Q. Are HCPs required to change service providers?
A. No, not necessarily. Most of our clients stay with their current service providers. If you are seeking a change or actively looking for lower cost service, we can facilitate that.
Q. What if we are in the middle of a contract?
A. We can secure funding for existing contracts.
Q. Do I have to place my services out to bid each year?
A. Unless a service is being provided under a contract that has received and “evergreen” approval from USAC, the service must be placed out to bid annually. We manage this process and deal with any potential bidders. We work with you to set the bid selection criteria so that you receive the most cost effective service available. There are some exceptions to this rule and when advantageous to the HCP we will take advantage of these exceptions.
Q. How is the funding delivered?
A. Awarded funds are first delivered to the service provider. Most service providers pass the funding on to the HCP through credits on monthly invoices. Some service providers issue checks directly to the HCP. In either instance, HCF will ensure the awarded funds are delivered to the HCP.
Q. Are there any restriction on how the awarded funds are spent?
A. No. The funds are just reductions in the cost of your telecom services. Some clients take advantage of the funds to upgrade their services or increase their bandwidths.
Q. We have had our application denied in the past. Are we precluded from getting funding for this service?
A. Depending in the reason for the denial we most likely can get you funding for the service with a new application.
Q. What do we need to do to get started?
A. All we require is a simple service agreement and a couple of Letters of Authority so that we may act on your HCP’s behalf with USAC, the administrator of the programs, and to speak with your service providers. Then we will begin the document gathering process and develop an estimate of the savings you can expect to receive. Finally, we will begin the application process.
Q. I have inherited this responsibility and have received an email with a subject listed below. Can you help if we are already in the program?
A. We can help at almost any stage in the process. A simple phone call and we can get a better idea of your situation.