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Below are current news announcements relevant to the Universal Service Administrative Company. You can access previous announcements by clicking on a year in the news archive.


5/20/2013 – Special Edition News Brief – First Funding Wave for FY2013
A Special Edition of the Schools and Libraries News Brief is now available, announcing the first funding wave for FY2013. Subscribe to the News Brief to receive it each week in your inbox.
5/17/2013 – Application Outage Due to Scheduled System Maintenance: Saturday, May 18
The Rural Health Care Program My Portal will be unavailable Saturday, May 18, 2013, from 9:00 AM through 6:00 PM EDT due to scheduled maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.
5/17/2013 – News Brief Issued
This week's Schools and Libraries News Brief is now available. Receive E-rate tips, deadline reminders, and answers to your questions in this weekly newsletter. Subscribe to it and receive it each week in your inbox.
5/16/2013 – FCC Issues Public Notice on Carry-forward of Unused Funds
On May 16, the FCC issued Public Notice DA 13-1119 to carry forward $450 million in unused funds to ensure funding is available for all eligible Priority 1 funding requests for FY2013.
5/15/2013 – Scheduled Systems Maintenance: 8:30 - 11:59 PM EDT Friday, May 17
The Apply Online page, including Submit a Question, online forms, and most search tools will be unavailable Friday, May 17 from 8:30 PM through 11:59 PM EDT for scheduled system maintenance.

During this time, users may be unable to file, certify, and search for certain forms online.
5/6/2013 – HCF Bulletin Issued
The HCF Bulletin provides bi-weekly updates as news unfolds for the Healthcare Connect Fund. Sign up in the subscription center to receive the HCF Bulletin via email every two weeks.

This issue contained:

  • HCF Search Posted Services Coming Soon - The Healthcare Connect Fund Search Posted Services page will soon be available on our website. This page allows service providers to view service request information provided by consortia of healthcare providers.
  • Contact the RHC Program About the HCF - The RHC Program has dedicated an email address, RHC-assist@usac.org, and phone number, (800) 453-1546, for questions and comments regarding the HCF.
5/2/2013 – Registration Open for Fall Applicant Trainings
This fall, join USAC for an all-day training focused on applicants who participate in the Schools and Libraries (E-rate) Program. The training will cover general E-rate topics for applicants. Register Today!
4/29/2013 – Mobility Fund Phase I Announcements
On April 25, 2013, the FCC issued a Public Notice regarding Mobility Fund Phase 1 Support, Auction 901. The first authorized bids are found in Attachment A and defaulted bids are in Attachment B.
 
Instructions for companies ready to be authorized were also released on April 25, 2013. The list of these companies is Attachment A.
4/24/2013 – List of FY2013 FRNs Missing Item 21 Attachments Now Available
The list of FRNs contains a list of all FY2013 Funding Request Numbers (FRNs) in the USAC database that we believe are missing Item 21 attachments. This list is in alphabetical order by state. The first tab is A-F, the second is G-K, the third is L-P, and the fourth is R-Z.

Find your FRN and follow the instructions below.

Your FRN will be on this list if:
  1. You did not file an Item 21 attachment and should have filed one.
  2. You started an Item 21 attachment online but did not submit it by April 17, 2013. (Clicking the “Save and Exit” button does not submit your attachment.)
  3. You submitted an Item 21 attachment by email, fax, or on paper, but you did not correctly identify the FRN, the FCC Form 471 application number, or both in time for USAC to log it by March 28, 2013.
  4. Your Item 21 attachment and the Item 21 Attachment Urgent Reminder Letter crossed in the mail.
You must submit an Item 21 attachment for each of your FRNs on or before May 15, 2013. FRNs that are missing Item 21 attachments or have Item 21 attachments submitted after May 15 will be denied for being out-of-window.

If you believe you have submitted an Item 21 attachment online, go to the Item 21 attachment web page; enter your Billed Entity Number, FCC Form 471 application number, and security code; and click Continue. If an FRN shows any status other than “submitted online,” click the status, complete your attachment, and click the “submit” button. This action will complete the process and submit your attachment.

If you believe you have submitted an Item 21 attachment by email, fax, or paper, first review your copy of the submission for accuracy. You can then call the Client Service Bureau (CSB) at (888) 203-8100 to check the status of your submission. Be sure to have your FCC Form 471 application number, the method of submission (email, fax, or paper) and the date of submission.

If we still do not have your Item 21 attachment, you will need to resubmit it.
4/22/2013 – Deadline for FY2013 FCC Form 471 Certifications and Item 21 Attachments Extended to May 15
USAC will issue two sets of letters later this week – one to applicants that filed an FCC Form 471 online before the close of the filing window but did not complete the certification process, the other to remind applicants to submit their Item 21 attachments. Both sets of letters will be issued on Thursday, April 25; appropriate actions must be taken on or before Wednesday, May 15.

If you do not certify your FCC Form 471 on or before May 15, it will be considered out-of-window. You can certify an FCC Form 471 online or on paper.

If you do not submit an Item 21 attachment on or before May 15, the Block 5 Funding Request Number (FRN) associated with that Item 21 attachment will be considered out-of-window. You can submit an Item 21 attachment online, by email, by fax, or by mail or delivery service.

Each letter is discussed in the April 19 News Brief.
4/22/2013 – USAC Provides Demand Estimate for Funding Year 2013 to FCC
On April 22, 2013, the Schools and Libraries Program of the USAC reported to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that $4.986 billion in requested funding has been estimated for schools and libraries seeking discounts for Funding Year 2013. This estimate is based on the dollars requested in 45,189 applications received or postmarked by March 14, 2013, the close of the FCC Form 471 application filing window.

There are several factors that will reduce ultimately the funds requested from the estimated level. First, while efforts have been made to eliminate duplicate requests, inevitably we will discover more duplication as we process these applications. Second, USAC's efforts to assure that funds are committed only for eligible services, for use by eligible entities with the appropriate discount rate, and are otherwise consistent with program rules, will further reduce the demand.

For detailed information, please refer to the FY2013 Demand Estimate.
4/19/2013 – Lifeline Program Accountability Database Construction Under Way
Building on measures that cut over $213 million from projected 2012 program disbursements, the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) will detect and prevent duplicative Lifeline support and enforce the Commission’s one-per-household limitation for Lifeline support to eligible consumers. Lifeline providers will use the NLAD to ensure that potential low-income consumers are not already receiving support from any other provider.

Read the full press release on the USAC website Press Releases page.
4/19/2013 – HCF Bulletin Issued
The HCF Bulletin provides bi-weekly updates as news unfolds for the Healthcare Connect Fund. Sign up in the subscription center to receive the HCF Bulletin via email every two weeks.

This issue contained:

  • HCF Search Posted Services Coming Soon - The Search Posted Services page allows service providers to view service request information provided by health care providers; it will be available on our website next week.
  • HCF Forms Comments Due April 29 - The FCC issued a Public Notice seeking comments on draft HCF forms. Use the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) to file comments. Refer to the ECFS Guide to learn how.
  • Register Now for RHC Training in Austin - The training session at ATA 2013, the American Telemedicine Association Meeting and Trade Show, is from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Sunday, May 5. Register Now!
  • Contact the RHC Program About the HCF - The RHC Program has dedicated an email address, RHC-assist@usac.org, and phone number, (800) 453-1546, for questions and comments regarding the HCF.
4/17/2013 – Website and Application Outages Saturday, April 20
The USAC website and applications including: E-File, Rural Health Care My Portal, Schools and Libraries Apply Online and Submit a Question, online forms, and most search tools, may experience periodic outages throughout the day on Saturday, April 20 for scheduled system maintenance. During this time, users may be unable to file, certify, and search for certain forms online.
4/17/2013 – Website and Application Outages starting 8:00 PM Friday, April 19 through 11:59 PM EDT Saturday, April 20
The Apply Online page, including Submit a Question, online forms, and most search tools will be unavailable from 8:00 PM Friday, April 19 through 11:59 PM EDT Saturday, April 20 for scheduled system maintenance. During this time, users may be unable to file, certify, and search for certain forms online.
4/12/2013 – Application Outage Due to Scheduled System Maintenance
The Rural Health Care My Portal system will be unavailable for Funding Years 2012/2013 on Friday, April 12 from 8:00 PM through 11:59 PM EDT due to scheduled system maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.
4/11/2013 – Draft FCC Form 481 Available to Carriers
USAC is releasing these proposed filing templates to facilitate carriers' preparation for meeting the information collection requirements for recipients of High Cost Program and/or Connect America Fund support associated with Section 54.313, as well as the reporting requirements for recipients of Lifeline Program support associated with Section 54.422.

While the proposed draft FCC Form 481 and instructions are pending OMB approval, carriers can utilize the draft Excel worksheet to collect the data required by the filing.

This version of the FCC Form 481 is a preliminary form which is subject to change in the OMB approval process. Further, only the final OMB approved version of the FCC Form 481 will be accepted on or before the July 1, 2013, filing deadline.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact USAC.
4/10/2013 – FCC Form 525 No Longer Required
Under previous High Cost Program support regulations, USAC received quarterly line count filings from carriers via the FCC Form 525. As of January 1, 2012, carriers are no longer required to file line counts (the FCC Form 525) due to FCC 11-161, effective December 29, 2011.

The only exception are CETCs subject to delayed phase downs in Alaska [54.307(e)(3)(i)] and Standing Rock Telecom. These carriers are still required to file line counts.
4/8/2013 – Telecom and Internet Access Programs FY2013 Window Now Open
Eligible health care providers (HCPs) in the Telecommunications and Internet Access Programs may begin the Rural Health Care (RHC) Program application process for Funding Year (FY) 2013 by filing FCC Form 465, Description of Services Requested and Certification Form, beginning today, April 8, 2013.

FY2013 is from July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014; FCC Forms 466 and 466-A will be available on July 1 at 9:00 AM EDT.
4/5/2013 – HCF Bulletin Issued
The HCF Bulletin provides bi-weekly updates as news unfolds for the Healthcare Connect Fund. Sign up in the subscription center to receive the HCF Bulletin via email every two weeks.

This issue contained:

4/4/2013 – FCC Seeking Comment on HCF Forms
The FCC has issued a Public Notice seeking comment on the newly created Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) forms. Comments are requested on the following forms and their accompanying instructions:
  • FCC Form 460, Eligibility and Registration Form: Completion of this form is required in order to obtain an eligibility determination for each health care provider site. (Form Instructions)
  • FCC Form 461, HCF Request for Services Form: Completion of this form initiates the competitive bidding process and provides potential vendors with information about requested services, network equipment, and/or facilities. (Form Instructions)
  • FCC Form 462, HCF Funding Request Form: This form is filed after the competitive bidding process is complete and is used to request a funding commitment. (Form Instructions)
  • FCC Form 463, HCF Invoice and Request for Disbursement Form: This form is the invoice that serves as an applicant’s request to USAC for disbursement of funding from the HCF for services, equipment, and/or facilities set forth in an applicant’s funding commitment. (Form Instructions)
Comments are due April 29, 2013, with reply comments due May 13, 2013. Both should reference WC Docket No. 02-60. Comments can be filed electronically using the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) using instructions from the ECFS guide. Additional details, including information about paper filings, can be found in the notice.
4/4/2013 – 2013 CAF ICC Filing Deadline Updated
The Federal Communications Commission released FCC Order DA 13-564, which updates the Connect America Fund ICC certification and support data filing deadline to July 2, 2013, for both price cap and rate of return carriers.

This date coincides with the annual interstate access tariff filing deadline established in FCC Order DA 13-553. The specific requirements for certification filings are outlined in C.F.R. 47 Section 51.915(f)(6) and Section 51.917(f)(3). The specific requirements for support data filings are outlined in C.F.R. 47 Sections 54.304(1) and (d)(1).
3/29/2013 – 2012 USAC Annual Report Now Available
USAC's 2012 Annual Report highlights USAC's responsiveness to change and initiative in improving administration of the universal service programs. Whether driven by external requirements or recognizing internal opportunities, USAC continues to transform itself to meet the needs of Americans.
3/28/2013 – RHC Training at ATA 2013 in Austin, TX, on May 5
Join the Rural Health Care (RHC) Program staff this spring at the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) Meeting and Trade Show for a training about the Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) and "My Portal," the RHC Program's online application management system. Learn More about this event.
3/26/2013 – HCLI News Issued
HCLI News now available.
3/22/2013 – HCF Bulletin Issued
The HCF Bulletin provides bi-weekly updates as news unfolds for the Healthcare Connect Fund.

In this issue:

  • Register Now for RHC Training in Austin - The Rural Health Care Program will hold a training session at ATA 2013, on Sunday, May 5.
  • RHC Offers Printable HCF Resources - Three new resources are available on the HCF Trainings & Outreach page: Getting Started in the Healthcare Connect Fund, The Three Components of the Rural Health Care Program, and Compare the RHC Program Components.
  • RHC to Exhibit in Minneapolis - RHC Program staff will give a presentation and participate as an exhibitor at the gpTRAC Regional Telehealth Forum in Minneapolis, Minn., April 15-16.
  • Contact the RHC Program About the HCF - RHC-assist@usac.org is the dedicated email address to answer your questions and receive comments about the HCF.
Sign up in the Subscription Center to receive the HCF Bulletin via email every two weeks.
3/20/2013 – Recording of USF Contributors Webcast Now Available
A recording of the webcast, "2013 Universal Service Fund Contributors," which was presented on Tuesday, March 19, 2013, is now available in the Online Learning Library.

The presentation slides are also available. If you have questions about FCC Forms 499-A, 499-Q, or USF contributions, please contact the Form 499 team.
3/15/2013 – FCC Announces Second Quarter 2013 Contribution Factor Decrease to 15.5 Percent
The Federal Communications Commission released a Public Notice announcing that the proposed universal service contribution factor for the second quarter (April-June) of 2013 will be 0.155 or 15.5 percent. (Docket No. CC 96-45 DA 13-422)
3/15/2013 – FY2013 Application Window Is Now Closed
The FY2013 application filing window for the FCC Form 471 closed at 11:59 PM EDT on Thursday, March 14, 2013.
3/13/2013 – USAC to Present Webcast About USF Contributions on March 19
FCC Form 499-A, the Annual Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet, is due April 1, 2013. Join USAC for a live webcast about updates to the form in 2013, and for more information about universal service fund (USF) contributions. The webcast will be presented by Fred Theobald, Senior Manager of USF Contributions.
3/9/2013 – Special Edition News Briefs - Tips for Last Minute Filers
Check in daily for quick tips and helpful hints on how to file your FCC Forms 471.

March 9, 2013 - Block 1 Reminders
March 10, 2013 - Block 2 Reminders
March 11, 2013 - Block 4 Reminders
March 12, 2013 - Block 5 Reminders
March 13, 2013 - Block 6 and Item 21 Reminders

If you would like to receive these filing tips via email, subscribe to the Schools and Libraries News Brief, a weekly email publication.
3/7/2013 – RHC Program Now Processing FY2012 Invoices
The Rural Health Care (RHC) Program began processing Funding Year (FY) 2012 invoices on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Service providers should submit FY2012 Funding Request Numbers (FRNs) on a separate invoice from FY2011 (and earlier) FRNs, using the new invoice template.

FY2012-approved invoice line items will be credited to each service provider identification number (SPIN) beginning on April 8, 2013. USAC will apply credits for FY2012 two times per month, similar to the current invoice payment cycle.

RHC will launch the online service provider portal in spring 2013 to allow service providers to submit invoices online. Additional information about the portal, including registration and training, will be announced in upcoming weeks.
3/7/2013 – HCF Bulletin Issued
The HCF Bulletin provides bi-weekly updates as news unfolds for the Healthcare Connect Fund.

In this issue:

Sign up in the Subscription Center to receive the HCF Bulletin via email every two weeks.

3/6/2013 – USAC's Washington, DC Office Closed, Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Due to inclement weather, USAC’s Washington, DC office is closed today, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Please note that the Schools and Libraries Client Service Bureau (CSB) will remain open.
3/5/2013 – FCC Seeks Comment on New Reporting Form
The FCC is seeking comment on the new information collection requirements for recipients of High Cost Program and/or Connect America Fund support associated with Section 54.313, as well as the reporting requirements for recipients of Lifeline Program support associated with Section 54.422.

The Transformation Order required that any carrier receiving High Cost Program support and/or Connect America Fund support must file certain information and certifications by July 1, 2013, including a five-year service quality improvement plan, pricing information for both voice and broadband offerings, and financial statements. The Commission will submit this information collection after the comment period to obtain the full, three-year clearance from the Office of Management and Budget, and approval for a new FCC Form 481, an annual reporting form for High Cost Program and Lifeline Program beneficiaries.

Carriers have until April 26, 2013, to comment to the FCC on this proposed reporting. Instructions on how to file comments can be found online.

The proposed draft FCC Form 481 and instructions, still pending OMB approval, and the OMB Notice have been posted for review.

On Tuesday, March 5, 2013, the FCC released a Clarification Order. In this order, the Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) clarifies and waives certain aspects of the reporting requirements for eligible telecommunications carriers relating to five-year build-out plans and broadband network testing. The WCB also clarifies and revises Section 54.313(a) of the Commission's rules accordingly.
3/5/2013 – Funding Year 2013 Window Opens April 8
Eligible health care providers (HCPs) may begin the Rural Health Care (RHC) Program application process for Funding Year (FY) 2013 by filing FCC Form 465, Description of Services Requested and Certification Form, beginning on Monday, April 8, 2013, at 9:00 AM EDT. FY2013 is from July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014.
3/5/2013 – FCC Form 499-A Due April 1
FCC rules require all providers of telecommunications, including universal service fund de minimis exempt companies, to file a Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet (FCC Form 499-A) and report revenue data for the period of January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2012.

Even if you are a de minimis exempt company, filing FCC Form 499-A after the due date or failing to file will result in late filing fees imposed by the universal service fund as well as each of the funds named below.

The universal service fund late filing fees are the greater of $100 per month or an amount computed using the U.S. prime rate (in effect on the date the applicable form is due) plus 3.5 percent of the filer's monthly obligation (FCC 07-150). Each of the funds named below can impose their own late filing fees based on their own billing practices.

If you have questions about FCC Form 499-A, contact us.
3/5/2013 – RHC Circuit 1Q 2013 Issued
RHC Circuit 1Q 2013 Issued
3/5/2013 – Application Outage Due to Scheduled System Maintenance
The Rural Health Care My Portal system will be unavailable for Funding Year 2012 on Tuesday, March 5 from 5:00 PM through 5:15 PM EST due to scheduled system maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.
3/4/2013 – Have a question? Call CSB this Weekend
The Client Service Bureau (CSB) is once again offering extended hours during the last week of the filing window. CSB is generally busiest on weekdays between 11:00 AM and 5:30 PM EST, so we suggest you call them at (888) 203-8100 before or after those times, or during this coming weekend.

Here is a list of CSB's extended hours for the FY2013 filing window:

Day

Date

Open

Close

Saturday

March 9

9:00 AM EST

6:00 PM EST

Sunday

March 10

9:00 AM EDT

6:00 PM EDT

Monday

March 11

8:00 AM EDT

8:00 PM EDT

Tuesday

March 12

8:00 AM EDT

8:00 PM EDT

Wednesday

March 13

8:00 AM EDT

8:00 PM EDT

Thursday

March 14

8:00 AM EDT

11:59 PM EDT


3/1/2013 – Healthcare Connect Fund Order Effective April 1
The Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) Order was published in the Federal Register today. This means that Part 54 of the FCC’s rules, as amended by Appendix D of the Order, will take effect April 1, 2013, thirty days after the Federal Register publication date. Potential applicants to the Healthcare Connect Fund are encouraged to review the new rules and begin assessing how to meet the new requirements.

The new forms and filing requirements set forth in the rules will not be effective until they are approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. RHC will send an email notification when the program forms are approved and available for use.

If you have questions about the Healthcare Connect Fund, contact RHC.
2/28/2013 – New Fax Number for FY2011 Supporting Documentation
Due to technical difficulties, we have transitioned to a new fax number where applicants should submit supporting documentation for Funding Year 2011. Our fax new number is: (973) 599-6518.

You should make note of the new number and discontinue using the old fax number, (973) 599-6514.

When sending a fax to RHC, include your name, phone number, and email address so that we can contact you to confirm receipt of the fax. If you do not receive confirmation of receipt within five business days, please contact the RHC Help Desk at (800) 229-5476.

If you sent a fax to the old number after December 15 and received a confirmation sheet, you may wish to confirm that USAC received it. If you did not receive a confirmation receipt, scan your documents and email them to RHC Admin or re-fax them to the new number, (973) 599-6518.
2/27/2013 – HCLI News Issued
HCLI News February Issued
2/22/2013 – "470 No 471" Email Notifications Issued
Today, USAC emailed each FCC Form 470 contact person or authorized person with a timely posted FCC Form 470 not cited on any FCC Form 471 Block 5 funding request (Item 12 on the form) as of February 15.

Of the over 27,000 forms that require FCC Forms 471, all but 800 received notification via email.

  • If the contact person email address appeared in Item 6e of the form, the email was sent to the contact person.
  • If the contact person email address was blank but the authorized person email address appeared in Item 27f of the form, the email was sent to the authorized person.
  • NOTE: If both email address fields were blank, USAC issued a letter – one per form – and sent the letters to the contact person street address (Item 6b of the form).

For each unique email address, this message contains all affected FCC Form 470 application numbers and entity numbers. We expect this improved format to prove more helpful and less confusing to applicants.

Each year, USAC sends a notification to applicants that have timely posted an FCC Form 470 to the USAC website but not yet filed an FCC Form 471 funding request citing that form.

2/19/2013 – Registration Now Open for Spring Service Provider Trainings
This spring, join USAC at a training session for service providers that participate in the Schools and Libraries (E-rate) Program. The training will cover general E-rate topics for service providers. The training sessions are complimentary and both present the same information.
2/19/2013 – IT Systems Modernization Project Seeking Comments by March 22
The Schools and Libraries Program is in the process of updating its current internal systems. The goal is to modernize Schools and Libraries information technology (IT) systems to improve operational efficiencies and to enhance the customer experience.

USAC is seeking comments from E-rate stakeholders and IT providers on this project. These comments will be used to shape the current vision. The complete Request for Comment is available for review.

Interested parties may file comments by March 22 and reply comments by April 12. All information submitted including names and addresses will be publicly available via the Comments page on the USAC website within two business days of submittal. USAC will post all comments verbatim, including any personal information provided.

Visit the Comments page to view any comments or reply comments submitted.
2/13/2013 – Subscribe to the HCF Bulletin Today
The HCF Bulletin is a new bi-weekly Rural Health Care (RHC) Program email publication that provides everything you need to know about the new Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF). By subscribing to this publication you will receive information about the HCF, resources for navigating new processes, information about conference calls and trainings, and much more. The RHC Program anticipates the first issue to be released in late February or early March. Subscribe now!
2/12/2013 – Application Outage Due to Scheduled System Maintenance
The Rural Health Care My Portal system will be unavailable Tuesday, February 12 from 5:00 PM through 5:15 PM EST due to scheduled system maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.
2/11/2013 – Application Outage Due to Scheduled System Maintenance
The Rural Health Care My Portal system will be unavailable Monday, February 11 from 5:00 PM through 5:15 PM EST due to scheduled system maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.
1/31/2013 – HCLI News Issued
January 2013
1/29/2013 – 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines Released
On January 24, 2013, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released their annual update to the federal poverty guidelines in the Federal Register (Vol. 78, No. 16, January 24, 2013, pp. 5182-5183). Since households at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines may be eligible for Lifeline support, USAC has created a chart that outlines 135% of the federal poverty guidelines for 2013. ETCs should use this chart to update any Lifeline eligibility materials containing the federal poverty guidelines for 2013.
1/28/2013 – FCC Form 470 Deadline is Thursday, February 14, 2013
February 14, 2013 is the last possible date to post an FCC Form 470 on USAC’s website, meet the 28-day posting requirement for the competitive bidding process, and submit your FCC Form 471 and Item 21 Attachment(s) on the March 14, 2013 filing window closing date.

If you are filing on paper, we will make every effort to post your form by February 14 if we receive it by February 7. Whether filing online or on paper, the applicant is responsible for meeting the 28-day posting requirement.

For more information about FCC Form 470, see Step 2: Competitive Bidding, or contact the Client Service Bureau.

The December 12, 2012 Special Edition News Brief also provides more helpful reminders for applicants.
1/17/2013 – USAC Closed Monday, January 21, 2013
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. and Inauguration days, USAC offices, including the Schools and Libraries Client Service Bureau (CSB), will be closed on Monday, January 21, 2013.
1/16/2013 – Website and Application Outages Due to Scheduled System Maintenance: Saturday, January 19
The entire USAC website, including all static content, will be unavailable Saturday, January 19 from 8:00 AM through 10:00 AM EST due to scheduled maintenance. In addition, certain applications will be unavailable from Friday, January 18 at 11:59 PM to Saturday, January 19 at 10:00 AM EST. These applications include E-File, My Portal, funding commitment search tools, the News Brief archives, and training archives. The Schools and Libraries "Apply Online" page, "Submit a Question" page, online forms, and other search tools will be available except during the two-hour period when the entire website is down. We apologize for any inconvenience.
1/15/2013 – Revised Deadline for ETC Annual Reporting for 2013
In an Order (FCC 12-52) released on May 14, 2012, the FCC moved Section 54.313 progress reporting deadlines from April 1 to July 1.

On July 1, 2013, all ETCs previously designated by the Commission are required to file a new five-year build-out plan that accounts for the new broadband obligations (which will replace the five-year build-out plan currently on file with the Commission). This five-year plan is filed with the FCC and USAC and copies are sent to the relevant state commission, relevant authority in a U.S. Territory, or Tribal government, as appropriate. ETCs that were designated by the state commission should continue to comply with state requirements.

Beginning July 1, 2014, all ETCs are required to file annual progress reports on their new five-year build-out plans.
1/14/2013 – Healthcare Connect Fund Q&A on Thursday, January 24, 2013
As a follow-up to the January 10 webcast, “The FCC’s Healthcare Connect Fund,” join USAC and the FCC on Thursday, January 24, 2013, to ask questions and seek clarification about the new Healthcare Connect Fund. More information is available in the Trainings & Outreach section of the website.
1/10/2013 – FCC to Present Healthcare Connect Fund Webcast
This month, in place of the regularly scheduled conference call, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will present a special webcast about the Healthcare Connect Fund, a new part of the Rural Health Care (RHC) Program. FCC staff will provide an overview of the new Healthcare Connect Fund, discuss its key features, and explain the application process.

Webcast Agenda - Thursday, January 10, 2013, 2:00 PM EST

  1. About the Healthcare Connect Fund
  2. When to Apply for Program Funds
  3. Supported Services
  4. Eligible Health Care Providers
  5. Unique Features: the Consortium Approach, Competitive Bidding Exemptions, Skilled Nursing Facilities Pilot Program
Presentation slides are available here: The FCC's Healthcare Connect Fund

As a follow-up, RHC staff will host a conference call on Thursday, January 24, 2013, and will answer questions about the new program (more information to follow).

To verify that your computer will support the webcast, we advise that you test the system. The webcast is limited to 300 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.

Login Instructions

  1. Five minutes prior to the start of the conference (2:00 PM EST), call and enter the passcode:

    Dial-in: 1 (888) 517-2513

    Passcode: 6396 002#

  2. As a courtesy to others and to improve sound quality, press *6 to mute your phone.
  3. To join the web conference, click here: Begin Webcast.
  4. Enter all information as prompted and press "Join."
  5. At the end of the conference, please log out of the meeting.
For assistance, press *0 at any time.

To receive news about future webcasts and events, subscribe to the RHC Circuit or Conference Call Reminders.
1/8/2013 – Bulk Upload Now Available for FCC Form 555 Online Filing
The FCC Form 555, Annual Lifeline Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Certification Form, is available for filing through USAC's online portal, E-File, now with a bulk upload feature available.

Similar to the bulk feature available for online FCC Form 497 filers, a bulk feature has been added to assist carriers reporting and certifying FCC Form 555 data for multiple SAC/state combinations. Carriers completing the bulk processes for FCC Form 555 will need to complete the FCC Form 555 Bulk Template. To ensure that everything is completed properly, use our online filing instructions.

The first submission of the FCC Form 555 is due to USAC by January 31, 2013. That submission will include the results of ETCs' certification of their subscriber bases as of June 1, 2012. USAC recommends the use of the online FCC Form 555; however, carriers may submit completed forms via email. ETCs must file a copy of their FCC Form 555 with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by filing the form in Docket 11-42. For information on how to file electronically via the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System, please refer to the FCC's website.
12/21/2012 – USAC Closed Monday and Tuesday, December 24-25, 2012
USAC offices, including the Schools and Libraries Client Service Bureau (CSB), will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, December 24-25, 2012.
12/21/2012 – FCC Releases Healthcare Connect Fund Report and Order
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today released the new Healthcare Connect Fund Report and Order (FCC 12-150) that will help expand access by connecting health care providers to broadband networks needed for delivery of telemedicine.

The Report and Order also includes information on the newly established competitive Pilot Program with up to $50 million in funding available over three years to test expanding broadband healthcare networks to skilled nursing facilities.

Additional information about the order will be shared via email and the Latest News section of the Rural Health Care Program website prospectively.
12/20/2012 – FCC Announces First Quarter 2013 Contribution Factor Decrease to 16.1 Percent
The Federal Communications Commission released a Public Notice announcing that the proposed universal service contribution factor for the first quarter (January-March) of 2013 will be 0.161 or 16.1 percent. (Docket No. CC 96-45 DA 12-2014)
12/19/2012 – HCLI News Issued
The December 2012 HCLI News for the High Cost and Lifeline Programs is now available.
12/13/2012 – FCC Establishes Healthcare Connect Fund
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced an order establishing a new Healthcare Connect Fund as part of a reform of the current Rural Health Care Program. The Healthcare Connect Fund will help expand access by connecting health care providers to broadband networks needed for delivery of telemedicine by:

  • Removing artificial limitations on technology and provider type,
  • Encouraging consortia between smaller rural health care providers and urban medical centers to enable remote hospitals and clinics to draw on the medical, technical, and administrative resources of larger providers,
  • Requiring participants to contribute 35 percent of the costs, while affording health care providers access to lower rates through group buying,
  • Supporting broadband services purchased from diverse communications providers, while also allowing health care providers to construct new broadband networks when that is the most cost-effective option, and
  • Covering upgrades to higher speed service required for health care applications.

In addition, the FCC announced the establishment of a new competitive Pilot Program with up to $50 million in funding over three years to test expanding broadband healthcare networks to skilled nursing facilities.

12/13/2012 – FCC Seeks Comments by January 11th for Proposed Changes to FCC Forms 499-A/Q and Instructions
On December 12, 2012, the FCC issued a Public Notice announcing the deadline for comments on proposed changes to FCC Forms 499-A/Q and accompanying instructions is January 11, 2013. (See the related Public Notice, seeking comments, released November 23, 2012).

The FCC set the comment deadline for the "2013 Form 499-A Proposed Revisions Public Notice" as 30 days after publication of a summary of the Public Notice in the Federal Register. On December 12, 2012, a summary of the Public Notice appeared in the Federal Register. Accordingly, interested parties may file comments on or before January 11, 2013. All pleadings are to reference WC Docket No. 06-122.  
12/13/2012 – Connect America Cost Model Now Available
The Connect America Fund Phase II for price cap carriers, or Connect America Cost Model (CACM), is now available.
12/12/2012 – FY2013 Application Window Now Open
The FY2013 application filing window for the FCC Form 471 opened at noon EST today and will close at 11:59 PM EDT on Thursday, March 14, 2013. The window will be open for 93 days. For more information, check out the Special Edition News Brief.
12/12/2012 – Special Edition News Brief Issued
A Special Edition of the Schools and Libraries News Brief is now available, announcing the opening of the FY2013 window and providing tips and reminders for filing. Subscribe to the News Brief to receive it each week in your inbox.
12/5/2012 – FCC Form 555 Is Now Available for Online Filing
The FCC Form 555, Annual Lifeline Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Certification Form, is now available for filing through USAC's online portal, E-File. ETCs must use the FCC Form 555 to report the results of their annual certification of consumers' continuing eligibility for Lifeline. Instructions for filing a single FCC Form 555 online are available here.

The first submission of the FCC Form 555 is due to USAC by January 31, 2013. That submission will include the results of ETCs' certification of their subscriber bases as of June 1, 2012. ETCs must file a copy of their FCC Form 555 with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by filing the form in Docket 11-42. For information on how to file electronically via the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System, please refer to the FCC's website.

A bulk upload template, and bulk certification capabilities, will be available in the near future for companies that file the FCC Form 555 for multiple states.
12/3/2012 – ETCs Must File a Copy of FCC Form 555 with the FCC
ETCs must file a copy of their FCC Form 555 with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by filing the form in Docket 11-42. For information on how to file electronically via the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System, please refer to the FCC's website.
12/3/2012 – RHC Circuit 4Q 2012 Issued
RHC Circuit 4Q 2012 Issued
11/30/2012 – Payment Quality Assurance (PQA) Program for 2012 Disbursements
The Payment Quality Assurance (PQA) Program for 2012 disbursements has commenced. Notification letters were issued to selected participants within all four universal service programs and the assessments are in progress.
11/27/2012 – FCC Seeks Comments on Proposed Changes to FCC Forms 499-A/Q and Instructions
On November 23, 2012, the FCC released a Public Notice seeking comment on proposed revisions to the FCC Form 499-A, the FCC Form 499-Q, and the accompanying instructions. All are listed here in redline format, showing proposed changes from the forms and instructions currently in effect:

(1) the annual Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet, FCC Form 499-A (Form 499-A) and accompanying instructions (Form 499-A Instructions) to be used in 2013 to report 2012 revenues,

(2) the quarterly Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet, FCC Form 499-Q (Form 499-Q) and accompanying instructions (Form 499-Q Instructions) to be used in 2013 to report projected collected revenues on a quarterly basis.

For further information, please contact Ernesto Beckford, Telecommunications Access Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau at (202) 418-7400 or TTY(202) 418-0484, or Ernesto.Beckford@fcc.gov.

11/26/2012 – New Version of FCC Form 498 Now Available
Beginning November 26, 2012, all service providers must use the new FCC Form 498 when applying for a new SPIN (Service Provider Identification Number) or when making changes to contact or remittance information to an existing SPIN.

USAC has posted the new FCC Form 498 and instructions on its website. No prior years’ forms will be accepted; service providers who submit an outdated form will receive notice from USAC that the form could not be processed. E-File users will automatically see the newest version of the form upon log in, and their information will pre-populate.

Features of the new FCC Form 498 include:
• an additional field in block 3 for a company's Federal Registration Number (FRN);
• a column for the Study Area Code Company Name in Block 8;
• the ability for a carrier to designate an alternate bank account for the payment of BEAR funds in Block 11;
• a box in Block 1 and a supplemental information sheet to allow respondents to include information about affiliates;
• an update to the Principal Communications Types in Block 14 to include additional business types as listed on the FCC Form 499-A;
• a box after every program on the form that will allow service providers to cease participation in the associated program without having to deactivate their entire SPIN.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the FCC Form 498 and the notice was published in the Federal Register on November 21, 2012.

Please contact USAC Customer Operations at (888)641-8722 with any questions about the new FCC Form 498.
11/21/2012 – HCLI News Issued
HCLI News for November is now available.
11/21/2012 – E-File Will Be Unavailable from 9:00 PM EST Monday, Nov. 26 to 7:00 AM EST Tuesday, Nov. 27
The E-File system will be unavailable from 9:00 PM EST on Monday, November 26th, until 7:00 AM EST on Tuesday, November 27th. Please plan your filing activity accordingly.


11/13/2012 – FY2013 Window Dates Announced
The FY2013 application filing window for the FCC Form 471 will open at noon EST on Wednesday, December 12, 2012, and close at 11:59 PM EDT on Thursday, March 14, 2013. The window will be open for 93 days. For more information, please refer to the Schools and Libraries Special Edition News Brief, issued November 13, 2012.
11/13/2012 – Special Edition News Brief Issued
A Special Edition of the Schools and Libraries News Brief is now available, announcing the FY2013 window dates and tips and reminders for filing. Subscribe to the News Brief to receive it each week in your inbox.
11/12/2012 – Reference Area Page Now Available to Help ETCs Locate Important Forms, Updates, and Tools
USAC has created a Reference Area for ETCs to easily locate the most frequently searched for items relating to Lifeline. ETCs are encouraged to refer to this page for forms, reports, training tools, general program information, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
11/7/2012 – Annual Lifeline Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Certification Form Approved by OMB
The FCC Form 555, Annual Lifeline Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Certification Form, has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Each ETC must use the FCC Form 555 to report the results of its annual certification/re-certification of consumer eligibility for Lifeline. The form and instructions are available on the Lifeline Forms page.

The first submission of the FCC Form 555 is due to USAC by January 31, 2013. That submission will include the results of ETCs’ re-certification of their subscriber bases as of June 1, 2012. More information about the annual re-certification requirement is available under Step 8: Annual ETC Certification.
11/5/2012 – FCC Clarifies Universal Service Contributions of Wholesale Providers
In order to classify revenues from wholesale services as being carrier revenue, the wholesale provider must either have affirmative knowledge or a reasonable expectation that its customer is itself contributing to universal service on revenues derived from the purchased whole sale services. More information is available in the order, FCC 12-134.
11/2/2012 – FCC Form 486 and FY2011 Recurring Services Invoice Deadlines Extended to Jan. 28, 2013
Due to the impact of Hurricane Sandy, USAC has extended the deadlines for FCC Form 486 and Funding Year 2011 recurring services invoice submissions until January 28, 2013. USAC will make this change for all participants and participants will not need to request this change individually.

The FCC Form 486 deadline for Funding Year 2012 FRNs has been moved to January 28, 2013. Any FCC Form 486 with a deadline up to that date will now be due on January 28, 2013, thus giving additional time to submit forms that may have missed the October deadline.

Additionally, recurring services delivered for Funding Year 2011 FRNs will now have an extended deadline until January 28, 2013. This is the same deadline as non-recurring services, making all invoices for Funding Year 2011 FRNs due at the same time.

We continue to monitor federal disaster declarations, and will allow extra time for applicants in the areas designated for relief to comply with various deadlines, including responding to PIA, and other program requirements. As usual, for those outside the federally declared disaster areas, if additional time to respond to PIA requests is needed, please do not hesitate to contact your reviewer and request such.

We will continue to post any new information to this website as necessary.
11/2/2012 – First Quarter 2013 Fund Size Projection
USAC filed its first quarter (1Q) 2013 USF Support Mechanisms Fund Size Projections with the FCC on November 2. Overall, the funding requirement is down approximately $117 million from its fourth quarter 2012. The report is available here: USF Support Mechanisms Fund Size Projections.
11/1/2012 – RHC Help Desk Phone Line Currently Unavailable
Due to Hurricane Sandy, the RHC Help Desk phone line is temporarily unavailable. If you need assistance, please email the RHC Help Desk. We hope to have the phone lines operational within a few days, and apologize for any inconvenience this outage has caused.
(11/4/12 Phone lines are operational.)
10/31/2012 – HCLI News Issued
The October 2012 HCLI News for the High Cost and Lifeline Programs is now available.
10/31/2012 – FCC Form 499-Q Due November 1, 2012; No Fees Imposed If Filed Within 30 Days

The due date of the November 2012 FCC Form 499-Q remains unchanged even in light of the disruptions due to Hurricane Sandy.  The November FCC Form 499-Q is due on November 1,2012; however, no fees are imposed if the form is received by December 1, 2012. Revisions to the FCC Form 499-Q are still due no later than December 17, 2012.


10/30/2012 – Status of USAC Operations Due to Hurricane Sandy
USAC operations have only been moderately affected by Hurricane Sandy. We are continuing to process applications and pay invoices as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the Client Service Bureau in Kansas remains open and ready to answer program questions. The fall applicant training sessions will continue as scheduled in Minneapolis, Portland, and Los Angeles.

As always, we will monitor federal disaster declarations, and will allow extra time for applicants in the areas designated for relief to comply with various deadlines, including responding to PIA, and other program requirements. Applicants requiring additional time to submit their BEAR invoices should request an invoice deadline extension as soon as possible.

We will continue to post any new information to this website as necessary.
10/28/2012 – USAC Closed Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Due to Hurricane Sandy, USAC is closed Monday and Tuesday, October 29-30, 2012.
10/18/2012 – Scheduled System Maintenance: 8:00 PM - 11:30 PM EDT Friday, October 19
The Apply Online page, including Submit a Question, online forms, and most search tools will be unavailable Friday, October 19 from 8:00 PM through 11:30 PM EDT for scheduled system maintenance. During this time, users may be unable to file, certify, and search for certain forms online.
10/1/2012 – October Deadline for FCC Form 497 Accelerated Payment Process
In the Lifeline Reform Order (FCC 12-11), the FCC established an accelerated payment process beginning in October 2012. This new filing process allows ETCs that file certified FCC Forms 497 electronically through USAC's E-File System by the eighth day of each month to receive payment for these claims at the end of the same month. Because October 8, 2012, is a federal holiday (Columbus Day), October 9, 2012, is the deadline for October 2012 disbursements.

Support claims filed after October 9, 2012, will be included in the November support disbursement.
9/28/2012 – FCC Releases Eligible Services List Report and Order
On September 27, 2012, the Federal Communications Commission released a Report and Order (DA 12-1553) releasing the Eligible Services List for Funding Year 2013. The PDF version of the Eligible Services List with active hyperlinks will be available shortly.