What is the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) is a federally run program that is using federal COVID-19 stimulus funds to provide a broadband service subsidy (service discount) to low-income households for existing or new broadband service. Under the program eligible households can receive:

• up to $50/month/household discount for broadband service and associated equipment rentals
• Up to $75/month discount for households on qualifying Tribal land
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet supplied through a participating provider (consumer must pay a co-pay of more than $10 but less than $50 for the device. consumer cost is determined by the participating provider.)

When can I sign up for the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

Consumer enrollment opens MAY 12. 

Am I eligible? See Eligibility Households can sign up for the EBB program by (1) applying online through the National Verifier at getemergencybroadband.org, (2) by mail (print applications), or (3) in person with a participating provider.

How do I sign up? See Enrollment Process 

Do I receive the funds directly each month?

No, the Emergency Broadband Benefit provides a monthly discount on broadband service of up to $50 per eligible household (or up to $75 per eligible household on Tribal lands). The participating broadband service provider will receive the funds directly from the Emergency Broadband Benefit program. Once enrolled in the program, you will receive a credit of up to $50 ($75) on your monthly service bill.

I live on Tribal land. see Tribal Lands 

The EBB program is temporary and expires when funds run out or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares the end of the COVID-19 health emergency, whichever comes first. How long will I receive the discount? 

How will I know when the discount will run out? See Program Length 

Which broadband providers are participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

Various broadband providers, including those offering fiber and wireless broadband, will be participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit.  

See Participating Providers 

Who can help me understand eligibility requirements, sign up for new service, switch providers to a participating EBB program provider, apply the credit to existing service, etc.?

Locally dial 311,  211, or call the library at (503) 988-5123 to speak with someone who can help.

USAC (the federal agency administering the program) has created an Emergency Broadband Support Center with a hotline (833) 511-0311 and an email (EBBHelp@USAC.org) where they will answer questions for all interested parties. The Hotline is open from 9am-9pm ET. 7 days a week