How to sign up for $50 a month federal benefit to help pay for internet
Updated Apr 30, 2021;
Posted Apr 30, 2021
A federal program provides a $50 a month federal subsidy to help pay for internet service.AFP via Getty Images
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The Federal Communication Commission has announced signup plans for a program that will provide monthly subsidies to help cover the cost of internet service.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program will start May 12. On that date, 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 through an approved provider or by visiting https://getemergencybroadband.org.
Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP, Getty Images
Low-income U.S. households can enroll in the FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) starting May 12.
Spotted by Ars Technica, the agency announced the arrival of its much-needed program Thursday alongside a brand new website. The benefit provides eligible households with a discount of up to $US50 ($65) a month on their broadband plan, and up to $US75 ($97) a month if the household is on tribal lands.
The EBB also provides a one-time discount of up to $US100 ($130) on a computer or tablet for eligible households. However, to take advantage of that requires a co-payment between $US10 ($13) and $US50 ($65).
(Credit: FCC)
If you lost your job during the pandemic, you may be eligible to receive a $50-per-month discount on your broadband plan.
On Thursday, the FCC announced it’s opening enrollment for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program on May 12. Sign-ups will be available on Getemergencybroadband.org or through an approved provider under the Lifeline program.
“In less than two weeks, we will have a new way for disconnected Americans to access the internet to carry out their day-to-day life, so they can reach the virtual classroom, take advantage of telehealth, and seek new employment opportunities,” said FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
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