New FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is a temporary FCC program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit may help connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms and more.

What is the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

• A discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
• A one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a computer or tablet from participating providers. (Household must pay between $11-$49 toward the cost of the computer or tablet.)

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Who is eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?

Eligible households must meet one of the criteria below:

• Have an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline; or
• Participated in the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program during the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school year; or
• Received a Federal Pell Grant (a type of college financial aid) for the 2020-2021 academic year; or
• Experienced a big loss of income since February 29, 2020 as a result of losing your job (total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers, and $198,000 for joint filers); or
• Qualify for a participating broadband provider's low-income or COVID-19 program.

When can I sign up for the Benefit? 

You can sign up starting May 12, 2021.

How do I sign up for the Benefit?

Eligible households can enroll through an approved provider or by visiting getemergencybroadband.org. 

The Telephone Equipment Distribution Program staff can help you fill out your application.

Which broadband providers are participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

Not all Minnesota broadband providers are participating in this program. Find broadband service providers offering the Emergency Broadband Benefit in Minnesota.

Questions or need help applying? Contact Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division

Videophone: 651-964-1514
Voice or preferred relay service: 800-657-3663
Email: dhs.dhhsd@state.mn.us
Web: mn.gov/deaf-hard-of-hearing

We look forward to serving you!