Congress recently created the Affordable Connectivity Program, a new long-term program that provides federally funded discounts on internet access service to qualified households. The Affordable Connectivity Program replaces the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program beginning December 31, 2021.
What’s Changing?
The monthly benefit amount for eligible households not located on qualifying Tribal lands will decrease from up to $50 to up to $30. There will be a 60-day transition period from December 31, 2021 to March 1, 2022 before the decrease in the monthly benefit occurs. During this transition period, households enrolled in the EBB Program as of December 31, 2021 will continue to receive their current EBB Program monthly benefit.
After March 1, 2022, the maximum monthly benefit an eligible non-Tribal household may receive will be $30 under the new Affordable Connectivity Program. The benefit will remain at up to $75 per month for eligible households on qualifying Tribal lands.
Beginning December 31, 2021, households enrolled in the EBB Program may subscribe to a different internet service offering if they wish. After reviewing our internet plans, please contact us if you would like to switch to a different plan.
You will receive additional information if there are any steps you need to take to retain your discounted internet service after the transition period ends March 1, 2022.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Service Team at 888-826-4211 or customerservice@socen.com.
