Schools and Libraries
About the Schools and Libraries Program:
- Overview of the Program
- Overview of the Process
- Outreach and Training
- HATS Outreach
- Filing Appeals
- Understanding Audits
Schools and Libraries Tools:
Step 4: Applicants Select Service Provider
Once applicants have completed a fair and competitive bidding process and selected a service provider, the service provider has several additional steps to take before applicants can file the Description of Services Ordered and Certification Form (Form 471).
A service provider selected by an applicant after an open and fair competitive bidding process may be providing services under tariff (for telecommunications services only), under a month-to-month arrangement, or under a contract. Tariffed and month-to-month services do not require a contract, although applicants and service providers may enter into a contract for these services. USAC assumes that internal connections and basic maintenance for internal connections will in all cases be provided under contract.
Contracts must be signed and dated by the applicant prior to certifying the Form 471. The service provider signature and date are not a program requirement. Contract guidance provides more information on contract requirements.
Service providers must give applicants the choice between receiving discounted bills or paying their customer bills in full and requesting reimbursements from USAC through the service provider. In both cases, USAC will pay the service provider. Service providers are encouraged to make the appropriate arrangements with applicants before the applicant files Form 471.
Step 3 Respond to Applicant Requests for Products and Services Step 5 Assist Applicants with Application Review
