A Revised Funding Commitment Decision Letter (RFCDL) is the updated version of an FRN's funding decision that USAC issues after something changes the original commitment: a successful appeal, a processed FCC Form 500, or a correction found during further review. Like the original FCDL, USAC issues both an applicant version and a service-provider version.
How It Works
An RFCDL reflects the new, corrected funding decision for the affected FRN or FRNs. It can move the commitment amount, the status, or key dates tied to the FRN. It arrives in EPC the same way the original FCDL did.
The most common trigger is a processed Form 500, since that's exactly what applicants file to request changes after an FCDL has already been issued, canceling or reducing an FRN, adjusting dates, or changing invoicing mode. A successful appeal of the original decision, or a correction USAC identifies during further review, can also produce an RFCDL.
What This Means for You
Applicants
Any Form 500 you file that USAC approves, and any appeal you win, shows up as an RFCDL, not a quiet database update. Check the letter for revised dates and amounts before you assume nothing changed on your end.
Service Providers
You get your own copy of every RFCDL for FRNs you're the provider on. Reconcile it against your own invoicing and delivery records, since a revised commitment amount or date can affect what you're able to bill.
We've seen applicants forget to re-check their invoicing deadline after an RFCDL changes a key date, because the new deadline calculation starts from the revised letter, not the original one. Treat every RFCDL as a reason to re-verify dates, not just amounts.
Common Questions About RFCDLs
What triggers a Revised FCDL?
A successful appeal, a processed Form 500, or a correction identified during further USAC review.
Does an RFCDL replace the original FCDL?
It updates the decision for the specific FRN or FRNs affected. The original FCDL remains the record of the initial decision.
Who receives an RFCDL?
Both the applicant and the service provider, in separate versions, the same as the original FCDL.
Can an RFCDL itself be appealed?
Yes, through USAC's standard appeals process, if you disagree with the revised decision.
Where do I find my RFCDL?
In EPC, attached to the affected FRN's record, the same place you'd find the original FCDL.
Informational only, not legal advice. E-Rate procedures and forms can change by funding year. Confirm current requirements in the applicable USAC and FCC guidance.