Resources for Consumers

Information and resources, including FAQs, on the Emergency Broadband Benefit for consumers.

 
 

What is EBB?

 
 

In May 2021, the Federal Communications Commission launched the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program that offers a discount of up to $50 on eligible consumers’ monthly internet bills across the country. More than five million households have already enrolled in the program, which highlights its critical importance, as well as the positive impact discounted internet access can have on marginalized people recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The EBB provides:

  • Up to $50/month discount for broadband service;

  • Up to $75/month discount for households on qualifying tribal lands; and

  • A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating Internet Service Provider (ISP) if the household contributes more than $10 but less than $50 toward the purchase price.

How to Apply

There are three ways to apply for EBB:

  • Online at GetEmergencyBroadband.org

    • First-time users can click the blue “Apply Now” button

    • Returning users can click the blue “Sign In” button in the top right

  • By mail

    • Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application or print a copy—available in English and Spanish, with instructions available in nine additional languages—and return it along with copies of documents showing proof of eligibility to:

Emergency Broadband Support Center

P.O. Box 7081

London, KY 407

Eligibility

A household must meet one of the following criteria for eligibility:

  • Be Lifeline eligible (check if you qualify for Lifeline using the Lifeline National Verifier);

  • Eligible for an existing ISP discount broadband program;

  • Have children eligible for free and reduced school lunches;

  • Have a household member who is a Pell Grant recipient; or

  • Have a household member who is unemployed.

Find more information on eligibility here.

ISP participation is voluntary. Eligible households may choose among services offered by participating providers. Participating providers may be:

  • Already-designated USAC eligible telecommunications carriers; or

  • Other broadband providers meeting the requirements established by the FCC (yet to be determined).

Find a list of participating providers here.

FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit

Consumer Information Hub

 

 EBB Information and Resources from Partner Organizations

  • EBB Help

    Visit

  • Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC

    Visit

  • Common Sense Media

    Visit

  • National Digital Inclusion Alliance

    Visit

  • National Hispanic Media Coalition

    Visit

  • Next Century Cities

    Visit