On October 30, the FCC released updated versions of the annual Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet, FCC Form 499-A, and the quarterly Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet, FCC Form 499-Q, for the year 2024. These changes are part of the ongoing efforts to ensure the effective administration of universal service programs.
Key “Substantive” Changes to the 2024 FCC Form 499-A Instructions:
- International Section 214 Authorizations: Page 12 has been updated to clarify that carriers holding international section 214 authorizations must designate a Washington, D.C.-based agent for service of process who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Broadband Data Collection (BDC): Page 16 is updated to add the reference to the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) system and indicate that entities required to submit information to the BDC system should use the same single name that is used in the entity information associated with the FCC Form 477 subscription data and/or the biannual submissions of BDC availability.
- Agent for Service of Process: Page 18 is updated to clarify that carriers holding international section 214 authorizations must designate a Washington, D.C.-based agent for service of process who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Revenue Inclusion Clarification: Page 28 clarifies that line 305.2 should not include revenue from interconnected VoIP service provided by the Filer and resold as interconnected VoIP service by reseller customers of the Filer. However, revenue from private line/business data service provided by the Filer and resold as interconnected VoIP service by reseller customers of the Filer should be included.
- Long-Distance Services: Page 32 is updated to clarify that Line 311 should include long-distance using interconnected VoIP provided to contributing resellers.
- Exemptions from Regulatory Fees: Page 48 is updated to provide examples of exemptions from paying certain regulatory fees.
- Fund Contributions: Page 49 is updated to clarify that line 514(a) should be used for contributions funding IP Relay and Video Relay Service (VRS) in addition to IP Captioned Telephone Service (CTS).
The updates aim to enhance clarity and streamline the reporting process for your 2023 revenues and quarterly revenue projections. These changes are designed to ensure accurate, efficient, and compliant reporting.
For detailed information and specific changes, please refer to the official FCC Form 499-A and 499-Q documents and instructions, or feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We are here to assist you in navigating these updates and ensuring your compliance with the FCC’s reporting requirements.
Thank you for choosing Marashlian & Donahue, PLLC, The CommLaw Group, as your trusted partner. We look forward to continuing to provide you with exceptional service and support.
