When to Request a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) Change
In previous blog posts, we have reviewed how to select an E-Rate Program Service Provider and how to navigate the competitive bidding process when it comes to selecting the service provider that is right for you. Service providers are required to have or obtain a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) from USAC before they can be awarded a contract as an E-Rate Program service provider.
After you have completed competitive bidding, submitted your Form 471, and received your Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL), you might find that you need to file a SPIN change request, which is a form submitted via the E-Rate Portal (EPC). In this blog post, we will review what a SPIN is and in what instances you might need to request a SPIN change.
What is the SPIN?
A Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned to service providers by USAC. The service provider receives their SPIN through registering with USAC via the FCC Form 498 (also known as the service provider’s 498 ID). Without a SPIN, bidders are ineligible to provide any services.
There are two types of SPIN changes an applicant might need to file for: a corrective SPIN change or an operational SPIN change.
Corrective SPIN Change
This type of change request is usually needed when you find there was a clerical error with the SPIN entered on a Funding Request Number (FRN) when the FCC Form 471 was submitted. Alternatively, sometimes a service provider will request that an applicant submits a corrective SPIN change due to internal changes within the service provider organization that has resulted in a change to their SPIN.
Corrective SPIN change requests must be submitted before the last date to file an invoice for the FRN(s) in question.
Operational SPIN Change
This type of change request is needed if the applicant would like to change the service provider associated with an FRN. There are only certain circumstances in which this is allowable:
It is allowed under the applicant’s state and local procurement rules.
It is allowable under the terms of any contract between the applicant and its original service provider.
The applicant has notified its original service provider of its intent to change service providers.
(For Funding Year (FY) 2011 and forward) There is a legitimate reason to change providers (e.g., breach of contract or the service provider is unable to perform the requested services).
(For FY2011 and forward) The newly selected service provider received the next highest point value in the original bid evaluation. If the applicant did not receive multiple bids, the applicant must submit a statement explaining that it received only one or no bids.
Changing service providers because you’ve found a better price from another service provider, or because you now wish to do business with a different service provider, are not considered legitimate reasons for change.
Operational SPIN changes must be submitted must be submitted before the last date to file an invoice for the FRN(s) in question.
For help with applying for the E-Rate program, telecom analysis and optimization, or telecom project management, reach out to us at HWC Consultants!