 shares of Class A common stock of Altice USA held by Neptune LP. As a result of this transaction, Altice USA obtained control of Neptune LP and accordingly, Neptune LP is consolidated within the Altice USA financial statements. The assets of Neptune LP which consisted solely of shares of class A common stock of Altice USA are presented as treasury stock in the consolidated balance sheet of Altice USA at December 31, 2020.
Share Repurchase Plan
In June 2018, the Board of Directors of Altice USA authorized a share repurchase program of $2,000,000, and on July 30, 2019, the Board of Directors authorized a new incremental three-year share repurchase program of $5,000,000 that took effect following the completion in August 2019 of the $2,000,000 repurchase program. In November 2020, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $2,000,000 of share repurchases, bringing the total amount of cumulative share repurchases authorized to $9,000,000. Under these repurchase programs, shares of Altice USA Class A common stock may be purchased from time to time in the open market and may include trading plans entered into with one or more brokerage firms in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Size and timing of these purchases will be determined based on market conditions and other factors.  
On November 23, 2020, the Company commenced a modified "Dutch auction" tender offer (the "Tender Offer") to purchase up to $2,500,000 in value of shares of its Class A Common Stock, at a price not greater than $36.00 per share nor less than $32.25 per share. The Tender Offer expired on December 21, 2020. On December 21, 2020, the Company accepted for purchase 64,613,479 shares of its Class A Common Stock, at a price of $36.00 per share, plus related fees, for an aggregate purchase price of $2,326,949. The aggregate purchase price of these shares (including the fees relating to the Tender Offer), is reflected in stockholders' equity (deficiency) in the consolidated balance sheet of Altice USA as of December 31, 2020.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, Altice USA repurchased an aggregate of 23,593,728, 161,216,653, and 72,668,712 shares, respectively, for a total purchase price of approximately $804,928, $4,816,895 and $1,686,873 respectively. These acquired shares were retired and the cost of these shares was recorded in stockholders' equity (deficiency) in the consolidated balance sheet of Altice USA. As of December 31, 2021, Altice USA had approximately $1,191,302 of availability remaining under the incremental share repurchase program.
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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Revenue Recognition
Residential Services
The Company derives revenue through monthly charges to residential customers of its broadband, video, and telephony services, including installation services. In addition, the Company derives revenue from digital video recorder ("DVR"), video-on-demand ("VOD"), pay-per-view, and home shopping commissions which are reflected in
"Residential video" revenues. The Company recognizes broadband, video, and telephony revenues as the services are provided to a customer on a monthly basis. Each service is accounted for as a distinct performance obligation. Revenue from the sale of bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product based on the standalone selling price of each performance obligation within the bundled offer. The standalone selling price requires judgment and is typically determined based on the current prices at which the separate services are sold by the Company. Installation revenue for the Company's residential services is deferred and recognized over the benefit period, which is estimated to be less than one year. The estimated benefit period takes into account both quantitative and qualitative factors including the significance of average installation fees to total recurring revenue per customer.
The Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers. In instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customers are recorded as revenue. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $257,364, $257,405 and $254,227, respectively.
Business and Wholesale Revenue
The Company derives revenue from the sale of products and services to both large enterprise and small and medium-sized business ("SMB") customers, including broadband, telephony, networking, and video services reflected in "Business services and wholesale" revenues. The Company's business services also include Ethernet, data transport, and IP-based virtual private networks. The Company also provides managed services to businesses, including hosted telephony services (cloud based SIP-based private branch exchange), managed WiFi, managed desktop and server backup and managed collaboration services including audio and web conferencing. The Company also offers fiber-to-the-tower services to wireless carriers for cell tower backhaul, which enables wireline communications service providers to connect to customers that their own networks do not reach. The Company recognizes revenues for these services as the services are provided to a customer on a monthly basis.
Substantially all of our SMB customers are billed monthly and large enterprise customers are billed in accordance with the terms of their contracts which is typically also on a monthly basis. Contracts with large enterprise customers typically range from three years to five years. In certain instances, upon expiration of a contract and prior to its renewal, we continue to provide services on a month to month basis. Installation revenue related to our large enterprise customers is deferred and recognized over the average contract term. Installation revenue related to SMB customers is deferred and recognized over the benefit period, which is less than one year. The estimated benefit period for SMB customers takes into account both quantitative and qualitative factors including the significance of average installation fees to total recurring revenue per customer.
News and Advertising Revenue
As part of the agreements under which the Company acquires video programming, the Company typically receives an allocation of scheduled advertising time during such programming into which the Company's cable systems can insert commercials. In several of the markets in which the Company operates, it has entered into agreements commonly referred to as interconnects with other cable operators to jointly sell local advertising. In some of these markets, the Company represents the advertising sales efforts of other cable operators; in other markets, other cable operators represent the Company. The Company also offers customers the opportunity to advertise on digital platforms. Advertising revenues are recognized when the advertising is distributed. For arrangements in which the Company controls the sale of advertising and acts as the principal to the transaction, the Company recognizes revenue earned from the advertising customer on a gross basis and the amount remitted to the distributor as an operating expense. For arrangements in which the Company does not control the sale of advertising and acts as an agent to the transaction, the Company recognizes revenue net of any fee remitted to the distributor. Revenue earned from the data-driven, audience-based advertising solutions using advanced analytics tools is recognized when services are provided.
Affiliation fee revenue derived by our news business is recognized as the programming services are provided.
Mobile Revenue
In September 2019, the Company commercially launched a mobile service providing data, talk and text to consumers in or near our service areas. Customers can purchase or finance a variety of mobile devices. Revenue is recognized from the sale of equipment upon delivery and acceptance by the customer. Customers are billed monthly, in advance,
for access to and usage of our mobile services. The Company recognizes mobile service revenue as the services are provided to the customers.
Other Revenue
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Customer Contract Costs
Incremental costs incurred in obtaining a contract with a customer are deferred and recorded as an asset if the period of benefit is expected to be greater than one year. Sales commissions for enterprise customers are deferred and amortized over the average contract term. As the amortization period for sales commission expenses related to residential and SMB customers is less than one year, the Company is utilizing the practical expedient and is recognizing the costs when incurred. The costs of fulfilling a contract with a customer are deferred and recorded as an asset if they generate or enhance resources of the Company that will be used in satisfying future performance obligations and are expected to be recovered. Installation costs related to residential and SMB customers that are not capitalized as part of the initial deployment of new customer premise equipment are expensed as incurred pursuant to industry-specific guidance.
Deferred enterprise sales commission costs are included in other current and noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheet and totaled $17,669 and $19,959 as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived from residential and SMB customer contracts which are month-to month. As such, the amount of revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations is not necessarily indicative of the future revenue to be recognized from our existing customer base. Contracts with enterprise customers generally range from three years to five years, and services may only be terminated in accordance with the contractual terms.
The following table presents the composition of revenue:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Residential:
Broadband
$3,925,089 $3,689,159 $3,222,605 
Video
3,526,205 3,670,859 3,997,873 
Telephony
404,813 468,777 598,694 
Business services and wholesale
1,586,044 1,454,532 1,428,532 
News and advertising550,667 519,205 475,904 
Mobile84,194 78,127 21,264 
Other13,837 13,983 15,987 
Total revenue$10,090,849 $9,894,642 $9,760,859 
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis. In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company utilizes historical transactions, quoted market prices (as available), or comparable transactions.
Programming and Other Direct Costs
Costs of revenue related to delivery of services and goods are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's video service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to customers. This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of customers that receive the programming. If there are periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals. The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations. Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming. The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Advertising costs amounted to $274,639, $213,474 and $233,326 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense which primarily relates to awards of stock options, restricted shares, performance stock units, and units in a carried unit plan is based on the fair value of share-based payment awards at the date of grant. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period or when it is probable any related performance condition will be met. For awards with graded vesting, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method under the graded vesting method over the requisite service period. Share-based compensation expense related to awards that vest entirely at the end of the vesting period are expensed on a straight-line basis.
See Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about our share-based compensation.
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions. Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability. 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by S&P Global Ratings and Moody's Investors Service. The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. 
Investment Securities
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are carried at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in the consolidated statements of operations.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations. Equipment under finance leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments. Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under finance lease obligations and leasehold improvements, amortized over the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software. Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized. Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses the recoverability of its goodwill annually, or more frequently whenever events or substantive changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of its reporting units may exceed their fair value. The Company first considers qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more-likely- than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after this qualitative assessment, the Company determines that it is not more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount then no further testing is performed. A quantitative assessment is performed if the qualitative assessment results in a more-likely-than-not determination or if a qualitative assessment is not performed. The quantitative assessment considers whether the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, in which case an impairment charge is recorded to the extent the reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test. This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs, which are presented as a reduction of debt, are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes. These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized
in the consolidated statements of operations as gain (loss) on derivative contracts or gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Foreign Currency
Certain of the Company's i24 News S.à.r.l ("i24NEWS") subsidiaries are located outside the United States. The functional currency for these subsidiaries is determined based on the primary economic environment in which the subsidiary operates. Revenues and expenses for these subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars using rates that approximate those in effect during the period while the assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the end of each period. The resulting gains and losses from these translations are recognized in cumulative translation adjustment included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’/member's equity (deficiency) on the consolidated balance sheets.
Common Stock of Altice USA
Each holder of Class A common stock has one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock have twenty-five votes per share. Class B shares can be converted to Class A common stock at anytime with a conversion ratio of one Class A common share for one Class B common share.
The following table provides details of Altice USA's shares of common stock outstanding:
 Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 Class A
Common Stock		Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2018496,064,027 212,976,259 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock26,730,427 (26,730,427)
Issuance of common shares6,897,190 — 
Option exercises184,147 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(72,668,712)— 
Treasury shares acquired(10,457,772)— 
Balance at December 31, 2019446,749,307 186,245,832 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock349,929 (349,929)
Issuance of common shares40,000 — 
Option exercises822,732 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(161,216,653)— 
Treasury shares reissued3,828,357 — 
Balance at December 31, 2020290,573,672  185,895,903 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock1,562,561 (1,562,561)
Option exercises1,080,548 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(23,593,728)— 
Treasury shares reissued697,745 — 
Balance at December 31, 2021270,320,798 184,333,342 
CSC Holdings Membership Interests
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, CSC Holdings had 100 membership units issued and outstanding, which are all indirectly owned by Altice USA.
Dividends and Distributions
Altice USA
Altice USA may pay dividends on its capital stock only from net profits and surplus as determined under Delaware law. If dividends are paid on the Altice USA common stock, holders of the Altice USA Class A common stock and Altice USA Class B common stock are entitled to receive dividends, and other distributions in cash, stock or property, equally on a per share basis, except that stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class A common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class A common stock and stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class B common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class B common stock.
The Company's indentures restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
During 2021, 2020 and 2019, there were no dividends paid to shareholders by Altice USA.
CSC Holdings
CSC Holdings may make distributions on its membership interests only if sufficient funds exist as determined under Delaware law. See Note 16 for a discussion of equity distributions that CSC Holdings made to its parent.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables. The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution. The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments. Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.
The Company did not have a single customer that represented 10% or more of its consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 or 10% or more of its consolidated net trade receivables at December 31, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. See Note 13 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2020 and 2019 financial statements to conform to the 2021 presentation.
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CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]  
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ATS ACQUISITION ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Accounting Standards Adopted in 2020
ASU No. 2020-04, Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting ("ASU 2020-04")
In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new accounting guidance related to the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The guidance, effective for reporting periods through
December 31, 2022, provides accounting relief for contract modifications that replace an interest rate impacted by reference rate reform (e.g., LIBOR) with a new alternative reference rate. The Company adopted the guidance as of March 31, 2020. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12")
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740). ASU 2019-12 simplifies the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim calculations. The new guidance also simplifies aspects of the accounting for franchise taxes, enacted changes in tax laws or rates, and clarifies the accounting for transactions that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill. The amendments did not create new accounting requirements. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2018-15, Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract ("ASU 2018-15")
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15 which requires upfront implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (or hosting arrangement) that is a service contract to be amortized to hosting expense over the term of the arrangement, beginning when the module or component of the hosting arrangement is ready for its intended use. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) ("ASU 2017-04")
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04 which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two-step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13")
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 which requires a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost to be assessed for impairment under the current expected credit loss model rather than an incurred loss model. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU 2016-13 became effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 and the adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
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ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Accounting Standards Adopted in 2020
ASU No. 2020-04, Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting ("ASU 2020-04")
In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new accounting guidance related to the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The guidance, effective for reporting periods through
December 31, 2022, provides accounting relief for contract modifications that replace an interest rate impacted by reference rate reform (e.g., LIBOR) with a new alternative reference rate. The Company adopted the guidance as of March 31, 2020. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12")
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740). ASU 2019-12 simplifies the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim calculations. The new guidance also simplifies aspects of the accounting for franchise taxes, enacted changes in tax laws or rates, and clarifies the accounting for transactions that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill. The amendments did not create new accounting requirements. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2018-15, Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract ("ASU 2018-15")
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15 which requires upfront implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (or hosting arrangement) that is a service contract to be amortized to hosting expense over the term of the arrangement, beginning when the module or component of the hosting arrangement is ready for its intended use. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) ("ASU 2017-04")
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04 which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two-step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13")
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 which requires a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost to be assessed for impairment under the current expected credit loss model rather than an incurred loss model. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU 2016-13 became effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 and the adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
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Earnings Per Share
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings Per Share NET INCOME PER SHARE
Basic net income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders is computed by dividing net income attributable to Altice USA stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders reflects the dilutive effects of stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units. For awards that are performance based, the diluted effect is reflected upon the achievement of the performance criteria.
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
(in thousands)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding458,311 581,057 660,384 
Effect of dilution:
Stock options3,972 2,617 1,348 
Restricted stock11 15 809 
Restricted stock units1 — — 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding462,295 583,689 662,541 
Weighted average shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding:
Anti-dilutive shares15,856 25,768 4,245 
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved.
8,557  8,308 — 
Net income per membership unit for CSC Holdings is not presented since CSC Holdings is a limited liability company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice USA.
v3.22.0.1
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]  
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 Balance at Beginning of PeriodProvision for Bad DebtDeductions/ Write-Offs and Other ChargesBalance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Allowance for doubtful accounts$25,198 $68,809 $(66,076)$27,931 
Year Ended December 31, 2020
Allowance for doubtful accounts$14,683 $65,965 $(55,450)$25,198 
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Allowance for doubtful accounts$13,520 $91,520 $(90,357)$14,683 
v3.22.0.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]  
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Altice USA and CSC Holdings:
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid$335,680 $206,680 $188,067 
Notes payable issued to vendor for the purchase of equipment and other assets89,898106,925 35,124 
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations145,047133,300 54,532 
Other non-cash investing and financing transactions5003,973 1,563 
CSC Holdings:
Assumption of Cablevision debt, net of the acquisition of Cablevision assets— — 169,334 
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net(19,500)178,720 151,455 
Supplemental Data:
Altice USA:
Cash interest paid1,178,0881,406,825 1,436,332 
Income taxes paid, net263,58980,415 10,263 
CSC Holdings:
Cash interest paid1,178,0881,406,825 1,350,756 
Income taxes paid, net263,58980,415 10,263 
v3.22.0.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
The Company's restructuring and other expense is comprised of the following:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Contractual payments for terminated employees$6,227 $50,852 $49,321 
Facility realignment costs2,551 7,467 6,317 
Impairment of right-of-use operating lease assets6,701 30,429 12,160 
Transaction costs related to certain transactions not related to the Company's operations1,697 2,325 5,180 
Restructuring and other expense$17,176 $91,073 $72,978 
v3.22.0.1
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENTCosts incurred in the construction of the Company's cable systems, including line extensions to, and upgrade of, the Company's hybrid fiber/coaxial infrastructure and construction of the parallel fiber-to-the-home ("FTTH") infrastructure, are capitalized. This includes headend facilities and initial placement of the feeder cable to connect a customer that had not been previously connected. These costs consist of materials, subcontractor labor, direct consulting fees, and internal labor and related costs associated with the construction activities. The internal costs that are capitalized consist of salaries and benefits of the Company's employees and the portion of facility costs, including rent, taxes, insurance and utilities, that supports the construction activities. These costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the plant (10 to 25 years) and headend facilities (5 to 25 years). Costs of operating the plant and the technical facilities, including repairs and maintenance, are expensed as incurred.
Costs associated with the initial deployment of new customer premise equipment ("CPE") necessary to provide broadband, video and telephony services are also capitalized. These costs include materials, subcontractor labor, internal labor, and other related costs associated with the connection activities. The departmental activities supporting the connection process are tracked through specific metrics, and the portion of departmental costs that is capitalized is determined through a time weighted activity allocation of costs incurred based on time studies used to estimate the average time spent on each activity. These installation costs are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the CPE necessary to provide broadband, video and telephony services. The portion of departmental costs related to disconnecting services and removing CPE from a customer, costs related to connecting CPE that has been previously connected to the network, and repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
The estimated useful lives assigned to our property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis or more frequently if circumstances warrant and such lives are revised to the extent necessary due to changing facts and circumstances. Any changes in estimated useful lives are reflected prospectively.
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under finance leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
December 31,Estimated
Useful Lives
 20212020
Customer premise equipment$1,991,746 $1,845,830 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment2,325,852 2,158,704 
5 to 25 years
Infrastructure6,606,817 5,964,419 
5 to 25 years
Equipment and software1,364,560 1,237,057 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)291,611 174,610  
Furniture and fixtures74,481 65,724 
5 to 8 years
Transportation equipment145,531 150,974 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements506,363 481,693 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements127,565 110,037 Term of lease
Land48,793 48,791  
 13,483,319 12,237,839  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(7,142,852)(6,431,843) 
 $6,340,467 $5,805,996  
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company capitalized certain costs aggregating $145,837, $134,857 and $132,966, respectively, related to the acquisition and development of internal use software, which are included in the table above. 
Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment (including finance leases) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 amounted to $1,145,316, $1,344,732 and $1,475,251, respectively.
v3.22.0.1
LEASES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]  
LEASES LEASES
On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASC 842 which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. ASC 842 requires the recognition of the right-of-use ("ROU") assets and related operating and finance lease liabilities on the balance sheet. The Company adopted the new guidance using the modified retrospective approach with a cumulative-effect adjustment recorded on January 1, 2019.
The adoption of ASC 842 resulted in the recognition of ROU assets of $274,292 and lease liabilities for operating leases of $299,900 on the Company's consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2019, with no material impact to its consolidated statements of operations. The difference between the ROU assets and the operating lease liability represents the reclassification of (i) deferred rent balances, resulting from the historical operating leases, and (ii) certain accrued restructuring liabilities. The Company's accounting for finance leases remained substantially unchanged from its accounting for capital leases in prior periods.
The Company elected the package of practical expedients permitted within the standard, which allow an entity to forgo reassessing (i) whether a contract contains a lease, (ii) classification of leases, and (iii) whether capitalized costs associated with a lease meet the definition of initial direct costs. Also, the Company elected the expedient allowing an entity to use hindsight to determine the lease term and impairment of ROU assets and the expedient related to land easements which allows the Company not to retrospectively treat land easements as leases; however, the Company must apply lease accounting prospectively to land easements if they meet the definition of a lease.
For contracts entered into on or after the effective date, at the inception of a contract the Company will assess whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. The Company's assessment is based on: (i) whether the contract involves the use of a distinct identified asset, (ii) whether the Company obtained the right to substantially all the economic benefit from the use of the asset throughout the period, and (iii) whether the Company has the right to direct the use of the asset. Leases entered into prior to January 1, 2019, are accounted for under ASC 840 and were not reassessed for classification.
For operating leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments. For finance leases, the lease liability is initially measured in the same manner and date as for operating leases, and is subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The Company generally uses its incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate for leases, unless an interest rate is implicitly stated in the lease. The lease term for all of the Company’s leases includes the noncancellable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by either a Company option to extend the lease that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise, or an option to extend the lease controlled by the lessor. All ROU assets are reviewed for impairment.
Lease expense for operating leases consists of the lease payments plus any initial direct costs, net of lease incentives, and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease expense for finance leases consists of the amortization of the asset on a straight-line basis over the earlier of the lease term or its useful life and interest expense determined on an amortized cost basis. The lease payments are allocated between a reduction of the lease liability and interest expense.
The Company's operating leases are comprised primarily of facility leases and finance leases are comprised primarily of vehicle and equipment leases.
Balance sheet information related to our leases is presented below:
Balance Sheet locationDecember 31,
20212020
Operating leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsRight-of-use operating lease assets$222,124 $241,342 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentOther current liabilities38,545 38,296 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termRight-of-use operating lease liability237,226 257,424 
Finance leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsProperty, plant and equipment272,948 170,155 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentCurrent portion of long-term debt109,204 63,454 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termLong-term debt109,531 96,183 
The following provides details of the Company's lease expense:
Years Ended December 31,
20212020
Operating lease expense, net$56,951 $58,923 
Finance lease expense:
Amortization of assets56,945 30,123 
Interest on lease liabilities8,966 6,324 
Total finance lease expense65,911 36,447 
$122,862 $95,370 

Other information related to leases is presented below:
As of December 31,
20212020
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease obligations$26,008 $35,383 
Cash Paid For Amounts Included In Measurement of Liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases8,966 6,324 
Operating cash flows from operating leases61,443 64,391 
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term:
Operating leases8.4 years9.0 years
Finance leases2.2 years2.5 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate:
Operating leases5.51 %5.66 %
Finance leases4.63 %5.38 %
The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2022$116,564 $46,197 
202381,499 49,052 
202431,116 45,052 
2025321 35,796 
202616 32,557 
Thereafter— 142,099 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted229,516 350,753 
Less: Imputed interest(10,781)(74,982)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$218,735 $275,771 
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
INTANGIBLE ASSETS INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 

As of December 31, 2021As of December 31, 2020
Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountEstimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships$6,113,669 $(4,020,282)$2,093,387 $6,052,598 $(3,478,742)$2,573,856 
3 to 18 years
Trade names1,081,083(988,563)92,520 1,081,083(894,189)186,894 
2 to 10 years
Other amortizable intangibles58,398(42,304)16,094 56,747(36,381)20,366 
1 to 15 years
$7,253,150 $(5,051,149)$2,202,001 $7,190,428 $(4,409,312)$2,781,116 
Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 aggregated $641,836, $738,633, and $787,893, respectively.
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
Year Ending December 31, 2022$553,905
Year Ending December 31, 2023388,309
Year Ending December 31, 2024308,978
Year Ending December 31, 2025262,244
Year Ending December 31, 2026218,057
The carrying amount of indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill is presented below:
Indefinite-lived Cable Television FranchisesGoodwill
Balance as of December 31, 2019$13,020,081 $8,142,309 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill recorded in connection with an acquisition (see discussion below)47,936 18,257 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$13,068,017 $8,160,566 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill recorded in connection with an acquisition (see discussion below)148,338 45,297 
Balance as of December 31, 2021$13,216,355 $8,205,863 
In June 2021, Lightpath completed an acquisition for an aggregate net cash purchase price of approximately $28,260, subject to certain closing adjustments as set forth in the asset purchase agreement, and recorded customer relationships of $2,294, goodwill of $11,800, and property, plant and equipment of $14,649.
In April 2021, the Company completed its acquisition of the cable assets of Morris Broadband, LLC in North Carolina for cash of approximately $312,184. In connection with the acquisition, the Company recorded indefinite-lived cable television franchise rights of $148,338, customer relationships of $58,777, and goodwill of $33,497 based on an allocation of the purchase price. In addition, the Company recorded property, plant and equipment of $71,586.
On July 14, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of certain cable assets in New Jersey for approximately $149,973. In connection with the acquisition, the Company recorded indefinite-lived cable television franchise rights of approximately $47,936, customer relationships of approximately $35,074, and goodwill of approximately $18,257 based on an allocation of the purchase price. In addition, the Company recorded property, plant and equipment of approximately $52,362.
The acquisitions discussed above were accounted for as business combinations in accordance with ASC Topic 805.
v3.22.0.1
DEBT
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
DEBT DEBT
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding debt:
Interest RateDecember 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Date IssuedMaturity DatePrincipal AmountCarrying Amount (a)Principal AmountCarrying Amount (a)
CSC Holdings Senior Notes:
November 15, 2011November 15, 20216.750%$— $— $1,000,000 $989,917 
September 27, 2012September 15, 20225.875%649,024 635,310 649,024 617,333 
May 23, 2014June 1, 20245.250%750,000 711,137 750,000 697,041 
October 18, 2018April 1, 20287.500%4,118 4,113 4,118 4,112 
November 27, 2018April 1, 20287.500%1,045,882 1,044,582 1,045,882 1,044,424 
July 10 and October 7, 2019January 15, 20305.750%2,250,000 2,282,875 2,250,000 2,286,097 
June 16 and August 17. 2020December 1, 20304.625%2,325,000 2,366,886 2,325,000 2,370,502 
May 13, 2021November 15, 20315.000%500,000 498,234 — — 
7,524,024 7,543,137 8,024,024 8,009,426 
CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes:
September 23, 2016April 15, 20275.500%1,310,000 1,306,508 1,310,000 1,305,955 
January 29, 2018February 1, 20285.375%1,000,000 994,262 1,000,000 993,490 
November 27, 2018May 15, 20265.500%— — 1,498,806 1,487,644 
January 24, 2019February 1, 20296.500%1,750,000 1,747,511 1,750,000 1,747,245 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.125%1,100,000 1,095,672 1,100,000 1,095,283 
August 17, 2020February 15, 20313.375%1,000,000 996,970 1,000,000 996,692 
May 13, 2021November 15, 20314.500%1,500,000 1,494,710 — — 
7,660,000 7,635,633 7,658,806 7,626,309 
CSC Holdings Restricted Group Credit Facility:
Revolving Credit FacilityJanuary 31, 2024 (c)2.360%(b)900,000 893,864 625,000 616,027 
Term Loan BJuly 17, 20252.360%2,865,000 2,856,421 2,895,000 2,884,065 
Incremental Term Loan B-3January 15, 20262.360%1,239,938 1,236,394 1,252,688 1,248,293 
Incremental Term Loan B-5April 15, 20272.610%2,947,500 2,929,813 2,977,500 2,956,807 
7,952,438 7,916,492 7,750,188 7,705,192 
Lightpath Senior Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20285.625% 415,000 407,104 415,000 406,176 
Lightpath Senior Secured Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20273.875% 450,000 441,739 450,000 440,487 
Lightpath Term LoanNovember 30, 20273.750%594,000 579,119 600,000 582,808 
Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility(e)— — — — 
1,459,000 1,427,962 1,465,000 1,429,471 
Collateralized indebtedness (see Note 12)1,759,017 1,706,997 1,699,566 1,617,506 
Finance lease obligations (see Note 9)218,735 218,735 159,637 159,637 
Notes payable and supply chain financing (d)97,804 97,804 183,690 174,801 
26,671,018 26,546,760 26,940,911 26,722,342 
Less: current portion of credit facility debt(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)
Less: current portion of senior notes(649,024)(635,310)(1,000,000)(989,917)
Less: current portion of finance lease obligations(109,204)(109,204)(63,454)(63,454)
Less: current portion of notes payable and supply chain financing(94,049)(94,049)(113,592)(113,592)
(931,027)(917,313)(1,255,796)(1,245,713)
Long-term debt$25,739,991 $25,629,447 $25,685,115 $25,476,629 
(a)The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums and with respect to certain notes, a fair value adjustment resulting from the Cequel and Cablevision acquisitions.
(b)At December 31, 2021, $139,465 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,435,535 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)The revolving credit facility of an aggregate principal amount of $2,475,000 is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25%. In March 2021, a lender under the revolving credit facility extended the maturity date and reduced the interest rate on its aggregate principal amount of $200,000 which had an original maturity date of November 2021 and was priced at LIBOR plus 3.25%.
(d)Includes $89,898 related to supply chain financing agreements that is required to be repaid within one year from the date of the respective agreement. The decrease in the principal amount at December 31, 2021 includes a $59,451 reclassification to collateralized indebtedness in connection with the maturity of a monetization contract related to the synthetic monetization closeout transaction in November 2019. See Note 12.
(e)There were no borrowings outstanding under the Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility which provides for commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $100,000. See discussion below.
CSC Holdings Credit Facilities
For financing purposes, the Company has two debt silos: CSC Holdings and Lightpath. The CSC Holdings silo is structured as a restricted group (the "Restricted Group") and an unrestricted group, which includes certain designated subsidiaries and investments (the "Unrestricted Group"). The Restricted Group is comprised of CSC Holdings and substantially all of its wholly-owned operating subsidiaries excluding Lightpath, a 50.01% owned subsidiary of the Company, which became an unrestricted subsidiary in September 2020. These Restricted Group subsidiaries are subject to the covenants and restrictions of the credit facility and indentures governing the notes issued by CSC Holdings. The Lightpath silo includes all of its operating subsidiaries which are subject to the covenants and restrictions of the credit facility and indentures governing the notes issued by Lightpath. See discussion below regarding the Lightpath debt financing.
In October 2015, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice USA, which merged with and into CSC Holdings on June 21, 2016, entered into a senior secured credit facility, which currently provides U.S. dollar term loans currently in an aggregate principal amount of $3,000,000 ($2,865,000 outstanding at December 31, 2021) (the "CSC Term Loan Facility", and the term loans extended under the CSC Term Loan Facility, the "CSC Term Loans") and U.S. dollar revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,475,000 ($900,000 outstanding at December 31, 2021) (the "CSC Revolving Credit Facility" and, together with the CSC Term Loan Facility, the "CSC Credit Facilities"), which are governed by a credit facilities agreement entered into by, inter alios, CSC Holdings certain lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and security agent (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified on June 20, 2016, June 21, 2016, July 21, 2016, September 9, 2016, December 9, 2016, March 15, 2017, January 12, 2018, October 15, 2018, January 24, 2019, February 7, 2019, May 14, 2019 and October 3, 2019, respectively, and as further amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the "CSC Credit Facilities Agreement").
The Term Loan B is comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternate base rate borrowings, and bears interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.25% per annum. The Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $7,500) of the principal amount of the Term Loan B, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on July 17, 2025.
In January 2018, CSC Holdings entered into a $1,500,000 incremental term loan facility (the "Incremental Term Loan B-2") under its existing credit facilities agreement. The Incremental Term Loan B-2 was priced at 99.5% and was due to mature on January 25, 2026. The Incremental Term Loan B-2 was comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternate base rate borrowings, and bore interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin was (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.50% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.50% per annum. The Company was required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $3,750) of the principal amount of the Incremental Term Loan B-2, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2018, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on January 25, 2026. The Incremental Term Loan B-2 was repaid in full in October 2019 with proceeds from the Incremental Term Loan B-5 discussed below.
In February 2019, CSC Holdings entered into a $1,000,000 incremental term loan facility ("Incremental Term Loan B-4") under its existing credit facilities agreement. The proceeds from the Incremental Term Loan B-4 were used to redeem $894,700 in aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings’ 10.125% senior notes due 2023, representing the entire aggregate principal amount outstanding, and paying related fees, costs and expenses. The Incremental Term Loan B-4 was due to mature on April 15, 2027 and was issued with an original issue discount of 1.0%. The Incremental Term Loan B-4 was comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternative base rate borrowings and bore interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin was (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.00% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.00%. The Incremental Term Loan B-4 was repaid in full in October 2019 with proceeds from the Incremental Term Loan B-5 discussed below.
In October 2019, CSC Holdings entered into a $3,000,000 ($2,947,500 outstanding at December 31, 2021), incremental term loan facility ("Incremental Term Loan B-5") under its existing credit facilities agreement, out of which $500,000 was available on a delayed draw basis. The Incremental Term Loan B-5 matures on April 15, 2027 and was issued at par. The Incremental Term Loan B-5 may be comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternative base rate borrowings, and will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the Adjusted LIBOR or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.50% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.500% per annum. The Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $7,500) of the principal amount of the Incremental Term Loan B-5, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2020.
The initial proceeds of the Incremental Term Loan B-5 were used to repay approximately $2,500,000 of the outstanding term loans (Incremental Term Loan B-2 and Incremental Term Loan B-4) under the credit agreement, and the proceeds of the delayed draw tranche of the Incremental Term Loan B-5 were used to distribute $500,000 in cash to Cablevision, the proceeds of which were used to redeem Cablevision’s 8.000% senior notes due 2020, representing the entire aggregate principal amount outstanding, and in each case, paying related fees, costs and expenses in connection with such transactions, with the remainder being used to fund cash on the balance sheet. In connection with the repayment of approximately $2,500,000 of the outstanding term loans, a portion of the unamortized discount and unamortized deferred financing costs was written-off and recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt in the fourth quarter of 2019 (see table below).
During the year ended December 31, 2021, CSC Holdings borrowed $2,410,000 under its revolving credit facility and repaid $2,135,000 of amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. A portion of these borrowings were used to redeem at maturity $1,000,000 aggregate outstanding principal amount of CSC Holdings 6.750% senior notes due November 2021.
The CSC Credit Facilities Agreement requires the prepayment of outstanding CSC Term Loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; and (ii) on a pari ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Term Loans) of 50% of annual excess cash flow, which will be reduced to 0% if the consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings is less than or equal to 4.5 to 1.
The obligations under the CSC Credit Facilities are guaranteed by each restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings (other than CSC TKR, LLC and its subsidiaries, Lightpath, and certain excluded subsidiaries) (the "Initial Guarantors") and, subject to certain limitations, will be guaranteed by each future material wholly-owned restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings.  The obligations under the CSC Credit Facilities (including any guarantees thereof) are secured on a first priority basis, subject to any liens permitted by the Credit Facilities, by capital stock held by CSC Holdings or any guarantor in certain subsidiaries of CSC Holdings, subject to certain exclusions and limitations. 
The CSC Credit Facilities Agreement includes certain negative covenants which, among other things and subject to certain significant exceptions and qualifications, limit CSC Holdings' ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances; and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations. In addition, the CSC Revolving Credit Facility includes a financial maintenance covenant solely for the benefit of the lenders under the CSC Revolving Credit Facility consisting of a maximum consolidated
net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries of 5.0 to 1.0. The financial covenant will be tested on the last day of any fiscal quarter, but only if on such day there are outstanding borrowings under the CSC Revolving Credit Facility (including swingline loans but excluding any cash collateralized letters of credit and undrawn letters of credit not to exceed the letter of credit sublimit).
The CSC Credit Facilities Agreement also contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default (including, among others, an event of default upon a change of control). If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the CSC Credit Facilities will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the CSC Credit Facilities and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Senior Notes
In January 2019, CSC Holdings issued $1,500,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior guaranteed notes due 2029 ("CSC Holdings 2029 Guaranteed Notes"). The notes bear interest at a rate of 6.50% and will mature on February 1, 2029. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to repay certain indebtedness, including to repay at maturity $526,000 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 8.625% senior notes due February 2019 plus accrued interest, redeem approximately $905,300 of the aggregate outstanding amount of CSC Holdings' 10.125% senior notes due 2023 at a redemption price of 107.594% plus accrued interest, and paid fees and expenses associated with the transactions.
In February 2019, CSC Holdings issued an additional $250,000 CSC Holdings 2029 Guaranteed Notes at a price of 101.75% of the principal amount, plus accrued interest from January 31, 2019. The proceeds of these notes were used to repay the outstanding balance under the CSC Revolving Credit Facility.
In July 2019, CSC Holdings issued $1,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior notes which bear interest at a rate of 5.75% and will mature on January 15, 2030 ("2030 Senior Notes"). The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the CSC Revolving Credit Facility of approximately $622,857, along with accrued interest and pay fees associated with the transactions. The remaining proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.
In October 2019, CSC Holdings issued an additional $1,250,000 aggregate principal amount of its 2030 Senior Notes at a price of 104.00% of the principal amount plus accrued interest from July 10, 2019 until October 7, 2019. The proceeds of these notes were used to redeem $1,240,762 aggregate outstanding principal amount of CSC Holdings 5.125% senior notes due 2021 in full and to pay accrued interest, fees, costs and expenses associated with these transactions.
In June 2020, CSC Holdings issued $1,100,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior guaranteed notes that bear interest at a rate of 4.125% and mature on December 1, 2030 and $625,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior notes that bear interest at a rate of 4.625% and mature on December 1, 2030. The net proceeds from the sale of the these notes was used in July 2020 to early redeem the $1,095,825 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 5.375% senior secured notes due July 15, 2023, the $617,881 and the $1,740 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 7.750% senior notes due July 15, 2025, plus pay accrued interest and the associated premiums related to the early redemption of these notes.
In August 2020, CSC Holdings issued $1,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of new senior guaranteed notes that bear interest at a rate of 3.375% and mature on February 15, 2031 and an additional $1,700,000 in aggregate principal amount of its 4.625% senior notes that mature on December 1, 2030 at a price of 103.25% of the aggregate principal amount. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes was used to early redeem the $1,684,221 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 10.875% senior notes due October 15, 2025, the $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 6.625% senior guaranteed notes due October 15, 2025, plus pay accrued interest and the associated premiums related to the early redemption of these notes.
In May 2021, CSC Holdings issued $1,500,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior guaranteed notes that bear interest at a rate of 4.500% and mature on November 15, 2031 and $500,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior notes that bear interest at a rate of 5.000% which also mature on November 15, 2031. The net proceeds from the sale of these notes were used to early redeem the $1,498,806 aggregate principal amount of CSC Holdings' 5.500% senior guaranteed notes due May 15, 2026, plus pay accrued interest and the associated premium related to the early
redemption of these notes. The remaining proceeds were used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of borrowings under the CSC Holdings revolving credit facility and share repurchases.
The indentures under which the Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes were issued contain certain customary covenants and agreements, including limitations on the ability of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries to (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments or other restricted payments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances, and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations, in each case subject to certain exceptions. The indentures also contain certain customary events of default. If an event of default occurs, the obligations under the notes may be accelerated.
Subject to customary conditions, the Company may redeem some or all of the notes at the redemption price set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, plus a specified "make-whole" premium (in the event the notes are redeemed prior to a certain specified time set forth in the indentures).
Lightpath Debt Financing
On September 29, 2020, in connection with the Lightpath Transaction, Lightpath issued $450,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes that bear interest at a rate of 3.875% and mature on September 15, 2027 and $415,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior notes that bear interest at a rate of 5.625% and mature on September 15, 2028. Prior to the issuance of these notes, Lightpath became an unrestricted subsidiary under the terms of CSC Holdings' debt.
In addition, on September 29, 2020, Lightpath entered into a credit agreement between, inter alios, certain lenders party thereto and Goldman Sachs Bank USA, as administrative agent, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as collateral agent, (the "Lightpath Credit Agreement") which provides for, among other things, (i) a term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $600,000 (the “Lightpath Term Loan Facility”) at a price of 99.5% of the aggregate principal amount, which was drawn on November 30, 2020, and (ii) revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $100,000 (the “Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility"). As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility. The Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $1,500) of the principal amount of the Lightpath Term Loan Facility, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2021.
The loans made pursuant to the Lightpath Credit Agreement are comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternative base rate borrowings, and bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum. The maturity date of the (i) Lightpath Term Loan Facility is November 30, 2027 and (ii) Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility is November 30, 2025.
As of December 31, 2021, CSC Holdings and Lightpath were in compliance with applicable financial covenants under their respective credit facilities and with applicable financial covenants under each respective indenture by which the senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes were issued.
Assumption of Cablevision Senior Notes
In November 2019, pursuant to an asset contribution agreement (the "Asset Contribution"), Cablevision contributed to CSC Holdings substantially all of its assets and CSC Holdings assumed all of Cablevision’s liabilities, including Cablevision’s 5.875% senior notes due September 2022 with an aggregate outstanding principal amount of $649,024, Cablevision’s 7.750% senior notes due July 2025 with an aggregate outstanding principal amount of $1,740, and Cablevision's 7.500% senior notes due April 2028 with an aggregate outstanding principal amount of $4,118 (the "Assumption of Cablevision Senior Notes").
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt and the Write-off of Deferred Financing Costs
The following table provides a summary of the loss on extinguishment of debt and the write-off of deferred financing costs recorded by the Company upon the redemption of senior notes and the refinancing of credit facilities:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
 CSC Holdings 5.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2026$51,712 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020:
CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2023$26,721 
CSC Holdings 7.75% Senior Notes due 202535,375 
CSC Holdings 10.875% Senior Notes due 2025136,249 
CSC Holdings 6.625% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 202552,144 
$250,489 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019:
CSC Holdings 5.125% Senior Notes due 2021$65,151 
CSC Holdings 10.125% Senior Notes due 2023154,666 
Refinancing and subsequent amendment to CSC Holdings credit facility8,313 
Subtotal - CSC Holdings228,130 
Cablevision 5.125% Senior Notes due 2021500 
Cablevision 8.000% Senior Notes due 202015,176 
$243,806 
Summary of Debt Maturities
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2021, including collateralized indebtedness (see Note 12) and notes payable and supply chain financing, but excluding finance lease obligations (see Note 9), are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
2022$821,823 
20231,841,383 
20241,728,889 
20252,823,750 
20261,224,938 
Thereafter18,011,500 
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
Prepaid Forward Contracts
The Company has entered into various transactions to limit the exposure against equity price risk on its shares of Comcast Corporation ("Comcast") common stock. The Company has monetized all of its stock holdings in Comcast through the execution of prepaid forward contracts, collateralized by an equivalent amount of the respective underlying stock. At maturity, the contracts provide for the option to deliver cash or shares of Comcast stock with a value determined by reference to the applicable stock price at maturity. These contracts, at maturity, are expected to offset declines in the fair value of these securities below the hedge price per share while allowing the Company to retain upside appreciation from the hedge price per share to the relevant cap price.
The Company received cash proceeds upon execution of the prepaid forward contracts discussed above which has been reflected as collateralized indebtedness in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In addition, the Company separately accounts for the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts. These equity derivatives have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Therefore, the net fair values of the equity
derivatives have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as an asset or liability and the net increases or decreases in the fair value of the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts are included in gain (loss) on derivative contracts in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
All of the Company's monetization transactions are obligations of its wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not part of the Restricted Group; however, CSC Holdings has provided guarantees of the subsidiaries' ongoing contract payment expense obligations and potential payments that could be due as a result of an early termination event (as defined in the agreements). If any one of these contracts was terminated prior to its scheduled maturity date, the Company would be obligated to repay the fair value of the collateralized indebtedness less the sum of the fair values of the underlying stock and equity collar, calculated at the termination date. As of December 31, 2021, the Company did not have an early termination shortfall relating to any of these contracts.
The Company monitors the financial institutions that are counterparties to its equity derivative contracts. All of the counterparties to such transactions carry investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2021.
Interest Rate Swap Contracts
To manage interest rate risk, we have from time to time entered into interest rate swap contracts to adjust the proportion of total debt that is subject to variable and fixed interest rates. Such contracts effectively fix the borrowing rates on floating rate debt to provide an economic hedge against the risk of rising rates and/or effectively convert fixed rate borrowings to variable rates to permit the Company to realize lower interest expense in a declining interest rate environment. We monitor the financial institutions that are counterparties to our interest rate swap contracts and we only enter into interest rate swap contracts with financial institutions that are rated investment grade. All such contracts are carried at their fair market values on our consolidated balance sheets, with changes in fair value reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2021, the Company did not hold and has not issued derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging InstrumentsBalance Sheet LocationFair Value at December 31,
20212020
Asset Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Prepaid expenses and other current assets$2,993 $5,132 
Prepaid forward contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contracts
Other assets, long-term— 4,774 
$2,993 $55,559 
Liability Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Other current liabilities(3,441)— 
Prepaid forward contractsOther current liabilities— (45,653)
Prepaid forward contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(161,942)(247,853)
Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(114,991)(275,297)
 $(280,374)$(568,803)
The following table presents certain consolidated statement of operations data related to our derivative contracts and the Comcast common stock:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock$85,911 $(178,264)$(282,713)
Change in fair value of Comcast common stock included in gain (loss) on investments(88,917)319,157 469,071 
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in 2020 in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below92,735 (78,606)(53,902)
In March 2020, the Company terminated two swap agreements whereby the Company was paying a floating rate of interest and receiving a fixed rate of interest on an aggregate notional value of $1,500,000. These contracts were due to mature in May 2026. In connection with the early termination, the Company received cash of $74,835 which has been recorded in gain (loss) on interest swap contracts, net in our consolidated statements of operations and presented in operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
In addition, in March 2020, the Company executed amendments to two interest swap contracts that reduced the fixed rate of interest that the Company was paying on an aggregate notional value of $1,000,000 and extended the maturity date of the contracts to January 15, 2025 from January 15, 2022.
In April 2020, the Company entered into a new interest rate swap contract with an aggregate notional value of $2,850,000, which matured in April 2021.
The following is a summary of interest rate swap contracts outstanding at December 31, 2021:
 Contract/Amended Contract DateMaturity DateNotional AmountCompany PaysCompany Receives
December 2018January 2022$500,000 
Fixed rate of 2.733%
Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2022500,000 Three-month LIBOR
Fixed rate of 2.733%
March 2020January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.53%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.625%
Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.458%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 
Fixed rate of 2.9155%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 
Fixed rate of 2.9025%
Three-month LIBOR
In November 2019, the Company entered into a new monetization contract related to 5,337,750 shares of Comcast common stock held by us, which synthetically reversed the existing contract related to these shares. In addition, the Company entered into amendments to monetization contracts related to 37,617,486 shares of Comcast common stock held by us. The new and amended monetization contracts extended the maturity date to April 28, 2023 and provide the Company with downside protection below the hedge price of $40.95 per share and upside benefit of stock price appreciation up to $49.55 per share. In connection with the execution of these contracts, the Company received cash of $93,000 and recorded (i) an increase in the fair value of the equity derivative contracts of $103,781, ii) an increase in notes payable, net of discount, of $36,587, and (iii) an increase in collateralized debt, net of discount of $160,194.
v3.22.0.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are 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 their own market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
•Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
•Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.
The following table presents the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and their classification under the fair value hierarchy:
Fair Value
Hierarchy		December 31,
20212020
Assets:
Money market funds
Level I$100,015 $50,236 
Investment securities pledged as collateralLevel I2,161,937 2,250,854 
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II2,993 9,906 
Liabilities:
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II161,942 293,506 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II118,432 275,297 
The Company's money market funds which are classified as cash equivalents and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
The Company's derivative contracts and liabilities under derivative contracts on the Company's consolidated balance sheets are valued using market-based inputs to valuation models. These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, and measures of volatility. When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit risk considerations. Such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. Since model inputs can generally be verified and do not involve significant management judgment, the Company has concluded that these instruments should be classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate:
Credit Facility Debt, Collateralized Indebtedness, Senior Notes, Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, Notes Payable and Supply Chain Financing
The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The fair value of notes payable is based primarily on the present value of the remaining payments discounted at the borrowing cost. The carrying value of outstanding amounts related to supply chain financing agreements approximates the fair value due to their short-term maturity (less than one year).
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized below:
December 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Fair Value
Hierarchy		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value
Credit facility debt
Level II$8,495,611 $8,546,438 $8,288,000 $8,350,188 
Collateralized indebtedness
Level II1,706,997 1,741,710 1,617,506 1,692,724 
Senior guaranteed and senior secured notesLevel II8,077,372 8,180,813 8,066,796 8,567,858 
Senior notes
Level II7,950,241 7,883,071 8,415,602 9,024,990 
Notes payable and supply chain financing
Level II97,804 97,588 174,801 175,251 
$26,328,025 $26,449,620 $26,562,705 $27,811,011 
(a)Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
The fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
INCOME TAXES INCOME TAXES
Altice USA files a federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns with its 80% or more owned subsidiaries. CSC Holdings and its subsidiaries are included in the consolidated federal income tax returns of Altice USA. The income tax provision for CSC Holdings is determined on a stand-alone basis for all periods presented as if CSC Holdings filed separate consolidated income tax returns. In accordance with a tax sharing agreement between CSC Holdings and Altice USA, CSC Holdings has an obligation to Altice USA for its stand-alone current tax liability as if it filed separate income tax returns.
Income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 consist of the following components:
Altice USACSC Holdings
Years Ended December 31,Years Ended December 31,
 202120202019202120202019
Current expense (benefit):
Federal$168,397 $— $— $179,032 $(55,044)$240,229 
State56,211 65,804 33,103 56,211 82,238 70,567 
Foreign(3)— — (3)— — 
 224,605 65,804 33,103 235,240 27,194 310,796 
Deferred expense (benefit):
Federal70,989 113,871 43,105 70,989 156,338 (176,591)
State(30,108)(38,359)(28,174)(38,608)(55,121)(62,118)
Foreign(180)— — (180)— — 
 40,701 75,512 14,931 32,201 101,217 (238,709)
265,306 141,316 48,034 267,441 128,411 72,087 
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions29,669 (1,568)(844)29,669 (1,568)(844)
Income tax expense$294,975 $139,748 $47,190 $297,110 $126,843 $71,243 
The income tax expense (benefit) attributable to Altice USA's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
Altice USACSC Holdings
Years Ended December 31,Years Ended December 31,
202120202019202120202019
Federal tax expense at statutory rate$274,240 $122,478 $39,297 $274,240 $122,363 $59,653 
State income taxes, net of federal impact21,492 59,383 (6,256)13,973 58,802 (9,060)
Changes in the valuation allowance13,573 10,333 4,079 12,793 10,598 4,307 
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(6,924)(46,768)(1,046)(7,125)(46,768)6,532 
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions29,669 (1,568)(847)29,669 (1,568)(847)
Tax credits(7,589)(17,205)— (7,589)(17,205)— 
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
169 2,108 15,642 169 2,108 15,642 
Non-deductible officers compensation7,201 6,715 — 7,201 6,715 — 
Other permanent differences(35,256)— — (35,256)— — 
Other non-deductible expenses (benefits)1,483 (883)1,334 1,483 (886)1,334 
Other, net(3,083)5,155 (5,013)7,552 (7,316)(6,318)
Income tax expense$294,975 $139,748 $47,190 $297,110 $126,843 $71,243 
In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was signed into law. Included in the CARES Act, was a revision to IRC Sec 163(j) increasing the ATI (adjusted taxable income) limit of deductible interest from 30% to 50% for tax years 2019 and 2020. The additional deductible interest on the 2019 federal return was $176,539, tax-effected; as a result, the previously reported federal net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) were increased by $176,539, resulting in a net zero tax impact for CSC Holdings and Altice USA.
Altice USA and CSC Holdings recorded a net deferred tax benefit of $6,924 and $7,125, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2021, and $46,768 for the year ended December 31, 2020 based on a remeasurement of the net deferred tax liability as a result of a decrease in the blended state tax rate utilized to tax-effect the gross temporary differences. In addition, in 2021, due to internal restructuring of i24NEWS and a permanent reduction in tax relating to the Opportunity Zones commitment (see note below), a permanent tax benefit of $35,256 was recognized. In 2020, the Company recorded a $17,205 benefit resulting from research and development tax credits for the years 2016-2019.
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows:
Altice USACSC Holdings
 December 31,December 31,
 2021202020212020
Noncurrent
NOLs, capital loss, and tax credit carry forwards$171,707 $75,912 $134,260 $30,745 
Compensation and benefit plans63,870 57,198 63,870 57,198 
Restructuring liability2,208 7,169 2,208 7,169 
Other liabilities40,946 49,363 40,946 49,363 
Liabilities under derivative contracts475,970 510,519 475,970 510,519 
Interest deferred for tax purposes63,402 38,100 63,402 38,100 
Operating lease liability65,538 70,648 65,538 70,648 
Other— 199 — 199 
Deferred tax assets883,641 809,108 846,194 763,941 
Less: Valuation allowance(53,384)(39,811)(35,251)(22,457)
Net deferred tax assets, noncurrent830,257 769,297 810,943 741,484 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Fixed assets and intangibles(4,955,405)(4,979,333)(4,955,405)(4,979,333)
Operating lease asset(51,494)(56,363)(51,494)(56,363)
Investments(559,919)(587,184)(559,919)(587,184)
Partnership investments(143,908)(118,150)(143,908)(118,150)
Prepaid expenses(13,042)(12,755)(13,042)(12,755)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(11,985)(21,679)(11,985)(21,679)
Opportunity Zone tax deferral(142,631)— (142,631)— 
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent(5,878,384)(5,775,464)(5,878,384)(5,775,464)
Total net deferred tax liabilities$(5,048,127)$(5,006,167)$(5,067,441)$(5,033,980)

The tax impact on the Lightpath Transaction discussed in Note 1 of $228,489 is reflected in stockholders' equity (deficiency) of Altice USA as of December 31, 2020. Due to the taxable gain resulting from the Lightpath Transaction, the Company had estimated to fully utilize its federal NOLs, capital loss carryover, research and development tax credits, and general business credits in 2020. However, in May 2021, the Company committed to investing $600,000 of the capital gains generated in the Lightpath Transaction in Qualified Opportunity Zones over the next 5 years, which deferred the tax due on this portion of the gain to 2026, with an expected permanent reduction of ten percent of the deferred tax. As a result, a portion of the federal NOLs and tax credits were reestablished for 2021 and therein fully utilized.
As a result of the Company selling its 1% interest in Newsday LLC, as well as internal restructuring of i24NEWS in 2021, capital losses of $224,791 and $107,682, respectively, were recognized for tax purposes. The Company plans on carrying back the net capital loss against the taxable capital gain generated in the Lightpath Transaction in 2020. In addition, the Company received $48,645 in 2021 relating to a refund request for prior year AMT credits, including $12,161 claimed in 2020 due to the CARES Act acceleration of credits.
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, management takes into account various factors, including the expected level of future taxable income, available tax
planning strategies and reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. Pursuant to the Cablevision Acquisition and Cequel Acquisition, deferred tax liabilities resulting from the book fair value adjustment increased significantly and future taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences for which deferred tax liabilities are recognized is sufficient to conclude it is more likely than not that the Company will realize all of its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs and the foreign NOLs in i24NEWS.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained. Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions are recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
As of December 31, 2021, if all uncertain tax positions were sustained at the amounts reported or expected to be reported in the Company's tax returns, the elimination of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits, net of the deferred tax impact, would decrease income tax expense by $24,811.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and the City of New York. The State and City of New York are presently auditing income tax returns for tax years 2012 through 2017 and 2015 through 2017, respectively. The State of New Jersey is presently auditing income tax returns for tax years 2014 through 2017. Management does not believe that the resolution of these ongoing income tax examinations will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The following table presents share-based compensation expense recognized by the Company and unrecognized compensation cost:
Share-Based CompensationUnrecognized Compensation Cost
as of December 31, 2021
202120202019
Carry Unit Plan$804 $10,036 $54,614 $— 
Awards issued pursuant to LTIP:
Stock Options87,697 98,380 44,464 153,457 
Performance Stock Units8,675 14,395 — 44,650 
Restricted Share Units 1,120 2,276 6,460 106,877 
$98,296 $125,087 $105,538 $304,984 
Carry Unit Plan
Certain employees of the Company and its affiliates received awards of units in a carry unit plan of Neptune Management LP, an entity which has an ownership interest in Neptune LP. The awards generally vested as follows: 50% on the second anniversary of June 21, 2016 or December 21, 2015 ("Base Date"), 25% on the third anniversary of the Base Date, and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date. The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for carry units based on the fair value of the award at grant date.
Beginning on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date, the holders of carry units had an annual opportunity (a period of sixty days determined by the administrator of the plan) to sell their units back to Neptune Holding US GP LLC (or affiliate, including the Company, designated by Neptune Holding US GP LLC). Accordingly, the carry units are
presented as temporary equity on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. Adjustments to fair value at each reporting period are recorded in stockholders' equity (deficiency).
The following table summarizes activity relating to these carry units:
Number of Time
Vesting Awards		Number of Performance
Based Vesting Awards		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 201883,575,000 10,000,000 $1.14 
Vested(42,618,750)— 0.83 
Converted to restricted shares— (10,000,000)0.37 
Forfeited(3,437,500)— 0.84 
Balance, December 31, 201937,518,750 — 2.35 
Vested(30,431,250)— 2.20 
Forfeited(212,500)— 0.56 
Balance, December 31, 20206,875,000 — 3.41 
Vested(6,875,000)— 3.41 
Balance, December 31, 2021— — 
The weighted average fair value per unit was $3.89, and $3.25 as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Long Term Incentive Plan
In connection with Altice USA's IPO, the Company adopted the Altice USA 2017 Long Term Incentive Plan (the "2017 LTIP"). Under the 2017 LTIP, the Company may grant awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units, stock appreciation rights, performance stock, performance stock units and other awards. Under the 2017 LTIP, awards may be granted to officers, employees and consultants of the Company or any of its affiliates. The 2017 LTIP is administered by Altice USA's Board of Directors (the "Board"), subject to the provision of the stockholders' agreement. The Board has delegated its authority to the Company's Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee has the full power and authority to, among other things, select eligible participants, to grant awards in accordance with the 2017 LTIP, to determine the number of shares subject to each award or the cash amount payable in connection with an award and determine the terms and conditions of each award.
In November 2018, the Board and the Company's stockholders holding a majority of the voting power of its capital stock approved an amendment to the 2017 LTIP, which increased the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued for all purposes under the Plan to 19,879,291. In June 2020, stockholders of the Company approved an increase to the number of shares authorized for issuance under the LTIP by 35,000,000 shares to 54,879,291 and approved the extension of the term to June 10, 2030. The Board has the authority to amend, suspend, or terminate the 2017 LTIP. No amendment, suspension or termination will be effective without the approval of the Company's stockholders if such approval is required under applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Stock Option Awards
Options outstanding under the 2017 LTIP Plan either (i) cliff vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, (ii) vest over 3 years in annual increments of 33-1/3%, or (iii) vest over 4 years, where 50% vest on the second anniversary, 25% on the third anniversary and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. The option awards generally are subject to continued employment with the Company, and expire 10 years from the date of grant. Performance based option awards vest upon achievement of performance criteria.
The following table summarizes activity related to stock options granted to Company employees:
 Shares Under OptionWeighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)
 Time
Vesting		Performance
Based Vesting		Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance at December 31, 201811,230,168 73,639 $17.50 9.47$— 
Granted3,677,076 — 23.88 
Exercised(184,147)— 17.43 
Forfeited(639,356)(73,639)18.42 
Balance at December 31, 201914,083,741 — 19.12 8.74112,915 
Granted26,569,892 — 28.41 
Exercised(824,227)— 17.46 
Forfeited(2,767,260)— 23.05 
Balance at December 31, 202037,062,146 — 25.52 8.69457,608 
Granted (b)18,192,257 — 16.87 
Exercised(1,368,156)— 17.47 
Forfeited and Cancelled(2,887,431)— 28.02 
Balance at December 31, 202150,998,816 — 22.51 8.296,801 
Options exercisable at December 31, 202119,211,882 — 24.37 6.96— 
(a)The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price and the closing price of Altice USA's Class A common stock at the respective date.
(b)Options to purchase 12,711,975 shares are subject to shareholder approval in 2022 of an increase of shares authorized to be issued pursuant to the 2017 LTIP.
As of December 31, 2021, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.71 years.
The Company calculated the fair value of each option award on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The Company's computation of expected life was determined based on the simplified method (the average of the vesting period and option term) due to the Company's lack of recent historical data for similar awards. The interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option was based on interest yields for U.S. Treasury instruments in effect at the time of grant. The Company's computation of expected volatility was based on historical volatility of its common stock and the expected volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies who granted options that had similar expected lives.
The weighted-average fair values of stock option awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were $6.42, $7.82 and $7.93, respectively. The following weighted-average assumptions were used to calculate these fair values:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Risk-free interest rate1.36%1.43%2.05%
Expected life (in years)6.026.386.47
Dividend yield—%—%—%
Volatility35.80%28.53%28.22%
Performance Stock Units
In January 2020, certain employees of the Company were granted performance stock units ("PSUs"). Each PSU gives the employee the right to receive one share of Altice USA class A common stock, upon achievement of a specified
stock price hurdle. The PSUs will be forfeited if the applicable performance measure is not achieved prior to January 29, 2026 or if the employee does not continue to provide services to the Company through the achievement date of the applicable performance measure.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had 6,361,894 PSUs outstanding, net of 1,114,113 forfeited units in 2021. The PSUs have a weighted average grant date fair value of $10.65 per unit. As of December 31, 2021, the unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding PSUs is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 4.1 years.
The following assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of the PSUs granted during the year ended December 31, 2021:
Risk-free interest rate1.46%
Expected life (in years)
4 and 6
Dividend yield—%
Volatility34.22%
Restricted Share Units
In June 2019, the Company granted restricted share units to certain employees pursuant to the 2017 LTIP. The majority of these awards vest over 4 years, where 50% vest on the second anniversary, 25% on the third anniversary and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. The remaining awards vest monthly over a four year period. The grant date fair value of these awards aggregated $27,013.
In December 2021, the Company granted 6,621,639 restricted share units to certain employees pursuant to the 2017 LTIP with an aggregate fair value of $107,469 ($16.23 per share) which will be expensed over the vesting period. Most of these awards vest over three years in 33-1/3% annual increments.
Lightpath Plan Awards
In the third quarter of 2021, Lightpath Management Incentive Aggregator LLC ("LMIA") established a Management Incentive Plan (the "Lightpath Plan") for the benefit of employees of Lightpath by issuing equity interests in LMIA which holds an equivalent number of equity interests in Lightpath Holdings LLC (“Holdings”), the parent of Lightpath. These equity interests allow employees to participate in the long-term growth of Lightpath. The Lightpath Plan provides for an aggregate of 650,000 Class A-1 management incentive units and 350,000 Class A-2 management incentive units for issuance.
As of December 31, 2021, 433,225 Class A-1 management incentive units and 211,715 Class A-2 management incentive units ("Award Units") granted to certain employees of Lightpath were outstanding. Vested units will be redeemed upon a partial exit, a change in control or the completion of an initial public offering, as defined in the Holdings LLC agreement. The grant date fair value of the Award Units granted and outstanding aggregated $28,200 and will be expensed in the period in which a partial exit or a liquidity event is consummated.
v3.22.0.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]  
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Affiliate and Related Party Transactions
Altice USA is controlled by Patrick Drahi through Next Alt who also controls Altice Europe and other entities.
As the transactions discussed below were conducted between entities under common control by Mr. Drahi, amounts charged for certain services may not have represented amounts that might have been received or incurred if the transactions were based upon arm's length negotiations.
The following table summarizes the revenue and expenses related to services provided to or received from affiliates and related parties:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Revenue$13,238 $14,729 $3,974 
Operating expenses:
Programming and other direct costs$(17,167)$(13,346)$(11,580)
Other operating expenses, net(11,989)(11,869)(8,355)
Operating expenses, net(29,156)(25,215)(19,935)
Net charges$(15,918)$(10,486)$(15,961)
Capital Expenditures$54,163 $17,216 $12,167 
Revenue
The Company recognized revenue primarily from the sale of advertising to a subsidiary of Altice Europe and a foundation controlled by Patrick Drahi.
Programming and other direct costs
Programming and other direct costs include costs incurred by the Company for advertising services provided by Teads S.A., a subsidiary of Altice Europe.
Other operating expenses, net
Other operating expenses primarily include charges for services provided by certain subsidiaries of Altice Europe and other related parties.
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures primarily include costs for equipment purchased and software development services provided by subsidiaries of Altice Europe.
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to affiliates and related parties are summarized below:
December 31,
20212020
Due from:
Altice Europe$241 $— 
Other affiliates and related parties3,535 4,262 
$3,776 $4,262 
Due to:
Altice Europe$30,604 $7,938 
Other affiliates and related parties1,206 600 
$31,810 $8,538 

Amounts due from affiliates presented in the table above represent amounts paid by the Company on behalf of or for services provided to the respective related party. Amounts due to affiliates relate to the purchase of equipment and advertising services, as well as reimbursement for payments made on our behalf.
In June 2020, pursuant to the Company's share repurchase program, Altice USA purchased 3,582,525 shares of Altice USA Class A common stock held by Altice Europe for a total consideration of $84,906. See further information regarding the Company's share repurchase plan in Note 1.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, pursuant to our share repurchase plan, Altice USA purchased 14,948,869 shares of Altice USA Class A common stock for a total consideration of approximately $350,000 from Suddenvision S.à.r.l., an entity controlled by BC Partners LLP, a related party as of the transaction dates.
In addition, see Note 1 for a discussion of the acquisition of Neptune LP in 2019.
CSC Holdings
CSC Holdings made cash equity distribution payments to its parent aggregating $763,435, $4,794,408, and $2,279,472 during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. CSC Holdings recorded net non-cash equity contributions (distributions) of $(19,500) and $178,720 and $151,455 during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, which represent the non-cash settlement of intercompany balances with Altice USA. These balances primarily include amounts due to/due from Altice USA pursuant to a tax sharing agreement between the entities.
v3.22.0.1
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
Future cash payments and commitments required under arrangements pursuant to contracts entered into by the Company in the normal course of business as of December 31, 2021 are as follows:
 Payments Due by Period
 TotalYear 1Years 2-3Years 4-5More than
5 years
Off balance sheet arrangements:
Purchase obligations (a)$10,112,301 $3,858,365 $4,449,217 $1,794,791 $9,928 
Guarantees (b)60,362 60,362 — — — 
Letters of credit (c)139,465 360 1,990 360 136,755 
Total$10,312,128 $3,919,087 $4,451,207 $1,795,151 $146,683 
(a)Purchase obligations primarily include contractual commitments with various programming vendors to provide video services to customers and minimum purchase obligations to purchase goods or services, including contracts to acquire handsets and other equipment. Future fees payable under contracts with programming vendors are based on numerous factors, including the number of customers receiving the programming. Amounts reflected above related to programming agreements are based on the number of customers receiving the programming as of December 31, 2021 multiplied by the per customer rates or the stated annual fee, as applicable, contained in the executed agreements in effect as of December 31, 2021. 
(b)Includes franchise and performance surety bonds primarily for the Company's cable television systems. 
(c)Represent letters of credit guaranteeing performance to municipalities and public utilities and payment of insurance premiums. Payments due by period for these arrangements represent the year in which the commitment expires although payments under these arrangements are required only in the event of nonperformance.
The table above does not include obligations for payments required to be made under multi-year franchise agreements based on a percentage of revenues generated from video service per year.
Many of the Company's franchise agreements and utility pole leases require the Company to remove its cable wires and other equipment upon termination of the respective agreements. The Company has concluded that the fair value of these asset retirement obligations cannot be reasonably estimated since the range of potential settlement dates is not determinable.
The table above does not include obligations for rent related to utility poles used in our operations. The Company's pole rental agreements are for varying terms, and management anticipates renewals as they expire. Rent expense incurred for pole rental attachments for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was $37,545, $36,364, and $31,903, respectively.
Legal Matters
In the latter half of 2018, eight named plaintiffs, each on behalf of a putative class of stockholders who purchased Company common stock in Altice USA's IPO pursuant to the Registration Statement and Prospectus, filed complaints
(seven in New York State Supreme Court, one in United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York). The lawsuits name as defendants Altice USA, Altice Europe, and Altice USA's directors, among others, and assert that all defendants violated Sections 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and that the individual defendants violated Section 15 of the Securities Act as control persons. In a consolidated amended complaint filed in the lawsuit in the Eastern District of New York, plaintiff also asserts violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Act of 1934 ("34 Act"), Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, and Section 20 of the 34 Act against Altice USA, Altice Europe, and certain individual directors. The facts underlying each case are substantively similar, with plaintiffs alleging that the Registration Statement and Prospectus misrepresented or omitted material facts relating to the negative performance of Altice France and Altice Portugal, the disclosure of which in November 2017 negatively impacted the value of Altice USA’s stock. In June of 2019, plaintiffs in the New York State action filed a consolidated amended complaint, which the Company moved to dismiss in July of 2019. The Company moved to dismiss the complaint in the Eastern District of New York in October 2019. On June 26, 2020, the state Court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss. Plaintiffs in the New York State action filed a notice of appeal on July 21, 2020 and moved for leave to file an amended complaint on September 4, 2020. On September 23, 2020, the federal district court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss with leave for plaintiff to refile. On October 7, 2020, plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint in the Eastern District of New York. Following negotiations with the state and federal court plaintiffs, the parties executed a Memorandum of Understanding on February 12, 2021 to settle the litigation and executed final settlement documentation on July 20, 2021. That settlement remains subject to court approval.
On June 23, 2020, a purported stockholder of the Company filed a complaint in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, derivatively on behalf of the Company, against Patrick Drahi, Next Alt S.à.r.l., and those directors of the Company who are members of the Compensation Committee (collectively, the “Director Defendants”). The Company is also named as a nominal defendant in the complaint. The complaint alleges that the Director Defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company’s stockholders, and wasted corporate assets, by approving certain equity grants for Patrick Drahi. The complaint seeks rescission of the equity awards, monetary damages, and costs and disbursements for the plaintiff. On October 15, 2020, the Director Defendants answered the complaint and the Company filed a general denial of liability.
The Company intends to vigorously defend these lawsuits. Although the outcome of the matter cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these matters on the Company’s results of operations in any particular subsequent reporting period is not known at this time, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the operations or financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
On November 6, 2018, Sprint Communications Company L.P ("Sprint") filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware alleging that the Company infringes Sprint’s patents purportedly by providing Voice over Internet Protocol ("VoIP") services. The lawsuit is part of a pattern of litigation that was initiated as far back as 2005 by Sprint against numerous broadband and telecommunications providers, which has resulted in judgments and settlements of significant value for Sprint. The Company intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit. Although the outcome of the matter cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of this matter on the Company’s results of operations in any particular subsequent reporting period is not known at this time, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of the matter will have a material adverse effect on the operations or financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due, but it could be material to the Company’s consolidated results of operations or cash flows for any one period.
The Company receives notices from third parties and, in some cases, is named as a defendant in certain lawsuits claiming infringement of various patents or copyrights relating to various aspects of the Company's businesses. In certain of these cases other industry participants are also defendants. In certain of these cases the Company expects that any potential liability would be the responsibility of the Company's equipment vendors pursuant to applicable contractual indemnification provisions.
In the event that the Company is found to infringe on any patent or other intellectual property rights, the Company may be subject to substantial damages and/or an injunction that could require the Company or its vendors to modify certain products and services the Company offers to its subscribers, as well as enter into royalty or license agreements with respect to the patents at issue. The Company believes that the claims are without merit, but is unable to predict the outcome of these matters or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
In addition to the matters discussed above, the Company is party to various lawsuits, disputes and investigations, some of which may involve claims for substantial damages, fines or penalties. Although the outcome of these other matters cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these other matters on the Company's results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not believe that the resolution of these other lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Entity Information [Line Items]  
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition
Residential Services
The Company derives revenue through monthly charges to residential customers of its broadband, video, and telephony services, including installation services. In addition, the Company derives revenue from digital video recorder ("DVR"), video-on-demand ("VOD"), pay-per-view, and home shopping commissions which are reflected in
"Residential video" revenues. The Company recognizes broadband, video, and telephony revenues as the services are provided to a customer on a monthly basis. Each service is accounted for as a distinct performance obligation. Revenue from the sale of bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product based on the standalone selling price of each performance obligation within the bundled offer. The standalone selling price requires judgment and is typically determined based on the current prices at which the separate services are sold by the Company. Installation revenue for the Company's residential services is deferred and recognized over the benefit period, which is estimated to be less than one year. The estimated benefit period takes into account both quantitative and qualitative factors including the significance of average installation fees to total recurring revenue per customer.
The Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers. In instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customers are recorded as revenue. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $257,364, $257,405 and $254,227, respectively.
Business and Wholesale Revenue
The Company derives revenue from the sale of products and services to both large enterprise and small and medium-sized business ("SMB") customers, including broadband, telephony, networking, and video services reflected in "Business services and wholesale" revenues. The Company's business services also include Ethernet, data transport, and IP-based virtual private networks. The Company also provides managed services to businesses, including hosted telephony services (cloud based SIP-based private branch exchange), managed WiFi, managed desktop and server backup and managed collaboration services including audio and web conferencing. The Company also offers fiber-to-the-tower services to wireless carriers for cell tower backhaul, which enables wireline communications service providers to connect to customers that their own networks do not reach. The Company recognizes revenues for these services as the services are provided to a customer on a monthly basis.
Substantially all of our SMB customers are billed monthly and large enterprise customers are billed in accordance with the terms of their contracts which is typically also on a monthly basis. Contracts with large enterprise customers typically range from three years to five years. In certain instances, upon expiration of a contract and prior to its renewal, we continue to provide services on a month to month basis. Installation revenue related to our large enterprise customers is deferred and recognized over the average contract term. Installation revenue related to SMB customers is deferred and recognized over the benefit period, which is less than one year. The estimated benefit period for SMB customers takes into account both quantitative and qualitative factors including the significance of average installation fees to total recurring revenue per customer.
News and Advertising Revenue
As part of the agreements under which the Company acquires video programming, the Company typically receives an allocation of scheduled advertising time during such programming into which the Company's cable systems can insert commercials. In several of the markets in which the Company operates, it has entered into agreements commonly referred to as interconnects with other cable operators to jointly sell local advertising. In some of these markets, the Company represents the advertising sales efforts of other cable operators; in other markets, other cable operators represent the Company. The Company also offers customers the opportunity to advertise on digital platforms. Advertising revenues are recognized when the advertising is distributed. For arrangements in which the Company controls the sale of advertising and acts as the principal to the transaction, the Company recognizes revenue earned from the advertising customer on a gross basis and the amount remitted to the distributor as an operating expense. For arrangements in which the Company does not control the sale of advertising and acts as an agent to the transaction, the Company recognizes revenue net of any fee remitted to the distributor. Revenue earned from the data-driven, audience-based advertising solutions using advanced analytics tools is recognized when services are provided.
Affiliation fee revenue derived by our news business is recognized as the programming services are provided.
Mobile Revenue
In September 2019, the Company commercially launched a mobile service providing data, talk and text to consumers in or near our service areas. Customers can purchase or finance a variety of mobile devices. Revenue is recognized from the sale of equipment upon delivery and acceptance by the customer. Customers are billed monthly, in advance,
for access to and usage of our mobile services. The Company recognizes mobile service revenue as the services are provided to the customers.
Other Revenue
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Customer Contract Costs
Incremental costs incurred in obtaining a contract with a customer are deferred and recorded as an asset if the period of benefit is expected to be greater than one year. Sales commissions for enterprise customers are deferred and amortized over the average contract term. As the amortization period for sales commission expenses related to residential and SMB customers is less than one year, the Company is utilizing the practical expedient and is recognizing the costs when incurred. The costs of fulfilling a contract with a customer are deferred and recorded as an asset if they generate or enhance resources of the Company that will be used in satisfying future performance obligations and are expected to be recovered. Installation costs related to residential and SMB customers that are not capitalized as part of the initial deployment of new customer premise equipment are expensed as incurred pursuant to industry-specific guidance.
Deferred enterprise sales commission costs are included in other current and noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheet and totaled $17,669 and $19,959 as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived from residential and SMB customer contracts which are month-to month. As such, the amount of revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations is not necessarily indicative of the future revenue to be recognized from our existing customer base. Contracts with enterprise customers generally range from three years to five years, and services may only be terminated in accordance with the contractual terms.
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis. In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company utilizes historical transactions, quoted market prices (as available), or comparable transactions.
Technical and Operating Expenses and Programming Costs
Programming and Other Direct Costs
Costs of revenue related to delivery of services and goods are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's video service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to customers. This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of customers that receive the programming. If there are periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals. The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations. Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming. The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Advertising costs amounted to $274,639, $213,474 and $233,326 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Share-based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense which primarily relates to awards of stock options, restricted shares, performance stock units, and units in a carried unit plan is based on the fair value of share-based payment awards at the date of grant. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period or when it is probable any related performance condition will be met. For awards with graded vesting, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method under the graded vesting method over the requisite service period. Share-based compensation expense related to awards that vest entirely at the end of the vesting period are expensed on a straight-line basis.
See Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about our share-based compensation.
Income Taxes Income TaxesThe Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions. Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by S&P Global Ratings and Moody's Investors Service. The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable Accounts ReceivableAccounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount.
Investments Investment SecuritiesInvestment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are carried at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in the consolidated statements of operations.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible AssetsProperty, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations. Equipment under finance leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments. Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under finance lease obligations and leasehold improvements, amortized over the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
Internal Use Software The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software. Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Amortizable Intangible Assets Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
Asset Impairment The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized. Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses the recoverability of its goodwill annually, or more frequently whenever events or substantive changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of its reporting units may exceed their fair value. The Company first considers qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more-likely- than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after this qualitative assessment, the Company determines that it is not more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount then no further testing is performed. A quantitative assessment is performed if the qualitative assessment results in a more-likely-than-not determination or if a qualitative assessment is not performed. The quantitative assessment considers whether the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, in which case an impairment charge is recorded to the extent the reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test. This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs, which are presented as a reduction of debt, are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes. These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized
in the consolidated statements of operations as gain (loss) on derivative contracts or gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts.
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Foreign Currency Foreign CurrencyCertain of the Company's i24 News S.à.r.l ("i24NEWS") subsidiaries are located outside the United States. The functional currency for these subsidiaries is determined based on the primary economic environment in which the subsidiary operates. Revenues and expenses for these subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars using rates that approximate those in effect during the period while the assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the end of each period. The resulting gains and losses from these translations are recognized in cumulative translation adjustment included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’/member's equity (deficiency) on the consolidated balance sheets.
Common Stock and Membership Interests
Common Stock of Altice USA
Each holder of Class A common stock has one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock have twenty-five votes per share. Class B shares can be converted to Class A common stock at anytime with a conversion ratio of one Class A common share for one Class B common share.
The following table provides details of Altice USA's shares of common stock outstanding:
 Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 Class A
Common Stock		Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2018496,064,027 212,976,259 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock26,730,427 (26,730,427)
Issuance of common shares6,897,190 — 
Option exercises184,147 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(72,668,712)— 
Treasury shares acquired(10,457,772)— 
Balance at December 31, 2019446,749,307 186,245,832 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock349,929 (349,929)
Issuance of common shares40,000 — 
Option exercises822,732 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(161,216,653)— 
Treasury shares reissued3,828,357 — 
Balance at December 31, 2020290,573,672  185,895,903 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock1,562,561 (1,562,561)
Option exercises1,080,548 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(23,593,728)— 
Treasury shares reissued697,745 — 
Balance at December 31, 2021270,320,798 184,333,342 
CSC Holdings Membership Interests
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, CSC Holdings had 100 membership units issued and outstanding, which are all indirectly owned by Altice USA.
Dividends and Distributions
Dividends and Distributions
Altice USA
Altice USA may pay dividends on its capital stock only from net profits and surplus as determined under Delaware law. If dividends are paid on the Altice USA common stock, holders of the Altice USA Class A common stock and Altice USA Class B common stock are entitled to receive dividends, and other distributions in cash, stock or property, equally on a per share basis, except that stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class A common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class A common stock and stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class B common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class B common stock.
The Company's indentures restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
During 2021, 2020 and 2019, there were no dividends paid to shareholders by Altice USA.
CSC Holdings
CSC Holdings may make distributions on its membership interests only if sufficient funds exist as determined under Delaware law. See Note 16 for a discussion of equity distributions that CSC Holdings made to its parent.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables. The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution. The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments. Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.
The Company did not have a single customer that represented 10% or more of its consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 or 10% or more of its consolidated net trade receivables at December 31, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. See Note 13 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2020 and 2019 financial statements to conform to the 2021 presentation.
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table presents the composition of revenue:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Residential:
Broadband
$3,925,089 $3,689,159 $3,222,605 
Video
3,526,205 3,670,859 3,997,873 
Telephony
404,813 468,777 598,694 
Business services and wholesale
1,586,044 1,454,532 1,428,532 
News and advertising550,667 519,205 475,904 
Mobile84,194 78,127 21,264 
Other13,837 13,983 15,987 
Total revenue$10,090,849 $9,894,642 $9,760,859 
Schedule of Stock by Class
The following table provides details of Altice USA's shares of common stock outstanding:
 Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 Class A
Common Stock		Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2018496,064,027 212,976,259 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock26,730,427 (26,730,427)
Issuance of common shares6,897,190 — 
Option exercises184,147 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(72,668,712)— 
Treasury shares acquired(10,457,772)— 
Balance at December 31, 2019446,749,307 186,245,832 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock349,929 (349,929)
Issuance of common shares40,000 — 
Option exercises822,732 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(161,216,653)— 
Treasury shares reissued3,828,357 — 
Balance at December 31, 2020290,573,672  185,895,903 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock1,562,561 (1,562,561)
Option exercises1,080,548 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (see Note 1)(23,593,728)— 
Treasury shares reissued697,745 — 
Balance at December 31, 2021270,320,798 184,333,342 
v3.22.0.1
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]  
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
(in thousands)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding458,311 581,057 660,384 
Effect of dilution:
Stock options3,972 2,617 1,348 
Restricted stock11 15 809 
Restricted stock units1 — — 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding462,295 583,689 662,541 
Weighted average shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding:
Anti-dilutive shares15,856 25,768 4,245 
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved.
8,557  8,308 — 
v3.22.0.1
Earnings Per Share (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
(in thousands)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding458,311 581,057 660,384 
Effect of dilution:
Stock options3,972 2,617 1,348 
Restricted stock11 15 809 
Restricted stock units1 — — 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding462,295 583,689 662,541 
Weighted average shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding:
Anti-dilutive shares15,856 25,768 4,245 
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved.
8,557  8,308 — 
v3.22.0.1
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]  
Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 Balance at Beginning of PeriodProvision for Bad DebtDeductions/ Write-Offs and Other ChargesBalance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Allowance for doubtful accounts$25,198 $68,809 $(66,076)$27,931 
Year Ended December 31, 2020
Allowance for doubtful accounts$14,683 $65,965 $(55,450)$25,198 
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Allowance for doubtful accounts$13,520 $91,520 $(90,357)$14,683 
v3.22.0.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]  
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities and Other Supplemental Data
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Altice USA and CSC Holdings:
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid$335,680 $206,680 $188,067 
Notes payable issued to vendor for the purchase of equipment and other assets89,898106,925 35,124 
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations145,047133,300 54,532 
Other non-cash investing and financing transactions5003,973 1,563 
CSC Holdings:
Assumption of Cablevision debt, net of the acquisition of Cablevision assets— — 169,334 
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net(19,500)178,720 151,455 
Supplemental Data:
Altice USA:
Cash interest paid1,178,0881,406,825 1,436,332 
Income taxes paid, net263,58980,415 10,263 
CSC Holdings:
Cash interest paid1,178,0881,406,825 1,350,756 
Income taxes paid, net263,58980,415 10,263 
v3.22.0.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
Restructuring Cost Activity
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Contractual payments for terminated employees$6,227 $50,852 $49,321 
Facility realignment costs2,551 7,467 6,317 
Impairment of right-of-use operating lease assets6,701 30,429 12,160 
Transaction costs related to certain transactions not related to the Company's operations1,697 2,325 5,180 
Restructuring and other expense$17,176 $91,073 $72,978 
v3.22.0.1
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under finance leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
December 31,Estimated
Useful Lives
 20212020
Customer premise equipment$1,991,746 $1,845,830 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment2,325,852 2,158,704 
5 to 25 years
Infrastructure6,606,817 5,964,419 
5 to 25 years
Equipment and software1,364,560 1,237,057 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)291,611 174,610  
Furniture and fixtures74,481 65,724 
5 to 8 years
Transportation equipment145,531 150,974 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements506,363 481,693 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements127,565 110,037 Term of lease
Land48,793 48,791  
 13,483,319 12,237,839  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(7,142,852)(6,431,843) 
 $6,340,467 $5,805,996  
v3.22.0.1
LEASES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]  
Lessee, Topic 842, Other Lease Information Other information related to leases is presented below:
As of December 31,
20212020
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease obligations$26,008 $35,383 
Cash Paid For Amounts Included In Measurement of Liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases8,966 6,324 
Operating cash flows from operating leases61,443 64,391 
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term:
Operating leases8.4 years9.0 years
Finance leases2.2 years2.5 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate:
Operating leases5.51 %5.66 %
Finance leases4.63 %5.38 %
Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2022$116,564 $46,197 
202381,499 49,052 
202431,116 45,052 
2025321 35,796 
202616 32,557 
Thereafter— 142,099 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted229,516 350,753 
Less: Imputed interest(10,781)(74,982)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$218,735 $275,771 
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2022$116,564 $46,197 
202381,499 49,052 
202431,116 45,052 
2025321 35,796 
202616 32,557 
Thereafter— 142,099 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted229,516 350,753 
Less: Imputed interest(10,781)(74,982)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$218,735 $275,771 
Lease, Cost
The following provides details of the Company's lease expense:
Years Ended December 31,
20212020
Operating lease expense, net$56,951 $58,923 
Finance lease expense:
Amortization of assets56,945 30,123 
Interest on lease liabilities8,966 6,324 
Total finance lease expense65,911 36,447 
$122,862 $95,370 

Other information related to leases is presented below:
As of December 31,
20212020
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease obligations$26,008 $35,383 
Cash Paid For Amounts Included In Measurement of Liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases8,966 6,324 
Operating cash flows from operating leases61,443 64,391 
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term:
Operating leases8.4 years9.0 years
Finance leases2.2 years2.5 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate:
Operating leases5.51 %5.66 %
Finance leases4.63 %5.38 %
Lesee, Operating Lease And Finance Lease, Liability Balance sheet information related to our leases is presented below:
Balance Sheet locationDecember 31,
20212020
Operating leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsRight-of-use operating lease assets$222,124 $241,342 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentOther current liabilities38,545 38,296 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termRight-of-use operating lease liability237,226 257,424 
Finance leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsProperty, plant and equipment272,948 170,155 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentCurrent portion of long-term debt109,204 63,454 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termLong-term debt109,531 96,183 
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 

As of December 31, 2021As of December 31, 2020
Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountEstimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships$6,113,669 $(4,020,282)$2,093,387 $6,052,598 $(3,478,742)$2,573,856 
3 to 18 years
Trade names1,081,083(988,563)92,520 1,081,083(894,189)186,894 
2 to 10 years
Other amortizable intangibles58,398(42,304)16,094 56,747(36,381)20,366 
1 to 15 years
$7,253,150 $(5,051,149)$2,202,001 $7,190,428 $(4,409,312)$2,781,116 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
Year Ending December 31, 2022$553,905
Year Ending December 31, 2023388,309
Year Ending December 31, 2024308,978
Year Ending December 31, 2025262,244
Year Ending December 31, 2026218,057
Schedule of Goodwill The carrying amount of indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill is presented below:
Indefinite-lived Cable Television FranchisesGoodwill
Balance as of December 31, 2019$13,020,081 $8,142,309 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill recorded in connection with an acquisition (see discussion below)47,936 18,257 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$13,068,017 $8,160,566 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises and goodwill recorded in connection with an acquisition (see discussion below)148,338 45,297 
Balance as of December 31, 2021$13,216,355 $8,205,863 
v3.22.0.1
DEBT (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding debt:
Interest RateDecember 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Date IssuedMaturity DatePrincipal AmountCarrying Amount (a)Principal AmountCarrying Amount (a)
CSC Holdings Senior Notes:
November 15, 2011November 15, 20216.750%$— $— $1,000,000 $989,917 
September 27, 2012September 15, 20225.875%649,024 635,310 649,024 617,333 
May 23, 2014June 1, 20245.250%750,000 711,137 750,000 697,041 
October 18, 2018April 1, 20287.500%4,118 4,113 4,118 4,112 
November 27, 2018April 1, 20287.500%1,045,882 1,044,582 1,045,882 1,044,424 
July 10 and October 7, 2019January 15, 20305.750%2,250,000 2,282,875 2,250,000 2,286,097 
June 16 and August 17. 2020December 1, 20304.625%2,325,000 2,366,886 2,325,000 2,370,502 
May 13, 2021November 15, 20315.000%500,000 498,234 — — 
7,524,024 7,543,137 8,024,024 8,009,426 
CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes:
September 23, 2016April 15, 20275.500%1,310,000 1,306,508 1,310,000 1,305,955 
January 29, 2018February 1, 20285.375%1,000,000 994,262 1,000,000 993,490 
November 27, 2018May 15, 20265.500%— — 1,498,806 1,487,644 
January 24, 2019February 1, 20296.500%1,750,000 1,747,511 1,750,000 1,747,245 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.125%1,100,000 1,095,672 1,100,000 1,095,283 
August 17, 2020February 15, 20313.375%1,000,000 996,970 1,000,000 996,692 
May 13, 2021November 15, 20314.500%1,500,000 1,494,710 — — 
7,660,000 7,635,633 7,658,806 7,626,309 
CSC Holdings Restricted Group Credit Facility:
Revolving Credit FacilityJanuary 31, 2024 (c)2.360%(b)900,000 893,864 625,000 616,027 
Term Loan BJuly 17, 20252.360%2,865,000 2,856,421 2,895,000 2,884,065 
Incremental Term Loan B-3January 15, 20262.360%1,239,938 1,236,394 1,252,688 1,248,293 
Incremental Term Loan B-5April 15, 20272.610%2,947,500 2,929,813 2,977,500 2,956,807 
7,952,438 7,916,492 7,750,188 7,705,192 
Lightpath Senior Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20285.625% 415,000 407,104 415,000 406,176 
Lightpath Senior Secured Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20273.875% 450,000 441,739 450,000 440,487 
Lightpath Term LoanNovember 30, 20273.750%594,000 579,119 600,000 582,808 
Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility(e)— — — — 
1,459,000 1,427,962 1,465,000 1,429,471 
Collateralized indebtedness (see Note 12)1,759,017 1,706,997 1,699,566 1,617,506 
Finance lease obligations (see Note 9)218,735 218,735 159,637 159,637 
Notes payable and supply chain financing (d)97,804 97,804 183,690 174,801 
26,671,018 26,546,760 26,940,911 26,722,342 
Less: current portion of credit facility debt(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)
Less: current portion of senior notes(649,024)(635,310)(1,000,000)(989,917)
Less: current portion of finance lease obligations(109,204)(109,204)(63,454)(63,454)
Less: current portion of notes payable and supply chain financing(94,049)(94,049)(113,592)(113,592)
(931,027)(917,313)(1,255,796)(1,245,713)
Long-term debt$25,739,991 $25,629,447 $25,685,115 $25,476,629 
(a)The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums and with respect to certain notes, a fair value adjustment resulting from the Cequel and Cablevision acquisitions.
(b)At December 31, 2021, $139,465 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,435,535 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)The revolving credit facility of an aggregate principal amount of $2,475,000 is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25%. In March 2021, a lender under the revolving credit facility extended the maturity date and reduced the interest rate on its aggregate principal amount of $200,000 which had an original maturity date of November 2021 and was priced at LIBOR plus 3.25%.
(d)Includes $89,898 related to supply chain financing agreements that is required to be repaid within one year from the date of the respective agreement. The decrease in the principal amount at December 31, 2021 includes a $59,451 reclassification to collateralized indebtedness in connection with the maturity of a monetization contract related to the synthetic monetization closeout transaction in November 2019. See Note 12.
(e)There were no borrowings outstanding under the Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility which provides for commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $100,000. See discussion below.
Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt
The following table provides a summary of the loss on extinguishment of debt and the write-off of deferred financing costs recorded by the Company upon the redemption of senior notes and the refinancing of credit facilities:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
 CSC Holdings 5.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2026$51,712 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020:
CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2023$26,721 
CSC Holdings 7.75% Senior Notes due 202535,375 
CSC Holdings 10.875% Senior Notes due 2025136,249 
CSC Holdings 6.625% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 202552,144 
$250,489 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019:
CSC Holdings 5.125% Senior Notes due 2021$65,151 
CSC Holdings 10.125% Senior Notes due 2023154,666 
Refinancing and subsequent amendment to CSC Holdings credit facility8,313 
Subtotal - CSC Holdings228,130 
Cablevision 5.125% Senior Notes due 2021500 
Cablevision 8.000% Senior Notes due 202015,176 
$243,806 
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2021, including collateralized indebtedness (see Note 12) and notes payable and supply chain financing, but excluding finance lease obligations (see Note 9), are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
2022$821,823 
20231,841,383 
20241,728,889 
20252,823,750 
20261,224,938 
Thereafter18,011,500 
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging InstrumentsBalance Sheet LocationFair Value at December 31,
20212020
Asset Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Prepaid expenses and other current assets$2,993 $5,132 
Prepaid forward contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contracts
Other assets, long-term— 4,774 
$2,993 $55,559 
Liability Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Other current liabilities(3,441)— 
Prepaid forward contractsOther current liabilities— (45,653)
Prepaid forward contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(161,942)(247,853)
Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(114,991)(275,297)
 $(280,374)$(568,803)
Location of Assets and Liabilities Associated With Derivative Instruments Within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
The following table presents certain consolidated statement of operations data related to our derivative contracts and the Comcast common stock:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock$85,911 $(178,264)$(282,713)
Change in fair value of Comcast common stock included in gain (loss) on investments(88,917)319,157 469,071 
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in 2020 in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below92,735 (78,606)(53,902)
Schedule of Interest Rate Swap Contracts
The following is a summary of interest rate swap contracts outstanding at December 31, 2021:
 Contract/Amended Contract DateMaturity DateNotional AmountCompany PaysCompany Receives
December 2018January 2022$500,000 
Fixed rate of 2.733%
Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2022500,000 Three-month LIBOR
Fixed rate of 2.733%
March 2020January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.53%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.625%
Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2025500,000 
Fixed rate of 1.458%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 
Fixed rate of 2.9155%
Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 
Fixed rate of 2.9025%
Three-month LIBOR
v3.22.0.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following table presents the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and their classification under the fair value hierarchy:
Fair Value
Hierarchy		December 31,
20212020
Assets:
Money market funds
Level I$100,015 $50,236 
Investment securities pledged as collateralLevel I2,161,937 2,250,854 
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II2,993 9,906 
Liabilities:
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II161,942 293,506 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II118,432 275,297 
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized below:
December 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Fair Value
Hierarchy		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value
Credit facility debt
Level II$8,495,611 $8,546,438 $8,288,000 $8,350,188 
Collateralized indebtedness
Level II1,706,997 1,741,710 1,617,506 1,692,724 
Senior guaranteed and senior secured notesLevel II8,077,372 8,180,813 8,066,796 8,567,858 
Senior notes
Level II7,950,241 7,883,071 8,415,602 9,024,990 
Notes payable and supply chain financing
Level II97,804 97,588 174,801 175,251 
$26,328,025 $26,449,620 $26,562,705 $27,811,011 
(a)Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 consist of the following components:
Altice USACSC Holdings
Years Ended December 31,Years Ended December 31,
 202120202019202120202019
Current expense (benefit):
Federal$168,397 $— $— $179,032 $(55,044)$240,229 
State56,211 65,804 33,103 56,211 82,238 70,567 
Foreign(3)— — (3)— — 
 224,605 65,804 33,103 235,240 27,194 310,796 
Deferred expense (benefit):
Federal70,989 113,871 43,105 70,989 156,338 (176,591)
State(30,108)(38,359)(28,174)(38,608)(55,121)(62,118)
Foreign(180)— — (180)— — 
 40,701 75,512 14,931 32,201 101,217 (238,709)
265,306 141,316 48,034 267,441 128,411 72,087 
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions29,669 (1,568)(844)29,669 (1,568)(844)
Income tax expense$294,975 $139,748 $47,190 $297,110 $126,843 $71,243 
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation
The income tax expense (benefit) attributable to Altice USA's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
Altice USACSC Holdings
Years Ended December 31,Years Ended December 31,
202120202019202120202019
Federal tax expense at statutory rate$274,240 $122,478 $39,297 $274,240 $122,363 $59,653 
State income taxes, net of federal impact21,492 59,383 (6,256)13,973 58,802 (9,060)
Changes in the valuation allowance13,573 10,333 4,079 12,793 10,598 4,307 
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(6,924)(46,768)(1,046)(7,125)(46,768)6,532 
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions29,669 (1,568)(847)29,669 (1,568)(847)
Tax credits(7,589)(17,205)— (7,589)(17,205)— 
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
169 2,108 15,642 169 2,108 15,642 
Non-deductible officers compensation7,201 6,715 — 7,201 6,715 — 
Other permanent differences(35,256)— — (35,256)— — 
Other non-deductible expenses (benefits)1,483 (883)1,334 1,483 (886)1,334 
Other, net(3,083)5,155 (5,013)7,552 (7,316)(6,318)
Income tax expense$294,975 $139,748 $47,190 $297,110 $126,843 $71,243 
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows:
Altice USACSC Holdings
 December 31,December 31,
 2021202020212020
Noncurrent
NOLs, capital loss, and tax credit carry forwards$171,707 $75,912 $134,260 $30,745 
Compensation and benefit plans63,870 57,198 63,870 57,198 
Restructuring liability2,208 7,169 2,208 7,169 
Other liabilities40,946 49,363 40,946 49,363 
Liabilities under derivative contracts475,970 510,519 475,970 510,519 
Interest deferred for tax purposes63,402 38,100 63,402 38,100 
Operating lease liability65,538 70,648 65,538 70,648 
Other— 199 — 199 
Deferred tax assets883,641 809,108 846,194 763,941 
Less: Valuation allowance(53,384)(39,811)(35,251)(22,457)
Net deferred tax assets, noncurrent830,257 769,297 810,943 741,484 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Fixed assets and intangibles(4,955,405)(4,979,333)(4,955,405)(4,979,333)
Operating lease asset(51,494)(56,363)(51,494)(56,363)
Investments(559,919)(587,184)(559,919)(587,184)
Partnership investments(143,908)(118,150)(143,908)(118,150)
Prepaid expenses(13,042)(12,755)(13,042)(12,755)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(11,985)(21,679)(11,985)(21,679)
Opportunity Zone tax deferral(142,631)— (142,631)— 
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent(5,878,384)(5,775,464)(5,878,384)(5,775,464)
Total net deferred tax liabilities$(5,048,127)$(5,006,167)$(5,067,441)$(5,033,980)
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]    
Activity for Shares
Number of Time
Vesting Awards		Number of Performance
Based Vesting Awards		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 201883,575,000 10,000,000 $1.14 
Vested(42,618,750)— 0.83 
Converted to restricted shares— (10,000,000)0.37 
Forfeited(3,437,500)— 0.84 
Balance, December 31, 201937,518,750 — 2.35 
Vested(30,431,250)— 2.20 
Forfeited(212,500)— 0.56 
Balance, December 31, 20206,875,000 — 3.41 
Vested(6,875,000)— 3.41 
Balance, December 31, 2021— — 
  
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity
The following table summarizes activity related to stock options granted to Company employees:
 Shares Under OptionWeighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)
 Time
Vesting		Performance
Based Vesting		Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance at December 31, 201811,230,168 73,639 $17.50 9.47$— 
Granted3,677,076 — 23.88 
Exercised(184,147)— 17.43 
Forfeited(639,356)(73,639)18.42 
Balance at December 31, 201914,083,741 — 19.12 8.74112,915 
Granted26,569,892 — 28.41 
Exercised(824,227)— 17.46 
Forfeited(2,767,260)— 23.05 
Balance at December 31, 202037,062,146 — 25.52 8.69457,608 
Granted (b)18,192,257 — 16.87 
Exercised(1,368,156)— 17.47 
Forfeited and Cancelled(2,887,431)— 28.02 
Balance at December 31, 202150,998,816 — 22.51 8.296,801 
Options exercisable at December 31, 202119,211,882 — 24.37 6.96— 
(a)The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price and the closing price of Altice USA's Class A common stock at the respective date.
(b)Options to purchase 12,711,975 shares are subject to shareholder approval in 2022 of an increase of shares authorized to be issued pursuant to the 2017 LTIP.
  
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions  
The weighted-average fair values of stock option awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were $6.42, $7.82 and $7.93, respectively. The following weighted-average assumptions were used to calculate these fair values:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Risk-free interest rate1.36%1.43%2.05%
Expected life (in years)6.026.386.47
Dividend yield—%—%—%
Volatility35.80%28.53%28.22%
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award
The following table presents share-based compensation expense recognized by the Company and unrecognized compensation cost:
Share-Based CompensationUnrecognized Compensation Cost
as of December 31, 2021
202120202019
Carry Unit Plan$804 $10,036 $54,614 $— 
Awards issued pursuant to LTIP:
Stock Options87,697 98,380 44,464 153,457 
Performance Stock Units8,675 14,395 — 44,650 
Restricted Share Units 1,120 2,276 6,460 106,877 
$98,296 $125,087 $105,538 $304,984 
  
v3.22.0.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]  
Summary of related party transactions
The following table summarizes the revenue and expenses related to services provided to or received from affiliates and related parties:
Years Ended December 31,
202120202019
Revenue$13,238 $14,729 $3,974 
Operating expenses:
Programming and other direct costs$(17,167)$(13,346)$(11,580)
Other operating expenses, net(11,989)(11,869)(8,355)
Operating expenses, net(29,156)(25,215)(19,935)
Net charges$(15,918)$(10,486)$(15,961)
Capital Expenditures$54,163 $17,216 $12,167 
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to affiliates and related parties are summarized below:
December 31,
20212020
Due from:
Altice Europe$241 $— 
Other affiliates and related parties3,535 4,262 
$3,776 $4,262 
Due to:
Altice Europe$30,604 $7,938 
Other affiliates and related parties1,206 600 
$31,810 $8,538 
v3.22.0.1
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule
Future cash payments and commitments required under arrangements pursuant to contracts entered into by the Company in the normal course of business as of December 31, 2021 are as follows:
 Payments Due by Period
 TotalYear 1Years 2-3Years 4-5More than
5 years
Off balance sheet arrangements:
Purchase obligations (a)$10,112,301 $3,858,365 $4,449,217 $1,794,791 $9,928 
Guarantees (b)60,362 60,362 — — — 
Letters of credit (c)139,465 360 1,990 360 136,755 
Total$10,312,128 $3,919,087 $4,451,207 $1,795,151 $146,683 
(a)Purchase obligations primarily include contractual commitments with various programming vendors to provide video services to customers and minimum purchase obligations to purchase goods or services, including contracts to acquire handsets and other equipment. Future fees payable under contracts with programming vendors are based on numerous factors, including the number of customers receiving the programming. Amounts reflected above related to programming agreements are based on the number of customers receiving the programming as of December 31, 2021 multiplied by the per customer rates or the stated annual fee, as applicable, contained in the executed agreements in effect as of December 31, 2021. 
(b)Includes franchise and performance surety bonds primarily for the Company's cable television systems. 
(c)Represent letters of credit guaranteeing performance to municipalities and public utilities and payment of insurance premiums. Payments due by period for these arrangements represent the year in which the commitment expires although payments under these arrangements are required only in the event of nonperformance.
v3.22.0.1
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS (Details)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
shares
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
segment
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 21, 2020
USD ($)
shares
Nov. 23, 2020
USD ($)
Nov. 20, 2020
USD ($)
Jul. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2018
shares
Jun. 08, 2018
USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Number of segments | segment   1                
Implied enterprise value of subsidiary     $ 3,200,000,000              
Proceeds from Sale of Interest in Partnership Unit     2,355,000,000              
Gross Cash Proceeds from Sale of Interest in Partnership Unit     890,000,000              
Cash from debt incurred in connection with the Sale of Interest in Partnership Unit     1,465,000,000              
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary     650,270,000              
Tax effect on net proceeds received over the book value of the interest sold in Partnership Unit   $ 228,489,000 $ 228,489,000              
Share repurchase authorized             $ 2,000,000,000     $ 2,000,000,000
Maximum Amount Offered on Commencement of Tender Offer           $ 2,500,000,000        
Maximum price for Tender Offer           36.00        
Minimum price for Tender Offer           $ 32.25        
Shares purchased in connection with Tender Offer | shares         64,613,479          
Accepted price paid for tendered shares         $ 36.00          
Cost of shares paid in connection with Tender Offer         $ 2,326,949,000          
Shares repurchased (in shares) | shares   23,593,728 161,216,653 72,668,712            
Value of shares repurchased   $ 804,928,000 $ 4,816,895,000 $ 1,686,873,000            
Availability remaining under its stock repurchase program   1,191,302,000                
Principal Amount   $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000              
Cash dividends declared per common share | $ / shares   $ 0 $ 0 $ 0            
Goodwill $ 8,142,309,000 $ 8,205,863,000 $ 8,160,566,000 $ 8,142,309,000            
Total shares authorized for repurchase                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Share repurchase authorized   $ 9,000,000                
Cablevision Lightpath LLC [Member] | Cablevision Lightpath LLC [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners     49.99%              
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interest     50.01%              
Common Class A                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | shares 446,749,307 270,320,798 290,573,672 446,749,307         496,064,027  
Common Class B                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Shares repurchased (in shares) | shares   0 0 0            
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | shares 186,245,832 184,333,342 185,895,903 186,245,832         212,976,259  
Common stock conversion ratio   1                
Neptune Holdings LP Acquisition [Member] | Common Class A                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares 6,290,292                  
2019 Share Repurchase Authorization [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Share repurchase authorized               $ 5,000,000,000    
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025 | Senior Notes                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Principal Amount     $ 1,684,221,000              
Stated interest rate   10.875%                
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023 | Senior Notes                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Stated interest rate   10.125%                
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025 | Secured Debt [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Principal Amount     1,000,000,000              
Stated interest rate   6.625%                
CSC Holdings                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net     (3,000)              
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary     (650,444,000)              
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities   $ 24,961,000 40,972,000 $ 25,083,000            
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Non-cash Distributions Paid   19,500,000                
Goodwill   8,205,863,000 8,160,566,000              
Retained Earnings [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Value of shares repurchased   (804,692,000) (1,812,590,000)              
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary     741,471,000              
Stock Issued During Period Relating to Acquisition       163,862,000            
Value of shares repurchased   0 3,002,693,000 1,686,146,000            
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] | CSC Holdings                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Gain on sale of minority interest in subsidiary     $ (741,645,000)              
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Non-cash Distributions Paid   $ 19,500,000                
Treasury Stock [Member]                    
Business Acquisition [Line Items]                    
Stock Issued During Period Relating to Acquisition       $ 163,862,000            
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Narrative (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
vote
shares
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
shares
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Advertising costs $ 274,639 $ 213,474 $ 233,326
Antidilutive securities | shares 15,856,000 25,768,000 4,245,000
Concentration Risk, Customer 10    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2021    
concentration of customer to trade receivables 10.00%    
CSC Holdings      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Membership units outstanding | shares 100    
Distributions to parent $ 763,435 $ 4,794,408 $ 2,279,472
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Non-cash Distributions Paid $ 19,500    
Common Class A      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Common stock number of votes per share | vote 1    
Common Class B      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Common stock number of votes per share | vote 25    
Common stock conversion ratio 1    
Minimum | Customer Contracts      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 3 years    
Maximum | Customer Contracts      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 5 years    
Franchise      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Franchise fees and other taxes and fees $ 257,364 $ 257,405 $ 254,227
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Contract Asset and Liability (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Contract assets $ 17,669 $ 19,959
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Broadband [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,925,089 3,689,159 3,222,605
Pay TV [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,526,205 3,670,859 3,997,873
Telephony [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 404,813 468,777 598,694
Business Services and Wholesale [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 1,586,044 1,454,532 1,428,532
Advertising and News [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 550,667 519,205 475,904
Mobile [Member]      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues 84,194 78,127 21,264
Other      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 13,837 $ 13,983 $ 15,987
v3.22.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Schedule of Stock by Class (Details) - shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]      
Retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (in shares) (23,593,728) (161,216,653) (72,668,712)
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired (20,887) (6,629,415) (10,457,772)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued 697,745 3,828,357  
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 3,972,000 2,617,000 1,348,000
Common Class A      
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 290,573,672 446,749,307 496,064,027
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock (in shares) 1,562,561 349,929 26,730,427
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues   40,000 6,897,190
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period 1,080,548 822,732 184,147
Ending balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 270,320,798 290,573,672 446,749,307
Common Class B      
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 185,895,903 186,245,832 212,976,259
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock (in shares) (1,562,561) (349,929) (26,730,427)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues   0 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period 0 0 0
Retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's stock repurchase plan (in shares) 0 0 0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued 0 0  
Ending balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 184,333,342 185,895,903 186,245,832
v3.22.0.1
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]        
Cash and cash equivalents $ 195,711 $ 278,422    
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net 6,340,467 5,805,996    
Goodwill 8,205,863 8,160,566 $ 8,142,309  
Total assets 33,215,034 33,376,660    
Total current liabilities 2,735,119 3,098,103    
Deferred tax liability 5,048,129 5,006,167    
Liabilities 34,085,936 34,554,036    
Redeemable equity 0 25,763    
Paid-in capital 18,005 0    
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) (848,836) (985,641)    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest (870,902) (1,203,139) $ 2,279,262 $ 3,680,236
Liabilities and Equity $ 33,215,034 $ 33,376,660    
v3.22.0.1
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Income Statement (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Cost of Goods and Services Sold 3,382,129 3,340,442 3,300,528
Other Cost and Expense, Operating 2,379,765 2,264,473 2,300,398
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Total other income (expense) (1,218,720) (1,532,062) (1,636,682)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total 1,305,907 583,227 187,129
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (294,975) (139,748) (47,190)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,010,932 443,479 139,939
CSC Holdings      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues 10,090,849 9,894,642 9,760,859
Cost of Goods and Services Sold 3,382,129 3,340,442 3,300,528
Other Cost and Expense, Operating 2,379,765 2,264,473 2,300,398
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Total other income (expense) (1,218,720) (1,532,608) (1,539,751)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total 1,305,907 582,681 284,060
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (297,110) (126,843) (71,243)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,008,797 455,838 212,817
Pay TV [Member]      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,526,205 3,670,859 3,997,873
Broadband [Member]      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,925,089 3,689,159 3,222,605
Telephony [Member]      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues 404,813 468,777 598,694
Business Services and Wholesale [Member]      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues 1,586,044 1,454,532 1,428,532
Advertising and News [Member]      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 550,667 $ 519,205 $ 475,904
v3.22.0.1
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES- Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]    
Contract assets $ 17,669 $ 19,959
v3.22.0.1
ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Accounting Standards Adopted in 2020
ASU No. 2020-04, Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting ("ASU 2020-04")
In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new accounting guidance related to the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The guidance, effective for reporting periods through
December 31, 2022, provides accounting relief for contract modifications that replace an interest rate impacted by reference rate reform (e.g., LIBOR) with a new alternative reference rate. The Company adopted the guidance as of March 31, 2020. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12")
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740). ASU 2019-12 simplifies the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim calculations. The new guidance also simplifies aspects of the accounting for franchise taxes, enacted changes in tax laws or rates, and clarifies the accounting for transactions that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill. The amendments did not create new accounting requirements. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2018-15, Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract ("ASU 2018-15")
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15 which requires upfront implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (or hosting arrangement) that is a service contract to be amortized to hosting expense over the term of the arrangement, beginning when the module or component of the hosting arrangement is ready for its intended use. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) ("ASU 2017-04")
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04 which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two-step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13")
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 which requires a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost to be assessed for impairment under the current expected credit loss model rather than an incurred loss model. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU 2016-13 became effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 and the adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Accounting Standards Adopted in 2022
ASU No. 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers
In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers, which will require companies to apply the definition of a performance obligation under ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities relating to contracts with customers that are acquired in a business combination. Under current GAAP, an acquirer generally recognizes assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination, including contract assets and contract liabilities arising from revenue contracts with customers, at fair value on the acquisition date. ASU No. 2021-08 will result in the acquirer recording acquired contract assets and liabilities on the same basis that would have been recorded before the acquisition under ASC Topic 606. ASU No. 2021-08 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2023, however the Company elected to early adopt this ASU on January 1, 2022. The guidance will be applied to any future business combinations.
ASU No. 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832)
In November 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832), which requires business entities to disclose information about transactions with a government that are accounted for by applying a grant or contribution model by analogy (for example, IFRS guidance in IAS 20 or guidance on contributions for not-for-profit
entities in ASC 958-605). For transactions in the scope of the new standard, business entities will need to provide information about the nature of the transaction, including significant terms and conditions, as well as the amounts and specific financial statement line items affected by the transaction. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2022 and the Company will provide required disclosures for any future material transactions.
v3.22.0.1
Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares
shares in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) 458,311 581,057 660,384
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 3,972 2,617 1,348
Antidilutive securities 15,856 25,768 4,245
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been met and are not included in diluted weighted average shares outstanding 8,557 8,308 0
Restricted Stock Award [Member]      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 11 15 809
Restricted Stock Units      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 1    
v3.22.0.1
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Balance at Beginning of Period $ 25,198 $ 14,683 $ 13,520
Provision for Bad Debt 68,809 65,965 91,520
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges (66,076) (55,450) (90,357)
Balance at End of Period $ 27,931 $ 25,198 $ 14,683
v3.22.0.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid $ 335,680 $ 206,680 $ 188,067
Notes payable issued to vendor for the purchase of equipment and other assets 89,898 106,925 35,124
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations 145,047 133,300 54,532
Other non-cash investing and financing transactions 500 3,973 1,563
Assumption of Cablevision debt, net of the acquisition of Cablevision assets 0 0 169,334
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net (19,500) 178,720 151,455
Supplemental Data:      
Cash interest paid   1,406,825 1,436,332
Income taxes paid, net   80,415 10,263
CSC Holdings      
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net   178,720 151,455
Supplemental Data:      
Cash interest paid 1,178,088 1,406,825 1,350,756
Income taxes paid, net $ 263,589 80,415 10,263
CSC Holdings | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]      
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Contributions from (distributions to) parent, net   $ 178,720 $ 151,455
v3.22.0.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]      
Restructuring expense relating to right of use operating leases $ 6,701 $ 30,429 $ 12,160
Transaction costs 1,697 2,325 5,180
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
CSC Holdings      
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]      
Restructuring and other expense 17,176 91,073 72,978
Employee Severance [Member]      
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]      
Restructuring Charges 6,227 50,852 49,321
Facility Realignment and Other Costs [Member]      
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]      
Restructuring Charges $ 2,551 $ 7,467 $ 6,317
v3.22.0.1
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross $ 13,483,319 $ 12,237,839  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (7,142,852) (6,431,843)  
Property, plant and equipment, net 6,340,467 5,805,996  
Depreciation 1,145,316 1,344,732 $ 1,475,251
Customer premise equipment      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 1,991,746 $ 1,845,830  
Customer premise equipment | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   3 years  
Customer premise equipment | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   5 years  
Headends and related equipment      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross $ 2,325,852 $ 2,158,704  
Headends and related equipment | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life 5 years 5 years  
Headends and related equipment | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life 25 years 25 years  
Infrastructure      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross $ 6,606,817 $ 5,964,419  
Infrastructure | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   5 years  
Infrastructure | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   25 years  
Equipment and software      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 1,364,560 $ 1,237,057  
Equipment and software | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   3 years  
Equipment and software | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   10 years  
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 291,611 $ 174,610  
Furniture and fixtures      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 74,481 $ 65,724  
Furniture and fixtures | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   5 years  
Furniture and fixtures | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   8 years  
Transportation equipment      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 145,531 $ 150,974  
Transportation equipment | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   5 years  
Transportation equipment | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   10 years  
Buildings and building improvements      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 506,363 $ 481,693  
Buildings and building improvements | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   10 years  
Buildings and building improvements | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   40 years  
Leasehold improvements      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 127,565 $ 110,037  
Land      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, gross 48,793 48,791  
Acquisition and development of internal use software      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment capitalized $ 145,837 $ 134,857 $ 132,966
Plant | Minimum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life 10 years    
Plant | Maximum      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment, useful life 25 years    
v3.22.0.1
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]    
Property, plant and equipment, gross $ 13,483,319 $ 12,237,839
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property, plant and equipment, gross 13,483,319 12,237,839
CSC Holdings    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]    
Property, plant and equipment, gross 13,483,319 12,237,839
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property, plant and equipment, gross $ 13,483,319 $ 12,237,839
v3.22.0.1
LEASES - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 01, 2019
Right-of-use operating lease assets $ 222,124 $ 241,342  
Operating Lease, Liability 275,771    
Operating Lease, Liability, Current 38,545 38,296  
Right-of-use operating lease liability 237,226 257,424  
Finance Lease, Liability, Current $ 109,204 $ 63,454  
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List] Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Liabilities, Noncurrent  
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent $ 109,531 $ 96,183  
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Expense 56,951 58,923  
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization 56,945 30,123  
Finance Lease, Interest Expense 8,966 6,324  
Finance Lease, Cost 65,911 36,447  
Finance And Operating Lease, Lessee Expense 122,862 95,370  
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability 26,008 35,383  
Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability 8,966 6,324  
Operating Lease, Payments $ 61,443 $ 64,391  
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term 8 years 4 months 24 days 9 years  
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term 2 years 2 months 12 days 2 years 6 months  
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent 5.51% 5.66%  
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent 4.63% 5.38%  
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates)  
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset $ 272,948 $ 170,155  
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02      
Right-of-use operating lease assets     $ 274,292
Operating Lease, Liability     $ 299,900
v3.22.0.1
LEASES - Future Minimum Lease Payments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months $ 116,564  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 81,499  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 31,116  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 321  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five 16  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five 0  
Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due, Total 229,516  
Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount (10,781)  
Finance Lease, Liability 218,735 $ 159,637
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 46,197  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 49,052  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 45,052  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 35,796  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five 32,557  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five 142,099  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due, Total 350,753  
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount (74,982)  
Operating Lease, Liability $ 275,771  
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount $ 7,253,150 $ 7,190,428
Accumulated Amortization (5,051,149) (4,409,312)
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
CSC Holdings    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Accumulated Amortization 5,051,149 4,409,312
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,202,001 2,781,116
Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 6,113,669  
Customer Relationships [Member] | CSC Holdings    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 6,113,669 6,052,598
Accumulated Amortization (4,020,282) (3,478,742)
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 2,093,387 2,573,856
Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 1,081,083  
Trade names | CSC Holdings    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 1,081,083 1,081,083
Accumulated Amortization (988,563) (894,189)
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 92,520 186,894
Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 58,398  
Other amortizable intangibles | CSC Holdings    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 58,398 56,747
Accumulated Amortization (42,304) (36,381)
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $5,051,149 and $4,409,312 $ 16,094 $ 20,366
Minimum | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 3 years  
Minimum | Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 2 years  
Minimum | Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 1 year  
Maximum | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 18 years  
Maximum | Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 10 years  
Maximum | Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 15 years  
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]      
Amortization of intangible assets $ 641,836 $ 738,633 $ 787,893
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired $ (340,444) $ (149,973) $ (172,269)
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
2022 $ 553,905
2023 388,309
2024 308,978
2025 262,244
2026 $ 218,057
v3.22.0.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2021
Apr. 30, 2021
Jul. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jul. 14, 2020
Goodwill [Roll Forward]              
Goodwill, beginning balance       $ 8,160,566 $ 8,142,309    
Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to acquisitions     $ 18,257 45,297 18,257    
Goodwill, ending balance       8,205,863 8,160,566 $ 8,142,309  
Cable television franchises       13,216,355 13,068,017 13,020,081  
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired     47,936 148,338 47,936    
Goodwill       8,205,863 8,160,566 8,142,309  
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired     47,936 148,338 47,936    
Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to acquisitions     $ 18,257 45,297 18,257    
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired       $ (340,444) $ (149,973) $ (172,269)  
Service Electric of New Jersey [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]              
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Excluding Receivables             $ 35,074
Service Electric of New Jersey [Member] | Property, Plant and Equipment              
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Excluding Receivables             $ 52,362
Lightpath Acquired Assets              
Goodwill [Roll Forward]              
Goodwill acquired $ 11,800            
Consideration transfered 28,260            
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment 14,649            
Finite-Lived Customer Relationships, Gross 2,294            
Goodwill acquired $ 11,800            
North Carolina Assets              
Goodwill [Roll Forward]              
Goodwill acquired   $ 33,497          
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired   148,338          
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired   148,338          
Consideration transfered   312,184          
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment   71,586          
Finite-Lived Customer Relationships, Gross   58,777          
Goodwill acquired   $ 33,497          
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Credit Silo Combination (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 15, 2017
Sep. 30, 2020
Oct. 31, 2019
Jan. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Jun. 21, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000  
Long-term debt         26,546,760,000 26,722,342,000  
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes         7,660,000,000 7,658,806,000  
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes         7,635,633,000 7,626,309,000  
Face amount of Credit Facility Debt         7,952,438,000 7,750,188,000  
Carrying value of Credit Facility Debt         7,916,492,000 7,705,192,000  
Finance Lease, Liability         218,735,000 159,637,000  
Debt         917,313,000 1,245,713,000  
Less: current portion of senior notes         (635,310,000) (989,917,000)  
Finance Lease, Liability, Current         109,204,000 63,454,000  
Long-term debt, net of current maturities         25,629,447,000 25,476,629,000  
Principal Amount         $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000  
Finance Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]         Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates) Other current liabilities ($31,810 and $8,538 due to affiliates)  
Carrying amount of Senior Notes         $ 7,543,137,000 $ 8,009,426,000  
Face Amount of Senior Notes         7,524,024,000 8,024,024,000  
Notes Payable that will be reclassed to collateralized debt upon maturity         59,451,000    
Cablevision Lightpath              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes         1,459,000,000 1,465,000,000  
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes         1,427,962,000 1,429,471,000  
Credit Facility [Domain]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           78,750,000  
Debt           78,750,000  
Principal Amount           78,750,000  
Senior Notes              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         649,024,000 1,000,000,000  
Principal Amount         649,024,000 1,000,000,000  
Loans Payable              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           113,592,000  
Long-term debt         94,049,000 113,592,000  
Principal Amount           113,592,000  
Short-term Debt              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         931,027,000 1,255,796,000  
Debt         917,313,000 1,245,713,000  
Principal Amount         931,027,000 1,255,796,000  
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,239,938,000 1,252,688,000  
Stated interest rate         2.36%    
Credit facility         $ 1,236,394,000 1,248,293,000  
Principal Amount         1,239,938,000 1,252,688,000  
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 900,000,000 625,000,000  
Stated interest rate         2.36%    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity         $ 2,475,000,000   $ 2,475,000,000
Credit facility         893,864,000 616,027,000  
Principal Amount         $ 900,000,000 625,000,000  
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Secured Debt [Member] | LIBOR              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%       3.25%    
CSC Holdings Term Loan B | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 2,865,000,000 2,895,000,000  
Stated interest rate         2.36%    
Credit facility         $ 2,856,421,000 2,884,065,000  
Principal Amount         2,865,000,000 2,895,000,000  
Incremental Term Loan B-2 | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity       $ 1,500,000,000      
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount       $ 3,750,000      
Incremental Term Loan B-2 | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Basis spread on variable rate       2.50%      
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 2,947,500,000 2,977,500,000  
Stated interest rate         2.61%    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity         $ 3,000,000,000    
Credit facility         2,929,813,000 2,956,807,000  
Principal Amount         2,947,500,000 2,977,500,000  
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount $ 7,500            
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Basis spread on variable rate     2.50%        
Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         1,759,017,000 1,699,566,000  
Long-term debt         1,706,997,000 1,617,506,000  
Principal Amount         1,759,017,000 1,699,566,000  
Loans Payable              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         97,804,000 183,690,000  
Long-term debt           174,801,000  
Principal Amount         97,804,000 183,690,000  
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity           3,000,000,000  
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal 0.25%            
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount $ 7,500,000            
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%            
Cablevision Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         0 0  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity         100,000,000    
Credit facility         0 0  
Principal Amount         0 0  
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member]              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 594,000,000 600,000,000  
Stated interest rate         3.75%    
Credit facility         $ 579,119,000 582,808,000  
Principal Amount         $ 594,000,000 600,000,000  
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal   0.25%          
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Basis spread on variable rate   3.25%          
Senior Notes | 8.625% Notes due February 15, 2019              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           526,000,000  
Stated interest rate         8.625%    
Principal Amount           526,000,000  
Senior Notes | 8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Stated interest rate         8.00%    
Senior Notes | 6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 0 1,000,000,000  
Stated interest rate         6.75%    
Outstanding debt         $ 0 989,917,000  
Principal Amount         0 1,000,000,000  
Senior Notes | 5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 649,024,000 649,024,000  
Stated interest rate         5.875%    
Outstanding debt         $ 635,310,000 617,333,000  
Principal Amount         649,024,000 649,024,000  
Senior Notes | 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 750,000,000 750,000,000  
Stated interest rate         5.25%    
Outstanding debt         $ 711,137,000 697,041,000  
Principal Amount         $ 750,000,000 750,000,000  
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           1,740,000  
Stated interest rate         7.75%    
Principal Amount           1,740,000  
Senior Notes | 10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Stated interest rate         10.125%    
Senior Notes | 10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           1,684,221,000  
Stated interest rate         10.875%    
Principal Amount           1,684,221,000  
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 4,118,000 4,118,000  
Stated interest rate         7.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 4,113,000 4,112,000  
Principal Amount         $ 4,118,000 4,118,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           1,240,762,000  
Stated interest rate         5.125%    
Principal Amount           1,240,762,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           617,881,000  
Stated interest rate         7.75%    
Principal Amount           617,881,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Stated interest rate         5.375%    
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,045,882,000 1,045,882,000  
Stated interest rate         7.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 1,044,582,000 1,044,424,000  
Principal Amount         1,045,882,000 1,045,882,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000  
Stated interest rate         5.75%    
Outstanding debt         $ 2,282,875,000 2,286,097,000  
Principal Amount         2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 2,325,000,000 2,325,000,000  
Stated interest rate         4.625%    
Outstanding debt         $ 2,366,886,000 2,370,502,000  
Principal Amount         2,325,000,000 2,325,000,000  
Senior Notes | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 5.625% Notes due September 15, 2028              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 415,000,000 415,000,000  
Stated interest rate         5.625%    
Outstanding debt         $ 407,104,000 406,176,000  
Principal Amount         415,000,000 415,000,000  
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.000% Notes due November 15, 2031              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 500,000,000    
Stated interest rate         5.00%    
Outstanding debt         $ 498,234,000    
Principal Amount         500,000,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           1,095,825,000  
Principal Amount           1,095,825,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 0 1,498,806,000  
Stated interest rate         5.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 0 1,487,644,000  
Principal Amount         $ 0 1,498,806,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | 6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount           1,000,000,000  
Stated interest rate         6.625%    
Principal Amount           1,000,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000  
Stated interest rate         5.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 1,306,508,000 1,305,955,000  
Principal Amount         1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due February 1, 2028              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000  
Stated interest rate         5.375%    
Outstanding debt         $ 994,262,000 993,490,000  
Principal Amount         1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,750,000,000 1,750,000,000  
Stated interest rate         6.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 1,747,511,000 1,747,245,000  
Principal Amount         1,750,000,000 1,750,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 625,000,000    
Stated interest rate         4.625%    
Principal Amount         $ 625,000,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.125% Notes due December 1, 2030              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,100,000,000 1,100,000,000  
Stated interest rate         4.125%    
Outstanding debt         $ 1,095,672,000 1,095,283,000  
Principal Amount         1,100,000,000 1,100,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 3.375% Notes due February 15, 2031              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000  
Stated interest rate         3.375%    
Outstanding debt         $ 996,970,000 996,692,000  
Principal Amount         1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 3.875% Notes due September 15, 2027              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 450,000,000 450,000,000  
Stated interest rate         3.875%    
Outstanding debt         $ 441,739,000 440,487,000  
Principal Amount         450,000,000 450,000,000  
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due November 15, 2031              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         $ 1,500,000,000    
Stated interest rate         4.50%    
Outstanding debt         $ 1,494,710,000    
Principal Amount         1,500,000,000    
Long-term Debt              
Debt Instrument [Line Items]              
Principal amount         25,739,991,000 25,685,115,000  
Long-term debt, net of current maturities         25,629,447,000 25,476,629,000  
Principal Amount         $ 25,739,991,000 $ 25,685,115,000  
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Schedule of Exchange Agreement (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Principal amount $ 26,671,018 $ 26,940,911
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - CSC Holdings Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 15, 2017
Oct. 31, 2019
Jul. 31, 2019
Feb. 28, 2019
Jan. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 21, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Principal amount           $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000    
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs           51,712,000 250,489,000 $ 243,806,000  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs           $ (51,712,000) $ (250,489,000) (243,806,000)  
Cablevision Lightpath LLC [Member] | Cablevision Lightpath LLC [Member]                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners             49.99%    
Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions           50.01%      
CSC Holdings                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs           $ 51,712,000 $ 250,489,000 228,130,000  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs           (51,712,000) (250,489,000) (228,130,000)  
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               8,313,000  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               (8,313,000)  
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027 | Secured Debt [Member]                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Principal amount           $ 1,310,000,000 $ 1,310,000,000    
Stated interest rate           5.50%      
CSC Credit Facilities                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Percentage of proceeds from asset sales required to pay down term loans           100.00%      
Percentage of excess cash flow required when minimum leverage ratio is not met             50.00%    
Percentage of excess cash flow required to pay down term loans when minimum leverage ratio is fulfilled           0.00%      
Minimum debt leverage ratio required for zero percent of excess cash flow obligation to prepay debt           4.5      
Line of credit facility, covenant, leverage ratio           5.0      
Cablevision 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               500,000  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               (500,000)  
Term Loan B-2 and Term Loan B-4 [Member]                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Redeemed debt           $ 2,500,000      
Cash distributions to shareholders           $ 500,000,000      
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               15,176,000  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs               $ (15,176,000)  
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020 | Senior Notes                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Stated interest rate           8.00%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity             $ 3,000,000,000    
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal 0.25%                
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount $ 7,500,000                
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility | Alternate Base Rate                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate 1.25%                
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility | Eurodollar                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%                
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%         3.25%      
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-2                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity         $ 1,500,000,000        
Price percent         99.50%        
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount         $ 3,750,000        
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-2 | Alternate Base Rate                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate         1.50%        
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-2 | Eurodollar                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate         2.50%        
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-3                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Principal amount           $ 1,239,938,000 1,252,688,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-4                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Principal amount           1,000,000,000      
Debt discount rate       1.00%          
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-4 | Alternate Base Rate                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate       2.00%          
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-4 | Eurodollar                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate       3.00%          
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-5                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity           3,000,000,000      
Principal amount           2,947,500,000 2,977,500,000    
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount $ 7,500                
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Alternate Base Rate                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate   1.50%              
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Eurodollar                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Basis spread on variable rate   2.50%              
Revolving Credit Facility | CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility                  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity           2,475,000,000     $ 2,475,000,000
Principal amount           900,000,000 $ 625,000,000    
Proceeds from long-term debt           2,410,000,000      
Repayments of line of credit     $ 622,857,000     $ 2,135,000,000      
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Cequel Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs $ 51,712 $ 250,489 $ 243,806
Principal amount $ 26,671,018 $ 26,940,911  
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Credit Facilities Outstanding (Details) - USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 31, 2018
Jun. 21, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Long-term debt $ 26,546,760,000 $ 26,722,342,000    
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility, Portion Due October 9, 2020 | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   200,000    
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.36%      
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 2,475,000,000     $ 2,475,000,000
Credit facility, Carrying Value 893,864,000 616,027,000    
Letters of credit outstanding 139,465,000      
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity $ 1,435,535,000      
CSC Holdings Term Loan B | Secured Debt [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.36%      
Credit facility, Carrying Value $ 2,856,421,000 2,884,065,000    
Incremental Term Loan B-2 | Secured Debt [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity     $ 1,500,000,000  
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.36%      
Credit facility, Carrying Value $ 1,236,394,000 1,248,293,000    
Secured Debt [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Long-term debt $ 1,706,997,000 $ 1,617,506,000    
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jul. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 21, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000    
Less: Current portion   635,310,000 989,917,000    
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes   7,660,000,000 7,658,806,000    
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes   7,635,633,000 7,626,309,000    
Face amount of Credit Facility Debt   7,952,438,000 7,750,188,000    
Carrying value of Credit Facility Debt   7,916,492,000 7,705,192,000    
Finance Lease, Liability   218,735,000 159,637,000    
Long-term debt   26,546,760,000 26,722,342,000    
Debt   917,313,000 1,245,713,000    
Finance Lease, Liability, Current   109,204,000 63,454,000    
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   25,629,447,000 25,476,629,000    
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   (51,712,000) (250,489,000) $ (243,806,000)  
Loans Payable          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     113,592,000    
Long-term debt   94,049,000 113,592,000    
Short-term Debt          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   931,027,000 1,255,796,000    
Debt   917,313,000 1,245,713,000    
Credit Facility [Domain]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     78,750,000    
Debt     78,750,000    
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (136,249,000)    
CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       (65,151,000)  
CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (35,375,000)    
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (52,144,000)    
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       (15,176,000)  
Cablevision 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       $ (500,000)  
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,239,938,000 1,252,688,000    
Stated interest rate   2.36%      
Credit facility   $ 1,236,394,000 1,248,293,000    
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 2,947,500,000 2,977,500,000    
Stated interest rate   2.61%      
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   $ 3,000,000,000      
Credit facility   2,929,813,000 2,956,807,000    
Loans Payable          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   97,804,000 183,690,000    
Long-term debt     174,801,000    
Secured Debt [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   1,759,017,000 1,699,566,000    
Long-term debt   1,706,997,000 1,617,506,000    
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 900,000,000 625,000,000    
Stated interest rate   2.36%      
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   $ 2,475,000,000     $ 2,475,000,000
Credit facility   893,864,000 616,027,000    
Repayments of line of credit $ 622,857,000 $ 2,135,000,000      
Secured Debt [Member] | 6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     1,000,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   6.625%      
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.50%      
Carrying Amount   $ 1,306,508,000 1,305,955,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due February 1, 2028          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.375%      
Carrying Amount   $ 994,262,000 993,490,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     1,095,825,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 0 1,498,806,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.50%      
Carrying Amount   $ 0 1,487,644,000    
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   51,712,000      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,750,000,000 1,750,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   6.50%      
Carrying Amount   $ 1,747,511,000 1,747,245,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029 Tranche 1 [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   1,500,000,000      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029 Tranche 2 [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   250,000,000      
Redeemed debt   905,300,000      
Long-term Debt          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   25,739,991,000 25,685,115,000    
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   $ 25,629,447,000 25,476,629,000    
Senior Notes | 8.625% Notes due February 15, 2019          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     526,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   8.625%      
Senior Notes | 6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 0 1,000,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   6.75%      
Carrying Amount   $ 0 989,917,000    
Senior Notes | 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 750,000,000 750,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.25%      
Carrying Amount   $ 711,137,000 697,041,000    
Senior Notes | 10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   10.125%      
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage   107.594%      
Senior Notes | 10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     1,684,221,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   10.875%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     1,240,762,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.125%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     617,881,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   7.75%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,045,882,000 1,045,882,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   7.50%      
Carrying Amount   $ 1,044,582,000 1,044,424,000    
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.375%      
Senior Notes | 8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   8.00%      
Senior Notes | 5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 649,024,000 649,024,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.875%      
Carrying Amount   $ 635,310,000 617,333,000    
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount     1,740,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   7.75%      
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 4,118,000 4,118,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   7.50%      
Carrying Amount   $ 4,113,000 4,112,000    
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000    
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage   5.75%      
Carrying Amount   $ 2,282,875,000 $ 2,286,097,000    
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage   104.00%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030 Tranche 1 [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,000,000,000      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030 Tranche 2 [Member]          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal amount   $ 1,250,000,000      
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Oct. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 21, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 26,671,018,000 $ 26,940,911,000    
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     51,712,000 250,489,000 $ 243,806,000  
Issuance of common shares pursuant to employee long term incentive plan     13,900,000 15,752,000 (7,122,000)  
Collateralized Agreements     89,898,000      
Cablevision 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs         500,000  
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility, Portion Due October 9, 2020 | Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity       200,000    
CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs         $ 65,151,000  
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     900,000,000 625,000,000    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity     2,475,000,000     $ 2,475,000,000
Cablevision Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     0 0    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity     100,000,000      
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     1,239,938,000 1,252,688,000    
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       136,249,000    
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       52,144,000    
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     594,000,000 600,000,000    
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal 0.25%          
Line of Credit Facility, Periodic Payment $ 1,500,000          
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Alternate Base Rate            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%          
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate 3.25%          
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     2,947,500,000 2,977,500,000    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity     3,000,000,000      
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member] | Alternate Base Rate            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate   1.50%        
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate   2.50%        
CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs       35,375,000    
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000    
Stated interest rate     5.75%      
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage     104.00%      
Senior Notes | 10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Stated interest rate     10.125%      
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage     107.594%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030 Tranche 1 [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,000,000,000      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030 Tranche 2 [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,250,000,000      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       1,240,762,000    
Stated interest rate     5.125%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 2,325,000,000 2,325,000,000    
Stated interest rate     4.625%      
Debt instrument, percent of premium issued     103.25%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Stated interest rate     5.375%      
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       1,740,000    
Stated interest rate     7.75%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030 - August 2020 [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,700,000,000      
Stated interest rate     4.625%      
Senior Notes | 10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       1,684,221,000    
Stated interest rate     10.875%      
Senior Notes | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 5.625% Notes due September 15, 2028            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 415,000,000 415,000,000    
Stated interest rate     5.625%      
Senior Notes | 5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 649,024,000 649,024,000    
Stated interest rate     5.875%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       617,881,000    
Stated interest rate     7.75%      
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 4,118,000 4,118,000    
Stated interest rate     7.50%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.000% Notes due November 15, 2031            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 500,000,000      
Stated interest rate     5.00%      
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000    
Stated interest rate     5.50%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029 Tranche 2 [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 250,000,000      
Redemption of debt amount     $ 905,300,000      
Premium on notes     101.75%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029 Tranche 1 [Member]            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,500,000,000      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.125% Notes due December 1, 2030            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,100,000,000 1,100,000,000    
Stated interest rate     4.125%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 625,000,000      
Stated interest rate     4.625%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes due July 15, 2023            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       1,095,825,000    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 3.375% Notes due February 15, 2031            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Stated interest rate     3.375%      
Secured Debt [Member] | 6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount       1,000,000,000    
Stated interest rate     6.625%      
Secured Debt [Member] | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 3.875% Notes due September 15, 2027            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 450,000,000 450,000,000    
Stated interest rate     3.875%      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 0 1,498,806,000    
Stated interest rate     5.50%      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     $ (51,712,000)      
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due November 15, 2031            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 1,500,000,000      
Stated interest rate     4.50%      
Long-term Debt            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Principal amount     $ 25,739,991,000 $ 25,685,115,000    
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Debt Extinguishment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs $ 51,712 $ 250,489 $ 243,806
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712) (250,489) (243,806)
CSC Holdings      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs 51,712 250,489 228,130
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712) (250,489) (228,130)
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   136,249  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   (136,249)  
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     15,176
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (15,176)
Cablevision 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     500
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (500)
CSC Holdings 5.125% Notes due December 15, 2021      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     65,151
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (65,151)
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     154,666
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     (154,666)
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     8,313
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs     $ (8,313)
CSC Holdings 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due 2023      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   26,721  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   (26,721)  
CSC Holdings 7.750% Notes due July 15, 2025      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   35,375  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   (35,375)  
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   52,144  
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs   $ (52,144)  
CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (51,712)    
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs $ 51,712    
v3.22.0.1
DEBT - Summary of Debt Maturities (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
2019 $ 821,823
2020 1,841,383
2021 1,728,889
2022 2,823,750
2023 1,224,938
Thereafter $ 18,011,500
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Nov. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]        
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net   $ 85,911 $ (178,264) $ (282,713)
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net   (88,917) 319,157 469,071
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts   92,735 (78,606) (53,902)
Long-term debt   26,546,760 26,722,342  
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt   185,105 0 93,000
Notes related to derivative contracts        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net   $ 85,911 $ (178,264) $ (282,713)
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Contract [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Shares related to monetization contracts (in shares) 5,337,750      
Maximum hedge price at which downside protection is provided (in dollars per share) $ 40.95      
Maximum hedge price at which upside benefit is provided (in dollars per share) $ 49.55      
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Amendment Contract [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Shares related to monetization contracts (in shares) 37,617,486      
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives (Details) - Interest Rate Swap - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2022, Fixed 2.733%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500,000  
Fixed interest rate 2.733%  
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2026, Fixed 2.9155%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 750,000  
Fixed interest rate 2.9155%  
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2026, Fixed 2.9025%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 750,000  
Fixed interest rate 2.9025%  
Derivative Instrument Notional Amount 500,000 1.458% Fixed Rate    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500,000  
Basis spread 1.458%  
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2025, Fixed 1.53%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500,000  
Fixed interest rate 1.53%  
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2025, Fixed 1.625%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500,000  
Fixed interest rate 1.625%  
Derivative Instrument Notional Amount 2,850,000, 0.5185% Basis Spread    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   $ 2,850
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Location of Assets and Liabilities Within the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset $ 2,993 $ 55,559
Liability Derivatives (280,374) (568,803)
Interest Rate Swap | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Current derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset 2,993 5,132
Interest Rate Swap | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Long-term derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset 0 4,774
Interest Rate Swap | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Short-term liabilities under derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liability Derivatives 3,441 0
Interest Rate Swap | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Long-term liabilities under derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liability Derivatives (114,991) (275,297)
Prepaid forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Current derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset 0 45,653
Prepaid forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Short-term liabilities under derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liability Derivatives 0 (45,653)
Prepaid forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Long-term liabilities under derivative contracts    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liability Derivatives $ (161,942) $ (247,853)
v3.22.0.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Nov. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]        
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts   $ (185,105) $ 0 $ 0
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt   185,105 0 93,000
Long-term debt   26,546,760 26,722,342  
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net   85,911 (178,264) (282,713)
Gain on investments, net   (88,917) 319,157 469,071
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts   92,735 (78,606) (53,902)
Notes related to derivative contracts        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net   85,911 $ (178,264) $ (282,713)
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Contract [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Long-term debt $ 103,781      
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Contract [Member] | Notes payable and supply chain financing        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Long-term debt 36,587      
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Contract [Member] | Collateralized Debt Obligations [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Long-term debt $ 160,194      
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Contract [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Number of shares (in shares) 5,337,750      
Maximum hedge price at which downside protection is provided (in dollars per share) $ 40.95      
Maximum hedge price at which upside benefit is provided (in dollars per share) $ 49.55      
Forward Contracts, November 2019 Monetization Amendment Contract [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Number of shares (in shares) 37,617,486      
Interest Rate Swap | Derivative Instruments Maturing Date 2025, Fixed 1.665% and 1.68% [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Cash received from interest rate swap unwind   74,835    
Notional Amount   1,500,000    
Interest Rate Swap | Derivative Instruments Maturing Date 2025, Fixed 1.53% and 1.625% [Member]        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount   $ 1,000,000    
v3.22.0.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Level I    
Assets:    
Investment securities $ 2,161,937 $ 2,250,854
Prepaid forward contracts | Level II    
Assets:    
Derivative asset 0 45,653
Liabilities:    
Derivative liability 161,942 293,506
Interest rate swap contracts | Level II    
Assets:    
Derivative asset 2,993 9,906
Liabilities:    
Derivative liability 118,432 275,297
Money market funds | Level I    
Assets:    
Money market funds $ 100,015 $ 50,236
v3.22.0.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Carrying Amount    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value $ 26,328,025 $ 26,562,705
Estimated Fair Value    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 26,449,620 27,811,011
CSC Holdings | Credit facility debt | Carrying Amount | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 8,495,611 8,288,000
CSC Holdings | Credit facility debt | Estimated Fair Value | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 8,546,438 8,350,188
CSC Holdings | Collateralized indebtedness | Carrying Amount | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 1,706,997 1,617,506
CSC Holdings | Collateralized indebtedness | Estimated Fair Value | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 1,741,710 1,692,724
CSC Holdings | Senior guaranteed and senior secured notes | Carrying Amount | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 8,077,372 8,066,796
CSC Holdings | Senior guaranteed and senior secured notes | Estimated Fair Value | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 8,180,813 8,567,858
CSC Holdings | Senior notes | Carrying Amount | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 7,950,241 8,415,602
CSC Holdings | Senior notes | Estimated Fair Value | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 7,883,071 9,024,990
CSC Holdings | Notes payable and supply chain financing | Carrying Amount | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value 97,804 174,801
CSC Holdings | Notes payable and supply chain financing | Estimated Fair Value | Level II    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Debt, fair value $ 97,588 $ 175,251
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES - Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Continuing Operations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Current expense (benefit):      
Federal $ 168,397 $ 0 $ 0
State 56,211 65,804 33,103
Foreign (3)    
Total current expense (benefit) 224,605 65,804 33,103
Deferred expense (benefit):      
Federal 70,989 113,871 43,105
State (30,108) (38,359) (28,174)
Foreign (180)    
Total deferred benefit 40,701 75,512 14,931
Income tax expense (benefit) before tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions 265,306 141,316 48,034
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 294,975 139,748 47,190
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions, adj 29,669 (1,568) (844)
CSC Holdings      
Current expense (benefit):      
Federal 179,032 (55,044) 240,229
State 56,211 82,238 70,567
Foreign (3)    
Total current expense (benefit) 235,240 27,194 310,796
Deferred expense (benefit):      
Federal 70,989 156,338 (176,591)
State (38,608) (55,121) (62,118)
Foreign (180)    
Total deferred benefit 32,201 101,217 (238,709)
Income tax expense (benefit) before tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions 267,441 128,411 72,087
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 297,110 126,843 71,243
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions, adj $ 29,669 $ (1,568) $ (844)
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES - Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Federal tax expense at statutory rate $ 274,240 $ 122,478 $ 39,297
State income taxes, net of federal impact 21,492 59,383 (6,256)
Changes in the valuation allowance 13,573 10,333 4,079
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact (6,924) (46,768) 1,046
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions 29,669 (1,568) (847)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount 7,589 17,205 0
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan 169 2,108 15,642
Non-deductible officers compensation 7,201 6,715 0
Other permanent differences (35,256) 0 0
Other non-deductible expenses (benefits) 1,483 (883) 1,334
Other, net (3,083) 5,155 (5,013)
Income tax expense 294,975 139,748 47,190
CSC Holdings      
Federal tax expense at statutory rate 274,240 122,363 59,653
State income taxes, net of federal impact 13,973 58,802 (9,060)
Changes in the valuation allowance 12,793 10,598 4,307
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact (7,125) (46,768) (6,532)
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions 29,669 (1,568) (847)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount 7,589 17,205 0
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan 169 2,108 15,642
Non-deductible officers compensation 7,201 6,715 0
Other permanent differences 35,256 0 0
Other non-deductible expenses (benefits) 1,483 (886) 1,334
Other, net 7,552 (7,316) (6,318)
Income tax expense $ 297,110 $ 126,843 $ 71,243
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
May 31, 2021
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Net operating loss carryforward $ 176,539      
Impact from changes in tax rates, benefit 6,924 $ 46,768 $ (1,046)  
Research credits   17,205    
Deferred income taxes 40,701 75,512 14,931  
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate $ 24,811      
Percentage of subsidiaries that file tax return 80.00%      
Tax effect on net proceeds received over the book value of the interest sold in Partnership Unit $ 228,489 228,489    
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Receivable 12,161      
Alternative Minimum Tax Credit receivable 48,645      
Other permanent differences (35,256) $ 0 0  
Commitment of capital gains in a qualified opportunity zone       $ 600,000
Increase in federal net operating loss carryforwards $ 176,539      
Maximum | Infrastructure        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   25 years    
Adjusted Taxable Income Percentage 50.00%      
Minimum | Infrastructure        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Property, plant and equipment, useful life   5 years    
Adjusted Taxable Income Percentage 30.00%      
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2022, Fixed 2.733% | Interest Rate Swap        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Notional Amount $ 500,000      
CSC Holdings        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Impact from changes in tax rates, benefit 7,125 $ 46,768 6,532  
Deferred income taxes 32,201 101,217 (238,709)  
Other permanent differences $ 35,256 $ 0 $ 0  
Newsday        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Ownership percentage 1.00%      
Recognized Capital Tax Losses $ 224,791      
i24 News S.a.r.l        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Recognized Capital Tax Losses $ 107,682      
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES - Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
NOLs, capital loss, and tax credit carry forwards $ 171,707 $ 75,912
Compensation and benefit plans 63,870 57,198
Deferred Tax Assets, Investment in Subsidiaries (143,908) (118,150)
Restructuring liability 2,208 7,169
Other liabilities 40,946 49,363
Liabilities under derivative contracts 475,970 510,519
Interest deferred for tax purposes 63,402 38,100
Operating lease liability 65,538 70,648
Other 0 199
Deferred tax assets 883,641 809,108
Less: Valuation allowance (53,384) (39,811)
Net deferred tax assets, noncurrent 830,257 769,297
Fixed assets and intangibles (4,955,405) (4,979,333)
Operating lease asset (51,494) (56,363)
Investments (559,919) (587,184)
Prepaid expenses (13,042) (12,755)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs (11,985) (21,679)
Opportunity Zone tax deferral (142,631) 0
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent (5,878,384) (5,775,464)
Total net deferred tax liabilities (5,048,127) (5,006,167)
CSC Holdings    
NOLs, capital loss, and tax credit carry forwards 134,260 30,745
Compensation and benefit plans 63,870 57,198
Deferred Tax Assets, Investment in Subsidiaries (143,908) (118,150)
Restructuring liability 2,208 7,169
Other liabilities 40,946 49,363
Liabilities under derivative contracts 475,970 510,519
Interest deferred for tax purposes 63,402 38,100
Operating lease liability 65,538 70,648
Other 0 199
Deferred tax assets 846,194 763,941
Less: Valuation allowance (35,251) (22,457)
Net deferred tax assets, noncurrent 810,943 741,484
Fixed assets and intangibles (4,955,405) (4,979,333)
Operating lease asset (51,494) (56,363)
Investments (559,919) (587,184)
Prepaid expenses (13,042) (12,755)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs (11,985) (21,679)
Opportunity Zone tax deferral (142,631) 0
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent (5,878,384) (5,775,464)
Total net deferred tax liabilities $ (5,067,441) $ (5,033,980)
v3.22.0.1
INCOME TAXES - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]  
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate $ 24,811
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 30, 2021
Nov. 30, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2021        
Share based compensation expense $ 98,296 $ 125,087 $ 105,538    
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 304,984        
Carry Unit Plan | Restricted Stock Units          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Repurchase period following fourth anniversary 60 days        
Weighted average fair value (in dollars per unit)   $ 3.89 $ 3.25    
Share based compensation expense $ 804 $ 10,036 $ 54,614    
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 0        
Carry Unit Plan | Restricted Stock Units | Tranche One          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 50.00%        
Carry Unit Plan | Restricted Stock Units | Tranche Two          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 25.00%        
Carry Unit Plan | Restricted Stock Units | Tranche Three          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage   25.00%      
2017 LTIP | Restricted Stock Units          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Share based compensation expense $ 1,120 $ 2,276 6,460    
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 106,877        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 6,621,639        
2017 LTIP | Stock options          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Expiration period 10 years        
Share based compensation expense $ 87,697 $ 98,380 $ 44,464    
Awards authorized (in shares)       54,879,291 19,879,291
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 153,457        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 18,192,257 26,569,892 3,677,076    
2017 LTIP | Stock options | Tranche One          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 33.00%        
2019 LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Vesting period 4 years        
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Fair Value of Shares Issued $ 27,013        
2019 LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock | Tranche One          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 50.00%        
2019 LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock | Tranche Two          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 25.00%        
2019 LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock | Tranche Three          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 25.00%        
2021 Lightpath Incentive Plan | Class A-2 management incentive units          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Awards authorized (in shares) 350,000        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 211,715        
2017 LTIP 4 Year Award | Stock options          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Vesting period 4 years        
2017 LTIP 4 Year Award | Stock options | Tranche One          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 50.00%        
2017 LTIP 4 Year Award | Stock options | Tranche Two          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 25.00%        
2017 LTIP 4 Year Award | Stock options | Tranche Three          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 25.00%        
2017 LTIP 3 Year Award | Stock options          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Vesting period 3 years        
2017 LTIP 3 Year Award | Stock options | Tranche One          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting percentage 33.00%        
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Carrying Unit Award Activity (Details) - Carry Unit Plan - $ / shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value      
Balance at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) $ 3.41 $ 2.35 $ 1.14
Vested weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) 3.41 2.20 0.83
Forfeited weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)   0.56 0.84
Balance at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) $ 3.41 2.35
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted to Restricted Shares Weighted Average Fair Value     $ 0.37
Restricted Stock Units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance (in shares) 6,875,000 37,518,750 83,575,000
Vested (in shares) (6,875,000) (30,431,250) (42,618,750)
Forfeited (in shares)   (212,500) (3,437,500)
Ending balance (in shares) 0 6,875,000 37,518,750
Performance Shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance (in shares) 0   10,000,000
Converted to restricted shares     10,000,000
Ending balance (in shares) 0 0  
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Stock Option Activity (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Shares Under Option          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding   $ 6,801 $ 457,608 $ 112,915 $ 0
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share          
Options outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)   8 years 3 months 14 days 8 years 8 months 8 days 8 years 8 months 26 days 9 years 5 months 19 days
Options exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)   6 years 11 months 15 days      
Options exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value   $ 0      
Exercised, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)   $ 17.47 $ 17.46 $ 17.43  
Share based compensation expense   $ 98,296 $ 125,087 $ 105,538  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost   $ 304,984      
Options subject to shareholder approval   12,711,975      
2017 LTIP          
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share          
Beginning balance (in dollars per share)   $ 25.52 $ 19.12 $ 17.50  
Granted (in dollars per share)   16.87 28.41 23.88  
Forfeited (in dollars per share)   28.02 23.05 18.42  
Ending balance (in dollars per share)   22.51 $ 25.52 $ 19.12 $ 17.50
Options exercisable (in dollars per share)   $ 24.37      
2017 LTIP | Time Vesting          
Shares Under Option          
Beginning balance (in shares)   37,062,146 14,083,741 11,230,168  
Granted (in shares)   18,192,257 26,569,892 3,677,076  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period   1,368,156 824,227 184,147  
Forfeited (in shares)   (2,887,431) (2,767,260) (639,356)  
Ending balance (in shares)   50,998,816 37,062,146 14,083,741 11,230,168
Options exercisable (in shares)   19,211,882      
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share          
Share based compensation expense   $ 87,697 $ 98,380 $ 44,464  
Increase in shares authorized under LTIP Plan 35,000,000        
Expected time (in years) unrecognized compensation costs relating to share based awards will be recognized   2 years 8 months 15 days      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost   $ 153,457      
2017 LTIP | Performance Based Vesting          
Shares Under Option          
Beginning balance (in shares)   0   73,639  
Granted (in shares)   0 0 0  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period   0 0 0  
Forfeited (in shares)   0 0 (73,639)  
Ending balance (in shares)   0 0   73,639
Options exercisable (in shares)   0      
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share          
Share based compensation expense   $ 8,675 $ 14,395 $ 0  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost   $ 44,650      
2017 LTIP | Performance Units [Member]          
Shares Under Option          
Granted (in shares)   6,361,894      
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share          
Expected time (in years) unrecognized compensation costs relating to share based awards will be recognized   4 years 1 month 6 days      
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Fair Value Assumptions For Stock Options (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Risk-free interest rate 1.36% 1.43% 2.05%
Expected life (in years) 6 years 7 days 6 years 4 months 17 days 6 years 5 months 19 days
Dividend yield 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Volatility 35.80% 28.53% 28.22%
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 304,984    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 6.42 $ 7.82 $ 7.93
Share based compensation expense $ 98,296 $ 125,087 $ 105,538
Performance Based Vesting | 2017 LTIP      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 44,650    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 0 0 0
Share based compensation expense $ 8,675 $ 14,395 $ 0
Performance Units [Member]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Risk-free interest rate 1.46%    
Dividend yield 0.00%    
Volatility 34.22%    
Performance Units [Member] | 2017 LTIP      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 10.65    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 6,361,894    
Expected time (in years) unrecognized compensation costs relating to share based awards will be recognized 4 years 1 month 6 days    
Performance Units [Member] | Term Two [Member]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Expected life (in years) 6 years    
Performance Units [Member] | Term One [Member]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Expected life (in years) 4 years    
v3.22.0.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 30, 2021
Dec. 31, 2018
Nov. 30, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share based compensation expense $ 98,296 $ 125,087 $ 105,538      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost 304,984          
Grant date fair value of award units $ 28,200          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 6.42 $ 7.82 $ 7.93      
Carry Unit Plan            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 3.41 $ 2.35   $ 1.14  
Restricted Stock Units | Carry Unit Plan            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share based compensation expense $ 804 $ 10,036 $ 54,614      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 0          
Restricted Stock Units | Carry Unit Plan | Tranche One            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 50.00%          
Restricted Stock Units | 2017 LTIP            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share based compensation expense $ 1,120 2,276 6,460      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 106,877          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 6,621,639          
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross $ 107,469          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 16.23          
Stock options | 2017 LTIP            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share based compensation expense $ 87,697 $ 98,380 $ 44,464      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 153,457          
Awards authorized (in shares)       54,879,291   19,879,291
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 18,192,257 26,569,892 3,677,076      
Stock options | 2017 LTIP | Tranche One            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 33.00%          
Stock options | 2017 LTIP 4 Year Award | Tranche One            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 50.00%          
Stock options | 2017 LTIP 3 Year Award | Tranche One            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 33.00%          
Performance Based Vesting | 2017 LTIP            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share based compensation expense $ 8,675 $ 14,395 $ 0      
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 44,650          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 0 0 0      
Class A-1 management incentive units | 2021 Lightpath Incentive Plan            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards authorized (in shares) 650,000          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 433,225          
Class A-2 management incentive units | 2021 Lightpath Incentive Plan            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards authorized (in shares) 350,000          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 211,715          
Performance Units [Member] | 2017 LTIP            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 6,361,894          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 10.65          
v3.22.0.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Related party expense $ 15,918 $ 10,486 $ 15,961
v3.22.0.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Revenue and Related Charges (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 13,238 $ 14,729 $ 3,974
Operating expenses:      
Programming and other direct costs (17,167) (13,346) (11,580)
Other operating expenses, net (11,989) (11,869) (8,355)
Operating expenses, net (29,156) (25,215) (19,935)
Net charges (15,918) (10,486) (15,961)
Capital Expenditures $ 54,163 $ 17,216 $ 12,167
Shares repurchased (in shares) 23,593,728 161,216,653 72,668,712
Value of shares repurchased $ 804,928 $ 4,816,895 $ 1,686,873
Altice Management Americas | Affiliates      
Operating expenses:      
Shares repurchased (in shares) 3,582,525    
Value of shares repurchased $ 84,906    
v3.22.0.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Amounts Due From and Due to Related Parties (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 20,887 6,629,415 10,457,772
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock $ 804,928 $ 4,816,379 $ 1,686,873
Share based compensation expense 98,296 125,087 105,538
Related party expense $ 15,918 $ 10,486 $ 15,961
Stock options | 2017 LTIP      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 18,192,257 26,569,892 3,677,076
Share based compensation expense $ 87,697 $ 98,380 $ 44,464
Stock options | 2017 LTIP | Tranche One      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Award vesting percentage 33.00%    
Restricted Stock | 2019 LTIP [Member]      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Vesting period 4 years    
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Fair Value of Shares Issued $ 27,013    
Restricted Stock | 2019 LTIP [Member] | Tranche One      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Award vesting percentage 50.00%    
Restricted Stock | 2019 LTIP [Member] | Tranche Two      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Award vesting percentage 25.00%    
Restricted Stock | 2019 LTIP [Member] | Tranche Three      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Award vesting percentage 25.00%    
CSC Holdings      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Cash distributions $ 763,435 4,794,408 $ 2,279,472
Affiliates      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due from related parties and affiliates 3,776 4,262  
Due to related parties and affiliates 31,810 8,538  
Affiliates | Altice Management Americas      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due from related parties and affiliates 241 0  
Affiliates | Other Related Party      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due from related parties and affiliates 3,535 4,262  
Affiliates | Other Related Party | CSC Holdings      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due to related parties and affiliates 1,206 600  
Affiliates | Altice Management International      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due to related parties and affiliates $ 30,604 $ 7,938  
Suddenvision S.A.R.L. [Member]      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 14,948,869    
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock $ 350,000    
v3.22.0.1
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Future Cash Payments and Commitments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]      
Purchase obligation $ 10,112,301    
Purchase obligation, due in year 1 3,858,365    
Purchase obligation, due in years 2 and 3 4,449,217    
Purchase obligation, due in years 4 and 5 1,794,791    
Purchase obligation, due after year 5 9,928    
Guarantees 60,362    
Guarantees, due in year 1 60,362    
Guarantees, due in years 2 and 3 0    
Guarantees, due in years 4 and 5 0    
Guarantees, due after year 5 0    
Letters of credit 139,465    
Letters of credit, due in year 1 360    
Letters of credit, due in years 2 and 3 1,990    
Letters of credit, due in years 4 and 5 360    
Letters of credit, due after year 5 136,755    
Total contractual obligation 10,312,128    
Total contractual obligation, due in year 1 3,919,087    
Total contractual obligation, due in years 2 and 3 4,451,207    
Total contractual obligation, due in years 4 and 5 1,795,151    
Total contractual obligation, due after year 5 146,683    
Operating Leases, Pole Rent $ 37,545 $ 36,364 $ 31,903
v3.22.0.1
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Operating expenses (7,566,222) (7,779,353) (7,937,048)
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,010,932 443,479 139,939
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 990,311 436,183 138,936
Impact from changes in tax rates (6,924) (46,768) 1,046
Operating Income (Loss) 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 20,621 7,296 1,003
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member 990,311 436,183 138,936
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact $ (6,924) $ (46,768) $ 1,046
Basic income per share $ 2.16 $ 0.75 $ 0.21
Diluted income per share $ 2.14 $ 0.75 $ 0.21
CSC Holdings      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 10,090,849 $ 9,894,642 $ 9,760,859
Operating expenses (7,566,222) (7,779,353) (7,937,048)
Operating Income (Loss), Total 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1,008,797 455,838 212,817
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (20,621) (7,296) (1,003)
Net income attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 988,176 448,542 211,814
Impact from changes in tax rates (7,125) (46,768) (6,532)
Distributions to parent 763,435 4,794,408 2,279,472
Operating Income (Loss) 2,524,627 2,115,289 1,823,811
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 20,621 7,296 1,003
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member 988,176 448,542 211,814
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact (7,125) (46,768) (6,532)
Pay TV [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,526,205 3,670,859 3,997,873
Broadband [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,925,089 3,689,159 3,222,605
Telephony [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues 404,813 468,777 598,694
Business Services and Wholesale [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues 1,586,044 1,454,532 1,428,532
Mobile [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues 84,194 78,127 21,264
Advertising and News [Member]      
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 550,667 $ 519,205 $ 475,904