AMERICANS feeling the pinch will soon be able to their hands on stimulus cash to help pay for internet bills and a computer.
The program is just days away from accepting applications, which will give families hampered by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic a monthly discount on their web costs.
The helping hand – which was rubber stamped by Congress in December as part of ex-President Donald Trump's last stimulus package – will also let people get a discount on a new PC.
The Federal Communications Commission is running the Emergency Broadband Benefit program, aimed at making sure families don't lose internet access as they grapple with bills.
The agency will be working with broadband providers to offer up to $50 off internet services plus associated equipment rentals a month or a discount capped at $75 a month on broadband service if your home is on qualifying tribal lands.
People will also be able to apply for up to $100 off a laptop, tablet or desktop computer.
The eligibility criteria includes those whose income is at or below 135 per cent of the federal poverty line for your family size, those who receive assistance through programs such as Medicaid, and those approved for to receive benfits under the free and reduced-price school breakfast or lunch program.
People will also be able to apply if they've experience a huge income loss since last March by being furloughed or losing their job or if they've met the eligibility criteria for a provider's existing low-income program.s
Households will be able to claim just one monthly service and one device discount – even if multiple people are eligible in the house.
The FCC will provide Americans with the monthly credit until the $3.2billion kitty runs out or half a year after the Department of Health and Human Services announces the end of the pandemic.
Applications will be opened up from May 12 – and you can apply online here, by mail, by contacting your internet provider.
Acting chairman of the FCC Jessica Rosenworcel said: "No one should have to choose between paying their internet bill or paying to put food on the table.
"With the help of the Emergency Broadband Benefit, we have a new way for households to access virtual learning, for patients to connect to telehealth providers and for those struggling in this pandemic to learn new online skills and seek their next job."
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