COVID-19 Pandemic Relief Programs: Emergency Broadband Benefit
Posted on May 11, 2021 by Charlotte Shuff
Tags, Telecommunications
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a devastating effect on too many Oregon families. Many households are still unable to afford their utility bills along with other basic living expenses. Starting on May 12, 2021, the federal Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is available for qualifying households who need help with their broadband (high speed internet) bills. This is a temporary federal program with limited funds for monthly service discounts and, in certain cases, financial assistance with purchasing an internet-enabled device.
Temporary Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an optional program that service providers can opt into. For qualifying customers of participating service providers, the program offers:
- 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 an internet-enabled device (laptop, desktop computer, or tablet) purchased through a participating provider if they contribute more than $10 but less than $50 toward the purchase price.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one internet-enabled device discount per household. This program is only available until funds run out. If you qualify, make sure you apply as soon as you can for the best chance of receiving the benefits.
Who qualifies?
Customers qualify for the Emergency Broadband Benefit by meeting at least one of these criteria:
- You meet income eligibility requirements or participate in certain assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline (see more information below about the Lifeline assistance program)
- Someone in your household receives free and reduced-price school meals in either the 2019-20 or 2020-21 school year
- You received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
- You meet the eligibility requirements for your broadband provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program
Please note that not all Oregon providers are participating in this program. See the full list of participating Oregon service providers here.
How to Access the Emergency Broadband Benefit
There are three ways to apply for the program:
- Fill out the application online at www.getemergencybroadband.org/
- Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application (you will also need to mail in your proof of eligibility)
- Contact your broadband provider for their application process and availability
Tips for Talking to Broadband Provider Customer Service
Ask for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program directly. Service providers may offer you a different program at first. While other programs may also offer assistance that works for you, make sure you understand what benefits you will receive and your responsibility before signing up. If a program option is not what works for you, you do not have to use it.
Call as soon as you can. Since the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is a temporary program, the funding is limited. The sooner you call, the likelier it is that you will be able to get access to these funds.
Permanent Phone and Internet Assistance Program: Lifeline
Lifeline is a separate, long running broadband and telephone assistance program. Lifeline will continue to accept enrollment after the Emergency Broadband Program has expended all available funds. Learn more about the program options here.
Lifeline includes:
- Oregon Lifeline: Provides a monthly discount for qualifying customers on either their eligible phone or broadband service, or a free cell phone and data services from select wireless providers.
- Tribal Lifeline: Oregon residents on federally recognized Tribal lands may qualify for an additional $25 discount per month.
- Tribal Link Up: Provides qualifying Tribal residents with a one-time discount of up to $100 on the initial installation or activation of wireline or wireless phone service.
To qualify for Lifeline, you must meet income eligibility requirements or participate in certain assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income. To see if you qualify and apply for Oregon Lifeline, visit https://www.oregon.gov/puc/Pages/Oregon-Lifeline.aspx. For questions, call (Toll Free) 1-800-848-4442, or 503-373-7171 between 9am-4pm Monday through Friday.
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08/18/21 | 0 Comments | COVID-19 Pandemic Relief Programs: Emergency Broadband Benefit