Do you want to request E-Rate funding for any FY2023 (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024) eligible products and services not provided by Networkmaine? If so, then YES!

Question: Have you posted an FY2023 Form 470?

• If no, then DO THAT FIRST! And file it SOON! The last day to file an FY2023 Form 470 is February 28, 2023.
• If yes BUT the 28 day competitive bidding waiting period has NOT elapsed (28 days from the date you posted a Form 470 or uploaded an RFP or an RFP amendment, whichever is later), then SIT TIGHT! Wait the 28 days before signing a contract and filing your FY2023 Form 471.  
• If yes AND if the 28 day competitive bidding waiting period HAS elapsed AND you have signed your contract, then YES! You can log into EPC now and get the ball rolling on your Form 471. 
• Suggestion: Enter your contract into the Contracts Module before beginning your Form 471. If your FY2023 Form 471 includes a contracted service (which is required for most applications), the form must refer to a contract that has been entered and saved in the Contracts Module and it is easier to complete this step before beginning your form. Instructions for creating a contract record in EPC are attached.

Question: Is this Form 471 a funding request that is part of an ongoing multi-year contract signed as a result of a Form 470 competitively bid in a prior funding year?  

• If yes, then YES! No new Form 470 is required for these services as long as the existing E-Rate vetted contract runs at least through June 30, 2024. You can log into EPC now and file your Form 471.  
• If no (you have a contract but there was never a Form 470 posted for it), then NO! All Form 471 funding requests must be for products and services that were included on a Form 470 and competitively bid according to E-Rate rules.

Due to file size, I will be sending separate emails with Category 1 and Category 2 step-by-step guides for filing a Form 471.

The Contracts Module guide is attached to this email.

The Networkmaine E-Rate Resources website (http://erate.networkmaine.net/) also has these guides as well as additional guides and guidance of various types.

Feel free to call or email me with any questions.