August 20, 2026
New E-Rate Post Commitment Deadline Tool Available
USAC has created a new E-Rate Post Commitment Deadline Tool so that applicants and service providers can better track critical post-commitment deadlines applicable to the E-Rate program. Specifically, the tool allows users to track invoicing deadlines, FCC Form 473 (Service Provider Annual Certification, or SPAC) status, and the FCC Form 486 status in a unified interface to ensure applicants and service providers have visibility into the final stages of the funding lifecycle.
The tool displays remaining invoice balances alongside filing deadlines, so applicants do not miss out on committed funding due to a missed deadline. Users can see if an unapproved FCC Form 473/SPAC or a pending FCC Form 486 is holding up an invoice. For state coordinators or large consulting groups managing hundreds of Billed Entity Numbers (BENs), the tool can aggregate large datasets, allowing coordinators to identify statewide compliance trends or pinpoint systemic vendor delays in filing annual certifications.
August 20, 2026
Requesting E-Rate Service Delivery Deadline Extensions for FY2025 Non-Recurring Services (Other Than Special Construction)
The E-Rate deadline for delivery and installation of non-recurring services (e.g., installations, equipment) is September 30 following the close of the funding year. For FY2025, the deadline for non-recurring services, other than special construction, is Wednesday, September 30, 2026 (the deadline for FY2025 special construction requests was June 30, 2026, the end of the funding year).
This service delivery deadline (SDD) can be extended for up to one year under certain circumstances, through a timely filed extension request. In some cases, the extension will be automatically made based on the Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) date or the revised FCDL (RFCDL) date.
August 20, 2026
Category Two Budgets
The Category Two Budgets webinar will be on October 1, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET. In this applicant-focused presentation, USAC will provide an overview of C2 budgets and C2 budget guidance for the FY2026-2030 C2 budget cycle. After the presentation, we will conduct a Q&A session (remember to submit any questions when you register). This webinar is intended for program participants of all experience levels. Register
August 20, 2026
SAM.gov Transition Delayed
USAC postponed the transition to SAM.gov banking information for paying E-Rate invoices (FCC Form 472/BEAR and FCC Form 474/SPI) to perform additional testing and validation for a smooth stakeholder transition. Once a new transition date is determined, USAC will share that information. August invoices will continue to be paid using USAC’s current process and the banking information included on the FCC Form 498. To prepare for the coming transition, visit USAC’s SAM.gov UEI Requirement webpage.
