Latest News: E-Rate

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

On May 11, 2026, the FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau released Public Notice DA 26-460 directing USAC to fully fund all eligible Category One and Category Two E‑Rate requests for Funding Year 2026 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). USAC’s total FY 2026 demand estimate is $3.515 billion ($1.701 billion for Category One and $1.814 billion for Category Two), which is well below the E‑Rate funding

The FY2026 E-Rate filing window closed on April 1, 2026, with schools and libraries nationwide requesting a record $3.51 billion in funding. On May 1, 2026, USAC released Wave 1 Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs), issuing commitments to 12,977 applicants—representing more than 60% of all filers—and approving just over $1 billion in discounts. Released approximately one month after the close of the filing window,