E-Rate services Overview
Overview of the Schools and Libraries Program
The Schools and Libraries Program
of the
Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," is administered
by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the
direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and
provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the
The Schools and Libraries Program supports connectivity - the
conduit or pipeline for communications using telecommunications
services and/or the Internet. Funding is requested under four
categories of service: telecommunications services, Internet access,
internal connections, and basic maintenance of internal connections.
Discounts for support depend on the level of poverty and the
urban/rural status of the population served and range from 20% to
90% of the costs of eligible services. Eligible schools, school
districts and libraries may apply individually or as part of a
consortium.
Applicants must provide additional resources including end-user
equipment (e.g., computers, telephones, etc.), software,
professional development, and the other elements that are necessary
to utilize the connectivity funded by the Schools and Libraries
Program.
E-Rate Service Consulting
E-Rate Consulting
Our staff of E-Rate telecom professionals will review the eligible student
population and identify opportunities that may lead to substantial E-Rate
discounts. If you have received E-Rate funding in the past, E-Rate Services
will conduct a Strategic Analysis of your prior applications and look
for additional opportunities that may result in increased funding opportunities.
E-Rate Process Management
During the entire E-Rate process, we will assist you every step
of the way. We’ll help you complete the necessary paperwork, on time and
accurately. Once the application process is concluded, we’ll continue
working with you to ensure your E-Rate reimbursements are maximized.
E-Rate Services Consulting
We Will Assist your District with:
- Understanding your technology needs and make appropriate recommendations
- Identify opportunities to reduce telecommunications and Internet expenses
- Identification of communications vendors
- Guidance with the bid management process
- Identification of all funding possibilities
- Completion of all application forms and filings
- Answer Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) questions
- Preparation and response for Selective Review Audits
- Preparation and filing of SLD and FCC Appeals
- E-Rate Discount Review for maximizing Discounts
- Answer compliance questions and eligibility issues
- Preparation and follow-up with service substitutions, and SPIN changes
- Follow-up with E-Rate invoicing payments and discounts
- Answer questions concerning E-Rate program policies
- Review applications for accuracy and compliance
E-Rate Information Form
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