Most Frequently Asked Questions (from last 2 weeks)
Message Posted March 8, 2011
Each year I notice a pattern in the questions that applicants ask and this year is no different. Below as answers to the 12 most frequently asked questions of FY 2011.
1) I keep getting '471 Server Errors' when I try to complete my Form 471. What can I do?
USAC is experiencing some technical issues related to the new Online Form 471 and are asking for your patience this year (I personally recommend that you submit your Form 471 no later than March 20). One suggestion to overcome the Server Errors is to try the following:
In Internet Explorer: Go to Tools > Internet Options > Privacy > Sites > and add "www.usac.org" and click "Allow".
Note: The new form has numerous problems with Mac's... so use a PC when completing the form.
2) Can I submit my application online even if I don't have a PIN?
YES! Everyone should submit their 471 online. After you hit submit, the system will ask you if you want to paper certify or eCertify. If you don't have a PIN, then you'll just have to print a copy of the certification page and mail it to the SLD (by March 24).
3) Can I sign a multi-year contract longer than 3 years?
Yes. E-rate rules do not limit an applicant on the length of a contract.
4) How can I obtain and E-rate entity number for a new school building?
Call USAC's Client Services Bureau (CSB) at 888-203-8100.
5) Where do I find my FCCRN Number?
This is a unique number given to each Billed Entity by the FCC in 2004. For most entities, the FCCRN will pre-populate into your Form 471 when you file online. If it does not, you can research your FCCRN at: https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/coresWeb/simpleSearch.do;jsessionid=N1ZGn6wXJjjwSF4GjN1LdxrF0JT8s63g1vBpCvg
SyQbM8s04jmQ2!616666834!-1277790077 using your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or School/Library Name (use first word, followed by %).
6) How do I find an NCES code?
Although the Block 4 section of the Form 471 will give you a pop-up box telling you that the NCES code is missing, please know that the NCES code IS NOT A REQUIRED FIELD. Further, there are NO NCES codes for Administrative Buildings. But if you would like to look up your NCES code, go to: http://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/.
7) What do I do if I submitted my 471 early but noticed that my enrollment/NSLP data doesn't match the PDE data?
If you submitted your Form 471 before the PDE NSLP data was released and you now see that your Block 4 data is different than the PDE data, don't worry. If you have documentation to substantiate your higher figures, then just be prepared to show that during PIA review. If you would like to change your figures to match the PDE data, you may do so during the RAL correction process or during PIA review. If your figures don't match the PDE data, but it doesn't change the building's E-rate discount, there is no reason to have to change the data.
8) I have a bill that contains both telecom and Internet (data) services; do I have to put them on 2 separate FRNs?
No. If you have a bill or contract that contains both telecom and Internet (data) services, you may combine those services on a single funding request under the Telecom Category for administrative convenience. However, you will need to break out those services on your Item 21 attachments to show exactly what services you're receiving (such as 20 cellular voice lines and 10 cellular voice and data plans).
9) If I have a multi-year contract that was approved by E-rate last year, do I need to submit a funding request again this year?
Yes. You must submit a funding request each year, for every service, even if your services are under a multi-year contract! (there's no such thing as a multi-year E-rate commitment).
10) I have a multi-year contract; what Form 470 Number to Use in my Block 5?
If you have a multi-year contract for an eligible service, and that contract was signed in a previous funding year (after posting a 470 and waiting at least 28 days), you should list the original 470 that was used to competitively bid that service. The contract award date will be the date your originally signed the contract.
11) Is it possible to amend a 471 after it's been submitted?
You cannot amend a 471 after it's been submitted, but you can make corrections to it using the RAL (Receipt Acknowledgement Letter) which will be mailed to you after you submit your 471. Simply mark what should be corrected to your application, and fax it back to the SLD. If you made major mistakes to your submitted 471, simply complete a new 471 by March 24 and then cancel the original one when the RAL comes.
12) Are the Item 21 attachments required to be submitted within the Form 471 window this year?
Yes.
Have others? Just e-mail me! jtschell@comcast.net.
-- Julie
Julie Tritt Schell
PA E-rate Coordinator
717-730-7133 - o
717-730-9060 - f
jtschell@comcast.net
www.e-ratepa.org
Penn*link
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