An “Operational SPIN Change” letter must be used when a service is actually switched from one vendor to another. This will be allowed only if several conditions are met. First, the change must be allowed under all applicable state and local procurement rules. Second the change must be allowable under the terms of the contract, if any, between the applicant and the original service provider. In other words, there must be no breach of contract. In the case of services provided under tariff or month-to-month billing arrangements, there are no contractual problems (although termination charges may apply). Finally, the applicant must have notified its original service provider of its intent to change service provider. Operational SPIN Change letters are required to contain certifications that these conditions have been met.

Additional information on SPIN changes can be found in the Reference Section of the SLD Web site (see SPIN Change Guidance). Note that the SLD requires contact information (name, telephone, and e-mail) for both the original and new service providers. Name and telephone information is available in the BEAR/SPIN Search area of the SLD Web site (see BEAR/SPIN Search). E-mail addresses can often be obtained from the service provider’s own Web site (use “N/A” if the e-mail address is not available).

All letters should also include full contact information of the requesting party. An e-mail address is particularly important for receiving the SLD’s approval notification.