This article will provide all the information about the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, such as eligibility, required documents, and the application process.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
What Is the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) is an old Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiative that ended on December 31, 2021 and was replaced by the Affordable Connectivity Program.
The EBB program aimed to help families struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The EBBP provided a monthly discount of up to $50 towards broadband service for eligible homes and a $75 monthly discount for qualifying Tribal lands.
Eligible families can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase internet-using devices like laptops, desktop computers, or tablets from EBB participating providers by contributing between $10-$50 toward the device’s purchase price.
Remember that benefits from EBBP are restricted to one discount on monthly service and one device discount per family.
Apply For The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
Before signing up, ensure you are eligible for EBBP benefits by checking them on the FCC’s official website or contacting the provider participating in EBBP.
- Go to “https://www.usac.org/about/emergency-broadband-benefit-program/” and click Apply Now and fill in the necessary information.
- After that, choose a service provider. You can find the list of providers here “https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers.”
- Upload the necessary documents, such as proof of income, proof of citizenship, and certification of participation in any government assistance program.
- After completing all the steps, wait for the FCC to check your documents, and if you qualify, you can start receiving EBBP benefits.
Note: The Affordable Connectivity program replaced the EBB program, so if you want to receive the EBB benefits in 2023, you must apply for the ACP program.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Eligibility
Your household is eligible if it meets one of the EBB eligibility requirements mentioned below.
You must be 18.
Your annual household income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
If you or any family member participates in a certain government assistance program below.
- Lifeline Participant
- Supplemental Social Security (SSI)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (FDPIR)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal Head Start
If your family received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
Those who experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or layoff since February 29, 2020, and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Documents
Here are the documents based on your eligibility.
Income Documents
Here are the accepted documents.
- Current Income Statement from your employer
- Child Support Award
- Divorce Decree
- Paycheck Stub
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
- Unemployment or Worker’s Compensation statement of benefits
Program Documents
Here are the accepted documents for the Emergency Broadband Benefit program.
- Government Approval letter
- Benefit Award letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Benefits
The EBBP provided a temporary monthly discount on broadband bills for qualifying low-income families during COVID-19. If your household is qualified, you can receive the following EBB benefits.
- Up to a $50 monthly discount on broadband service and associated equipment.
- Up to a $75 monthly discount if you belong to EBB qualifying Tribal lands.
- A one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase internet-using devices such as tablets, laptops, or desktop computers with a co-payment between $10 to $50.
FAQs
Are the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program the same?
Yes, The ACP replaced the EBB program on December 31, 2021, as a permanent solution.
When did the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program end?
The EBB Program ended on 31 December 2021.
Can I get a Free tablet with the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
Yes, you can get a discount of up to $100 to purchase a tablet. However, you must make a co-pay of $10 to $50 towards the tablet’s price.
