New program provides financial assistance to households struggling to pay for internet service

Help is available for households struggling to afford internet service during the pandemic.

The Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Benefit program opens for enrollment May 12 and offers as much as a $50-per-month discount for broadband services per households; as much as $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal Lands; and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop, or tablet purchased through a qualifying provider.

Eligible households include those where at least one member of the household:
• is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or is a participant in certain government assistance programs;
• receives free or reduced school lunch or breakfast;
• received a Pell grant during the current award year;
• experienced job loss or significant income reduction since Feb. 29, 2020;
• or meets the eligibility requirements of a participating provider’s existing low income or COVID-19 program.

Interested applicants should either contact their current provider directly, apply online at http://getemergencybroadband.org or send an application by mail to Emergency Broadband Support Center, PO Box 7081, London, KY 40742.

For details, call 833-511-0311

“This program offers an assist for families needing broadband but unable to afford it because of COVID-related impacts,” said Congressman Donald McEachin (VA-4th). “Whether it’s for work, for school, for virtual medical visits, or to search for employment, this program will help families. I encourage all those eligible to apply. “