Advantage is one of the four cumulative criteria that determine whether the EU state aid regime is applicable. Here we look at advantage in relation to compensation for public service obligations. In its Altmark ruling of 2003 the CJEU has fashioned a four part test that, if met, means that the compensation is merely a quid pro quo and no advantage is conferred, so there is no aid. Such a finding can be made by all competent national courts. Based on Altmark the Commission has adopted a regulatory package for services of general economic interest (SGEI: EU terminology for public services) in 2005 and 2011. This applies if not all the conditions set by the Court are met, so aid is present but may still be found compatible with the internal market. The Commission has a monopoly on making such a finding. For certain sectors the package provides a (general) block exemption which is directly applicable. This is aimed at welfare services. The package also provides a framework for individual exemption decisions by the Commission. This is aimed at the utilities. Two short case studies are provided here, one on healthcare and one on broadband services.