Families Can Apply For Help Paying For Broadband Access

(KNSI) – Lakes Area families having trouble paying for high-speed internet service can get help from Congress.

The FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program provides discounts on broadband service and computers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic-related program will continue until the $3.2 billion in federal funding runs out or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the pandemic.

Eligible households can get $50 to $75 a month for internet service. Participants can also get a one-time discount on a computer or tablet.

Families that qualify for Medicaid, SNAP, free-and-reduced lunch, Lifeline or Pell Grants, or other low-cost offerings can participate. Families that lost a fair amount of income in 2020 may also qualify.

To sign up and to learn more, click here.