Emergency Broadband Funding Available for Families
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a temporary program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying 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. The benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company using an online or mail-in application.
Additional details, including eligibility and enrollment information, are available at www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit or by calling 833-511-0311.
Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
A household is eligible if a member of the household meets one of the criteria below:
- Has an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline;
- Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school years;
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
- Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough 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; or
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income or COVID-19 program.
How to Apply
There are three ways for eligible households to apply:
- Contact your preferred participating broadband provider directly to learn about their application process.
- Go to GetEmergencyBroadband.org to apply online and to find participating providers near you.
- Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application, and return it along with copies of documents showing proof of eligibility to:
Emergency Broadband Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, KY 40742
After receiving an eligibility determination, households can contact their preferred service provider to select an Emergency Broadband Benefit eligible service plan.
Local Resources
Connect2Compete
Through Connect2Compete, Cox opens a world of opportunity for families by providing low-cost, home internet with wifi for only $9.95 per month. First two months are free. Restrictions apply.
Spectrum Internet Assist
Get high-speed internet at an affordable price. Spectrum Internet Assist is available exclusively to qualified households. Discounted fees of $22.95 per month or less. Restrictions apply.
Access from AT&T
Stay connected with affordable internet. Access from AT&T provides low-cost internet service for eligible households. Discounted fees of $10.00 per month or less. Restrictions apply.