Last year many people were laid off or unable to pay for basic necessities. So the stimulus package passed by Congress in December included a provision to pay for broadband and other basic technologies for those who, due to job loss or other financial hardship, cannot afford to pay for it alone. And starting this week, if you qualify, you can take advantage of it.
The Broadband Emergency Benefit Program is administered by the FCC and provides a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills – up to $50 per month (or $75 if your household is on eligible tribal lands). If your income qualifies, you can also get a one-time rebate of up to $100 for a computer or tablet.
It's not a lot, considering the cost of technology these days, but every little bit helps. And applications for this discount will be available starting today, May 12.
There are several ways you can qualify for the program. Qualifications may include your income level (at or below 135% of the federal poverty level), participation in a program such as SNAP or Medicaid, job loss due to the pandemic, or other criteria. You can get more information by visiting the FCC website or by going to getemergencybroadband.org
If you think you qualify, you can either apply online, contact your current broadband service provider to find out if they participate in the program (or check this list to find a provider near you ), or print and complete an application and send it to:
A word of warning:if you think you are eligible, please submit your application soon. This is a temporary program, and you lose your benefit when the fund runs out of money, or “six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares the COVID health emergency over. -19” – whichever comes first.
Update May 12, 2021 9:50 am ET: Updated to reflect that apps are available starting today.
