FCC program offers aid for broadband

IRON RIVER — The Federal Communications Commission’s temporary Emergency Broadband Program offers financial assistance for households struggling to afford internet service during the Covid-19 pandemic.
    Benefits include 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 provider.
    Benefits are limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
    Households are eligible if one member meets one of the following criteria:
    • Earns 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;
    • Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year;
    • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
    • Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since Feb. 29, 2020;
    • Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income or Covid-19 program.
    Those interested can apply by contacting their preferred participating internet service provider to learn about the application process.
    Information on applications and participating providers is available at getemergencybroadband.org. Additional help and information is available by calling 833-511-0311 or visiting fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit.