New year, new changes. As we near the end of 2021, we are beginning to hear of various changes that will be made to federal programs like the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program in 2022. At Thrive, we are committed to keeping you both “connected” and informed about what is happening in the world of broadband, so we’re here to break down these changes and make sure you are prepared.
Recently, Congress created the Affordable Connectivity Program. What is that? We’re glad you asked! The Affordable Connectivity Program is a $14 billion, long-term program that will be replacing the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program next year.
If you are an EBB recipient, you most likely are wondering what this means for you. Here’s what the FCC has told us about the changes coming with the new program.
Change #1: With the EBB, the maximum monthly benefit is set at $50 per month. This amount will be decreasing to $30 per month in all areas except for Tribal lands where it will remain at $75 for qualifying individuals.
Change #2: There will be new ways you can qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program. For example, individuals who receive WIC benefits or have an income that is either at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines will be eligible. You can learn more about those guidelines by clicking here.
Change #3: If you qualified for the EBB due to substantial loss of income because of job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020, OR by meeting the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s COVID-19 program, you will have to requalify for the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Since this transition will not occur until next year, you can still apply for EBB benefits until December 31, 2021, by visiting https://www.checklifeline.org/lifeline/?id=nv_flow&ebbp=true. The FCC says households that are enrolled in the EBB by the end of the year will continue receiving their benefits over the course of a 60-day transition period.
As we get closer to the EBB transitioning to the Affordable Connectivity Program, we will learn more about what EBB recipients need to do to continue receiving benefits once the transition has occurred. You can count on us to keep you updated as more information is released.