The government can pay you for the Internet and even buy a laptop: details of the new program

Months after the pandemic relief program was launched and even with the millions of Americans now participating, there is still money to provide people in need with monthly discounts on Internet services and one-time savings on new computers. The edition told in more detail Yahoo!.

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As part of the COVID-19 relief package approved by Congress in December 2020, the benefits program is available to qualified Americans until all funds are depleted. So, if you haven't signed up yet, it's time to do it.

If you're having trouble paying household expenses or paying off debt, internet discounts might bring some relief, but beware of scammers trying to take advantage of needy families.

Many have already become participants

Millions of households in the United States have participated in the government's aid program since its inception.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) explains the program's goal is to prevent families from losing access to vital resources during the pandemic.

“No one should have to choose between paying their internet bill and buying food,” said FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.

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Working with broadband providers, the FCC offers:

• a discount of up to $ 50 per month on broadband services and equipment rental;
• up to $ 75 per month discount on broadband services if your home is on eligible tribal lands;
• a one-time discount of up to $ 100 on your laptop, tablet, or desktop.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a warning against scammers who offered to "help" consumers sign up for free internet and devices in exchange for money and personal information.

The FTC warned that the Emergency Broadband Benefit program is the only official program and does not require a fee.

How to qualify for discounts

You are entitled to receive discounts on the Internet and computers if your family meets one of the following criteria:

• your income is less than 135% of the federal poverty line for your household size, or you are receiving assistance through social programs, including SNAP or Medicaid food stamps;
• You were approved for benefits from the Free School Breakfast or Reduced Price School Lunch Program in the past or current school year;
• You experienced a significant loss of income due to a layoff effective February 29, 2020, and your household income last year was $99 for individual taxpayers (or $000 for joint filers);
• you meet the eligibility criteria.

Each household is only eligible for one monthly service and one device discount.

The benefits will be available until the $3,2 billion allocated for the program runs out or until six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares the COVID-19 crisis over, whichever comes first. The FCC won't say how much money is left.

How to apply

You can register in one of three ways.

Fill out the online form. You can apply online on the website GetEmergencyBroadband.org.

Send the application by mail. If you would prefer to post your claim, please go to the above website, download the form, and submit it to the Broadband Emergency Support Center.

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Check with your provider. You should check the FCC website to see if your ISP is one of the participating companies. Or call your provider's support team to confirm their participation and get help filling out the application.

Other Ways to Replenish Your Budget During COVID-19

$ 50 a month won't help you much with your finances, but there are several other ways to save money.

Reduce the cost of your debt. Credit cards can help in emergencies, but their high interest rates can get expensive. If you've relied heavily on them to weather the COVID-19 crisis, try converting your balances into a lower interest rate debt consolidation loan to help you cut your monthly payments and get out of debt faster.

Find cheaper insurance. If it's been a long time since you last searched for the best auto insurance price, then you're probably overpaying hundreds of dollars a year. Do a little analysis to find a more economical plan.

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