The first funding wave for FY2024 was released today.
If your organization had an FRN in Wave 1, in addition to the Funding Commitment Decision Letter generated and sent by EPC, you will receive a separate email from me providing guidance for understanding the letter.
As each wave rolls out weekly, I will continue to notify those with an FRN included in it. In the meantime keep on top of any PIA Review questions for pending FRNs.
*The message below is applicable to all who wish to apply for any E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2024 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
The deadline to file an FY2024 Form 470 is fast approaching with just one week remaining.
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2024 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*The FY2024 Form 471 Filing Window is now open and you can begin working on your form(s) in EPC.*
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2024 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
USAC has announced the annual Form 471 filing window dates for FY2024. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2024 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2024 Form 471 within the filing window.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2024 has now been released (see attached).
*Newly Eligible - School Bus Wi-Fi*
Of note is the inclusion of school bus Wi-Fi as newly eligible. As you consider whether or not to incorporate this into your funding requests, you should pay careful attention to the guidelines in the ESL and additional guidelines that are sure to come as it is implemented.
USAC has completed the system consolidation of moving BEARS from the legacy system to within EPC, which now includes an Invoicing Dashboard.
The attached guide explains everything you need to know about the new BEAR functionality. Its length and detail may at first appear frightening, but fret not!
The lowdown:
- Set permissions first if you haven't already. This is a one and done - once they are set you won't have to revisit this unless you want to modify someone's permission or add a user. - Filing the BEAR itself should prove to be easier than the legacy version
If you intend to apply for any Funding Year 2024 E-Rate on your own behalf (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members), you will need to make sure that your EPC profile is up to date.
The Administrative Window is the period during which applicants can make updates to their profile information including student counts, NSLP participation rates, and the entities and individuals associated with your entity in EPC to prepare for the upcoming FY2024 FCC Form 471 application filing window.
*** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete the steps outlined. ****
Item Date Notes FY2024 Administrative Window opens October 24 - Make EPC profile updates - More detailed info to come in a separate email FY2023 Form 486 Deadline = October 29: for those FRNs in a funding wave dated prior to July 1 (assuming services start on July 1) Every FRN
**** The message below is applicable to all who apply for E-Rate on their own behalf (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members) ****
The News Brief from USAC below was sent out to their list subscribers a little while ago. In case you don't receive such messages from USAC, I have included it in its entirety. It is admittedly a lot of information to digest, so here are just the main bullet points:
*Please read all deadline information below carefully as some pertains to those who file for E-Rate on their own behalf and some pertains to Networkmaine consortium members. You may fall into one or both categories.*
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete the steps outlined. Skip to the next section for consortium deadlines. ****
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2024 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
The FY2024 Form 470 is now available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you are ready to launch your FY2024 E-Rate process. There are no changes to the form from last year but for your convenience, a step by step guide is attached.
The first funding wave for FY2023 was released in the wee hours of Saturday morning and included almost 45% of the total number of funding requests filed by Maine applicants.
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If your organization had an FRN in Wave 1, in addition to the Funding Commitment Decision Letter generated and sent by EPC, you will receive a separate email from me providing guidance for understanding the letter.
*The message below is applicable to all who wish to apply for any E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2023 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
The deadline to file an FY2023 Form 470 is fast approaching.
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the costs for that product or
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2023 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*The FY2023 Form 471 Filing Window is now open and you can begin working on your form in EPC.*
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2023 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*Reminder of Imminent FY2023 E-Rate Deadlines*
*Update your EPC profile's organization members and NSLP and enrollment data*
*FY2023 Administrative Window:* Closes January 16, 2023 at 11:59 PM ET Just a few days are left ----- this is your only opportunity to update NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC before profiles are locked.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2023 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
USAC has announced the annual Form 471 filing window dates for FY2023. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2023 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2023 Form 471 within the filing window.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2023 has now been released (see attached).
To apply for any E-Rate that is not arranged by Networkmaine, you must first launch a competitive bidding process by filing a Form 470 for that funding year using the Eligible Services List as a guideline for the products and services that are eligible for E-Rate funding.
*For all those who apply for E-Rate on their own (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*Administrative Window Opens: Tuesday, October 25, 2022Administrative Window Closes: shortly before the FY2023 application filing window opens in early 2023*
During the Administrative Window, in addition to updating the student counts in your EPC profile (see the September 23 email on this subject), please verify that the person listed as the entity's Account Administrator is an active user and still an employee of your organization. If not, this is an opportunity to establish a
If you intend to apply for any Funding Year 2023 E-Rate on your own behalf (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members), you will need to make sure that your EPC profile is up to date.
The Administrative Window is the period during which applicants can make updates to their profile information including student counts, NSLP participation rates, and the entities and individuals associated with your entity in EPC to prepare for the upcoming FY2023 FCC Form 471 application filing window.
This is your friendly second reminder regarding the upcoming October E-Rate deadlines. The email below is a copy of the first reminder that I sent in early August.
If you have already completed the tasks outlined below that apply to your entity - congrats and give yourself a pat on the back.
If you still have tasks left to complete, pay close attention to these deadlines and make sure all FRNs have been addressed appropriately whether that be BEARs for FY2021 or Forms 486 for FY2022.
*** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete the steps outlined. ****
As always, there are a few E-Rate forms from multiple funding years to take care of this time of year that you might want to get done before the fall semester begins to get them off your plate.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2023 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
The FY2023 Form 470 is now available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you are ready to launch your FY2023 E-Rate process. There are no changes to the form from last year but for your convenience, a step by step guide is attached.
*The message below is applicable to all interested in filing for E-Rate for any FY2022 eligible services not provided by Networkmaine.*
The deadline to file an FY2022 Form 470 is fast approaching.
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the costs for that product or service.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2022 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*The FY2022 Form 471 Filing Window is now open and you can begin working on your form in EPC.*
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2022 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*In case you missed the deadlines announced just before Christmas......*
*Imminent FY2022 E-Rate Deadlines*
*Update your EPC profile's organization members and NSLP and enrollment data*
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2022 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
USAC has announced the annual Form 471 filing window dates for FY2022. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2022 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2022 Form 471 within the filing window.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2022 has been released (see attached).
There are only a few changes:
-- Paragraph 6: Clarifies that you may request *both* equipment and the software necessary to use the equipment on the FCC Form 470, or request *just *the equipment on the FCC Form 470, and still receive support for both the equipment and the software necessary to use the equipment (e.g., right-to-use software or client access licenses) by requesting the equipment and software either together or separately on the FCC Form 471
USAC has released further guidance on updating your Category 2 budget to reflect increased student enrollment. If you wish to modify your budget you must make a specific request to USAC. It will not happen automatically.
Having said that, adjusting your budget is an optional procedure. This only applies to you if your overall enrollment has increased and you wish to thereby increase your five-year Category 2 budget. You do not need to report any instance where your enrollment has dropped - that is the beauty of a fixed budget.
As anticipated, USAC has clarified that *both *enrollment *and *NSLP data can be used from a previous year* if they are more accurate* than October 2021 data.
From the updated Schools and Libraries News Brief:
*Generally, applicants provide full-time enrollment and NSLP data as of October 1, 2021 prior to the filing of the FCC Form 471, or utilize the most current figure available. We acknowledge that it may be challenging to provide student enrollment and NSLP numbers as of October 1, 2021 due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student enrollment and NSLP participation at schools.
If you intend to apply for any Funding Year 2022 E-Rate on your own behalf (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members), the time has arrived to start your preparations in earnest.
*The FY2022 Administrative Window opens today (October 26, 2021) and will remain open until just before the FY2022 Form 471 Filing Window opens (likely early January 2022).* This is your only opportunity to update the EPC profile for your school or district. Applicants report data in their profiles for two purposes:
This is your friendly second reminder regarding the upcoming October E-Rate deadlines. The below is a copy of the first reminder email I sent in early August, so if you completed the steps that apply to your entity then, pat yourself on the back and file this email. Otherwise, pay close attention to the upcoming deadlines and make sure all FRNs have been addressed appropriately whether that be BEARs for FY2020 or Forms 486 for FY2021.
*** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
As always, there are a few E-Rate forms from multiple funding years to take care of this time of year that you might want to get done before the fall semester begins to get them off your plate.
The FY2022 Form 470 will be available in the EPC portal beginning tomorrow July 1 and can then be filed as soon as you are ready to launch your FY2022 E-Rate process.
The Form 470 opens the competitive bidding process to identify the E-Rate eligible products and services you need so that potential service providers can review those requests and submit bids for them.
The first funding wave of FY2021 has been released and for even better news, many of you were in it!
As is my usual practice, I will be sending each applicant in any given wave an email with full instructions for collecting, and more importantly, understanding your Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL). Those instructions are attached here and they can also be found on thehttp:// erate.networkmaine.net/ website.
*The message below is applicable to all interested in filing for E-Rate for any FY2021 eligible services not provided by Networkmaine.*
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the costs for that product or service.
The Form 471 Filing Guide for Category 2 is attached.
There are a few changes to the form, including a more obvious way to add and manage FRNs and a better process for downloading a PDF of the form for review before certification.
Also, because Category 2 budgets are now district-wide, you no longer have to allocate costs among recipients of services.
The Form 471 Filing Guide for Category 1 is attached.
There are a few changes to the form, including a more obvious way to add and manage FRNs and a better process for downloading a PDF of the form for review before certification.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2021 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
*The FY2021 Form 471 is now available in EPC. *
*Frequently Asked Questions*
*Does this apply to me?*
Do you want to request E-Rate for any FY2021 (July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022) eligible products and services not provided by Networkmaine? *If so,* then *YES*!
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2021 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):* *In case you missed it ....*
*Imminent FY2021 E-Rate Deadlines*
*Update your EPC profile's organization members and NSLP and enrollment data*
*FY2021 Administrative Window:* *Closes January 13, 2021 at 11:59 PM EST* There is now *less than one week remaining *for you to be able to update NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC before your profile is locked. You will not be able to make changes to your
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2021 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):* USAC has just announced the annual Form 471 filing window dates for FY2021. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2021 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2021 Form 471 within the filing window.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2021 has been released (see attached). There are no significant changes to the list from FY2020.
To apply for any E-Rate that is not arranged by Networkmaine, you must first launch a competitive bidding process by filing a Form 470 in EPC using the Eligible Services List as a guideline for the products and services that are eligible for E-Rate funding.
I have a bit more information to provide on this subject.
*Which Year's Data Should Be Used*
USAC is interpreting the recent FCC order DA-20-1218 on this subject to mean that due to the impact COVID-19 may have on current data, FY2019 enrollment and NSLP data can be used in place of FY2020 data.
If you intend to apply for any Funding Year 2021 E-Rate on your own behalf (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members), the time has arrived to start your preparations in earnest.
*The FY2021 Administrative Window opened on October 19, 2020 and will remain open until just before the FY2021 Form 471 Filing Window opens (likely early January 2021).* This is your only opportunity to update the EPC profile for your school or district. You will report data for two purposes: (A) the student count and NSLP eligibility numbers that will
Today's Schools and Libraries News Brief (excerpted below) announces the release of a new E-Rate Category 2 Budget Tool on the USAC website that can help you determine your independent school or school district five-year Category 2 budget for FY2021 - FY2025. The tool allows you to set filters to drill down to your billed entity number, forecast your budget, and then export the data. As with any USAC tool, I would encourage you to do your own calculations for comparison and to make sure USAC's data is accurate.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
As always, there are a few E-Rate forms to take care of this time of year. Due to COVID-19, these deadlines have been extended, but if you can get them off your plate now, I suggest doing so lest you inadvertently miss your extended deadline.
By now, if you are an EPC user or a BEAR user or both, you have likely already received an email invitation from USAC to set up multi-factor authentication. If you did not receive that email, no worries! USAC is rolling out these emails to every user so it may take some time for you to get your own special invite.
The FY2021 Form 470 is available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you are ready to launch your FY2021 E-Rate process.
The Form 470 opens the competitive bidding process to identify the E-Rate eligible products and services you need so that potential service providers can review those requests and submit bids for them.
In the USAC Schools and Libraries News Brief issued on Friday (excerpted below), USAC announced that beginning in late July, EPC and BEAR users will use a new multifactor authentication login process (or MFA) that complies with federal and FCC information security guidelines.
Once up and running, users will be required to log in to something called One Portal - which is USAC's MFA security system - in order to access EPC and BEARs.
The first funding wave of FY2020 was released in the wee hours of this morning, and even better, many of you were in it!
As is my usual practice, I will be sending each applicant in any given wave an email with full instructions for collecting, and more importantly, understanding your Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL).
I hope everyone remains safe and healthy while trying to keep up with the demands and challenges of our new realities. We were fortunate to have additional time to complete E-Rate filings but the deadline is right around the corner, so the time has come to turn our attention back to the world of E-Rate.
In order to minimize the school closures across the US due to the COVID19, the FCC announced today that the Form 471 filing window has been extended by an additional 35 days. This applies to all applicants, regardless of whether or not their own particular school has been closed.
The FY2020 Form 471 Window deadline has changed from Wednesday, March 25, 2020 to *Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at 11:59 PM EDT*.
Only two weeks remain to certify an FY2020 Form 471 before *the filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on March 25, 2020*. This form must be filed by all applicants requesting FY2020 E-Rate funding for products or services not arranged by Networkmaine.
Remember the following rules:
- Do not conduct a bid evaluation or sign a contract until 28 days after submitting your Form 470 / RFP / RFP amendments (count the number of days from the last activity) - Do not certify your Form 471 before you have signed a contract with the chosen service provider (and I
*The message below is applicable to all interested in filing for E-Rate for any FY2020 eligible services not provided by Networkmaine. *
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the costs for that product or service.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2020 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):* *The FY2020 Form 471 is now available in EPC. *
*Does this apply to me?*
- Do you want to request E-Rate for any FY2020 (July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021) eligible products and services not provided by Networkmaine? If so, then *YES*! - Do you want to take advantage of the unexpected FY2020 Category 2 budget multiplier increase ($195.63 per student with an $11,998.43 funding floor
So currently Berwick Academy does not have an Account Administrator set up. If you do not intend to file for any E-Rate on your own (your only E-Rate activities are to complete forms so Networkmaine can collect E-Rate to offset the cost of the circuit we provide you), then that's ok. You aren't required to do this step.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2020 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members):*
The FY2020 Administrative Window closes on Monday (January 13) at 11:59 PM EST.
You will *not *be able to make changes to your EPC profile after that date. If you have not already done so, log in to your EPC account *now *to make any necessary changes to your profile such as updating NSLP and enrollment numbers.
*For all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2020 (meaning filing for E-Rate for products and services other than those that Networkmaine provides its members): *
USAC has announced the annual Form 471 filing window dates for FY2020. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2020 Form 470 - and take advantage of the FY2020 Category 2 budget bump - and still have time to file an FY2020 Form 471 within the filing window.
On the heels of the Category 2 Order, the Eligible Services List (ESL) for Funding Year 2020 has been released (see attached).
This list specifies the products and services that are eligible for E-Rate in FY2020. There are no significant changes to the list, except that managed internal broadband services, caching, and basic maintenance of internal connections have been made permanently eligible.
The long-awaited announcement about Category 2 E-Rate is finally here!!!!
The Federal Communications Commission has in fact made extensive improvements to Category 2 budgets, but has chosen not to implement them until FY2021 in an effort to not delay the opening of the FY2020 filing window or FY2020 funding commitments.
The information available now is attached and I expect there will be further clarification as USAC implements the Order. Here are some highlights....
This is just a heads up that USAC has added a brand spanking new Pending Inquiries section to your EPC Landing Page. This should prove hugely beneficial for you in the future to be able to quickly locate pending inquiries. If you do not have anything that is pending, you will see the section but will not see any actual inquiries in the list of inquiries.
If you intend to file for E-Rate for FY2020 other than the services Networkmaine provides, the time has arrived to start your preparations in earnest.
*The FY2020 Administrative Window opened today (October 11) and will remain open until just before the FY2020 Form 471 Filing window opens (likely early January 2020).*This is your only opportunity to update the NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC. This data will be used to calculate your E-Rate discount on FY2020 filings.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. *** *
*FY2019 Form 486*
After receiving a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for a Funding Request Number (FRN), this form is the next step to be completed in order to request E-Rate reimbursements. The Form 486 notifies USAC that services have started and that invoicing for the E-Rate discount portion of those
There are many reasons why your Form 471 may change after certification, such as the processing of Receipt Acknowledgment Letter (RAL) modifications, changes made during PIA reviews or Form 486 reviews, as well as appeals, SPIN changes, service substitutions, and other post-commitment actions.
EPC now offers the ability to download a PDF copy of your Form 471 after such changes. The original form as it was upon certification will always remain available and unchanged.
You may have received an email from USAC today asking you to update your existing FCC Form 498. You may also be receiving two copies of this email as I am sending it to the Networkmaine-ERate list as well as to every account administrator and Form 471 contact for Maine entities with an FY2019 Form 471 (if you didn't receive two copies, you should sign up for the list - it's free!).
As so often happens with the start of a funding year, the Form 470 for the funding year following that one is also released. The Form 470 opens the competitive bidding process to identify the E-Rate eligible products and services you need so that potential service providers can review those requests and submit bids for them.
USAC reported last week in its Schools and Libraries News Brief that they have recently become aware that some of the email notifications sent from EPC to applicants and service providers are coming from more than one sender and more than one domain at USAC.
Beginning this week (the week of July 1), all email communications sent directly from EPC will come from the domain *portal.usac.org <http://portal.usac.org>*. Assigned tasks will come directly from *[log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>*.
Since there is never a time when we are not thinking about E-Rate, the following is a reminder of some upcoming deadlines.
*FY2019 Form 486*
After receiving a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for a Funding Request Number (FRN), this form is the next step to be completed in order to request E-Rate reimbursements. The Form 486 notifies USAC that services have started and that invoicing for the E-Rate discount portion of those services can begin, and also certifies the entity's CIPA compliance.
The first funding wave of FY2019 has been released, and even better, many of you were in it!
I will be sending each applicant in any given wave an email with full instructions for collecting your Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) in EPC.
For a preview of coming attractions, those instructions are attached. Those of you in Wave 1 will be getting another email from me so that you know who you are.
Watch your inbox - an email will be sent to the main contact informing them that they have review inquiries awaiting them in EPC. The applicant will then log into EPC to view the questions and submit responses. There is a generally a deadline of 15 calendar days to respond to the questions.
Now that the FY2019 Form 471 Filing Window has closed, if you have not already done so, you should take the time to review each FY2019 Form 471 that you completed.
USAC will issue a Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgment Letter (RAL) in EPC for each form that you filed and certified. The RAL directs you to review your form for accuracy and is also a mechanism for correcting any mistakes you have discovered in your review of the form.
Just one week remains to certify an FY2019 Form 471 before the filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on March 27, 2019. This form must be filed by all applicants requesting FY2019 E-Rate funding for products or services not arranged by Networkmaine.
Remember the following rules:
- Do not certify your Form 471 before the Allowable Contract Date (28 days after your Form 470 was submitted) - Do not certify your Form 471 before you have signed a contract with the chosen service provider - Do certify your Form 471 before the window closes!
The FY2019 Form 471 is now available in EPC. All interested in filing for E-Rate for any FY2019 eligible services not provided by Networkmaine will need to complete this form.
*Getting Started*
Are you filing for a contracted service?
Enter your contract into the Contracts Module before beginning your Form 471 lest you get lost in the EPC forest.
With the release of the FY2019 deadlines, now is the time to buckle down and get your FY2019 Form 470 filed if you haven't already done so.
If you intend to file for any E-Rate for FY2019 not arranged through Networkmaine, an FY2019 Form 470 is necessary if you have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new products or services for FY2019 (July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020).
*The FY2019 Administrative Window closes on January 15, 2019 at 11:59 PM EST.*
This is your only opportunity to update NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC before profiles are locked. On the following day, the FY2019 Form 471 Filing Window will open at noon EST.
A quick guide for making these changes is attached.
USAC has just announced the dates of two very important windows that affect all those who wish to apply for E-Rate on their own for Funding Year 2019. By counting backward 28 days to allow the required time for competitive bidding, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2019 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2019 Form 471 within the filing window.
The Eligible Services List (ESL) for Funding Year 2019 has been released (see attached).
This list specifies the products and services that are eligible for E-Rate in FY2019. Note that Voice Services are no longer eligible.
The last day to file an FY2019 Form 470 is 28 days before the closing of the yet to be announced FY2019 Form 471 filing window dates. What we do know is that given the timing of the release of the ESL it is likely that the FY2019 Form 471 filing window will open no earlier than January 15, 2019. Nevertheless, you do not
The FY2017 BEAR deadline is in just a few days. The deadline is *Monday, October 29, 2018* because the regular October 28 deadline falls on a Sunday this year.
If you have any outstanding unpaid BEARs for FY2017 (July 1, 2017 - June 30, 2018) - either because you have not yet filed them or they have not yet been approved - I strongly encourage you to file for an Invoice Deadline Extension now. USAC will automatically grant a single 120-day extension upon request, but you must file the request on or before the BEAR deadline.
If you intend to file for E-Rate for FY2019, the time has arrived to start your preparations in earnest.
*The FY2019 Administrative Window opened today (October 1) and will remain open until early January 2019.*
This is your only opportunity to update the NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC. This data will be used to calculate your E-Rate discount on FY2019 filings.
* *** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. *** *
*FY2018 Form 486*
After receiving a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for a Funding Request Number (FRN), this form is the next step to be completed in order to request E-Rate reimbursements. The Form 486 notifies USAC that services have started and that invoicing for the E-Rate discount portion of
The FY2019 Form 470 is available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you like.
Entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine must file a Form 470 if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new products or services for FY2019 (July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020).
Since there is never a time when we are not thinking about E-Rate, the following is a reminder of some upcoming deadlines.
*FY2018 Form 486*
After receiving a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for a Funding Request Number (FRN), this form is the next step to be completed in order to request E-Rate reimbursements. The Form 486 notifies USAC that services have started and that invoicing for the E-Rate discount portion of those services can begin, and also certifies the entity's CIPA compliance.
The first funding wave of 2018 was released today!!! And even better, some of you were in it!
In a good news, bad news situation, USAC has completely revamped its Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) delivery system.
The good news is that FCDLs are now being emailed as a detailed and informative PDF attachment - no need to login into EPC, no need to generate the notification before you can see the letter, and no need to struggle with the csv file (which is also still being created in case you want to go old school).
Now that the FY2018 Form 471 Filing Window has closed, if you have not already done so, you should take the time to carefully review each FY2018 Form 471 that you completed.
USAC will issue a Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgment Letter (RAL) in EPC for each certified form. The RAL directs you to review your form for accuracy and is also a mechanism for correcting any mistakes you subsequently discover in your review of the form.
USAC has announced the following extended hours for the last week of the filing window.
*CSB (or Client Services Bureau) can be reached at 1-888-203-8100.*
They suggest that if an agent is not able to answer when you call, please leave your telephone number at the prompt, and they will return your call as soon as possible.
PIA Review is in full swing for those with certified FY2018 Form 471s. *(Reminder - the deadline to certify a Form 471 is March 22).*
USAC will conduct PIA Reviews using EPC.
Watch your inbox - an email will be sent to the main contact informing them that they have review inquiries awaiting them in EPC. The applicant will then log into EPC to view the questions and submit responses. There is a generally a deadline of 15 calendar days to respond to the questions.
Just a few short weeks remain to certify a FY2018 Form 471 before the filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on March 22, 2018. This form must be filed by all applicants requesting FY2018 E-Rate funding for products or services not arranged by Networkmaine.
Remember the following rules:
- Do not sign a contract or legally binding agreement until on or after the Allowable Contract Date (28 days after your Form 470 was submitted). This date will be identified in the Form 470 Receipt Notification Letter located in your EPC News feed.
*The message below is applicable to all interested in filing for E-Rate for any FY2018 eligible services not provided by Networkmaine.*
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process for an eligible product or service followed by (2) a Form 471 filed no earlier than 28 days later to request E-Rate discounts to offset a portion of the costs for that product or service.
*The FY2018 Administrative Window closes on January 10, 2018 at 11:59 PM EST.*
This is your only opportunity to update NSLP and enrollment numbers in EPC before profiles are locked. On the following day, the FY2018 Form 471 Filing Window will open at noon EST.
A quick guide for making these changes is attached.
USAC has just announced the dates of two very important windows, and by counting backwards 28 days, we can also now determine the last day to file an FY2018 Form 470 and still have time to file an FY2018 Form 471 within the filing window.
Update your EPC profile's organization members and NSLP data
The opening of the Administrative Window means that the FY2018 Form 471 Filing Window is looming closer. If you intend to file for E-Rate for FY2018 and have not already filed an FY2018 Form 470, this is a perfect opportunity to get this form completed early.
A Form 470 is necessary for all entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new products or services for FY2018 (July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019).
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
Don't forget about the upcoming October deadlines...
The Eligible Services List (ESL) for Funding Year 2018 has been released (see attached).
The FY2018 Form 470 is available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you like.
Entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine must file a Form 470 if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new products or services for FY2018 (July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019).
EPC has recently undergone some pretty slick updates. See the details below as reported in USAC's Schools and Libraries Program News Brief.
*View this message as a web page* <http://www.icontact-archive.com/TfWiFvrku1_Lm6RfjSlRPkR3Vs-HYjyo?w=4> - *Unsubscribe* <https://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofile.pl?r=54981888&l=10247&s=ALHK&m=213911&c=1535322>
*September 30, 2017*
*The E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) Has a New Look*
Last night, USAC updated the user interface in EPC. Early next week, we will add information to the About EPC <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=54981888&msgid=213911&act=ALHK&c=1535322&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fusac.org%2Fsl%2Ftools%2Fapply-to-erate%2Fepc.aspx> page and post a short video to the USAC website to show you what has changed.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
After receiving a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for an Funding Request Number (FRN), this form is the next step to be completed in order to request E-Rate reimbursements. The Form 486 notifies USAC that services have started and that invoicing for the E-Rate discount portion of those services can begin, and also certifies the entity's CIPA compliance.
The FY2018 Form 470 is available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you like.
Entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine must file a Form 470 if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new products or services for FY2018 (July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019).
As we approach the end of FY2016 on June 30, the final remaining step for most E-Rate applicants is to file any outstanding BEARs to request E-Rate reimbursements for those bills paid for 2016-2017 products and services for which a funding commitment was granted.
That very long winded sentence in short means that it is time to collect your FY2016 E-Rate dollars!
The very first FY2017 funding commitments were released this morning. Congratulations to those who were in this earlier than anticipated funding wave number 1.
Funding commitment waves are generally issued once a week for current funding years. A wave contains Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs) for all FCC Forms 471 for which USAC is ready to issue a funding decision since the last wave. Both applicants and service providers are notified of the decisions.
USAC will conduct PIA Reviews using EPC. An email will be sent to the main contact informing them that they have review inquiries awaiting them in EPC. The applicant will then log into EPC to view the questions and submit responses. There is a generally a deadline of 15 calendar days to respond to the questions.
Now that the FY2017 Form 471 Filing Window has closed, you should take the time to review each FY2017 Form 471 that you completed.
USAC will issue a Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgment Letter (RAL) in EPC for each form that you filed and certified. The RAL directs you to review your form for accuracy and is also a mechanism for correcting any mistakes you have discovered in your review of the form.
Today is May Day - May 1, 2017. That means there is now only 11 calendar days to certify your FY2017 Form 471 before *the filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on May 11, 2017*.
Remember the following rules:
- Do not certify your Form 471 before the Allowable Contract Date (28 days after your Form 470 was submitted) - Do not certify your Form 471 before you have signed a contract with the chosen service provider - Do certify your Form 471 before the window closes!
There is now less than one month remaining to file an FY2017 Form 471.
*The FY2017 E-Rate Form 471 filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on May 11, 2017.*
This form must be filed by all applicants requesting FY2017 E-Rate funding for products or services not arranged by Networkmaine.
*If you did not need to file a new Form 470 this year due to an existing multi-year contract resulting from a prior year's Form 470:*you can submit your Form 471 at any time before the window closes
There is just one week left to file a Form 470 for FY2017. Your Form 470 must be submitted by April 13 in order to allow enough time to wait 28 days to conduct competitive bidding and still be able to file a Form 471 within the filing window.
Most E-Rate applicants need to file a Form 470 for desired products and services every year. The only time this is not the case is when a Form 470 from an earlier year resulted in a signed multi-year contract that includes the upcoming funding year.
E-Rate applicants cannot receive any E-Rate funding without (1) a Form 470 to launch the competitive bidding process followed by (2) a Form 471 requesting the funds filed at least 28 days later.
For most, this means filing a Form 470 every year. The only time this is not the case is when a Form 470 from an earlier year resulted in a signed multi-year contract that includes the upcoming funding year.
You will want to complete the Connectivity Questions and the Contracts Module (if you have a contract) in the appropriate places in EPC before beginning your Form 471. While you can do so when you get to these sections of your form, the system will force you to leave your form in progress and navigate to a different section within your EPC profile. It is much easier to complete them up front and not get lost!
The FY2017 Form 471 is now available in EPC for all interested in filing for E-Rate for FY2017. The form has changed little from FY2016. Again this year, you will want to complete the Connectivity Questions and the Contracts Module (if you have a contract) in the appropriate places in EPC before beginning your Form 471.
You don't need to be in EPC to get that info. USAC makes it available outside EPC. You have to use two different tools, but the good news is that they're very similar.
To download that information for any funding year up to 2015-2016, you can use the Data Retrieval Tool:
I'm trying to pull our commitment request spreadsheet for Maine Indian Education. Attached is an example of what I used to received. I did try to pull the info in my landing page but I'm unable to download it. It states I don't have the program to download the info. Any help would be appreciated.
This is the last week to update your EPC Profile in preparation for filing an FY2017 Form 471. USAC will be locking entity profiles at 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, February 26. If you wait to do this over the weekend, USAC's Client Services Bureau will be unavailable to assist you with any problems you may run into. *The last business day to update your profile is this Friday, February 24*.
*Upcoming deadlines for entities filing for E-Rate for FY2017*
*Update your EPC Profile's organization members and NSLP data* *The FY2017 Administrative Window will be open:* February 3, 2017 - February 26, 2017 (EPC profiles will be locked at 11:59 PM EST)
*Request bids for products and services and launch the competitive bidding process*
*Last day to file an FY2017 FCC Form 470:* April 13, 2017
Now that the Form 471 Filing Window has been announced by USAC, in addition to updating your EPC profile within the Administrative Window, it is time to get serious about filing an FY2017 Form 470 to launch a competitive bidding process for desired products and services.
*Deadline to file an FY2017 Form 470:* *April 13, 2017*
The discount percentage and organizational structure of independent schools and school districts affect both libraries and consortia (e.g. Networkmaine). In an effort to level the playing field so that applicants of all entity types can file an FY2017 Form 471 without being delayed by missing or inaccurate data for other applicants, USAC is establishing a new Administrative Window.
With every new academic year, personnel changes can occur.
If the individual currently listed as the Account Administrator for your organization's EPC profile is no longer with your school or school district, you will want to update the Account Administrator to ensure that your organization is receiving communications from EPC.
The attached document includes instructions on how to implement an Account Administrator change, whether the current Account Administrator can log in and perform the task or not.
I got a notice that additional information was required for my Form 471, but I have not received anything that my Form 471 has been funded. What do i do?
thanks
On Wed, Sep 28, 2016 at 2:55 PM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> I've been getting lots of questions lately from folks wondering where to > find the notification letter for a particular E-Rate form. Since the advent > of EPC, letters are not being snail-mailed on color coded paper and you > have to go collect them yourself in EPC (or elsewhere). It can certainly be > difficult
I've been getting lots of questions lately from folks wondering where to find the notification letter for a particular E-Rate form. Since the advent of EPC, letters are not being snail-mailed on color coded paper and you have to go collect them yourself in EPC (or elsewhere). It can certainly be difficult to remember where to pick up a notification - especially since they are not all accessed from the same location.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that file their own E-Rate forms. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
The Eligible Services List (ESL) for Funding Year 2017 has been released.
You can obtain a copy of the ESL by: (1) navigating to http://networkmaine.net/erate/track/track.htm and (2) scrolling down to "Notices and Tasks for the Next Funding Year: FY2017 (7/1/17-6/30/18) section"
The FY2017 Form 470 is available in the EPC portal and can be filed as soon as you like. The FY2017 Form 471 filing window dates have not yet been established. As the last day to file a Form 470 is 28 days before the closing of the Form 471 filing window, the Form 470 deadline will remain unknown
I don't care for the new EPC Portal through USAC. I filed my 471 a long time ago. I have not received any notifications that it has been funded so I can file the 486. I am not sure if I am looking in the right place. I go to my landing page and under notifications I select FCDL then 2016 for year. For the wave number I have selected each one from 1 to 11 and it doesn't show anything. So do you know if I am missing something or maybe it hasn't been funded yet?
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that filed a Form 471 for FY2016. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete this step. ****
In order to request E-Rate reimbursements for FY2016 funding commitments, you will first need to file a Form 486.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that filed their own E-Rate FY2016 Form 471. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
USAC will soon start issuing funding commitments for FY2016 applications.
Funding commitment waves are generally issued once a week for current funding years. A wave contains Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs) for all FCC Forms 471 for which USAC is ready to issue a funding decision since the last wave. Both applicants and service providers are notified of the decisions.
How long does it take until I receive FCDL notice? Just curious.
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Friday, May 20, 2016 2:26 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] Reminder: Form 471 Deadline for Schools and School Districts is This Thursday
The FY2016 Form 471 filing window for independent schools and school districts closes at 11:59:59 PM on Thursday, May 26 --- just a few short days away!
If competitive bidding results in a contract signed by both you and the service provider, then you, as the applicant, fill out the contract information in the contracts module for your profile. (Click on the name of your entity on the landing page, then choose "Contracts" from the list of links on the left). Once you do that, you will have a contract id to reference back in the Form 471.
I have quotes from a vendor that will work for me. This person has a SPIN number so is all set. Does this person need to log in and create the Contract ID?? What do I do next? Once I understand one the other two locations should be much easier.
I sent the form and supporting documents by express mail, and you should have them Monday morning.
*Tamara Butler, Director* 56 Rumford Avenue Rumford Public Library Rumford, ME 04276 [log in to unmask] Ph: 1-207-364-3661 Fax: 1-207-364-7296 On 5/20/2016 2:25 PM, Anne Perloff wrote: > The FY2016 Form 471 filing window for independent schools and school > districts closes at 11:59:59 PM on Thursday, May 26 --- just a few > short days away! > > USAC's Client Services Bureau is open extended hours at 1-888-203-8100 > in this race to the finish line: > 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Weekdays >
The FY2016 Form 471 filing window for independent schools and school districts closes at 11:59:59 PM on Thursday, May 26 --- just a few short days away!
USAC's Client Services Bureau is open extended hours at 1-888-203-8100 in this race to the finish line: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Weekdays 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM Saturdays
All BEARs (regardless of funding year) will continue to be filed in the existing BEAR applicant login area ( https://www2.sl.universalservice.org/bear/login.aspx). Applicants will use their existing PIN to create and certify BEAR forms.
However, beginning July 1:
- No paper BEARs will be accepted. - Service provider certifications will no longer be required for any BEAR form submitted on or after July 1, 2016. BEAR certifications will only be performed by applicants. - BEAR payments will be made directly to the applicant by electronic funds transfer rather than passing through the service provider first. Banking information must have been provided by
Unlike in previous years, applicants will not be emailed Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) questions. Instead, applicants will receive and answer questions entirely within EPC.
For FY2016, USAC will send all PIA questions to the EPC News feed for the Form 471's main contact person, and applicant responses will then be sent back to USAC using EPC.
USAC has announced that the FY2016 Form 471 filing window for all applicants has been extended to May 26, 2016. Consortia and libraries have been given a further extension. See the message below from USAC for the full announcement.
If you can file your Form 471 now - if there are no EPC system limitations or profile inaccuracies preventing you from doing so - you should proceed as normal and submit your form as soon as possible. Delaying simply because you have been granted more time will only succeed in delaying your funding commitment.
Reminder: *The FY2016 E-Rate Form 471 filing window closes at 11:59 PM EDT on April 29, 2016*.
This applies to anyone requesting E-Rate funding for products or services not arranged by Networkmaine.
If you filed a new Form 470 this year:
- you must wait 28 days before choosing a vendor or service provider
- you cannot file the Form 471 before the Allowable Vendor Selection/Contract Date identified in your Form 470 Receipt Notification Letter available in your EPC News feed
Sorry to bother you, but thought I should check to see if you received our application.
Thanks in advance,
DDDB
Deborah Barrows Director of Technology Integration and Innovation A. R. Gould School Long Creek Youth Development Center 675 Westbrook St. So. Portland, ME 04106
The deadline to file an FCC Form 470 for FY2016 is almost here.
*April 1, 2016 is the last day to file an FY2016 FCC Form 470.*
If you wait to file your Form 470 until April 1, then you will have to complete all of the following on April 29, which is the day that the Form 471 filing window closes: - Evaluate the bid responses and select a service provider - Enter into a legally binding contract with that service provider, unless services will be month to month or tariff - Complete and submit your FCC Form 471
Two step by step Form 471 how to guides, one for Category 1 and one for Category 2, are now available in the place you should be becoming familiar with: *http://networkmaine.net/erate/EPC/EPC.htm <http://networkmaine.net/erate/EPC/EPC.htm>*
Fair warning - these files are quite large, so be patient as they load.
They are not intended for you to sit down and read cover to cover, but it will hopefully prove useful to have the appropriate guide open as you work on creating and filing a Form 471 in EPC.
School is closed today but I am here at the school anyway. The school board approved everything last night at the meeting. I am hoping to have the minutes later today or at the latest tomorrow. Should I fax you the 479 with everything that we do have, and send you the minutes as soon as I have them? What happened was the school board had a reading of the policy but did not actually approve the policy, so that was done last night.
*Deadline to file an FY2016 Form 471:* *April 29, 2016 @ 11:59:59 PM*
The FY2016 Form 471 is available in EPC.
There are many reasons why you may not yet be prepared to file the Form 471 such as: - you have not yet filed a Form 470 (the deadline is April 1 but do not wait until the last day!) - you have filed a Form 470 but your 28 day waiting period has not elapsed - the thought of filing a Form 471 is causing you to break out in a rash
Hi Anne, We have decided to file a new 470 with more information. Do I need to contact the people that had previously bid to let them know we are submitting a new 470? Do I take down the old 470 (if so, how do I do that)?
Thank you for your help, Jen
On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:58 PM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
USAC is presenting a series of webinars on the Form 471. Feel free to use the links below to register for any that you may find useful.
Join E-rate Program staff for a complimentary outreach webinar. View this message as a web page <http://lists.universalservice.org/t/2318895/1512341/350/3/?6299e5a7=aHR0cDovL2xpc3RzLnVuaXZlcnNhbHNlcnZpY2Uub3JnL3JlYWQvYXJjaGl2ZT9pZD00NDU1Jm1pZD0xNTEyMzQxJmU9YW5uZSUyZXBlcmxvZmYlNDBtYWluZSUyZWVkdSZ4PTFlMGNlMTA2&x=1b569777>
*Invitation to Webinars: FCC Form 471 Walkthrough and E-rate Program Overview*
Join USAC for a series of webinars about the FY2016 filing window, including an overview of the E-rate Program and a detailed walkthrough of how to complete a funding request (FCC Form 471) online in the E-rate Productivity Center.
Below is a compilation of some frequently asked questions regarding contracts.
*1. Are we required to sign a contract for a Category One service (telecom and Internet)?*
Contracts are not required if you are purchasing the service on a month-to-month basis. Other than that, applicants are required to sign contracts for E-Rate eligible telecommunications or Internet access services before a Form 471 is submitted.
Thank you Anne, so far none of the bids match the specifications laid out in the 470.
On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:58 PM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> If you do not like any bids received, you can always stop the process > right there. You are not required to sign a contract and file a Form 471 to > apply for E-Rate funds just because you posted a Form 470. > > Assuming you really do want to proceed, consider the bid responses. > > Was there something unclear in your Form 470 that caused providers to
If you do not like any bids received, you can always stop the process right there. You are not required to sign a contract and file a Form 471 to apply for E-Rate funds just because you posted a Form 470.
Assuming you really do want to proceed, consider the bid responses.
Was there something unclear in your Form 470 that caused providers to not respond appropriately? You can file a new Form 470, making any necessary changes. There is still time left.
Hi Anne, What if we don't like any of the bids we receive, do we have to award a contract?
Looking forward to your reply, Jennifer
On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 9:10 AM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> After the Form 470 is posted, there is a mandatory 28 day (minimum) > waiting period during which vendors may submit proposals to you for > consideration and/or contact you for more information relating to the > services you listed on your Form 470. Then, on the 29th day that your Form > 470 was posted or after, you may select
After the Form 470 is posted, there is a mandatory 28 day (minimum) waiting period during which vendors may submit proposals to you for consideration and/or contact you for more information relating to the services you listed on your Form 470. Then, on the 29th day that your Form 470 was posted or after, you may select a vendor, sign a contract and submit the Form 471 to request E-Rate funding for those services.
The FY2016 Form 471 Filing Window has just been announced as follows: *the FY2016 Form 471 filing window will open on February 3 at noon** and close April 29 at 11:59:59 EDT*
If you only intend to participate in E-Rate through inclusion on Networkmaine consortium E-Rate applications and do not intend to file your own E-Rate applications for FY2016, you may disregard the following message. Networkmaine will contact its members to complete enrollment.
*Joya Maynard* *Business Manager* *Waldo County Tech Ctr* *207-342-5231 x#203*
On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 11:39 AM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> My understanding is that it's the new way of doing business for USAC. I > don't believe it will be optional. Subject to change, as always! > > > > _____________________________________________ > > *Anne Perloff* > Maine State E-Rate Coordinator for Schools > Networkmaine ... a unit of the University of Maine System > > Web: www.networkmaine.net/erate/ > > Email: [log in to unmask] > > Phone: 207-561-3584 > > Fax: 207-561-3531 > > Mail: > Networkmaine
Is the direct deposit an option .... or is this just how it's going to be for reimbursement ?
*Joya Maynard* *Business Manager* *Waldo County Tech Ctr* *207-342-5231 x#203*
On Wed, Dec 16, 2015 at 11:59 AM, Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> If you intend to file a Form 471 for E-Rate reimbursements for Funding > Year 2016, you can get a jump start on things while we wait for the filing > window to be announced. > > Beginning with FY2016, applicants who opt to pay the full cost for E-Rate > products and services (discount and non-discount portion)
If you intend to file a Form 471 for E-Rate reimbursements for Funding Year 2016, you can get a jump start on things while we wait for the filing window to be announced.
Beginning with FY2016, applicants who opt to pay the full cost for E-Rate products and services (discount and non-discount portion) and submit a BEAR form for reimbursement of the discount portion will receive that reimbursement via direct deposit.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2016 has been released.
You can obtain a copy of the ESL by: (1) navigating to http://networkmaine.net/erate/index.html and (2) clicking on the link for "FY2016 Eligible Services List"
As previously announced, the FY2016 Form 470 can only be filed within USAC's new EPC Portal.
Entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine must file a Form 470 if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new services for FY2016.
**** Note that the below information only applies to entities that filed their own E-Rate Form 471. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete these steps. ****
The FY2016 Form 470 is available through USAC's new E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) Portal.
If you do not have EPC set up for your billed entity, you will need to *contact USAC’s Client Services Bureau at 1 (888) 203-8100 *to create the EPC Account Administrator account for your organization.
Entities that apply for any E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine must file a Form 470 if they have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new services for FY2016.
*** Note that the below information only applies to entities that filed a Form 471 for FY2015. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete this step. ***
July 1, 2015 marked the first day of the 2015-2016 E-Rate funding year.
Anne, Communication Technologies, Inc. has been registered with USAC as a vendor. We have been involved with S/L for many years and have completed multiple projects in Maine. When I received information from your organization I requested to be registered with USAC Schools and Libraries Program.
Tue, 26 May 2015 10:18:07
Your subscription to the NETWORKMAINE-ERATE list (Networkmaine ERate Q and A) has been accepted.
** USAC is implementing a new E-Rate portal and will be releasing features throughout the summer. See below for the first news brief from USAC on this subject. If you were the authorized person on an FY2015 Form 471, you will receive emails from USAC in the coming weeks with further instructions.
*****
*USAC Schools and Libraries Program News Brief Special Edition June 24, 2015USAC's New IT System Is Coming!*
Beginning with FY2015, technology plans are not required for Category One or Category Two services. You do still need to comply with state technology plan requirements.
When you are ready to file your FY2015 FCC Form 486, complete Block 4, Item 8 of the form as follows:
USAC has announced that the first wave of commitments for Funding Year 2015 will be released on May 21. Early indications are that almost 150 funding requests from Maine applicants will be included in that wave.
If you have an FRN that is part of this wave, your next tasks are to: - review the Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) for funding decisions and any adjustments that might have been made to the original funding request - make a note of the date of FCDL so you are aware of the deadline for filing a Form 486 to indicate start
Thanks. I know we usually do the paperwork early on and that we don’t have to do anything else. Thanks for letting me know.
Lori
Lori Faulkner
Director of Technology
Maine School Administrative District 49
Fairfield, ME 04937
(207)453-4200 ext. 2219
Direct line: (207)238-1111
*From:* Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto: [log in to unmask]] *On Behalf Of *Anne Perloff *Sent:* Monday, April 6, 2015 1:19 PM *To:* [log in to unmask] *Subject:* Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate Form 471 Deadline Approaching
It looks like you are set for this year. I see that you filed a Form 470, and have already certified your Form 471 with three voice services funding requests.
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 12:55 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate Form 471 Deadline Approaching
It appears you do not file for any additional E-Rate, so the answer is no.
We don’t have to do anything do we? We usually don’t
Lori Faulkner
Director of Technology
Maine School Administrative District 49
Fairfield, ME 04937
(207)453-4200 ext. 2219
Direct line: (207)238-1111
*From:* Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto: [log in to unmask]] *On Behalf Of *Anne Perloff *Sent:* Monday, April 6, 2015 12:55 PM *To:* [log in to unmask] *Subject:* Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate Form 471 Deadline Approaching
It appears you do not file for any additional E-Rate, so the answer is no.
Is this a form that Saint Dominic Academy needs to complete?
Thanks, Kris Cray
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 11:16 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate Form 471 Deadline Approaching
Don't forget that the extended E-Rate Form 471 filing window will close in ten days at 11:59 PM EDT on April 16, 2015.
Don't forget that the extended E-Rate Form 471 filing window will close in ten days at 11:59 PM EDT on April 16, 2015.
This deadline only applies to those of you who are requesting E-Rate funding directly from USAC for eligible products and services above and beyond the Internet and transport services for which Networkmaine files on behalf of its consortium members.
USAC has announced that the FY2015 E-Rate Form 471 filing window has been extended by three weeks and will now close at 11:59 PM EDT on April 16, 2015.
If you need this extension, by all means take advantage of it.
Having said that, PIA is already currently reviewing applications. If you are ready to submit and certify your Form 471, do so soon as those applications that have been submitted, certified and meet program requirements will likely receive a funding decision first.
What a nut roll. It took me three attempts to get the last one in. They are now both in and I have Cert ID's associated with them. Thanks again for your support. The next timeline I need to worry about is the 471 which is due by the 26th of March.
The deadline to file an FCC Form 470 is fast approaching.
*February 26, 2015 is the last day to post an FCC Form 470 *and still have time to submit an FCC Form 471.
If you intend to apply for FY2015 E-Rate beyond the Internet and transport services arranged by Networkmaine, and have not yet filed your FCC Form 470, don't wait until the last minute!
I have created step by step how to guides for filing the E-Rate Form 471 both for Category 1 and for Category 2. Remember that you must file separate applications for Category 1 and Category 2 services.
Guides can be found by going to http://networkmaine.net/erate/ and choosing the PDF file for either "FY2015 Form 471 Category 1 Guide" or "FY2015 Form 471 Category 2 Guide" from the Keeping on Track Section on the right side of the screen.
*The FY2015 Form 471 filing window opens today, January 14, 2015 at 12 noon, and it will close at 11:59 pm EDT on Thursday, March 26, 2015.*
This is for entities who file for E-Rate beyond the Internet and transport services received as a member of the Networkmaine consortium.
Remember that you must wait AT LEAST 28 days after your Form 470 is posted to the USAC website and any associated RFPs are released before you select your service provider, sign a contract (for contracted services), and sign and submit a Form 471.
I will be calling sometime to discuss this email, hopefully next week. I did not realize year end was so demanding.
Thanks
Mark
Mark Bouchard
Business Manager RSU #39 75 Bennett Drive, Suite 3 Caribou, ME 04736 (207) 496-6311 >>> Anne Perloff <[log in to unmask]> 1/5/2015 2:59 PM >>> I have updated the E-Rate Modernization Order Fact Sheet that I previously sent out to incorporate the modifications from the FCC's Second Modernization Order that was released in December 2014 and what is now known about the FY2015 Eligible Services List.
I have updated the E-Rate Modernization Order Fact Sheet that I previously sent out to incorporate the modifications from the FCC's Second Modernization Order that was released in December 2014 and what is now known about the FY2015 Eligible Services List.
This document is meant to be used as a quick summary and should not be considered all-inclusive.
The FCC Form 471 application filing window for Funding Year 2015 *will open at noon EST on Wednesday, January 14, 2015 and will close at 11:59 pm EDT on Thursday, March 26, 2015*. The filing window will be open for 72 days.
You must wait 28 days after the FCC Form 470 is POSTED to the USAC website before you can select a service provider, sign a contract (if applicable), and submit an FCC Form 471. If you issue an RFP after the FCC Form 470 is posted, you must wait 28 days from the release of the RFP to
USAC will be offering a series of webinars throughout December and January on Funding Year 2015 topics. If you are interested in registering for any particular topic, click on the appropriate link below. You must register for each webinar individually:
*Register here:* FCC Form 470 Demo <https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1049844> Tuesday, December 9, 2014 3:00 PM EST
*Register here:* Eligible Services <https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1049944> Tuesday, December 16, 2014 3:00 PM EST
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Tonight, at 7:00 PM EST, USAC will take down the FY2014 version of the online FCC Form 470 and put up a maintenance page. USAC will then put up the FY2015 version of the online form for immediate use.
If you have started an FY2014 FCC Form 470 online and you do not complete it by 7:00 PM EST tonight, you must start over using the FY2015 version of the form.
So if we typically had 80% discount it will go to 60%, 40% etc…?
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Wednesday, October 29, 2014 9:50 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate FY2015 Eligible Services List
Yes, but at reduced funding. It is being phased out so that each year 20% points are removed until you are at 0.
Hi Anne – so POTS made it through for another year?
d
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Wednesday, October 29, 2014 9:26 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate FY2015 Eligible Services List
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2015 has been released. There are no substantive changes from the draft version, but a few clarifications have been made.
The Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2015 has been released. There are no substantive changes from the draft version, but a few clarifications have been made.
An appendix has been added notating equipment and services that were eligible for support in FY2014 but that are no longer eligible for FY2015. Items that were previously ineligible and remain ineligible are not listed in the appendix.
As long as you only receive E-Rate through Networkmaine and do not apply for any E-Rate reimbursements separately directly with USAC, then it is correct that you do not need to complete the BEAR form.
Last year you said we did not have to fill out this form and I assume we don't have to this year, but to be on the safe side I thought I better check in with you.
Thank you very much,
Deb
Deborah Barrows Director of Technology Integration and Innovation A. R. Gould School Long Creek Youth Development Center 675 Westbrook St. So. Portland, ME 04106
The deadline for filing and having your service provider certify any Form 472 BEARs for FY2013-2014 is October 28, 2014.
As previously discussed, USAC used to grant an extension unasked, but under the new E-Rate Modernization rules you must now ask for one. A single 120 day extension will be automatically granted *only* *upon request on or before the invoice deadline*.
Again, thanks – we will pick a day in Oct.. probably today and I will request info from the sending schools …
Make it a great day! d
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Tuesday, October 07, 2014 12:22 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] ADM - FY2015 Networkmaine E-Rate
Since you are doing NSLP reporting it is just the enrollment on a snapshot day. October is preferable since it aligns with the DOE free and reduced lunch report, but as long as it is this school year the date is ok.
Good to know –- does the date we survey have to fall in that range or can it be from earlier in the month or current school year?
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Tuesday, October 07, 2014 12:12 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] ADM - FY2015 Networkmaine E-Rate
Hi Anne, I have put the enrollment forms in the mail today. I would like to mark my calendar with the window, or deadline for the ADM so that I can stay on top of requesting data from the sending schools.
Thanks,
d
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Monday, October 06, 2014 7:36 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] FY2015 Networkmaine E-Rate Enrollment Window Now Open
The Networkmaine E-Rate enrollment window will be open from *Monday, October 6th through Friday, October 17th*.
Enrollment can be accessed at: *https://enroll.networkmaine.net/ <https://enroll.networkmaine.net/>*
Each school district, independent school, and library that is a member of the Networkmaine consortium must complete enrollment to be considered eligible to receive E-Rate funded services arranged by Networkmaine for Funding Year 2015.
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Wednesday, October 01, 2014 1:29 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] Networkmaine FY2015 Pre-Enrollment and Enrollment Windows
Enrollment Window: 10/6/14 - 10/17/14
Pre-Enrollment Window: 10/20/14 - 11/7/14
This year we will be structuring the pre-enrollment and enrollment windows differently than in the past. Networkmaine needs to release RFPs for Internet and transport services and file a Form 470 for Funding Year 2015. In order to do so, we need signed Letters of Agency (LOAs) from our consortium
This year we will be structuring the pre-enrollment and enrollment windows differently than in the past. Networkmaine needs to release RFPs for Internet and transport services and file a Form 470 for Funding Year 2015. In order to do so, we need signed Letters of Agency (LOAs) from our consortium members. LOAs give Networkmaine the authority to procure services and file consortium E-Rate paperwork on behalf of its members. To ensure that we have sufficient time to conduct the RFP process, we will be opening the enrollment window next week
File any outstanding BEARs to request reimbursement for 2013-2014 products and services. (deadline October 28, 2014)
Under the new Modernization Order, applicants may request, and USAC will automatically grant, a one-time 120-day extension of the invoicing deadline which would move that deadline to February 25, 2015. You must ask for the extension prior to the deadline.
Look for more information in the months ahead. Note that everything is subject to change as the FCC clarifies the order and USAC provides guidance on the implementation of the changes
*** Note that the below information only applies to entities that filed a Form 471 for FY14. If you only participate in E-Rate as a member of the Networkmaine Consortium and do not file for any additional E-Rate funding, then you do not need to complete this step. ***
Today is July 1, 2014 which marks the first day of the 2014-2015 E-Rate funding year.
USAC will release Funding Commitment Decision Letters for the first Funding Wave of FY14 today. If you are part of this wave, your next tasks are: - review the FCDL for funding decisions and any adjustments that might have been made to the original funding request - make a note of the date of FCDL so you are aware of the deadline for filing a Form 486 to indicate start of services (120 days from the date of the FCDL or 120 days after services start, whichever is later)
Now that your Form 471 is filed and certified and your Item 21 Attachment has been submitted, you can follow the steps below as you are awaiting a funding decision.
For more information, check out the "Keeping on Track" section on the Networkmaine E-Rate web site: http://www.networkmaine.net/erate/track/track.htm
*Next steps*
1. Review the Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgement Letter (RAL)
There is just one week left to file a Form 471 for E-Rate funding for FY14-15. The filing window closes next Wednesday, March 26 at 11:59 PM EDT. Both the Form 471 and the associated Item 21 Attachment are due by the close of the window.
Remember, this is only for those of you who request E-Rate funding directly from USAC for eligible products and services beyond the Internet and transport services for which Networkmaine files a consortium application.
The Form 471 that is to be used for E-Rate applications for FY2014 includes a new Item 24. This item replaces the old Block 2.
If you are completing a paper version of the Form 471, make sure that the version of the form you are using displays "FCC Form 471 - December 2013" in the footer.
I hope you are having a good day. I'm assuming if we (A. R. Gould School - Long Creek Youth Development Center) didn't have to fill out Form 470 as you state below, we don't have to fill out Form 471.
Would you please let me know?
Thanks again,
Deb
Replied on 2/14/2014 1:36 PM. It looks like you do not typically file for any E-Rate other than the Internet and transport services arranged by Networkmaine. If this is the case, then you do not need to file a Form 470. Anne Perloff
*The FY2014 filing window for the Form 471 closes at 11:59 PM EDT on March 26, 2014.*
All forms and associated Item 21 attachments must either be filed online or received via mail by the close of the window.
Make sure that you are using the revised Form 471, either by filing it online using the 'Create Form 471' tool available on the "Apply Online" page on the USAC website (http://ext.sl.universalservice.org/menu.asp) or by printing out a copy from the USAC website ( http://www.usac.org/sl/tools/forms/default.aspx) if you are choosing to file on paper. Do not use any old paper versions of the
It looks like you do not typically file for any E-Rate other than the Internet and transport services arranged by Networkmaine. If this is the case, then you do not need to file a Form 470.
Good Morning Anne - did you mean to put "471" in the second sentence?
From: Networkmaine ERate Q and A [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Perloff Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2014 7:54 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [NETWORKMAINE-ERATE] E-Rate Form 470 Deadlines
There is just one week left to submit a paper version of the Form 470. Any Form 471 paper version must be received by USAC by February 19. If you are filing on paper, you will need to mail it as soon as possible in order for it to arrive by the deadline.
There is just one week left to submit a paper version of the Form 470. *Any Form 471 paper version must be received by USAC by February 19*. If you are filing on paper, you will need to mail it as soon as possible in order for it to arrive by the deadline.
If you need to file a Form 470 this year (if you apply for E-Rate not arranged through Networkmaine, and you have an expiring contract or want to request E-Rate for new services), the deadline is fast approaching.
You must post a Form 470 for every service for which you are seeking E-Rate discounts except for services for which you have a multi-year contract that will not expire until after June 30, 2015.
The Form 471 window is now officially open. The Form 471 filing window is 12 Noon EST January 9, 2014 - 11:59 PM EDT March 26, 2014.
If you only apply for E-Rate funding through Networkmaine (not directly with USAC): This filing window does not apply to you as Networkmaine will file a Form 471 for Internet and transport services for its consortium members. Note that Networkmaine is currently holding its own enrollment process for these consortium services. Networkmaine E-Rate enrollment paperwork is due by January 17th.
The window to file a FY2014 Form 471 to apply for E-Rate discounts on eligible products and services for 2014-2015 opens at 12 Noon EST January 9, 2014 and closes at 11:59 pm EDT on Wednesday, March 26, 2014. This makes for a 77 day filing window.
If you only apply for E-Rate funding through Networkmaine (not directly with USAC), these dates do not apply to you as Networkmaine will file a Form 471 for Internet and transport services for its consortium members.
If you file for E-Rate other than what is filed on your behalf by the Networkmaine consortium, be aware of the following two E-Rate deadlines this month.
*October 28, 2013: * Deadline to file any BEARs for reimbursements on 2012-2013 products and services
*October 29, 2013:* Deadline to file a Form 486 to indicate start of 2013-2014 services for any Form 471s with a Funding Commitment Decision Letter dated July 1 or earlier (otherwise the deadline is 120 days after the date of the FCDL)
E-Rate typically means thinking about three years at a time. More information is available at the Networkmaine E-Rate web site ( www.networkmaine.net/erate/).
1. FY2012-2013 wrap-up
File any outstanding BEARs to request reimbursement for 2012-2013 products and services. (deadline October 28, 2013)
2. Current FY2013-2014
If you have received a FCDL:
- You will need to file a Form 486 to indicate the start of 2013-2014 services. The deadline for this is 120 days after the start of services or the date of the FDCL, whichever is later. (deadline October 29, 2013 if your FCDL is dated prior to July 1)
In order to request and receive E-Rate reimbursements for the 2013-2014 funding year, you will need to file a Form 486. Some of you can do this on July 1 (if you have already received a funding commitment decision letter as part of one of the early funding waves and services start on July 1) and others will be able to soon (once you have received a funding commitment decision letter and services have started).
USAC announced funding waves 001 and 002 for FY2013 on May 29, 2013.
*What Is a Funding Wave?*
USAC announces funding for Form 471s in waves. Early funding waves are generally for Priority 1 services only (telecommunications services and Internet access). A wave of letters will be mailed every week. As each wave is sent, USAC will announce its size and post state-by-state information on their web site.
If your school or library filed a Form 471 requesting any Priority 2 E-Rate funding for FY 2013, be sure that you have a technology plan that covers the services included in your Form 471(s) and that the plan covers the full Funding Year 2013 (July 1, 2013 - June 30, 2014).
Note that approved technology plans are required by State statute as well as for Priority 2 E-Rate funding. If you do not file for any E-Rate funding other than what is requested on your behalf as a member of the Networkmaine consortium or if you only file for
A lot is involved with filing for E-Rate funding, and unfortunately, it doesn't stop with a certified Form 471. I will update the Networkmaine E-Rate web site and post to this list throughout the year with suggestions for how you can keep on track.
Just after the Form 471 filing window closed, I offered some steps you could (and should) follow. One of these steps was to get ready for the review of your application.
Now that you have filed and certified your Form 471, these are the next steps.
1. Review the Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgement Letter (RAL)
USAC will issue an FCC Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgment Letter (RAL) for each form that you filed and certified. Read this letter carefully as it repeats much of the information featured on the form that you filed. If you discover any ministerial or clerical errors, you can correct them by providing the corrected information on the RAL and submitting it to USAC.
