Emergency Broadband Benefit Help

Direct payment towards internet bills during Covid-19

The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) is part of the emergency COVID-19 response by the federal government.

It provides a direct payment by the government towards internet bills of up to $50 (or $75 on Tribal Lands) per month for eligible households. 

The temporary program began on May 12 of 2021 and will last until the $3.2 billion fund runs out. We expect the program to last for at least several months and encourage all who are eligible to apply so you can have free or discounted internet acces

illustration of 3 people connecting

What you can do on this website
  • You can learn if you are eligible. You can learn how you can apply for the $50 benefit. 
  • You can learn about what documents you might need to apply. You may not need any!
  • You can learn which providers in your state you can use the $50 benefit with. 
  • You can find answers to frequently asked questions
  • You can learn how to get help if you are having trouble applying for the $50 discount benefit. 
What you cannot do on this website
  • You cannot apply for the $50 emergency benefit on this website. 
  • You cannot find information about specific internet plans. 
  • Any information you enter into this website WILL NOT be saved or tracked.
  • This website is only to help you prepare to successfully apply for the EBB discount. 

Eligibility & Sign up

There are many ways a household can be eligible to receive the $50 discount. If your household is in any of the groups below, you can click and learn more about how you can apply and if you will need any documents.

Lifeline Eligibility:

Lifeline Participant (Do you receive free cell phone services through a federal program?)

YOU ALREADY QUALIFY! You do NOT have to apply.

You are already eligible and only have to opt-in with an internet provider who is participating in the EBB discount program. (Find participating internet providers near you)

Not sure what Lifeline is?

Lifeline is a program that provides discounted home telephone and cell phone service to families with low-income. Companies like Assurance, Q-Link, T-mobile and many more provide phone service through the Lifeline program. So if you receive a subsidy for your phone you may be a recipient of Lifeline. 

How to verify who you are

You will need to use your SSN or Tribal ID number to show that you are you.

How to sign up
  • Use the Emergency Broadband website to find an Internet provider near you or see if your current provider is participating. Let the provider know that you want to opt-in to the EBB program and then you can choose your plan and they’ll help you get set up and connected!
  • If you have any questions, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311 .
Supplemental Social Security (SSI)

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you receive Supplemental Social Security (SSI). It must include:

  • You (or your dependent’s) name.
  • The name of the program (SSI).
  • The name of the government agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you received SSI within the last year.

Examples: SSI award, approval or verification letter.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your SSI letter or statement ready and ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state:
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your SSI letter or statement with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you receive a Veteran’s Pension or Survivor Benefits). It must include:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the program (Veterans Pension and Survivor Benefits.)
  • The name of the government agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you received the benefit within the last year.

Examples: Veterans Pension and Survivor Benefits award, approval, or verification letter.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your proof for Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefits ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your proof of Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Medicaid

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number, a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). (Using a SSN is the fastest method, but all forms of ID can be verified quickly during office hours 9am-9pm ET).

Documents needed

If you use a government ID OTHER THAN last 4 of Social Security Number OR Tribal ID, you will have to provide documentation. You can use a letter or document from Medicaid that includes:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the program (Medicaid).
  • The name of the government agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you participated in medicaid in the last year.
How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • If you are using a SSN or Tribal ID number, you won’t need to add or upload any documents. 
    • If you are using a photo or scan of an ID, make sure you have your Medicaid letter or document ready. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311 .
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. 
    • If you are using an ID or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), make sure to bring your Medicaid letter or statement with you.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you receive Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA). It must include:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the program (FPHA).
  • The name of the government agency who sent you the letter or document.
  • A date showing you received FPHA assistance in the last year.

Examples: FPHA approval, benefit award or statement of benefits letter.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your letter or statement showing you receive federal housing assistance ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311 
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your letter or statement showing you receive federal housing assistance with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
SNAP

Do you live in one of these states?

  • CO
  • FL
  • GA
  • IN
  • IA
  • KY
  • M
  • MN
  • MS
  • MO
  • NV
  • NM
  • NC
  • PA
  • SC
  • TN
  • UT
  • VA
  • WA
  • WI
Yes, I live in one of the states highlighted above

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are:

If you are using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can enter that ID number online through the EBB program website.

Documents needed:

If you use a government ID OTHER THAN last 4 of Social Security Number OR Tribal ID, you will have to provide documentation. You will need a letter or document showing you receive SNAP benefits. It must include:

  1. Your name.
  2. The name of the program (SNAP).
  3. The name of the government agency where you got the document from.
  4. A date showing you received the benefit within the last year or an expiration date.

Examples: SNAP award, approval, verification letter or statement.

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    • If you are using a SSN or Tribal ID number, you won’t need to add or upload any documents.
    • If you are using a photo or scan of an ID, make sure you have your SNAP letter or document ready. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. 
    • If you are using an ID or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), make sure to bring your SNAP letter or document with you.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    1. You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    2. After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
No, I live in another state or territory.

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are:

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of goverment ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed:

You will need a letter or document showing you receive SNAP benefits. It must include:

  1. Your name.
  2. The name of the program (SNAP).
  3. The name of the government agency where you got the document from.
  4. A date showing you received the benefit within the last year or an expiration date.

Examples: SNAP award, approval, verification letter or statement.

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    • Make sure you have your letter or statement showing you receive SNAP benefits ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your letter or statement showing you receive SNAP benefits with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Is your yearly income less than 135% of the poverty line?

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

Not sure if your income qualifies?

Find out if your income qualifies.

The federal government sets the poverty guidelines based on income, location and household size. In 2021 the Federal Poverty Guidelines are:

  • Household of 1: $17,388 (Most states and territories) $21,722 (Alaska) $20,007 (Hawaii)
  • Household of 2: $23,517 (Most states and territories) $29,390 (Alaska) $27,054 (Hawaii)
  • Household of 3: $29,646 (Most states and territories) $37,058 (Alaska) $34,101 (Hawaii)
  • Household of 4: $35,775 (Most states and territories) $44,726 (Alaska) $41,148 (Hawaii)

More than 4 people in your home? Click here to see the Federal Poverty guidelines.

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number, a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN).

Documents needed

You will have to provide a document or documents showing:

  • You (or your dependent’s) first and last name.
  • Your annual Income.

Examples:

  1. 2020 State, Federal or Tribal tax return
  2. Current income statement or pay stub from your employer.
  3. Social Security statement of benefits. 4. Veterans Administration statement of benefits.
  4. Unemployment or Worker’s Comp statement of benefits.
  5. Divorce decree, child support, or similar document showing your income.
  6. A retirement/pension statement of benefits
How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your proof of income ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311 .
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your proof of income with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. Call to check with the provider. Some providers have their own application process and you may not need a proof of income document. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!

Tribal Lifeline Eligibility: Must be resident of Qualifying Tribal Lands

Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you receive Tribal TANF benefits. It must include:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the program (Tribal TANF).
  • The name of the government or tribal agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you received the benefit within the last year or an expiration date.

Examples: Tribal TANF award, approval, verification letter or statement.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your letter or document showing you receive Tribal TANF benefits ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311 
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure to bring your letter or statement showing you receive Tribal TANF benefits with you and an ID if you aren’t using a SSN or a Tribal ID number. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (FDPIR)

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you participate in a Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (FDPIR). It must include:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the program (FDPIR).
  • The name of the government or tribal agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you received the benefit within the last year or an expiration date.

Examples: FDPIR award, approval, verification letter or statement.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your letter or document showing you participate in a Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (FDPIR) ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have your letter or document showing you participate in a Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (FDPIR) ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number, a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

How to verify who you are

You will need a letter or document showing you receive Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance benefits. It must include:

  • Your name.
  • The name of the assistance program.
  • The name of the government or tribal agency where you got the document from.
  • A date showing you received the benefit within the last year or an expiration date.

Examples: Tribal TANF award, approval, verification letter or statement.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have your letter or document showing you receive General Assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311. 
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have your letter or document showing you receive General Assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Tribal Head Start

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need a letter or document showing you (or your dependant) participate in a Tribal Head Start program. It must include: 

  • 1 Your (or your dependent’s) name. 
  • 2. The name of the program (Tribal Head Start). 
  • 3. The name of the government or tribal agency where you got the document from. 
  • 4. A date showing your dependent participated in the program within the last year. 

Examples: Tribal Head Start award, approval, verification letter or statement.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    1. Make sure you have your letter or document showing your child or dependent participates in Tribal Head Start and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    2. If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    3. If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311. 
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    1. You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have your letter or document showing your child or dependent participates in Tribal Head Start and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    2. After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    1. You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    2. After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!

Additional EBB Eligibility

Discount Internet Customer

If you are already using a discount internet program through an approved EBB provider, you can contact your provider and opt-in to the EBB program to start receiving the (up to) $50 discount. You can also change to a more expensive plan if you want. Make sure to ask your provider which plans are eligible.

Free and Reduced School Lunch Program

Is your entire school or school district eligible for free and reduced lunch?

Yes

YOU FAMILY IS ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are:

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    • If you are using a SSN or Tribal ID Number, you will only have to enter information about the school and school’s location to show your household is eligible.
    • If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number, make sure you have your letter from the school or other document showing your child or dependent is eligible for Free or Reduced School Lunch/Breakfast and your ID.You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311
  1. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have your letter from the school or other document showing your child or dependent is eligible for Free or Reduced School Lunch/Breakfast and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  2. Sign up through the mail in application:
No, our house is individually eligible

YOU FAMILY IS ELIGIBLE!

How to verify who you are:

ou can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include 1. First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documentation needed:

You will need a letter from your school, school district or state including:

  1. You (or your dependent student’s) name.
  2. The name of the school district or school.
  3. Says your student participates in Free or Reduced School Lunch/Breakfast Program. You can reach out to your school or school district to ask for a letter documenting this.

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    • If you are using a SSN or Tribal ID number, you won’t need to add or upload any documents. You will have to fill out information about the eligible student in your house and the community eligible school or school district they are in.  
    • If you are using a photo or scan of an ID you may need to provide a document from your eligible student’s school or school district. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. 
    • If you are using an ID or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), you may need to bring a document from your eligible student’s school or school district showing your student is eligible. 
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
Pell Grant Recipient
How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

How to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website:
    • Make sure you have a letter or email from the Department of Education or a screenshot of your StudentAid.gov dashboard ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have a letter or email from the Department of Education or a screenshot of your StudentAid.gov dashboard ready and your ID if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!
Economic Loss (Job loss after Feb 29, 2020)
How to verify who you are

You can use the last four of your social security number (SSN), a Tribal ID number or another form of government ID like a driver’s license, passport, state ID, U.S. Military ID or Individual Taxpayer ID Number (ITIN). If you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID, you can upload a photo of one of the alternative ID’s above. Alternative IDs must include First and Last Name and Date of Birth.

Documents needed

You will need 2 types of documents to show loss of income since March of 2020 and that your household income is less than the limit to receive the EBB subsidy. Both must include your First and Last Name:

  • The first document is to show you had an income change or job loss (Examples: layoff/furlough notice OR unemployment application, letter or statement you are receiving the unemployment after Feb 29, 2020.)
  • The second document is to show your household income is less than $99,000 for individuals or $198,000 if you file your taxes together with a spouse or someone else in the household.
    • Examples:
    • 2020 state, federal or tribal tax return 
    • Social Security statement of benefit
    • Veteran’s Administration statement of benefit.
    • Retirement or pension statement of benefit.
    • Unemployment or Worker’s Comp statement of benefits.
    • Divorce decree, child support award, or similar government document showing your income.
3 ways to sign up

You can sign up 3 ways:

  1. Online through the EBB Program website: 
    • Make sure you have proof of income loss document, proof of income document and your ID ready if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number. You can take a photo with your phone or upload documents online. 
    • If you apply anytime between 9am-9pm ET, you will know if you are approved in about 10 minutes and no more than 2 days. After you are approved, you can find a participating provider near you, choose a plan and get connected!
    • If you have any questions or problems, you can call the federal government’s EBB helpline between 9am-9pm ET 7 days a week (833) 511-0311.
  2. Find a provider participating in the EBB Program in your state. (If you’re not sure how to upload documents or photos the provider can help):
    • You can go in person and sign up at one of their locations near you. Make sure you have proof of income loss document, proof of income document and your ID ready if you are not using a SSN or Tribal ID number.
    • After you apply, you should get your approval while you wait. After you are approved, you can choose your plan and get connected!
  3. Sign up through the mail in application:
    • You can find out more about how to apply by mail here.
    • After you receive your approval notification by mail or email, you can find a provider near you participating in the EBB program, choose a plan and get connected!

FAQs

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How long will it last?

Until the $3.2 billion in funding runs out. It will depend on how many people sign up for the discount, but we expect it to last for several months at least.

What if I have unpaid bills?

You can still sign up for the EBB discount even if you have outstanding debts.

Do I need to sign a contract?

You do not have to sign a contract and you can end service at any time.

How is it paid?

The EBB payment goes directly to the internet provider you choose. It will show up on your internet bill.

Can I use the EBB discount with any internet provider?

The discount can be applied to any internet plan including plans with telephone services included. The discount cannot be applied to bundles that include cable or other TV or video services.

Where can I go if I am having problems signing up with an internet provider or a provider is not following the EBB program rules?
  • You can file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the internet provider will have to respond to your complaint. 
  • You submit an FCC complaint using this online form here. Make sure to include EBB or Emergency Broadband Benefit in the Subject of your complaint. 
  • If you need help filing a form online or have questions, you can call 888-225-5322 and select option 4.
What happens when it ends?

When the program ends, you will be told by your internet provider. You will have the choice to opt-in and continue service if you want. If you upgraded to a more expensive plan, you can go back to your old less expensive plan. You must choose to continue receiving service.

Do I have to be a citizen?

NO! You do not have to be a citizen or have a Social Security Number to apply. You may need to provide a different form of ID like an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a driver’s license or other federal or state issued ID.

Can it apply to any plan?

Most internet service providers are participating in the EBB discount program, but you will have to check and see which Internet providers are in your area and which plans are available for the discount. Not every provider will offer the discount to every internet service plan.

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More Questions? Problems?

You can call the federal government’s EBB helpline!

9am-9pm ET 7 days a week

1 (833) 511-0311

CALL NOW

GetEmergencyBroadband.org