E-Rate Application Process

The application process has several steps to follow and forms to complete in order to successfully apply for and receive E-Rate discounts. These steps include:

• preparing a technology plan
• opening the competitive process
• seeking discounts on eligible services
• confirming the receipt of services
• invoicing for services

The application process has three separate forms and steps:

1)  Notification:

• An application form (Form 470) is required .  This contain information about the types of eligible services you wish to purchase under the discount plan.
• This will become an RFP, a request for proposals from service providers.
• This RFP must remain on the website for 28 days before contracts may be signed for specific services.

2) Commitment of Funds:

• After you contract with such providers, you will submit a form (Form 471) notifying the Universal Service Fund of the services you will be purchasing and the amount of discount you will be requesting.
  
• The amount of discount on all eligible services is determined by the number of students in the school who are/would be eligible to receive free and reduced price school lunch

3)  Payment:

• Once you begin receiving services, an additional form (Form 486) must be submitted which will authorize the USF (Universal Service Fund) to pay the providers the discounted portion of the bill.
• The technology plan will have to be approved before you can file this form.

Each of the steps in the application process is covered in more detail in the instructions and the guidance materials posted on the USAC web site.  Click here to access that site.