E-Rate Help-Line Open This Weekend
The deadline for the annual E-Rate 471 funding application is Wednesday, March 27th (9:59pm MT). Funding applications filed after the deadline will not be considered for funding unless the FCC is sent a separate request to waive the deadline (in which the applicant must demonstrate why the waiver is necessary).
If you still need to start or finish your Form 471, here are your support options:
Call the E-Rate Customer Service Center at (888) 203-8100
The E-Rate CSC has extended its hours this weekend and next week.
Email me at dvogt@edu.idaho.gov.
I am happy to answer any questions or take a look at your Form 471 before you certify it, and will respond during this weekend if I can.
Schedule a virtual call with me for Monday — Wednesday by clicking here.
E-Rate Customer Service Center extended hours:
Contact the E-Rate Customer Service Center at (888) 203-8100. To speak to a representative, press 1 for applicants, then press 0.
Saturday, March 23 – 10 am to 3 pm MT
Sunday, March 24 – 10 am to 3 pm MT
Monday, March 25 – 6 am to 6 pm MT
Tuesday, March 26 – 6 am to 6 pm MT
Wednesday, March 27 – 6 am to 9:59 pm MT (the cut-off for 471 window)
How to locate your BEN (Billed Entity Number)
If you have saved any past E-Rate forms or received any communications, your BEN will be listed near the top of the first page.
To find your BEN online, first login to USAC.org, then enter the E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC). On the left-side of the screen, you will see “Welcome, [Name of school or library]” and BEN number. If the BEN is not available there, then click the name and it will appear on the next page.