It’s probably the question we get asked more than any other; how do I maximize my funding from E-Rate? There are so many factors that come into play but I’ll summarize just a few points to get you on track.

Let’s start with your E-Rate discount. Your E-Rate discount percentage is calculated using your NSLP data that you submit to your state agency. USAC uses the October data that you filed prior to the funding year in question. What does that mean? Well USAC goes by funding year; for example, we just filed for FY2019 which runs July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020. So the discount percentage for the FY2019 application process used October 2018 NSLP data. In order to get the most funding you need to make sure that you have done the best that you can to collect NSLP applications and make sure that the figures you report are accurate. Your free/reduced school lunch percentage is applied to discount table by USAC to determine your E-Rate reimbursement percentage – the higher your percentage, the higher your reimbursement from USAC. We have a calculation tool under resources if you’d like to see an approximation of your reimbursement percentage.

Now that you know your reimbursement percentage, you need to know exactly what qualifies under the E-Rate program. Each year USAC publishes an eligible services list that is approved by the FCC. This list gives you a synopsis of what is eligible in each category of service. When E-Rate first started just about everything was eligible as long as it was proximate and essential to student education. Now through the E-Rate Modernization Order the focus has shifted to only Internet Access, data transport, and the equipment that drives it. It’s complex and tricky; sometimes even for seasoned E-Rate professionals. The better your understanding of the eligibility of products and services, the more prepared you will be to access the most benefits. 

Rules, rules, and more rules! This is the trickiest part of the entire process and the way that most applicants get tripped up and lose funding. With all of the deadlines, contract rules, data retention policies, CIPA requirements it’s absolutely maddening. Combine this with USAC policy changes in the midst of the process, miss one step, and kiss your funds goodbye. E-Rate is not something you can just think about once or twice a year. You need to stay abreast of changes, announcements, and always stay current. You’ll miss out if you apply for tomorrow’s funds with yesterday’s information.

These are just a few areas that play into maximizing your funding through E-Rate. My advice, hire a great consultant! Make sure you have someone experienced in all aspects of the program, knowledgeable, and accessible to answer your questions. Better yet, just call me!! 

I’ll be waiting to hear from you. Your best results are a phone call away.