⚠️ Current Filing Window Open
The FY2026 Form 471 filing window is now open and closes in March 2026. Don't miss the deadline to apply for your E-Rate funding. Get Form 471 filing help →
FY2026 E-Rate Timeline Overview
Funding Year 2026 (FY2026) covers services delivered from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Below is the complete timeline of deadlines you need to know.
Complete FY2026 Deadline Reference
| Deadline | Date | Status | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form 470 Opens | July 1, 2025 | ✅ Completed | Post competitive bidding for FY2026 |
| 28-Day Wait Period | Ongoing | ⏳ Active | Wait 28 days after Form 470 before signing contracts |
| Form 471 Window Opens | January 15, 2026 | 🟢 Open Now | Submit funding application |
| Form 471 Window Closes | March 2026 (TBD) | ⚠️ Upcoming | Certify all applications before deadline |
| Funding Year Starts | July 1, 2026 | 📅 Scheduled | Begin receiving/delivering services |
| Funding Year Ends | June 30, 2027 | 📅 Scheduled | Complete non-recurring installations |
| Invoice Deadline | October 28, 2027 | 📅 Scheduled | Submit all BEAR/SPI forms |
Form 470: Competitive Bidding Deadlines
The Form 470 initiates the competitive bidding process. Key requirements:
- 28-Day Rule: Form 470 must be posted for at least 28 days before selecting a vendor
- No Deadline: Form 470 can be filed any time, but earlier is better
- Best Practice: File Form 470 by early November to allow time for bidding before Form 471 window
Need help with Form 470? Our team handles the entire competitive bidding process. Learn about our Form 470 filing service →
Form 471: Application Window
📢 Form 471 Window is OPEN
The FY2026 Form 471 filing window opened January 15, 2026. The exact closing date will be announced by USAC, typically in March. Don't wait until the last minute — early filers receive funding decisions faster.
Form 471 is your actual funding request. Critical reminders:
- Certify Before Deadline: The application must be certified (signed) before the window closes
- No Extensions: The FCC does not grant extensions for Form 471
- Early Filing Benefits: Earlier applications typically receive funding decisions sooner
- Common Errors: Incorrect FRN references, wrong service start dates, missing documentation
Our team can prepare and file your Form 471 to ensure accuracy and maximize approval chances. Get Form 471 filing assistance →
Invoice Deadlines: Don't Leave Money on the Table
Many schools and libraries miss invoice deadlines and forfeit approved funding. Key rules:
| Invoice Type | Deadline Rule | FY2026 Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Recurring Services (Category 1) |
120 days after funding year ends | October 28, 2027 |
| Non-Recurring Services (Category 2) |
120 days after service delivery deadline | October 28, 2027 |
Pro Tip: If you miss an invoice deadline, you may be able to file an appeal or waiver request to recover your funding.
Never Miss an E-Rate Deadline Again
Our team manages the entire E-Rate process, including all deadlines, so you can focus on education. We'll handle Forms 470, 471, PIA reviews, and invoicing.
Get Expert Help with Your Application →