On February 25, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission released a Report and Order officially establishing the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program. Funded from a $3.2 billion connectivity fund created by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, the EBB provides eligible low-income households “a monthly discount off the standard rate for an Internet service offering and associated equipment, up to $50.00 per month” and up to $75.00 per month on Tribal lands. A discount of up to $100 per household is also available for the purchase of a connected device, defined as a laptop, desktop, or tablet.
The 87-page Report and Order provides guidance on both service providers and households eligible to participate in the program, the types of products and services eligible for discount, and procedural requirements for reimbursements. The EBB program will be administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC.)
The Report and Order may be viewed here.
