{"id":14781,"date":"2016-09-30T01:08:28","date_gmt":"2016-09-30T01:08:28","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/e-ratepaorg.local\/?p=14781"},"modified":"2016-10-04T01:32:09","modified_gmt":"2016-10-04T01:32:09","slug":"new-form-498-status-tool-released","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/e-ratepa.org\/?p=14781","title":{"rendered":"New Form 498 Status Tool Released"},"content":{"rendered":"

September 30, 2016<\/p>\n

~ EPC Log-in Not Required to Use Tool~<\/p>\n

USAC has just released a new tool to help applicants figure out if their Form 498 Banking Information Form has been approved.\u00a0 The tool can be accessed at:\u00a0 http:\/\/www.usac.org\/sl\/tools\/498-ID-Status.aspx<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

As you know, the Form 498 must be submitted AND approved by USAC before the BEAR can be submitted.\u00a0 Why?\u00a0 Beginning immediately, no paper reimbursement checks will be mailed; all payments will be electronically transferred from USAC to the applicant’s bank account.\u00a0 In order for USAC to know where to transfer the funds, all BEAR-users must complete the Form 498 in order to provide USAC with their bank account and bank routing information.<\/p>\n

The 498 Status Tool only shows 498 ID Number, BEN and Status (which will be either Certified or Approved) — it does not list any applicant names.\u00a0 Note:\u00a0 Certified means “submitted” and the form must be in Approved status before you can submit the Form 472 BEAR Reimbursement Form.\u00a0 The easiest way to search the list is to click ‘Control F’ and type in your BEN number.\u00a0 Also, attached to this message<\/a> is a list of FY 2015 Pennsylvania BENs and whether they have an approved 498.\u00a0 Note:\u00a0 if your BEN is listed but you’re not filing a BEAR, you don’t need an approved 498.\u00a0 However, you’ll need one if you ever want to file a future BEAR, so it’s best to get it approved sooner than later.<\/p>\n

Important Notes about the Form 498:<\/strong><\/p>\n