Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBBP)

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 2:17 pm

If you live in a Ben Lomand Connect service area this is important information, if not please disregard it. 

On May 12th, the federal government kicks off the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBBP), a discount internet program offering up to a $50 monthly discount on internet service to qualifying low-income households. Before you apply, it is important to understand that the EBBP will end when the funds expire or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the COVID-19 health emergency, whichever comes first. 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 broadband service after the EBBP funds expire, they will be billed the broadband provider’s general monthly rate.

There are three ways to apply for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program on or after May 12th:

  1. Online with USAC at getemergencybroadband.org, utilizing their online application (available in English and Spanish).
  2. Mail with USAC by printing and completing an application (with proof of eligibility) to:

               Emergency Broadband Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, KY 40742

  1. Contact us here at Ben Lomand Connect and to help you apply through the National Verifier or our company’s application process. This will need to be done during regular business hours (8 am-5 pm Monday-Friday).

After you apply, USAC will share the results with you. If you apply online, you may receive immediate approval. If USAC cannot prove your eligibility automatically, they will request additional documentation from you and provide information on how you can submit those documents for review.

Automatic qualifiers:

-Lifeline customers

-Free lunch program student households (either one that is offered to the entire school district or individually)

-Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households

***Even though these are automatic qualifiers customers must still go through the process of applying***