498 Company Officer | 498 company officer | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Service Providers |
498 ID, 498 ID/Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN), 498 ID/SPIN | SPIN, SPIN/498 ID | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "498 ID/SPIN" is acceptable, as long as "498 ID/Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN)" is spelled out on first reference. 498 ID is listed first; don't use SPIN alone. | USAC General/Service Providers |
499 Filer ID | FCC Form 499 Filer ID; Form 499 Filer ID | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. Do not include "FCC" or "Form" when referencing a Filer ID. | USAC General/Service Providers |
5G Fund for Rural America | 5G fund for rural America | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | High Cost |
de minimis | de minimis | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless it is part of a title or the first word in a sentence. Always italicize unless it is part of a title. | Service Providers |
ACAM I, ACAM II | ACAMI, ACAMII, ACAM-I, ACAM-II | Include a space between the name of the fund and the roman numeral that follows it. | High Cost |
Access Recovery Charge (ARC) | access recovery charge | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ARC" is acceptable, as long as "Access Recovery Charge (ARC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
ACP Household Worksheet | ACP household worksheet | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used, except for ACP. | Congressional Response Programs |
Acquired Exchange Support (AEX) | acquired exchange support; AES | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "AEX" is acceptable, as long as "Acquired Exchange Support (AEX)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Address Matching System (AMS) | address matching system; address matching system | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "AMS" is acceptable, as long as "Address Matching System (AMS)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) | affordable connectivity program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ACP" is acceptable, as long as "Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Congressional Response Programs |
Alaska Communications System (ACS) | Alaska communications system | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ACS" is acceptable, as long as "Alaska Communications System (ACS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Alaska Plan | Alaska plan; AP | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | High Cost |
Allowable Contract Selection Date (ACSD) | allowable contract selection date; Allowable Contract Sign Date | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ACSD" is acceptable, as long as "Allowable Contract Selection Date (ACSD)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Alternative Connect America Cost Model (ACAM) | alternative connect America cost model; A-CAM | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ACAM" is acceptable, as long as "Alternative Connect America Cost Model (ACAM)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
an FCC form | a FCC Form | Use “an,” not “a.” Only capitalize the 'f' in form when you are referring to a particular type of form, such as FCC Form 462. | USAC General |
an FCC order | a FCC order; an FCC Order | Use “an,” not “a.” Only capitalize the 'o' in order when you are referring to a particular type of order, such as FCC Order 14-99. | USAC General |
annual A/Q true-up | Annual A/Q True Up; annual A/Q true up | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. Always hyphenate. | Service Providers |
appeal | Appeal | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
appellant | Appellant | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
applicant | Applicant | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
apply online; recertify online | National Verifier; consumer portal | When writing for consumers, say "apply online" or "recertify online" instead of "National Verifier" or "consumer portal." See "consumer" for more information. | Lifeline |
audit | Audit | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
authorized users | Authorized Users; AS | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Automated Clearing House (ACH) | automated clearing house | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ACH" is acceptable, as long as "Automated Clearing House (ACH)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (BMIC) | basic maintenance of internal connections | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BMIC" is acceptable, as long as "Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (BMIC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Beneficiary and Contributor Audit Program (BCAP) | beneficiary and contributor audit program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BCAP" is acceptable, as long as "Beneficiary and Contributor Audit Program (BCAP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
benefit qualifying person (BQP) | Benefit Qualifying Person | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "BQP" is acceptable, as long as "benefit qualifying person (BQP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
bid | Bid | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Billed Entity | billed entity; BE | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Billed Entity Number (BEN) | billed entity number | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BEN" is acceptable as long as "Billed Entity Number (BEN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Billing Account Number (BAN) | billing account number; Ban | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BAN" is acceptable, as long as "Billing Account Number (BAN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) | bureau of Indian education | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BIE" is acceptable, as long as "Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC Tribal Outreach/E-Rate |
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) | business process outsourcing | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BPO" is acceptable, as long as "Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
CAF I, CAF II, CAF BLS | CAFI, CAFII, CAF-I, CAF-II, CAFBLS, CAF-BLS | Include a space between the name of the fund and the roman numeral or acronym that follows it. | High Cost |
Category Two Budget (C2) | Category 2 Budget; category two budget | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "C2" is acceptable, as long as "Category Two Budget (C2)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) | chief administrative officer | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAO" is acceptable, as long as "Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | chief financial officer | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CFO" is acceptable, as long as "Chief Financial Officer (CFO)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) | children's internet protection act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CIPA" is acceptable, as long as "Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) | code of federal regulations | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CFR" is acceptable, as long as "Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Commission Registration System (CORES) ID | commission registration system ID; CRS | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CORES ID" is acceptable, as long as "Commission Registration System (CORES) ID" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
commitment adjustment (COMAD) | Commitment Adjustment; CA | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "COMAD" is acceptable, as long as "commitment adjustment (COMAD)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Commitment Adjustment Letter (CAL) | commitment adjustment letter; COMADL | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAL" is acceptable, as long as "Commitment Adjustment Letter (CAL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
common audit finding | Common Audit Finding; CAF; Circle of Life | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Common Language Location Identifier (CLLI) | common language location identifier | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CLLI" is acceptable, as long as "Common Language Location Identifier (CLLI)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Community Eligibility Option (CEO) | community eligibility option | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CEO" is acceptable, as long as "Community Eligibility Option (CEO)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) | community eligibility provision | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CEP" is acceptable, as long as "Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Community Mental Health Center (CMHS) | community Mental Health Center; community mental health center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CMHS" is acceptable, as long as "Community Mental Health Center (CMHS)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Company Officer | company officer; CO | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Service Providers |
competitive bidding process | Competitive Bidding Process; CBP | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
competitive eligible telecommunications carrier (CETC) | Competitive Eligible Telecommunications Carrier | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "CETC" is acceptable, as long as "competitive eligible telecommunications carrier (CETC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC) | Competitive Local Exchange Carrier | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "CLEC" is acceptable, as long as "competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Congressional Response Programs | Appropriated Programs; COVID-19 Broadband Programs | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. This term includes the COVID-19 Telehealth Program, the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program, and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). | Congressional Response Programs |
Connect America Cost Model (CACM) | connect America cost model | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CACM" is acceptable, as long as "Connect America Cost Model (CACM)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Connect America Fund (CAF) | connect America fund | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAF" is acceptable, as long as "Connect America Fund (CAF)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Connect America Fund Broadband Loop Support (CAF BLS) | connect America fund broadband loop support; CAFBLS; CAF-BLS | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAF BLS" is acceptable, as long as "Connect America Fund Broadband Loop Support (CAF BLS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Connect America Fund Intercarrier Compensation (CAFICC) | connect America fund intercarrier compensation | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAFICC" is acceptable, as long as "Connect America Fund Intercarrier Compensation (CAFICC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Connect America Fund Phase II (CAFII) | connect America fund phase II; Connect America Fund Phase 2; CAF2 | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAFII" is acceptable, as long as "Connect America Fund Phase II (CAFII)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Connected Care Pilot Program (CCPP) | connected care pilot program; Connected Care | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CCPP" is acceptable, as long as "Connected Care Pilot program (CCPP)" is spelled out on first reference. Capitalize the "p" in "program." | Rural Health Care |
Consolidated Post Audit Tracking System (CPATS) | consolidated post audit tracking system | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CPATS" is acceptable, as long as "Consolidated Post Audit Tracking System (CPATS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
consortia | Consortia | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Note that this word is plural. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
consortium | Consortium | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Note that this word is singular. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
Consultant Registration Number (CRN) | consultant registration number | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CRN" is acceptable, as long as "Consultant Registration Number (CRN)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
consumer | Consumer | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Use when referring to eligible consumers not yet enrolled in Lifeline. | Lifeline |
Continuing Property Record (CPR) | continuing property record | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CPR" is acceptable, as long as "Continuing Property Record (CPR)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Contract Award Date (CAD) | contract award date | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAD" is acceptable, as long as "Contract Award Date (CAD)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Contract Expiration Date (CED) | contract expiration date | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CED" is acceptable, as long as "Contract Expiration Date (CED)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
contract review | Contract Review; CR | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
contributor | Contributor | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | Service Providers |
Contributors/Service Providers Customer Service Center (CSC) | Customer Support Center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "Contributors/Service Providers CSC" is acceptable, as long as "Customer Service Center (CSC)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
Core Based Statistical Area | core based statistical area; CBSA | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Rural Health Care |
cost company | Cost Company; CC | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronym or abbreviation should be used. | High Cost |
COVID-19 Telehealth Program | COVID-19 telehealth program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. The "p" in "program" should be capitalized. | Congressional Response Programs |
Critical Access Hospital (CAH) | critical access hospital | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CAH" is acceptable, as long as "Critical Access Hospital (CAH)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
cure notice | Cure Notice; CN | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
customer service agent; customer support agent | Customer Service Agent; call center agent | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Customer Service Center (CSC); USAC Customer Service Center (CSC) | Customer Support Center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "CSC" or "USAC CSC" is acceptable, as long as "Customer Service Center (CSC)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Customer Service Portal; USAC Customer Service Portal | customer service portal | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
customer service representative | Customer Service Representative; CSR | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Data Collection Agent (DCA) | data collection agent | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DCA" is acceptable, as long as "Data Collection Agent (DCA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) | data retrieval tool | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DRT" is acceptable, as long as "Data Retrieval Tool (DRT)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
de-commitment and de-obligation | De-commitment; De-obligation | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Use hyphens. | USAC General |
Debt Collection Improvement Act (DCIA) | debt collection improvement act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DCIA" is acceptable, as long as "Debt Collection Improvement Act (DCIA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
delegated users | Delegated Users; DU | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
delinquency notices | Delinquincy Notices; DN | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | Service Providers |
delinquent debt | Delinquent Debt; DD | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | Service Providers |
Demand Payment Letter (DPL) | demand payment letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DPL" is acceptable, as long as "Demand Payment Letter (DPL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
demarcation point (demarc) | Demarcation Point; DP | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "demarc" is acceptable, as long as "demarcation point" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Detailed Audit Finding (DAF); Detailed Audit Finding (DAF) Worksheet | detailed audit finding; detailed audit finding worksheet | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DAF" is acceptable, as long as "Detailed Audit Finding (DAF)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA Act) | digital accountability and transparency act; DATA | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DATA Act" is acceptable, as long as "Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA Act)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
discount | free | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. When referencing Lifeline support or services, use "discount" instead of "free." NOTE: Refer to the Lifeline program discount as the Lifeline benefit. For example: "The Lifeline benefit is a discount provided on a consumer’s telephone or broadband service." When describing the benefit, we can refer to it as a discount but when talking about Lifeline in broader terms, use benefit whenever possible.
| Lifeline |
Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) | disproportionate share hospital | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "DSH" is acceptable, as long as "Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
duplicate review | Duplicative Review; DR | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
E-File | e-file; E-file | Capitalize "E" and "F" in file. | Service Providers |
E-Rate Customer Service Center (CSC) | Customer Support Center; Client Service Bureau | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "E-Rate CSC" is acceptable, as long as "Customer Service Center (CSC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) | E-rate productivity center; EPIC; Epic | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "EPC" is acceptable, as long as "E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) | E-rate productivity center; EPIC; Epic | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "EPC" is acceptable, as long as "E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
E-Rate program | Schools & Libraries, Schools and Libraries program SL, SLD; E-rate Program; E-rate | "E-Rate" is a proper noun and should always be capitalized. Always keep the "p" in "program" lowercase, unless part of a title. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | E-Rate |
ECF Portal | ECF portal | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. | Congressional Response Programs |
Educational Service Agency (ESA) | educational service agency | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ESA" is acceptable, as long as "Educational Service Agency (ESA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) | electronic comment filing system | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ECFS" is acceptable, as long as "Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
eligible consumer/household | Eligible Consumer/Household; low income | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviation or acronym should be used. In Lifeline never use “low income.” | Lifeline |
eligible services | Eligible Services; ES | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Eligible Services List (ESL) | eligible services list | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ESL" is acceptable, as long as "Eligible Services List (ESL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC) | Eligible Telecommunications Carrier | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "ETC" is acceptable, as long as "eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program | Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program; emergency broadband benefit program; EBBP | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "EBB Program" is acceptable, as long as "Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program" is spelled out on first reference. Capitalize the "P" in Program. | Congressional Response Programs |
Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program | Emergency Connectivity Program; Emergency Connectivity Fund | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ECF" is acceptable, as long as "Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program" is spelled out on first reference. | Congressional Response Programs |
Enhanced Tribal Benefit | Tribal Discount; Tribal Benefit | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Congressional Response Programs/USAC Tribal Outreach |
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) | enterprise resource planning | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ERP" is acceptable, as long as "Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
EPC Administrative Window | EPC administrative window | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used, except for EPC. | E-Rate |
evergreen contact | Evergreen Contact; EC | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronyms or abbreviations should be used. | USAC General |
Evidence for Rural Rate | evidence for rural rate | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Rural Health Care |
FCC Enforcement Bureau (EB) | FCC enforcement bureau | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FCC EB" is acceptable, as long as "FCC Enforcement Bureau (EB)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
FCC Form ### | Form ### | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. When referencing a form, always include "FCC". | USAC General |
FCC Form 472 (Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement (BEAR) Form); BEAR Form | billed entity applicant reimbursement form | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "BEAR Form" is acceptable, as long as "FCC Form 472 (Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement (BEAR) Form)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
FCC Form 473 (Service Provider Annual Certification (SPAC) Form); SPAC Form | service provider annual certification form | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SPAC Form" is acceptable, as long as "FCC Form 473 (Service Provider Annual Certification (SPAC) Form)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
FCC Form 474 (Service Provider Invoice (SPI) Form); SPI Form | service provoder invoice form | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SPI Form" is acceptable, as long as "FCC Form 474 (Service Provider Invoice (SPI) Form)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
FCC Form 499-A or FCC Form 499-Q | Form 499, Form 499A, Form 499Q | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. Always include FCC and use hyphens. | Service Providers |
FCC Forms ### | FCC Form ###s | When referring to multiple submissions of a particular FCC form, pluralize the word 'form,' not the number that follows the form. | USAC General |
FCC Forms ### | Form ###s/Form ###’s | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. When referencing multiple FCC Forms, make “Form” plural, not the form number. | USAC General |
FCC Forms ### and ### | FCC Form ### and ###s | When describing multiple types of FCC forms, pluralize the word 'form,' not the number that follows the form. | USAC General |
FCC Order ## | Order ##; FCC order ## | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. When referencing a particular type of order, such as FCC Order 14-99, always include "FCC." | USAC General |
FCC Registration Number (FCC RN) | FCCRN, Federal Registration Number (FRN) | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FCC RN" is acceptable, as long as "FCC Registration Number (FCC RN)" is spelled out on first reference. NOTE: the FCC refers to this as FRN, but USAC does not because we already use the term “FRN.” | USAC General |
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) | the Commission; federal communcations commission | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FCC" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Communications Commission (FCC)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) | federal employer identification number | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FEIN" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Financial Management Improvement Act 1996 (FFMIA) | federal financial management improvement act 1996 | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FFMIA" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Financial Management Improvement Act 1996 (FFMIA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Federal GAAP) | federal generally accepted accounting principles | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "Federal GAAP" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Federal GAAP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) | federal information security management act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FISMA" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) | federal poverty guidelines | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FPG" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) | federal public housing assistance | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FPHA" is acceptable, as long as "Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) | federally qualified health center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FQHC" is acceptable, as long as "Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
federally recognized | federally-recognized; Federally Recognized; FR | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronym or abbreviations should be used. Use in reference to Tribes but never Tribal lands. Do not use a hyphen. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
filer | Filer | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Filer ID | filer ID | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. Only abbreviate "ID." | Service Providers |
Filer ID Deactivation Request | filer ID deactivation request | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. Only abbreviate "ID." | Service Providers |
filing window | Filing Window; FW | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No acronym or abbreviations should be used. See Funding Year comments for more information. | USAC General |
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) | food and nutrition service | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FNS" is acceptable, as long as "Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC Tribal Outreach/Lifeline |
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) | food distribution program on Indian reservations | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FDPIR" is acceptable, as long as "Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC Tribal Outreach/Lifeline |
FQHC Look-Alike (LAL) | FQHC look-alike | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FQHC LAL" is acceptable, as long as "FQHC Look-Alike (LAL)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Fraud Risk Group (FRG) | fraud risk group | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FRG" is acceptable, as long as "Fraud Risk Group (FRG)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) | freedom of information act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FOIA" is acceptable, as long as "Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Frozen High Cost Support (FHCS) | frozen high cost support | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FHCS" is acceptable, as long as "Frozen High Cost Support (FHCS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
full launch | Full Launch; FL; hard launch | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronym should be used. Use “full launch” instead of “hard launch” when referring to a National Verifier full launch. | Lifeline |
Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) | funding commitment decision letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FCDL" is acceptable, as long as "Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Funding Commitment Letter (FCL) | funding commitment letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FCL" is acceptable, as long as "Funding Commitment Letter (FCL)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Funding Request Number (FRN) | funding request number | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "FRN" is acceptable, as long as "Funding Request Number (FRN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
funding year | Funding Year | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence, or referring to a specific year. | USAC General |
Funding Year (FY) YYYY (Month, Day YYYY through Month, Day YYYY) | funding year YYYY | Use “Funding Year (FY) YYYY” on first reference and “FYYYYY” after that. Specifiy range of dates for funding year on first reference. For example, on first reference say "Funding Year (FY) 2021 (July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022). On second reference, say "FY2021." Capitalize "Funding Year" when referring to a specific year, lowercase when speaking in general terms. | USAC General |
General Accounting Office (GAO) | government accountability office; general accounting office; General Accounting Office | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "GAO" is acceptable, if "General Accounting Office (GAO)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
General Contact | general contact; GC | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) | generally accepted accounting principles | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "GAAP" is acceptable, as long as "Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) | generally accepted auditing standards | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "GAAS" is acceptable, as long as "Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) | generally accepted government auditing standards | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "GAGAS" is acceptable, as long as "Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
geographic information system (GIS) | Geographic Information System | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "GIS" is acceptable, as long as "geographic information system (GIS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Head Start | head start; HS | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | E-Rate |
health care provider (HCP) | Health Care Provider; Healthcare provider; healthcare provider | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "HCP" is acceptable, as long as "health care provider (HCP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) | health insurance portability and accountability act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "HIPAA" is acceptable, as long as "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF); Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) Program | Healthcare Connect Fund program; Health Care Connect Fund; healthcare connect fund | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "HCF" is acceptable, as long as "Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) Program" is spelled out on first reference. Capitalize the "p" in "program." | Rural Health Care |
Healthcare Provider Shortage Area (HPSA) | healthcare provider shortage area | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "HPSA" is acceptable, as long as "Healthcare Provider Shortage Area (HPSA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
High Cost Customer Service Center (CSC) | Customer Support Center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "High Cost CSC" is acceptable, as long as "Customer Service Center (CSC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
High Cost Loop (HCL) | high cost loop | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "HCL" is acceptable, as long as "High Cost Loop (HCL)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
High Cost Model (HCM) | high cost model | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "HCM" is acceptable, as long as "High Cost Model (HCM)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
High Cost program | High Cost Program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case, except for the "p" in "program." Always spell out "High Cost" and only use the acronym "HC" in instances where space is tight, such as in charts or graphs. | High Cost |
High Cost Universal Broadband (HUBB) portal | high cost universal broadband portal; HUBB | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case, except for the word "portal." The use of "HUBB portal" is acceptable, as long as "High Cost Universal Broadband (HUBB) portal" is spelled out on first reference. Do not capitalize the "p" in portal and do not leave out the word "portal." | High Cost |
improper payment | Improper Payment; IP | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act (IPERA) | Improper Payments Elimination & Recovery Act; improper payments elimination and recovery act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IPERA" is acceptable, as long as "Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act (IPERA)" is spelled out on first reference. Do not use an ampersand. | USAC General |
Improper Payments Information Act (IPIA) | improper payments information act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IPIA" is acceptable, as long as "Improper Payments Information Act (IPIA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Incremental Support (IS) | incremental support | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IS" is acceptable, as long as "Incremental Support (IS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC) | Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "ILEC" is acceptable, as long as "incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
independent economic household (IEH) | Independent Economic Household | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "IEH" is acceptable as long as "independent economic household (IEH)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Indian Health Service (IHS) | Indian health service | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IHS" is acceptable, as long as "Indian Health Service (IHS)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Institute of Museum and Library Services | Institute for Museum & Library Services; institute of museum and library services | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. Do not use an ampersand. | E-Rate |
Intercarrier Compensation (ICC), Intercarrier Compensation (ICC) Recovery | intercarrier compensation; IC | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ICC" or "ICC Recovery" is acceptable, as long as "Intercarrier Compensation (ICC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
interexchange (IXC) carrier | Interexchange Carrier; IC | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "IXC carrier" is acceptable, as long as "interexchange (IXC) carrier" is spelled out on first reference. Use IXC after "interexchange" and before "carrier." | High Cost |
Internal Connections (IC) | internal connections | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IC" is acceptable, as long as "Internal Connections (IC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) | internet control message protocol | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ICMP" is acceptable, as long as "Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Internet Safety Policy (ISP) | internet safety policy | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ISP" is acceptable, as long as "Internet Safety Policy (ISP)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
internet service provider (ISP) | Internet Service Provider | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "ISP" is acceptable as long as "internet service provider (ISP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Interstate Access Support (IAS) | interstate access support | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "IAS" is acceptable, as long as "Interstate Access Support (IAS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Interstate Common Line Support (ICLS) | interstate common line support | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ICLS" is acceptable, as long as "Interstate Common Line Support (ICLS)" is spelled out on first reference. Don’t add “support” after the acronym. | High Cost |
interstate telecommunications | Interstate Telecommunications; IT | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Service Providers |
interstate telecommunications service provider (ITSP) | Interstate Telecommunications Service Provider | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "ITSP" is acceptable, as long as "interstate telecommunications service provider (ITSP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
invoice | Invoice | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
invoice deadlines | Invoice Deadlines; ID | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Invoice Status Report (ISR) | invoice status report | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "ISR" is acceptable, as long as "Invoice Status Report (ISR)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
launch | Launch | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | Lifeline |
lessons learned | Lessons Learned; Circle of Life | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Letter of Agency (LOA) | letter of agency; Letter of Authorization | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LOA" is acceptable, as long as "Letter of Agency (LOA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
Letter of Credit (LOC) | letter of credit | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LOC" is acceptable, as long as "Letter of Credit (LOC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Letter of Exemption (LOE) | letter of exemption | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LOE" is acceptable, as long as "Letter of Exemption (LOE)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) | Library Services & Technology Act; library services and technology act | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LSTA" is acceptable, as long as "Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA)" is spelled out on first reference. Do not use an ampersand. | E-Rate |
Lifeline Broadband Provider | lifeline broadband provider; LBP | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Lifeline |
Lifeline Customer Service Center (CSC) | Customer Support Center; Lifeline Support Center | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "Lifeline CSC" is acceptable, as long as "Customer Service Center (CSC)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Lifeline National Verifier (NV); National Verifier (NV) | lifeline national verifier; LNV; the Verifier | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NV" is acceptable, as long as "National Verifier (NV)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Lifeline program | Lifeline Program; LL | This is a proper noun and should always be capitalized. Do not use an acronym. Preferred shortening is just “Lifeline.” Use "LI" only if absolutely necessary, such as in a table or chart where space is tight. Do not capitalize "p" in "program." | Lifeline |
Lifeline Program Household Worksheet (household worksheet) | lifeline program household worksheet; LPHW | Lifeline Program Household Worksheet may be shortened to “household worksheet” but avoid using an acronym. | Lifeline |
local area network (LAN) | Local Area Network | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "LAN" is acceptable, as long as "local area network (LAN)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
local education agency (LEA) | Local Education Agency | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "LEA" is acceptable, as long as "local education agency (LEA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Local Exchange Routing Guide (LERG) | local exchange routing guide | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LERG" is acceptable, as long as "Local Exchange Routing Guide (LERG)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
local number portability (LNP) | Local Number Portability | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "LNP" is acceptable, as long as "local number portability (LNP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
Local Number Portability Administration (LNPA) | local number portability administration | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LNPA" is acceptable, as long as "Local Number Portability Administration (LNPA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
Lowest Corresponding Price (LCP) | lowest corresponding price | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "LCP" is acceptable, as long as "Lowest Corresponding Price (LCP)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Managed Internal Broadband Services (MIBS) | managed internal broadband services | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MIBS" is acceptable, as long as "Managed Internal Broadband Services (MIBS)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
maximum allowable distance (MAD) | Maximum Allowable Distance | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "MAD" is acceptable, as long as "maximum allowable distance (MAD)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Medically Underserved Area/Population (MUA/P) | medically underserved area/population | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MUA/P" is acceptable, as long as "Medically Underserved Area/Population (MUA/P)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) | memorandum opinion and order | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MO&O" is acceptable, as long as "Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Midyear Review | Mid-year Review; MR | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. Do not use a hyphen. | USAC General |
ministerial and clerical (M&C) | Ministerial and Clerical | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "M&C" is acceptable, as long as "ministerial and clerical (M&C)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
minutes of use (MOU) | Minutes of Use | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "MOU" is acceptable, as long as "minutes of use (MOU)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Mobility Fund | mobility fund; MF | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | High Cost |
Mobility Fund II (MFII) Challenge Process | Mobility Fund 2 Challenge Process; mobility fund II challenge process; mobility fund 2 challenge process; MFII challenge process | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MFII" is acceptable, as long as "Mobility Fund II (MFII) Challenge Process" is spelled out on first reference. "Challenge Process" should come after the acronym. | High Cost |
Mobility Fund II (MFII); Mobility Fund Phase II (MFII) | Mobility Fund Phase 2; mobility fund phase II; mobility fund phase 2; MF2 | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MFII" is acceptable, as long as "Mobility Fund II (MFII)" or "Mobility Fund Phase II (MFII)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Mobility Fund Phase II (MFII) Auction | Mobility Fund Phase 2 Auction; mobility fund phase II auction; mobility fund phase 2 auction; MF2 auction | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "MFII" is acceptable, as long as "Mobility Fund Phase II (MFII) Auction" is spelled out on first reference. "Auction" should come after the acronym. | High Cost |
Modernization Order | modernization order; MO | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
multi-factor authentication (MFA) | Multi-Factor Authentication | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "MFA" is acceptable, as long as "multi-factor authentication (MFA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
multi-line business (MLB) | Multi-Line Business | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "MLB" is acceptable, as long as "multi-line business (MLB)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
multiple-bill (multi-bill) circuit | Multiple Bill Circuit; MBC | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "multi-bill circuit" is acceptable, as long as "multiple-bill (multi-bill) circuit" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
My Portal | my portal | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. My Portal is two words. | Rural Health Care |
national average cost per loop (NACPL) | National Average Cost Per Loop | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "NACPL" is acceptable, as long as "national average cost per loop (NACPL)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) | national center for education statistics | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NCES" is acceptable, as long as "National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA) | national exchange carrier association | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NECA" is acceptable, as long as "National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) | national lifeline accountability database | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NLAD" is acceptable, as long as "National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
National School Lunch Program (NSLP) | national school lunch program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NSLP" is acceptable, as long as "National School Lunch Program (NSLP)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) | National Telecommunications & Information Administration; national telecommunications and information administration | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NTIA" is acceptable, as long as "National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)" is spelled out on first reference. Do not use an ampersand. | USAC General |
National Verifier Eligibility Check Application Programming Interface (API) | national verifier eligibility check application programming interface | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "API" is acceptable, as long as "National Verifier Eligibility Check Application Programming Interface (API)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Network Cost Worksheet (NCW) | network cost worksheet | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NCW" is acceptable, as long as "Network Cost Worksheet (NCW)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
network plan | Network Plan; NP | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
NLAD opt-out states | opt-out states | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Do not leave “NLAD” out. | Lifeline |
non-instructional facility (NIF) | Non-Instructional Facility | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "NIF" is acceptable, as long as "non-instructional facility (NIF)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Non-Standard Improper Payment | non-standard improper payment; NSIP | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) | North American numbering plan administration | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NANPA" is acceptable, as long as "North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
Notice of Apparent Liability (NAL) | notice of apparent liability | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NAL" is acceptable, as long as "Notice of Apparent Liability (NAL)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Notice of Dismissal (NOD) | notice of dismissal | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NOD" is acceptable, as long as "Notice of Dismissal (NOD)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Notice of Inquiry (NOI) | notice of inquiry | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NOI" is acceptable, as long as "Notice of Inquiry (NOI)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) | notice of proposed rulemaking | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NPRM" is acceptable, as long as "Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Notice of Resolved Issue (NORI) | notice of resolved issue | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "NORI" is acceptable, as long as "Notice of Resolved Issue (NORI)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Office of Inspector General (OIG) | office of inspector general | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "OIG" is acceptable, as long as "Office of Inspector General (OIG)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) | office of managemetn and budget | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "OMB" is acceptable, as long as "Office of Management and Budget (OMB)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
One Portal | one portal | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Open Data; USAC Open Data | open data | Open Data is a proper noun and should be capitalized when we talk about our website, initiative or team. However, open data as a concept is not a proper noun and should not be capitalized. For example: "Organizations around the country are converting datasets to open data;" "USAC is launching a new open data tool called the E-Rate Invoicing Open Data Tool on the USAC Open Data website." | USAC General |
Order | order | Capitalize when when referencing a formal FCC Order (such as CAFT Order or Lifeline Reform Order); otherwise keep lowercase. | USAC General |
order | Order | Keep lowercase unless it is part of a proper noun or when referencing a formal FCC Order (such as CAFT Order or Lifeline Reform Order). | USAC General |
participants | Participants | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Past Due Letter (PDL) | past due letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PDL" is acceptable, as long as "Past Due Letter (PDL)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Payment Quality Assurance (PQA); Payment Quality Assurance (PQA) program | payment quality assurance; payment quality assurance program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PQA" is acceptable, as long as "Payment Quality Assurance (PQA)" is spelled out on first reference. The "p" in "program" should always be lowercase. | USAC General |
pending | Pending | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Performance Measures Module (PMM) | performance measures module | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PMM" is acceptable, as long as "Performance Measures Module (PMM)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Personal Identification Number (PIN) | personal identification number | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PIN" is acceptable, as long as "Personal Identification Number (PIN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Personally Identifiable Information | personally identifiable information; PII | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Preparer | preparer | This is a proper noun and should follow title case. | Service Providers |
price cap | price-cap | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Do not use a hyphen. | High Cost |
Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) | program integrity assurance | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PIA" is acceptable, as long as "Program Integrity Assurance (PIA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
program year | Program Year; PY | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence, or if referring to a specific year. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Program Year 20XX | PY20XX | This is a proper noun if referring to a specific year, and should therefre follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain Through FCC Programs | protecting against national security threats to the communications supply chain through FCC programs | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used, with the exception of "FCC". | USAC General |
Public Notice (PN) | public notice | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "PN" is acceptable, as long as "Public Notice (PN)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Public Utility Commission | public utility commission; PUC | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Lifeline |
Q1 YYYY | 1QYYYY; Q3 YYYY | When referencing a quarter, use “Q” directly followed by the quarter number, a space, and the year. For example, "Q3 2024." | USAC General |
Quantity of Expense Periods | quantity of expense periods | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Rural Health Care |
rate-of-return (ROR) | rate of return | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "ROR" is acceptable, as long as "rate-of-return (ROR)" is spelled out on first reference. Use hyphens. | High Cost |
Receipt Acknowledgement Letter (RAL) | receipt acknowledgement letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RAL" is acceptable, as long as "Receipt Acknowledgement Letter (RAL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
recertification | Recertification | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
recovery of improperly disbursed funds (RIDF) | Recovery of Improperly Disbursed Funds | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "RIDF" is acceptable, as long as "recovery of improperly disbursed funds (RIDF)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Red Light Rule | red light rule; RLR | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Red Light status | Red Light Status; red light status; RLS | "Red Light" is a proper noun and should always follow title case; "status" is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Representative Accountability Database (RAD) | representative accountability database | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RAD" is acceptable, as long as "Representative Accountability Database (RAD)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
request for proposal (RFP) | Request for Proposal | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "RFP" is acceptable, as long as "request for proposal (RFP)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
reverification | Reverification | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Revised Funding Commitment Decision Letter (RFCDL) | revised funding commitment decision letter | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RFCDL" is acceptable, as long as "Revised Funding Commitment Decision Letter (RFCDL)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
RHC Connect | RHC connect | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. | Rural Health Care |
RHC Customer Service Center | RHC Help Desk; RHC CSC | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used, except "RHC." | Rural Health Care |
Rural Broadband Experiments (RBE) | rural broadband experiments | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RBE" is acceptable, as long as "Rural Broadband Experiments (RBE)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) | rural digital opportunity fund | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RDOF" is acceptable, as long as "Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Rural Health Care (RHC) program | rural health care | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "RHC" is acceptable, as long as "Rural Health Care (RHC)" is spelled out on first reference. The "p" in "program" should always be lowercase. | Rural Health Care |
Rural Health Care Rates Database; RHC Rates Database | rural health care rates database; RHCRD | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used, with the exception of "RHC." | Rural Health Care |
Safety Net Additive (SNA) | safety net additive | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SNA" is acceptable, as long as "Safety Net Additive (SNA)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Safety Valve Support (SVS) | safety valve support | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SVS" is acceptable, as long as "Safety Valve Support (SVS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Section 508 Compliance | section 508 compliance | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Selective Review Information Request (SRIR) | selective review information request | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SRIR" is acceptable, as long as "Selective Review Information Request (SRIR)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
service level agreement (SLA) | Service Level Agreement | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SLA" is acceptable, as long as "service level agreement (SLA)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
service provider | Service Provider (SP) | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Service Providers |
single-line business (SLB) | Single-Line Business | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SLB" is acceptable, as long as "single-line business (SLB)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
skilled nursing facility (SNF) | Skilled Nursing Facility | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SNF" is acceptable, as long as "skilled nursing facility (SNF)" is spelled out on first reference. | Rural Health Care |
software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) | Software-Defined Wide Area Network | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SD-WAN" is acceptable, as long as "software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) | special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "WIC" is acceptable, as long as "Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)" is spelled out on first reference. | Congressional Response Programs |
Standard Improper Payment | standard improper payment | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
state educational agency (SEA) | State Educational Agency | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SEA" is acceptable, as long as "state educational agency (SEA)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
state master contract (SMC) | State Master Contract | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SMC" is acceptable, as long as "state master contract (SMC)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
study area average cost per loop (SACPL) | Study Area Average Cost Per Loop | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SACPL" is acceptable, as long as "study area average cost per loop (SACPL)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Study Area Code (SAC) | study area code | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SAC" is acceptable, as long as "Study Area Code (SAC)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
subject matter expert (SME) | Subject Matter Expert | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SME" is acceptable, as long as "subject matter expert (SME)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
subscriber | Subsciber | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Use when referring to consumers enrolled in Lifeline. | Lifeline |
subscriber line charge (SLC) | Subscriber Line Charge; subcriber line count | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "SLC" is acceptable, as long as "subcriber line charge (SLC)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | supplemental nutrition assistance program | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SNAP" is acceptable, as long as "Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | supplemental security income | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SSI" is acceptable, as long as "Supplemental Security Income (SSI)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Supply Chain First Report and Order | supply chain first report and order | This specific order is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
supply chain order(s) | Supply Chain Order | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
System for Award Management (SAM) | system for award management | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "SAM" is acceptable, as long as "System for Award Management (SAM)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Tariff Review Plan (TRP) | tariff review plan | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "TRP" is acceptable, as long as "Tariff Review Plan (TRP)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
team | Team | When referring to a USAC team, the word "team" should not be part of the proper noun and should therefore remain lowercase unless in a title. For example: "Shared Services team" | USAC General |
Telecom Invoice | telecom invoice | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Rural Health Care |
telecommunications | tele-communications | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Do not use a hyphen. | USAC General |
Telecommunications (Telecom) Program | Telecommunications program | Since referring to a specific program, "Telecommunications" in this case is part of a proper noun and should be capitalized. "Telecom" is an acceptable abbreviation as long as "Telecommunications (Telecom)" is spelled out on first reference. Capitalize the "p" in "program." | Rural Health Care |
telecommunications carrier | Telecommunications Carrier; TC | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Telecommunications Plant In Service (TPIS) | telecommunications plant in service | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "TPIS" is acceptable, as long as "Telecommunications Plant in Service (TPIS)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
telecommunications provider/company | telephone provider/company | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) | telecommunications relay services | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "TRS" is acceptable, as long as "Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
telehealth | Telehealth; tele-health | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Do not use a hyphen. | Rural Health Care |
telemedicine | Telemedicine; tele-medicine | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. Do not use a hyphen. | Rural Health Care |
third party authorization (TPA) | Third Party Authorization | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "TPA" is acceptable, as long as "third party authorization (TPA)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Third Party Identity Verification (TPIV) | third party identity verification | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "TPIV" is acceptable, as long as "Third Party Identity Verification (TPIV)" is spelled out on first reference. | Lifeline |
Transformation Order | transformation order; TO | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | High Cost |
Tribal | tribal | Always capitalize. Using Tribal as a stand alone noun is not preferred. Use tribe or tribes if it is a stand alone noun. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal college and university (TCU) | Tribal College and University | "Tribal" is always capitalized and "college and university" is never capitalized unless part of a title. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal Head Start | tribal head start; THS | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach/Lifeline |
Tribal Identification Number | tribal identification number; TIN | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal land; non-Tribal land | Tribal Land; Native Land | "Tribal" is always capitalized and "land" is never capitalized unless part of a title. "Native" is inconsistent with USAC language. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal Liaison | tribal liaison | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal Nation | Tribal nation | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal Partner | Tribal Stakeholder | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribal Training | Tribal Webinar | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC Tribal Outreach |
Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (Tribal TANF) | Tribally-administered termporary assistance to needy families | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "Tribal TANF" is acceptable, as long as "Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (Tribal TANF)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC Tribal Outreach/Lifeline |
Tribe | tribe | Capitalized when part of a proper noun. Use the official name for a tribe posted in the Federal Register. This content is updated every year. For example: "The Shawnee Tribe is located in Oklahoma." | USAC Tribal Outreach |
tribe | Tribe | This should remain lowercase when not part of a proper noun. For example: "The tribe is one of 39 federally recognized tribes located in Oklahoma." | USAC Tribal Outreach |
true-up | true up or True-Up | This is two words and should always be hyphenated. This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless at the beginning of a sentence, part of a proper noun, or used in a title (such as “2019 True-Up”) | USAC General |
Unbundled Network Element (UNE) | unbundled network element | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "UNE" is acceptable, as long as "Unbundled Network Element (UNE)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) | unique entity identifier | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "UEI" is acceptable, if "Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)" is spelled out on first reference. | Service Providers |
universal service | Universal Service; US | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) | universal service administrative company | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "USAC" is acceptable, as long as "Universla Service Administration Company (USAC)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
Universal Service Fund (USF); federal Universal Service Fund (USF) | univeral service fund; FUSF; Federal Universal Service Fund | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "USF" is acceptable, as long as "Universal Service Fund (USF)" is spelled out on first reference. Always keep "federal" lowercase, unless part of a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
USAC employees or USAC team members | USAC Employees; USAC Team Members | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
USAC’s Audit Division | USAC IAD; USAC's audit division; AD | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. Only abbreviate "USAC." | USAC General |
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) | user datagram protocol | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "UDP" is acceptable, as long as "User Datagram Protocol (UDP)" is spelled out on first reference. | High Cost |
vendor | Vendor | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |
Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit | veterans and survivors pension benefit | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | Lifeline |
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) | voice over internet protocol | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "VoIP" is acceptable, as long as "Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)" is spelled out on first reference. Do not capitalize "over" or "o." | USAC General |
Whistleblower Alert/“Code 9 Call” | whistleblower alert (WA) | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. No abbreviations or acronyms should be used. | USAC General |
Wide Area Network (WAN) | wide area network | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "WAN" is acceptable, as long as "Wide Area Network (WAN)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate/Rural Health Care |
wireless access point (WAP) | Wireless Access Point | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. The use of "WAP" is acceptable, as long as "wireless access point (WAP)" is spelled out on first reference. | E-Rate |
Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) | wireline competition bureau | This is a proper noun and should always follow title case. The use of "WCB" is acceptable, as long as "Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB)" is spelled out on first reference. | USAC General |
withdrawn | Withdrawn | This is not a proper noun and should remain lowercase unless in a title or at the beginning of a sentence. | USAC General |