Last year, many people were laid off or unable to meet their basic needs. like this incentive package The law, passed by Congress in December, included a provision to pay for broadband and other essential technologies to those who could not afford to pay for themselves due to job loss or other financial difficulties. And starting this week, if you qualify, you can take advantage of it.
this Emergency Broadband Benefit Program It is administered by the FCC and offers a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills of up to $50 per month (or $75 if your household is in eligible Tribal lands). If your income is eligible, you can also get a one-time discount of up to $100 for a computer or tablet.
Considering how much technology costs these days, not much, but every bit helps. And applications for this discount will be available from today, May 12.
there are various ways you can qualify for the program. Qualifications may include your income level (135% or less) 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. FCC website or by going getemergencybroadband.org
If you think you are eligible, you can also: apply onlinewhether they are participating in the program (or check this list for a provider near you), or print and complete an application and send it to:
Emergency Broadband Support Center
Mailbox 7081
London, KY 40742.
One caveat: If you think you may qualify, do not delay submitting the application. This is a temporary program and you will lose your benefit when the funding runs out or “six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares the end of the COVID-19 health emergency” (whichever comes first).
Update May 12, 2021, 09:50PM ET: Updated to reflect the fact that apps are available from today.
