Understanding FCC Reporting Requirements in 2025

FCC reporting can be complex. With multiple filings due throughout the year and updates to key programs, broadband providers need a clear, reliable way to stay compliant. This guide outlines the major reporting requirements for 2025, what each entails, and where to find official FCC resources for further guidance.

DIRS: Disaster Information Reporting System

As of February 20, 2025, reporting to the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) is mandatory for telecommunications, broadband, and VoIP providers during FCC-declared emergencies.

If the FCC activates DIRS during a natural disaster, cyberattack, or other qualifying event, providers are required to submit outage information, infrastructure status, and restoration updates.

More information:
FCC Public Notice DA-24-1095A1
DIRS Overview - FCC

BDC: Broadband Data Collection

The Broadband Data Collection (BDC) program requires providers to submit detailed broadband availability data twice each year:

• March 1 (for data as of December 31 of the previous year)

• September 1 (for data as of June 30)

Filings must use the FCC's Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric, which maps out valid serviceable locations. Data must be accurate and reflect where service is offered or can be provided within 10 business days.

More information:
FCC BDC Filing Page
FCC Location Fabric Overview

HUBB: High-Cost Universal Broadband Portal

If your company receives federal support through programs like A-CAM, you must report broadband deployment activity using the HUBB system.

For 2025, the HUBB deadline to report deployment data for the prior calendar year was March 3.
Looking ahead, the FCC is transitioning HUBB reporting to use Location Fabric IDs instead of latitude and longitude coordinates. This change will become mandatory starting with the March 2, 2026 deadline.

More information:
FCC HUBB Transition Notice
FCC HUBB Reporting Portal

PSAP Notifications: 911 Outage Alerts

If your network experiences an outage that affects 911 service, FCC rules require you to notify the appropriate Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) within 30 minutes of identifying the issue. This rule applies to any outage that potentially impacts the ability of customers to reach emergency services.

You must also provide follow-up notifications as updates become available. Contact information for PSAPs should be kept current.

More information:
FCC PSAP Outage Notification Rules

ETRS: Emergency Alert System Reporting

While FEMA is not conducting a nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) test in 2025, the FCC still requires service providers to file ETRS Form One by October 3, 2025.

This form verifies that your systems are registered and compliant with national alerting requirements.

More information:
FCC EAS Test Reporting System (ETRS)

FCC Forms 499-A and 499-Q: Telecom Revenue Reporting

Telecommunications providers are required to report revenue through:

• Form 499-A (filed annually)

• Form 499-Q (filed quarterly)

These forms are used to calculate contributions to the Universal Service Fund (USF). The FCC publishes updated instructions and deadlines each year.

More information:
FCC 499 Filing Resources

2025 Deadlines at a Glance

Compliance Tips

• Track deadlines early. Map out key submission dates and assign responsibilities within your team.

• Use the Location Fabric. This data set is now essential for both BDC and HUBB filings.

• Review your 911 processes. Confirm you can meet the 30-minute PSAP notification requirement.

• Stay informed. Subscribe to FCC public notices or updates related to broadband and reporting changes.

• Test your portals. Log into HUBB, BDC, ETRS, and 499 systems ahead of time to avoid last-minute issues.

Final Thoughts

FCC reporting in 2025 may feel like a lot, but with clear deadlines, the right tools, and a bit of prep, it’s totally manageable. Staying on top of these requirements not only keeps you compliant but also builds trust with your customers, communities, and regulators.