December 16, 2021 08:56
Changes to the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
We have recently been advised that there are changes being made to the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program that will go into effect on December 30th, 2021. We would like to inform you of the changes that we have been made aware of thus far.
Customers that are enrolled by December 30th will continue to receive current benefits through February as the change takes place.
What’s Changing?
- The maximum monthly benefit will change from $50 per month to $30 per month per household.
- Households have new ways to qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Those receiving WIC benefits or are having an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line will now be eligible.
- Households that qualified for the Emergency Broadband Benefit due to a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020 or by meeting the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's COVID-19 program will need to requalify for the Affordable Connectivity Program.
- The FCC has stated that more information for what actions current EBB recipients will need to take to continue receiving the Affordable Connectivity Program benefit after the transition period will be available in the coming weeks. The FCC will be seeking comment on the changes enacted in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will be adopting rules for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Please stay tuned for additional updates.
The FCC has advised that there may be additional changes during this transition. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the Emergency Broadband Benefit help line at 1-833-511-0311.