Getting Started

Mobile communication has become a vital piece of our lives. It connects us to our jobs, our families, our friends, and all the services we rely on to keep our lives full and organized. Getting the most out of mobile communications networks matters for us as individuals and for the country as a whole. Many residents of rural areas, though, remain left out of these networks.

In November 2011, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) released the USF/ICC Transformation Order, reforming the high-cost component of universal service fund by phasing out the Legacy High Cost Program and introducing the Connect America Fund. The Mobility Fund is designed to extend coverage to all Americans. It has two phases. Phase I of the Mobility Fund provides up to $300 million in one-time support to accelerate deployment of networks in unserved areas. Phase II will provide up to $500 million per year in ongoing support to expand and sustain mobile voice and broadband services in communities in which service would be unavailable absent federal support.

Get Started

If you are a telecommunications company interested in learning more about the Mobility Fund, the first step is to understand how participation in the program works.

USAC’s Role

USAC is responsible for data collection and maintenance, support calculation, and disbursements for the Mobility Fund.

USAC reviews companies’ claims for support to ensure they are consistent with the Federal Communication Commission's rules. In addition to reviewing claims data, USAC also conducts beneficiary audits to ensure program compliance.