E-RATE UPDATES: FY2025 COMMITMENTS AND PREPARING FOR FY2026

USAC has released Wave 13 of FY2025 Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs) as of July 17, with total commitments now exceeding $1.54 billion. District staff can access their FCDLs in the Notifications section of their EPC landing page, and prior‑year data can be reviewed using the E‑Rate Search Commitments Tool.

Get Ready for FY2026 Competitive Bidding

The FY2026 FCC Form 470 opened on July 1 in EPC. Districts with longer procurement timelines can begin their competitive bidding process now. Remember:

• File Form 470 in EPC with an active One Portal account.

• Your organization profile in EPC must be set up before filing.

• Upload any RFPs or bidding documents directly to your Form 470.

• After certification, your Receipt Notification Letter (RNL) will appear in your EPC News feed.

Resources on keeping the bidding process fair, meeting the 28‑day waiting period, and evaluating bids are available through USAC’s Competitive Bidding guidance.

Important Reminders for FY2026

• Form 470 is available July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027.

• Updates to student counts or square footage aren’t required before filing but can be noted in narrative fields and attachments.

• Service providers can view filed forms through EPC or USAC’s Form 470 Download Tool.

  
  

Open Data Download Changes

USAC is migrating downloadable documents from HTTP to HTTPS. If you encounter browser security prompts or failed downloads, copy the link into a new tab or select “keep” when prompted. Updates will be announced in future news briefs.

Beneficiary and Contributor Audit Program (BCAP)

USAC’s Audit and Assurance Division conducts annual audits to ensure program compliance.

• Audited entities are contacted directly, and state E‑Rate coordinators are notified for awareness.

• Audit files are securely shared through Box and never emailed.

• Districts should maintain organized documentation for quick retrieval if an audit occurs.

  
  

Next Steps for Districts

• Check your FY2025 FCDLs in EPC.

• Begin planning and, if ready, file your FY2026 Form 470 early.

• Organize and retain all E‑Rate documentation as outlined in USAC’s retention guidelines.

  
  

CSM Consulting is here to help!

Remember, if you have any questions, CSM Consulting is ready and available to support your district every step of the way.