E-Rate Service Provider Process
The E-Rate program provides discounts on eligible data transmission services, internet access services, internal connections, managed internal broadband services, and basic maintenance on internal connections for eligible schools and libraries.
To learn more about the program and the sequence of program requirements, please review the description of the E-Rate program and the application process flow chart.
You should also:
Review Your Services and Equipment for Eligibility
E-Rate program discounts include many internet access and data transmission services as well as certain equipment that allows access to these services.
Review USAC’s Eligible Services Overview and the FCC’s Eligible Services List (ESL) for the appropriate funding year, as service and equipment eligibility can change from year to year. Some services and equipment can be partially or conditionally eligible for discounts, in which case the ineligible portion would need to be cost allocated.
Applicants that have signed contracts with state agencies to purchase eligible services should check with the appropriate agencies to see what they must do to apply for universal service support through a state master contract.
Understand Applicant Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for discounts, which range from 20 to 90 percent of the actual cost of the eligible equipment and services, applicants must meet the program definition of a school or a library. Discounts are based on the category of service requested (i.e., Category One or Category Two), the community’s level of poverty, and the urban/rural status of the population served.
Eligible schools and libraries, or groups like state networks or regional library service systems, can apply together for E-Rate funding as consortia.
Certain school and library buildings (i.e., non-instructional facilities (NIFs)), non-traditional elementary and secondary education entities (i.e., juvenile justice entities, adult education, pre-kindergarten, Head Start), and Educational Service Agencies may also be eligible for discounts.
Create an Account in the E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC)
As a service provider, you must have an account in EPC to file program forms, receive notifications, and conduct other program activities. Within EPC, you must have an account administrator who manages your account and grants rights to other users.
If you do not have an account in EPC or need assistance assigning an account administrator, call the E-Rate Customer Service Center (CSC) at (888) 203-8100.
Learn How to Participate as a Service Provider
Step 1: Obtain a 498 ID/SPIN
Complete the FCC Form 498 to provide USAC with information about your company and receive a 498 ID, also known as a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN).
Step 2: Respond to Applicant Bid Requests
Review applicants’ posted FCC Form 470 and respond to their requests for service.
Step 3: Sign Service Agreement(s) with Applicant
If you are selected as the applicant’s most cost-effective solution, you must sign a contract or other legally binding agreement with them.
Step 4: Start Services
After the applicant’s funding request is approved, USAC sends a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL). Carefully review this information for accuracy. In general, discounted services for a particular funding year can begin July 1 of that year.
Step 5: Invoice USAC
Applicants can choose between two methods of invoicing: the FCC Form 472, (also known as the Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement (BEAR) form), or the FCC Form 474 (also known as the Service Provider Invoicing (SPI) form). Talk to your applicant about this before starting services.