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.