Tuesday Tip: FCC to offer internet discounts

Posted On: March 2, 2021

This week, we take a look at the FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit program. It’s a program that can help your residents- and you- get monthly discounts for high-speed internet.

The FCC voted unanimously to fund a Broadband Internet discount program last week. The goal is to make access to the internet more affordable for households, especially during the pandemic. The commission expects to have the program up and receiving applications before April 30, 2021.

The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the digital divide. By offering internet discounts, the program will provide “high-speed internet service for those struggling to get the connectivity they need during the ongoing pandemic.”

The FCC will spend $3.2 billion on the internet discounts program. You can get the latest information at https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit.

“This is a program that will help those at risk of digital disconnection. It will help those sitting in cars in parking lots just to catch a Wi-Fi signal to go online for work. It will help those lingering outside the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for remote learning. It will help those who worry about choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries. In short, this program can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the country. That’s why our work is already underway to get this program up and running, and I expect it to be open to eligible households within the next 60 days as providers sign up and program systems are put in place. I have confidence in our staff that we will do this carefully, swiftly and the right way.”
Acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel