This funding year introduces an important change to the Form 471 process:
Applicants are now required to select BEAR or SPI invoicing at the time of filing.
At first glance, this may appear to be a simple administrative checkbox. In reality, this decision can have significant operational and financial implications, particularly when early installation of non-recurring services is being considered.
Why This Change Deserves Attention
For applicants planning to move forward with early installation of non-recurring services (as early as April 1), the invoicing method selection is no longer a downstream decision. It must be made upfront, and it matters.
The FY2026 FCC Form 471 Filing Window Is Officially Open!
January 22, 2026 Reading time: ~1 minute
The FCC has officially opened the FY2026 E-Rate FCC Form 471 application window as of January 21, 2026 (12:00 p.m. ET). Applicants have until April 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET to submit and certify their forms.
If your organization plans to request E-Rate funding for FY2026, now is the time to take action.
E-Rate Funding Year 2026: Important Dates to Know
January 14, 2026 Reading time: ~1 minute
The FY2026 E-Rate application season is officially underway, and now is the time for applicants to begin preparing. The FCC Form 471 filing window opens on January 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. ET and will close on April 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Submitting on time and with accurate information is critical to securing E-Rate funding for the upcoming funding year.
New Category Two Budgets for Funding Years 2026–2030
December 23, 2025 Reading time: 2 minutes
The FCC has announced updated Category Two (C2) budget amounts for Funding Years 2026 through 2030. These changes represent a significant opportunity for service providers and manufacturers supporting schools and libraries as they plan for upcoming network upgrades and modernization efforts.
The new budget cycle reflects increased investment in internal connections and reinforces the importance of long-term infrastructure planning.