Latest E-Rate News

Schools and Libraries News Brief

Posted: 9.3.2010

Funding Year 2010. USAC will release FY2010 Wave 16 Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs) September 8. This wave will include commitments for approved Priority 2 (Internal Connections and Basic Maintenance) requests at 90%. As of September 3, FY2010 commitments total over $1.16 billion.

USAC Announces Payment Quality Assurance Program (PQA)

Posted: 8.30.2010

Program Will Measure Accuracy of E-rate Payments

Federal law requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to identify and estimate improper payments in programs administered by federal agencies, including universal service programs such as E-rate. Improper payments occur when federal funds go to the wrong recipient, the recipient receives the incorrect amount of funds, documentation is not available to support a payment, or the recipient uses the funds in an improper manner. For the past few years, the FCC's Office of Inspector General has supervised audits to comply with the requirements of the law, known as the Improper Payments and Information Act (IPIA).

Consulting Services and Fees

We believe that success with the E-Rate Application process begins with thoughtful planning before the first application is filed. We take care to ensure the foundation of the process is sound before moving forward.

E-Rate Advantage charges one comprehensive fee that includes the services necessary to plan, approve and secure your E-Rate funds. These services include:

Application Planning

Review of prior years applications.
Assisting with the creation of the school’s technology plan.
Review of the school’s CIPA compliance and internet safety policies and training.

Application Filing and Program Compliance

Assist the school in determining their program needs.
Review discount numbers to insure compliance with program rules.
Filing the schools 470 and 471 applications
Serve as the single point of contact with USAC for all Program reviews – PIA reviews, Selective Reviews, Program Compliance Reviews, Tech Plan Reviews and Audits.
Interact with SLD on all application approval issues.

Post Approval Services

Filing 486 to certify service start date.
Assisting school with discount and reimbursement process
Serve as the point of contact for audits and post approval reviews.

In short, we provide the comprehensive services necessary to secure your E-Rate funds.