Latest News: E-Rate

USAC has announced a new requirement for Universal Service Fund (USF) invoicing that directly affects all E-Rate applicants and service providers using the Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement (BEAR) method. Beginning in August 2026, USF payments will be issued using the banking information stored in SAM.gov, not the banking data currently on file in USAC’s legacy systems. To avoid delays or interruptions in BEAR reimbursements,

The June 1, 2026, streamlined Public Notice shows the Bureau mostly applying existing precedent on deadlines and documentation, while granting targeted relief where applicants showed special circumstances (illness, USAC error, prior red-light issues now cleared) and reinforcing a very strict view of timeliness in the Cybersecurity Pilot and ECF programs. Schools and Libraries (E‑Rate) The Bureau disposes of a large volume of E‑Rate requests,

On June 4, 2026, the FCC released an NPRM and FNPRM that asks broad questions about how the E-Rate program should evolve, but it does not propose eliminating the program. The proceeding is centered on educational use, student screen time and online safety, CIPA interpretation, consultant oversight, and several administrative updates. What the FCC Is Questioning – Has E-Rate Achieved Its Original Mission? The FCC notes

FY2024 Non-Recurring Services Invoice Deadline Approaching The final invoicing deadline for most FY2024 non-recurring service FRNs is quickly approaching. Applicants and service providers should ensure that all BEAR (FCC Form 472) and SPI (FCC Form 474) invoices are submitted and certified on time. For FY2024 non-recurring FRNs that received an approved invoice deadline extension, the final date to submit invoices to USAC is May 28,

The FCC has launched an investigation into potential E-Rate fraud involving three educational institutions in Minnesota and has issued formal Letters of Inquiry requesting detailed information about the possible misuse of E-Rate funding. What the FCC Announced FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the Commission is examining potential fraud and abuse involving federal E-Rate subsidies in Minnesota, stressing the importance of safeguarding the billions

The FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau has issued a significant reminder for schools and libraries participating in the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF): failure to respond to audit requests can result in recovery of funding, even when the applicant later attempts to submit documentation on appeal.​ In DA 26-472, released May 12, 2026, the Bureau denied a request for review and waiver filed by Colegio Paraiso Infantil