New Pandemic Program Pays Your Internet Bill (Which Boosts Your Health In 5 Ways)

The coronavirus pandemic has forced most of us inside more than usual. What do we do when stuck inside? In this day and age, we go online.

Unfortunately, lost jobs and a loss of income can make it harder to go online, as we’re left with less money to pay our bills. Thanks to a new program from the FCC, you’ll need less money to pay your Internet bill, which can keep you connected, your costs low, and your health high.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit

The Federal Communications Commission just announced its Emergency Broadband Benefit program. It was created to help households get online during the pandemic, and it achieves that goal by offering money each month towards the Internet bill.

If eligible, your household can receive as much as $50 to pay for broadband Internet. If you live on Tribal lands, that monthly amount jumps to $75.

Beyond helping to pay your monthly Internet bill, the Emergency Broadband Benefit can also help you purchase a device to go online with a one-time $100 discount.

To use the discount, buy a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer from a participating provider. As long as you spend $10 to $50 of your own money on the purchase, you’ll have your discounted device for online browsing and the affordable monthly Internet service to go with it.

Is everyone eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit? The unfortunate answer is no, as you’ll need one of the following to qualify:

• Your child received free or reduced-cost school lunches or breakfasts during the 2019-2020 school year.
• You’re eligible for the FCC Lifeline program.
• You won a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
• Since February 29, 2020, you suffered a significant income loss, plus your income sits below $99,000 as an individual or $198,000 as joint filers.
• You’re eligible for a participating provider’s low-income or COVID-19 relief program.

Is the Emergency Broadband Benefit available yet? No, but look for it soon, as the FCC hopes to roll out those benefits to the public very shortly.

5 Ways Low-Cost Internet Can Boost Your Health

Having a reliable and affordable Internet connection has never been more critical. We now rely on the Internet for many functions of everyday life, making it a necessity that can play a significant role in your wellbeing.

Here are some ways that having affordable Internet via the Emergency Broadband Benefit can positively impact your health during the pandemic:

1. By having $50-75 per month towards your Internet bill, you’ll have more room in your budget, which can reduce stress and all of the health problems that come with it.
2. You can use the Internet for telehealth appointments versus having to go to the doctor’s office. This allows for convenience, easier social distancing, and lower costs since telemedicine is more affordable than in-person visits.
3. You can use your affordable Internet to shop online and get things like groceries without having to expose yourself to crowds and possible coronavirus infection.
4. You can work from home to avoid wearing a mask all day at your workplace or being close to others.
5. You can stay connected with friends and family to maintain your mental health and avoid feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety from being stuck inside.