Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, many people were removed from their jobs. However, payments for the bills like internet connection were not disturbed. But did you know that there is a way to get government-paid discount on broadband services? Apart from the stimulus checks released by the federal government to help Americans with their daily living, The Verge reported that the stimulus package passed by Congress in December included a provision to pay for broadband and other basic techs.

Although the discount is not that big, it can help ease the burden of paying bills, considering that nowadays, services are exchanged for money.

How to Get Government-Paid Discount on Broadband

The program that will give a discount to your internet bills is called Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, which was offered by the Federal Communications Commission. The program provides a "temporary" discount on monthly broadband bills for those who will qualify for the program.

Those who are eligible will receive up to $50 per discount per month on broadband services as well as associated equipment rentals. Those who will qualify and are living in tribal land will receive up to a $75 discount per month. Furthermore, the service provider will be the one providing the discount.

Cnet highlighted that "hundreds" of broadband providers committed to participate in the program of the FCC. Some of the companies are Charter Spectrum, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, Century Link, and Comcast Xfinity.

To get the $50 discount, there are three processes on how to get government-paid discount on broadband. First is the Eligibility, next is the application for the discount, and lastly is speaking with your network provider.

Eligibility

The first thing an individual must know to get the $50 discount on broadband monthly bills, is finding out if he or she qualifies for the program. Take note that the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program only allows one device per household.

But you or anyone in your household is qualified for the program based on the income. Any household with an income less than or equal to 135% of federal poverty guidelines, and participation in programs such as SNAP or Medicaid, job loss due to the pandemic is eligible for the program.

To prove the eligibility, proof of stated income such as pay stub or tax return shall be presented. A termination letter, application for unemployment benefits, or proof of loss of income can also be valid proof of eligibility.

Applying for the Program

If qualified, then the application can be submitted online now or until the program ends. Print out the application form, fill them out, and send them to this address:

Emergency Broadband Support Center

P.O. Box 7081

London, KY 4072.

Contacting Internet Provider

The last step will be talking with the subscribed internet provider. Asking them if they are participating in the discount program. Talking to the internet provider once approved is also essential so that they will be informed about your enrollment.

Despite the benefit, FCC's program would offer, bear in mind that the $50 discount program is temporary and may end once the fund runs out of money or six months after the Health and Human Services declared that the pandemic is over (whichever comes first).

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