Jonah JacobsCan You Get Free WI-FI From the Government?
While the government may offer free food via SNAP benefits, free medical care through Medicaid, and so on, free Internet isn’t a thing – yet. It could be on the way soon, however.
In February 2021, the FCC announced that it would be launching the Emergency Broadband Benefit. What’s the emergency? The coronavirus pandemic, which caused many to lose their jobs and see significant losses in income. To make things worse, the Internet became necessary for kids taking virtual classes at home and those needing to work remotely. With the Emergency Broadband Benefit, struggling households can get free Internet in most cases to meet those needs.
Qualifying for the Emergency Broadband Benefit could give you as much as $75 monthly towards your Internet bill. Depending on your provider, this could mean free Internet each month. Beyond the monthly benefit, the FCC’s upcoming program could also make owning a computer more affordable with a $100 discount towards purchasing one.
As mentioned, the Emergency Broadband Benefit will be offered to those who need it most. Eligibility will be based on income, qualifying for other forms of public assistance, being eligible for COVID-19 low-cost Internet programs, and so on.
Since the FCC aims to help families gain affordable online access during the pandemic, look for the Emergency Broadband Benefit to offer free Internet very soon.
Does the government have other Internet assistance programs beyond the Emergency Broadband Benefit?
Yes, the government does have the FCC’s Lifeline program. Unlike the Emergency Broadband Benefit, however, it won’t really give you free Internet.
While you can get up to $75 per month towards your Internet bill through the Emergency Broadband Benefit, Lifeline will only give you $9.25 per month. Living on federal tribal lands bumps that benefit up to $34.25 per month. You can use that discount to pay less for the Internet or apply it to your cell phone or landline service. Qualifying for Lifeline is based on having a low income or receiving public assistance.
Can You Get Free Internet if There Are Students in Your Household?
Many companies stepped up to the plate to make the Internet more affordable in response to the pandemic, especially since students need access to virtual classes. While the Internet service isn’t necessarily free, you can get it at a low cost if you have school-aged children in your home via the Connect2Compete program. Both Mediacom and Cox provide affordable Internet in this area.
Is There Free Internet Service for Seniors?
Many seniors are using the Internet nowadays for telehealth appointments, online shopping, and to stay connected with friends and family. Even though seniors may have strayed from Internet usage in the past, that’s no longer the case, making online access a must in many cases.
Until the Emergency Broadband Benefit goes live, seniors may get low-cost Internet through the Lifeline program. They can qualify if they receive veterans’ pensions or survivor benefits.
