The FCC’s E-Rate program, formally known as the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Program, makes telecommunications and information services more affordable for schools and libraries, including Tribal libraries. With funding from the Universal Service Fund, E-Rate provides discounts for telecommunications, Internet accessAccess is the method or facility used to enter the LEC or network is the access. There are two types of access services; switched access, and special access., and internal connections to eligible schools and libraries.

What is USF?

The Universal Service Fund was created to implement the principle established by the Communications Act of 1934 that all people in the United States have access to rapid, efficient, nationwide communication service with adequate facilities at reasonable charges. The Universal Service Fund is paid for by contributions from providers of telecommunications based on an assessment of their end-user revenues. E-Rate is one of the four programs through which the FCC provides universal service support.

What is USAC?

The Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) administers the four universal service programs, including E-Rate, and is financed through the Universal Service Fund under the direction of the FCC. The FCC retains responsibility for overseeing the program’s operations and ensuring compliance with is rules, while USAC administers E-Rate and is responsible for managing the program’s day-to-day operations.

What is EPC?

The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is the account and application management portal for the E-Rate program. E-Rate program participants use this tool to file forms, manage program processes, receive notifications, and contact customer service.

What is WCB?

The Wireline Competition Bureau is a bureau of the Federal Communications Commission that works to ensure that all Americans have access to robust, affordable broadbandBroadband is a term associated with high-speed data transfer (internet access). In consumer access networks, broadband often refers to data transmission rates of 1 Mbps (megabits per second) or higher. When referring to LANs, MANs, or WANs broadband data transmission rates are 45 Mbps or higher. 2-r... and voice services. The Wireline Competition Bureau oversees the universal service programs, including the E-Rate program.

What services are covered under Category 1Services cover Broadband Connectivity and Internet Access services. Voice services have been completely phased out of eligibility. and Category 2Services are Internal Broadband Connections (Wi-Fi) and Basic Maintenance of those connections. Equipment and services related to delivery of Wi-Fi are covered under this category. NO voice equipment is covered starting in funding year 2015. funding?

Broadband Connectivity

• • Data transmission Services and Internet Access
  • MPLS, Ethernet, Fiber, SD WAN, Fixed Wireless
  • Voice Services are ineligible for E-Rate funding (OS, VOIP, UCaaS)
  • DyIP is eligible as a data service since no portion of the circuit is dedicated to voice.

Wi-Fi within Buildings

• • Broadband Internal Connections
  • Wi-Fi Equipment and Managed Wi-Fi
  • Basic Maintenance of Broadband Internal Connections
  • Maintenance and technical support for eligible Wi-Fi networks.

Who do I contact for help?

E-Rate program participants can receive assistance with program questions, problems, and system issues by calling USAC’s E-Rate Customer Service Center at (888) 203-8100 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

 

1. 1. Customer completes Form 470The Description of Service Requested and Certification. This form opens the competitive bidding process for services listed on the form or in an RFP. It is important to note that Form 470 MUST be posted on the USAC site for 28 days before signing a contract with a provider. to officially open the 28 day bidding window
   2. Customer completes Form 471Describes the Services Ordered and Certification. This form serves as the official request for discounts on eligible services. at the end of 28 days to declare a winner – this is the formal request for funding.
   3. Allowable Contract Date(ACD) is the first date a contract may be executed. It is 28 days after the filing of the 470, and is therefore unique to each form 470. The ACD can be found at the top of the form 470. (ACDACD is also known as Automatic Call Distribution. A system that automatically distributes incoming telephone calls to specific telephone sets based on the characteristics of the call. However, these characteristics can include an incoming phone number or options selected by a caller using an interac...) is the first date a contract can be executed which is 28 days after submitting Form 470

Forms

• • Form 470 is the Description of Service Requested and Certification. This form opens the competitive bidding process for services listed on the form or in an RFP. It is important to note that Form 470 MUST be posted on the USAC site for 28 days before signing a contract with a provider.
  • Form 471 describes the Services Ordered and Certification. This form serves as the official request for discounts on eligible services.
  • Form 486The Receipt of Service Confirmation, is filed by the Applicant to notify USAC that service has been installed as requested by the Applicant. Basically, it's the Applicant’s statement that they received what they ordered from the provider and it's functioning as it should. USAC verifies Form 486 an... or the Receipt of Service Confirmation, is filed by the Applicant to notify USAC that service has been installed as requested by the Applicant. Basically, it’s the Applicant’s statement that they received what they ordered from the provider and it’s functioning as it should. USAC verifies Form 486 and moves forward with paying invoices that are received.

 

Why Windstream?

• • One of the Nation’s largest E-Rate service providers
  • Proven track record helping Schools and Libraries
  • ILEC and CLEC markets
  • Experienced Account Reps
  • Over 1200 E-Rate Customers
  • Expect your proposal after the Form 470 posting and a contract to sign on or after the allowable contract date.

School Benefits

• • Schools may see improved test scores by facilitating Internet-based learning applications.
  • Schools are able to communicate more effectively with parents regarding student assignments, grades and event updates.
  • Schools will connect with administrative offices more efficiently.
  • Schools can upgrade to next-generation services that were previously unaffordable. Schools can more effectively guard  confidential  student information, records and more!

Library Benefits

• • Libraries see increased membership by providing high-speed Internet access. Libraries will be able to create or enhance online  card catalogs or reference tools  .
  • Libraries can enhance inter-library loan programs with lending partners.
  • Libraries are able to more quickly communicate with members regarding overdue notices, reminders, library-sponsored events & programs, book availability and more!