Nielsen Audio is cracking down on its Total Line Reporting (TLR) policy starting with the Fall 2025 survey, sharply limiting which radio stations can publicly combine over-the-air and streaming audiences into a single, higher-rated “total line” figure.
Under the new rules announced in late November 2025, only paying Nielsen subscribers in good standing will be allowed to use TLR. Stations must also prove they simulcast identical programming and commercials for at least 95% of all quarter-hours throughout the entire survey period. Any station that fails either requirement (non-subscriber or insufficient simulcast) will have its broadcast and streaming numbers reported separately, making its total audience appear smaller in public reports and to advertisers.
Industry sources say the move is designed to protect the value of Nielsen subscriptions (which can cost tens of thousands of dollars per market annually) and push more broadcasters to pay for full service as online listening grows. Non-subscribers and smaller operators argue it creates an unfair playing field and could mislead buyers about true audience size.
Stations wishing to retain TLR must notify Nielsen before each survey deadline and pass post-survey audits. The stricter policy takes effect immediately with the ongoing Fall 2025 measurement period.