UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND – HIGH COST
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Program Objective
Universal service has been defined by Congress as “an evolving level of telecommunications services . . . taking into account advances in telecommunications and information technologies and services.” 47 U.S.C. 254(c). Universal service support generally is distributed only to eligible telecommunications carriers and must be used “only for the provision, maintenance, and upgrading of facilities and services for which the support is intended.” 47 U.S.C. 254(e). In addition, policies for the advancement and preservation of universal service must be based on certain principles established by Congress. See 47 U.S.C. 254(b). Consistent with these statutory provisions, the FCC has established the Universal Service Fund, which disburses support for the provision of telecommunications services, as well as other services and facilities (including broadband) for high-cost areas, schools and libraries, rural health care providers, and low-income consumers.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- For-profit organizations
- Public nonprofits
Applicants must be an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC). Wireless and wireline carriers that are ETCs and that comply with requirements established by the FCC for the High Cost Program.
Beneficiaries
- 11
- 19
Beneficiaries are broadband and voice customers located in high cost areas. The USF Administrator maintains the Connect America Fund Map (https://data.usac.org/publicreports/caf-map/) which illustrates whether a location is in an eligible area or not, as well as reported deployed locations.
How to Apply
Application Procedure
Carriers are required to have an eligible telecommunication carrier designation (ETC) awarded either by the state or, if the carrier is outside of state jurisdiction, the FCC. There are other certifications and forms carriers must submit to receive support from certain mechanisms. In other cases, the FCC authorizes or provides notice of carrier support through High Cost Program funds via public notice. Given the complexity of the High Cost program, carriers provide various forms and certifications to receive the funding for which they “apply”.
Award Procedure
The FCC defines the award procedure for each fund.
Decision Timeline
- Appeal: From 30 to 60 days
Program details & compliance
Description
The high-cost program (also known as the Connect America Fund) is one of four programs that currently make up the federal Universal Service Fund. This program provides funding to eligible telecommunications carriers for the provision of broadband and voice services in high cost areas, including remote and underserved communities.
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
Eligible Telecommunications Carriers are allowed to use the assistance to deploy and maintain broadband and voice networks serving high cost areas.
Required Documentation
Documentation varies depending on the type of program