Millions of low income households across America will soon be eligible for a $50 per month discount on their Internet bill and more through the FCC’s new “Emergency Broadband Benefit” program! This program, approved by the Federal Communications Commission just last week, sets aside $3.2 billion to help low income households access the Internet during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
What does the Emergency Broadband Benefit provide?
The FCC’s new subsidy program provides a $50/month discount on broadband internet service for eligible households. They also provide a one-time $100 discount on a computer or tablet.
For households on Tribal lands, the internet subsidy will be as much as $75/month.
Each household is eligible for only one monthly service discount and one device discount.
Who is eligible for the FCC’s new subsidy program?
The FCC’s new subsidy program will be available to households that meet one of these requirements:
- Households who QUALIFY for the Lifeline program, including people who receive Medicaid, Food Stamps (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veteran’s Pension or Survivors Benefits, Tribal Program benefits and more!
- Households with children who receive free or reduced price school meals
- Pell Grant recipients who received a Pell Grant during the current award year
- Households that already participate in a pandemic or low income program offered by a broadband service
- Anyone who experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 (and has a total 2020 income of no more than $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers)
This program will cover a lot of households… and it’s likely that funding will run out before everyone who is eligible receives help.
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance, which advocates for broadband access, has stated that the program will end when the $3.2 billion runs out. It is estimated that the government would have to provide $7-$12 billion to provide boradband access to the millions of children who do not have it. In July, it was reported that approximately 17 million US children are not able to log into remote classes.
When will the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program be available?
This program was originally approved by Congress in December as part of the $900 billion coronavirus relief package. The program officially opened for applications on May 12, 2021.
What internet providers are covered by the benefit?
This program isn’t limited to established Lifeline providers! Any broadband provider can choose to participate in this program, and participating providers will receive reimbursement for delivering qualifying broadband services or devices to eligible households. ISPs can find more information here.
How can I sign up for the Emergency Broadband Benefit?
You can apply online at GetEmergencyBroadband.org.
Lisa Ricketson
Monday 28th of March 2022
I receive food stamps Medicaid low income help have schooling online and we need internet and laptop if possible Hesperia Michigan
Isaac
Thursday 31st of March 2022
Low Income Relief is an information service and does not provide cash or items directly. You will need to search our website for information about organizations that can help you meet those needs. Chat with Lira, she might be able to help! https://lowincomerelief.com/chat/
Kathryn Gay. Scyphers
Monday 6th of December 2021
I receive ebb , I need a tablet
Isaac
Tuesday 7th of December 2021
Low Income Relief is an information service and does not provide cash or items directly. You will need to search our website for information about organizations that can help you meet those needs. Chat with Lira, she might be able to help! https://lowincomerelief.com/chat/
craig ferraro
Sunday 29th of August 2021
I see alink for free stuff...are there any no cost options for Phones/tablets/computers?
Isaac
Wednesday 1st of December 2021
The organizations in our list should be able to help you with this, but unfortunately Low Income Relief does not provide gifts, food or funds directly. You will need to contact the organizations in this list for assistance or chat with Lira! She should be able to help, https://lowincomerelief.com/chat/
A. Totaro
Friday 30th of July 2021
Frontier Communications are discriminating some customers with this program. I was approved but Frontier says they don't offer the program to customers who have a "Homeowners Association" rate. But my apartment complex does not allow any other provider but Frontier. So I am caught in a "Catch-22" situation. This is not fair!
Isaac
Monday 13th of December 2021
Information on this should be in the article above. Chat with Lira, she might be able to help! https://lowincomerelief.com/chat/
Jamie
Monday 8th of March 2021
Can you get the release and put in inter net I don't have internet but would like to have it just asking
Hannah Benge
Tuesday 9th of March 2021
I'm not sure what your question is. Could your rephrase it for me? -Hannah