Keeping America Connected

FCC broadband program helps those who need it most

A new FCC program is helping our members’ customers stay connected during the ongoing pandemic.

The temporary FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit Program can provide discounts for your customers on broadband service and equipment.

The COVID-19 global health pandemic demonstrated how vital it is to have a reliable broadband network connection. The FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is designed to keep people connected during this time.

The program provides an up to $50 a month discount on broadband service for qualifying customers. That benefit can be up to $75 a month on Tribal lands. The program also provides a one-time discount of $100 on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.

A household is eligible if at least one of its members:

• Qualifies for the Lifeline program;
• Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program;
• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
• Experienced a substantial, documented loss of income since February 29, 2020; or
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

The program is open to all broadband providers, not just those currently offering Lifeline services. Participating providers will receive reimbursement from the program for delivering qualifying broadband services or devices to eligible households. Broadband providers can find more information from the FCC about how to participate.

The program has been authorized by the FCC, but the start date has not yet been established at this time. The FCC is working to make the benefit available as quickly as possible.

Visit Broadband Benefit Consumer FAQ for more information about the benefit.