Beginning in August 2026, the USAC will begin using banking information from SAM.gov to process payments for all Universal Service Fund (USF) invoices. This change impacts service providers and E-rate participants who use Form 472/BEAR for invoicing, requiring them to ensure their SAM.gov accounts are active and linked to a valid bank account designated for USF disbursements. Additionally, each entity must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) on their Form 498.
To continue receiving USF disbursements, service providers and E-rate applicants must take several steps. Those who believe their accounts are already set up should log into E-File or EPC (for BEAR filers) to confirm that their Form 498 includes a UEI. They should also log into SAM.gov to verify their UEI is linked to a valid bank account, confirm their SAM.gov account is active, and check the annual renewal due date.
After completing these steps, entities will be prepared to receive USF payments. However, it is crucial to renew SAM.gov accounts annually; the renewal date is listed within the account. Failure to maintain an active SAM.gov account will result in the inability to receive USF disbursements.
For those who do not yet have an active SAM.gov account, UEI, and linked bank account, USAC recommends beginning the registration process immediately. Registration can be completed on the SAM.gov website, and further guidance is available on the “Learn How to Register Your Entity” page. Once registered, the UEI will be automatically assigned. Users must then log in to SAM.gov to link their UEI to a bank account designated for USF payments and update their FCC Form 498 in E-File or EPC accordingly.
Because the SAM.gov registration process can take up to six weeks, service providers and applicants are urged to start as soon as possible to avoid any disruption in USF payments.
Watch our recent My E-rate Guides Webinar to learn more about the Form 498 and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
