On May 12th, the Federal Communications Commission will launch a temporary program to help families and households struggling to afford Internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.
Students may be eligible if someone in their household meets one of the following criteria:
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
- Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020
- Has an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain government assistance programs
- Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch or breakfast program
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program
On May 12th, eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) using an online or mail in application.
Interested individuals can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit , or by calling 833-511-0311.
