Based on E-Rate Central's experience with FCD reviews, here are a few key points:

• The Funding Request Number ("FRN") is a unique identifier assigned by the SLD to each requested line item on a Form 471. Henceforth, all references to this funding item - by applicants, vendors, or the SLD - should be by FRN

• If the Funding Status is not shown as "Funded," the applicant should understand why. Often, for internal connections, it will be because total E-rate program funding has been exhausted and the applicant has a low discount rate. The decision should include brief language substantiating the lack of funding. Questions or appeals to an SLD funding decision must be made in writing

• The SPIN (Service Provider Identification Number) is critical for funded items because the applicant will be getting its discount from that vendor. Discrepancies in SPINs can occur because the applicant listed the wrong number on the Form 471, because digits were transposed by the SLD during data entry, or because the vendor has changed its SPIN (see below)

• The services ordered should be correctly categorized as telecommunications, Internet access, or internal connections. The category is particularly important with regard to discount rate selection and contract extensions

• The Effective Date of Discount should be no earlier than the start of the program year (07/01/yyyy)

• The Contract Expiration Date should be as initially listed on the Form 471

• The Estimated Total Annual Pre-discount Cost should reflect that which is initially listed on the Form 471 unless changed by the SLD during the Problem Resolution or Program Integrity Assurance phases of the review process (and hopefully discussed with the applicant)

• Discount Percentage Approved by the SLD should be the aggregate rate for all shared services, and the individual rate for all site-specific service

• The Funding Commitment Decision amount should equal the pre-discounted amount times the discount percentage. It is the maximum of discount that an applicant can expect to receive via reimbursement and/or ongoing discounts