The Emergency Broadband Benefits program is one of the most well-known response programs in the US that was announced and initiated to help people during the tough times of the covid-19 Pandemic. The program proved to be a boon for people who could not afford digital devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc. during the covid period.
Through the EBB program, Eligible low-income people and students could get free EBB tablets and many discounts from the service provider. You can easily apply for the EBB program through any EBB service provider, via the official website, or mail in to get a free EBB Tablet for low-income families and students.
Get An Emergency Broadband Benefit Free Tablet
We all can understand the tremendous impact and importance that technology and technological devices have created over the last few years. Especially during the Covid era, when the majority of the day-to-day human activities such as education, work, etc.
But at the same time, not all people can afford to buy technological devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, or computers. However, this should not mean that low-income people should not have the access to technology.
To help such people in staying connected to the rest of the world through digital means, to help underprivileged students get educational opportunities and work opportunities online, the government announced the emergency broadband benefits program.
The EBB program was started with the objective to help low-income families and households that are struggling to have access to internet services during the Covid-19 pandemic.
This program helped many people in continuing their day-to-day activities such as jobs in the online mode, and help students in learning through virtual classrooms when the schools were shut.
Anyone eligible for the EBB program can apply for it and get a free EBB tablet. Indeed, similar to most other Federal programs, this one too comes with limited resources.
And hence the authorities try to ensure that only those in genuine need of the free benefits are helped through this program. So, you have to meet the criteria of eligibility in order to receive the EBB benefits.
So, before you apply for the EBB program, make sure to go through the eligibility criteria first. Given below are the recent criteria of eligibility for EBB. But make sure to once confirm from the official website as well. Below that, we have mentioned it detailed description of how to apply for EBB.
Eligibility for Emergency Broadband Benefit Free Tablet
Before you apply for the EBB program to get a free tablet, it is recommended that you once go through the criteria of eligibility for the Emergency Broadband Benefit program.
Since the resources for the program are limited in nature, the authorities make sure that the needy people get the EBB-free tablet. So, in order to be eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit program, the household must meet any one of the below criteria-
- The applicant must have an income that is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines OR they must be a participant in any of the federally governed programs such as Lifeline, SNAP, Medicaid, etc.
- The applicant must be a recipient of the Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
- The applicant must be approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program.
- The applicant must meet the criteria of eligibility for a COVID-19 program or participating provider’s existing low income.
- The applicant must have experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss.
You can get detailed information about the eligibility criteria for the Emergency Broadband Benefit program through the official website of the EBB.
How to Apply for an Emergency Broadband Benefit-Free Tablet?
The process to apply for Emergency Broadband Benefit program to get a free EBB tablet is somewhat similar to the method to apply for the lifeline assistance program. If you have applied for lifeline earlier, you might easily be able to apply for EBB as well. In case not, then you can refer to the below mentioned easy steps on how to apply for EBB.
Basically, there are 3 different ways using which you can apply for EBB –
1. Applying through a Participating EBB Service Provider
If you know any EBB providers, you can directly contact EBB service Providers to apply for the EBB program. The provider will give you all the necessary information about the application process and how you can go on with it.
There are multiple service providers that participate in the EBB programs all across the United States. You can easily find the EBB participant provider near you by taking the help of the official list on the EBB website at – https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers
In case you do not know any EBB service provider or if you do not want to apply to an EBB service provider, then you can use any of the below two options.
2. Applying through the Official Website at GetEmergencyBroadband.org
You can also apply for the EBB program online using the website. Certainly, the entire procedure for an application is quite easy. Just make sure that you are eligible for the program.
- To apply for EBB online, first of all, go to the official emergency broadband benefits website.
- You will be directed automatically to a page by your basic details as your full name, date of birth, etc. will be collected. You will also have to fill your identification number with documents such as a driver’s license number, social security number, or tribal ID.
- Once you have filled in the information and submitted copies of the documents, the authentication process will be completed.
- Next, you will have to enter your address and confirm that all the information you have entered is correct.
Now you will need to wait for 3 to 5 business days to get the approval on your documents. You will be communicated officially if you get selected for the EBB program.
3. Applying Via Mail
The last way using which you can apply for EBB is via mail. Some people might find it difficult to contact the service provider or fill in the application form online. So for those people, a mail would be a great option to go ahead with.
- You can simply apply for the mail-in applications and then print a copy of the application process. You can also call at 833-511-0311 to request a mail-in application.
- Once you have filled out the application form, you can send it to the office of Emergency Broadband Benefit. You can get a copy of the form from the website as well.
- After waiting for a few business days, you will be contacted by the officials if you are qualified for the program. They will guide you on the steps you can take next to receive EBB benefits.
In case there is any problem faced by the authorities while verifying your documents and information, they might contact you for that as well. In worst cases, you might be required to submit your application once again.
So make sure to enter all the information carefully. Also, whatever has been mentioned by you in the form will be cross verified by the authorities so do not fill in any information that is incorrect. Otherwise, your application will be rejected and you will not be able to receive a free tablet from the Emergency Broadband Benefit program.
Which Area Does Emergency Broadband Benefit Cover?
The EBB program is active in almost all the states of the US. But, before jumping to any conclusion, it is better to check if the EBB service provider is available in your state or not. For this, you can go to the official website of EBB and search for the service providers state-wise.
In most cases, you will find at least one or more service providers that are participating in the EBB program. you can then apply to get a free EBB Tablet from EBB providers.
What Tablets are Available on the Emergency Broadband Benefit?
There are no particular tablets as such that are available on the EBB program. It mostly depends on the EBB service provider as to which tablet to offer for free to the Eligible EBB participant. Whatever is available with the EBB providers, they generally hand you over that.
Now, these tablets can either be second-hand, refurbished, or new. But either way, they are always in good condition. Generally, we have come to know that below are some of the most commonly available tablets with EBB service providers.
- Lenovo Smart Tab M 10
- Apple iPad 10.2
- Huawei media pad T5
- Lenovo Tab E10
- Amazon fire 7
- Huawei media pad T3
Can I transfer my EBT benefits?
Yes. The recipients of the Emergency Broadband Benefit program can transfer their monthly benefit to a new participating service provider any time they wish to.
In order to move your benefit to a different EBB Service provider, all you need to do is contact the new provider and ask them to transfer your benefit. You are not required to cancel the benefit with your current benefit provider before making the request for a transfer.
Which Broadband Providers are Participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?
If you think that applying for the EBB program can get you only a free tablet, then you are wrong. Because there are numerous other benefits of the EBB program. Along with the free EBB tablet, you can get a discount of over $50 per month for broadband services.
The Eligible participants can also get a discount of $75 per month for qualifying the tribal lands. Through the EBB program, eligible households can get a one-time discount of over $100 per month to buy a tablet, desktop, or laptop from the EBB service providers by just contributing an amount between $10 and $50.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mentioned below are some of the most asked questions regarding the Emergency Broadband Benefits EBB program. As this program was launched as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic to deal with the repercussions of the unforeseen situation, many people are not aware enough of this program. You can go through the below questions to get more clarity on the EBB free tablet program.
How Long will the EBB Last?
The exact period for which EBB lasts is not exactly known. But, one thing is for sure the EBB program is temporary unless Congress chooses to extend it.
The EBB program was launched during the Covid-19 pandemic as a response and it was to be closed once the funds are exhausted or 6 months after the Department of Health and Human Services would declare the end of the pandemic.
In any case, the providers have to give at least a 30 days notice prior to the termination of the EBB program. This can help the participants of the EBB program in deciding whether they want to continue the service or not.
Does My EBB Free Tablet Come With A Warranty?
Yes, most of the free EBB tablets come with a warranty from their manufacturer. But do note that, the warranty term could be different for different tablets and devices. You can get information regarding this from your service provider.
Does T-Mobile offer EBBP?
Yes. T-mobile offers an EBB program. If you wish to know more about this you can check details about EBB offered by T-Mobile on the official website at https://www.t-mobile.com/customers/emergency-broadband-benefit.
What if the free EBB tablet I received is damaged in transit?
If the free EBB tablet you received was damaged in transit, then you will not be responsible for it. You can get a replacement tablet soon.
Are lifeline and EBB the same?
The Lifeline program and EBB are not mutually exclusive but they both offer different benefits. The benefits awarded under the EBB program are much greater than the Lifeline program. One can get discounts of around $9.25 per month with Lifeline, while the EBB discounts are up to $50 per month.
Can I choose my EBB provider?
Yes, you can choose your EBB provider according to your needs. Just note that service providers might vary from one state to another. Some of the providers are present in more than one state. We would recommend you to choose a provider that is available in remote areas as well. So you will not have to worry about any inconvenience in such areas.
Can existing Lifeline subscribers apply for an EBB tablet?
Yes, the existing lifeline subscribers can also apply for an EBB tablet. If you did not already know this, the Lifeline program and EBB are not mutually exclusive. You can avail the benefits of these two programs simultaneously. And the best part is that if you are a lifeline program participant, you will automatically be eligible for the EBB program benefits.
Where can I get a tablet with the EBB program?
You can get the tablet with the EBB program in all of the states of the US. You can visit the official website to get more information about and search for free Tablet service providers around you.
How do I get my laptop through the EBB program?
Yes, it is possible to get a laptop through the EBB program. For this, all you need to do is fill out the application form and submit the essential documents along with the form. If you meet the eligibility criteria, then you can qualify and get a free laptop from the EBB program.
How do I get an emergency broadband benefit-free tablet?
You can get an Emergency Broadband Benefit-free tablet by applying through the online application form and submitting the required documents as proof. In order to get a free tablet by EBB, you must be eligible according to the criteria mentioned for the program. If you are to meet the eligibility criteria, then you will be able to get a free EBB Tablet.
What companies that offer lifeline Program?
There are numerous companies that provide lifeline services, but the most well-known and popular are Qlink Wireless, Assurance Wireless, AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint. These companies provide a variety of plans and services to help you stay in touch with your loved ones and safe in an emergency.
Closing Thoughts
The difficult times of the covid-19 pandemic only enlightened and stressed the need and importance of Technology today. Although not everyone can afford expensive devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, etc. various government programs can help such people in need to get access to technology and improve their lifestyle.
The EBB program is one such for a family people across the US to get financial assistance to buy tablets, laptops, etc. We hope that the above article could help you in applying for EBB to get a free tablet. In case you have any questions or doubts, you can always reach out to us through the comment section below.
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