Seven Steps to Prepare - Step 7

Applications must be posted for 28 days on the SLD Web site before you can sign new contracts with vendors or discounted services. Once the contract is signed, a copy is sent to the SLD's subcontractor with an estimate of the funds that will be requested for the following funding year (FCC Form 471).

Here are some tips for completing the service request:

1. Funding requests must be submitted for each funding year. The SLD will place all requests in a queue based on the date and time they are received.

2. Assuming sufficient funds are available, the SLC's subcontractor will set aside the necessary funds for your use. You will be notified when the funding has been approved.

3. All contracts should contain a phrase that states something to the effect, "Subject to E-rate funding."

4. You must submit a separate FCC Form 471 for every site that will be receiving a bill for the goods or services.

5. Contract expiration dates can exceed the discount time frame; however, applicants must submit a new Form 471 each year to request funding. At the time of voluntary contract extensions, schools must submit a new Form 470 and accept bids over the next 28 days. However, schools are not obligated to select a different vendor.

6. Once you have been notified that funding has been approved, you may notify the provider to begin service.

7. You can notify the SLD that service has been rendered and to approve the flow of funds to the vendor by submitting Form 486.

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