Broadband Subsidies for Qualified Residents Begin May 12

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills for residents with low incomes or those who lost income during the pandemic.

As of May 12, 2021, eligible households will be able to enroll in the program to receive a monthly discount off the cost of broadband service from an approved provider.

Cambridge residents can find more information on the Program, check eligibility, and enroll by visiting https://getemergencybroadband.org. Participating fixed and wireless broadband providers in Massachusetts can be found by visiting: https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers#Massachusetts.

Enrolled households may be eligible to receive:

• Up to a $50/month discount on your broadband service and associated equipment rentals
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50)

According to the FCC, the program will end when the fund runs out of money or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the COVID-19 health emergency, whichever is sooner. Participating households will need to opt in to continue receiving broadband services from their provider after the program ends. If a household chooses to continue receiving service after the end of the Program, they will be billed the broadband provider's general monthly rate.

Learn more and enroll begin May 12 at https://getemergencybroadband.org