FCC Announces Start Date for EBB Program

May 10, 2021
A few weeks ago I told you about a new program the FCC initiated called the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB). The program was created to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic.

The FCC has now announced the official launch date for applications will be this Wednesday. Please find more information on the program and how to apply below.

What is EBB?

The EBB will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on 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.

This benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Who is Eligible?

A household is eligible if one member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below:

  • Qualify for the Lifeline program
  • Receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year
  • Receive a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
  • Experience a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers
  • Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating providers' existing low-income or COVID-19 program

How to Sign-up

As of this Wednesday, May 12, eligible households will be able to enroll in the program to receive a monthly discount off the cost of broadband service from an approved provider. Eligible households can enroll online, or through their current approved provider. Click the button below to apply and to learn more.

Learn More & Apply
Please also check out the Broadband Benefit Consumer FAQ for more information about the benefit.