e-rate online tools minimizing errors and saving time

E-rate Online ToolsMinimizing Errors and Saving Time

Goals for this Presentation

Familiarize new AND experienced Coordinators with the online tools and training available from USAC.

These tools are available when USAC is not, and can reinforce the

trainings you receive.

What We’ll be Looking at Today

• The USAC Test Website

• Online Submission Tools

• Data Retrieval Tool

• USAC Training Documents

• E-rate Central

The USAC Test Website

http://usactrain.solixinc.com/menu.asp

Mimics the actual application page.

What You Can Do

• Practice filing forms 470, 471, Item 21, and 486. BEAR due soon!

• Excellent training for new Coordinators.

• Also a great way to preview new tools that USAC releases.

• If you’re used to filing paper forms, this site is a great way to get up to speed for filing online.

Applications Submission Tools

• Applying online is faster and easier than paper.

• The online tools have validation rules in place that will prevent MANY common mistakes.

• Online applications are processed more quickly by USAC because there is no data entry.

The Apply Online Page

• Start an “interview” that fills in the form as you go.

• Save and return to unfinished documents.

• Search for submitted forms and check the status of your application.

Item 21 Attachment

The online Item 21 has greatly reduced the number of errors normally associated with this form.

Start by entering the BEN, Application Number, and your security code from the 471.

Select the FRN you want to submit for.

Item 21 Attachment

Click Add New Line Item

Item 21 Attachment

Enter details for the specific item

Add another line or continue

Item 21 Attachment

Enter a narrative if necessary

Item 21 Attachment

Review and submit

Item 21 Attachment

REMEMBER DOCUMENTATION!!

Item 21 Attachment

Online BEAR

• This is a new online tool due out in November.

• Also has validation rules to help avoid common errors.

• Separate “BEAR ONLY” PINs can be assigned so a third party can enter the billing.

Online BEAR

Online BEAR

Online BEAR

Online BEAR

Online BEAR

• Allows you to search for documents and application status for current and previous funding years.

• Use this as a reporting tool to monitor the progress of your FRN’s.

Data Retrieval Tool

Data Retrieval Tool

http://www.sl.universalservice.org/funding/opendatasearch/Search1.asp

Click Download to get your file.

Data Retrieval Tool

USAC Training Documents

http://www.universalservice.org/sl/about/outreach-training.aspx

Tip Sheets

http://www.universalservice.org/sl/about/tip-sheets.aspx

E-Rate Central

http://www.e-ratecentral.com/default.asp

•Get advice from E-rate coordinators all over the country.

•Download helpful documents and checklists.

•View sample documents and learn about the program terminology in plain language.

•Learn about recent decisions by the FCC and USAC.

Contact Info

Baron Rodriguez CIO/Director of Technology and Information Systems Oregon Department of Education 503-947-5683

Sabrina Ganoe, Information Systems SpecOffice of Assessment & Information ServicesOregon Department of Education(503) 947-5858sabrina.ganoe@state.or.us

Questions?

Thank you for participating.