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The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) is closed. It was a temporary pandemic internet-assistance program, not a current phone or computer application program.
When did EBB end?
USAC records that EBB transitioned to ACP on December 31, 2021. Previously enrolled households had a 60-day transition period before the old EBB support amounts ended. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024. Its internet and device discounts are no longer available, and new applications are closed.
What did EBB cover?
EBB provided eligible households with up to $50 per month toward broadband, or up to $75 on qualifying Tribal lands. A participating provider could offer a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet, with a customer contribution of more than $10 and less than $50.
A free iPhone was not the federal connected-device benefit. Some carriers ran their own phone promotions, which had separate terms.
Can you renew EBB or transfer it to ACP now?
No. Neither program is accepting new enrollment or providing ongoing household discounts. Old instructions about EBB income-loss eligibility, ACP recertification, or continuing a $30 or $75 credit are historical.
Check your present bill directly with your service company if you do not recognize a charge or credit. Do not assume an old approval notice guarantees today’s price.
Current options
Lifeline has separate eligibility rules: household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or participation in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or specified Tribal programs. Former ACP enrollment alone does not qualify a household.
Use Lifeline’s official application guidance, then choose a participating company. Lifeline is a monthly service benefit and does not replace the former EBB device discount.
For a computer or tablet, check PCs for People and Human-I-T. These nonprofits publish their own eligibility and pricing rules. Low-cost devices are not necessarily free; any donated-device offer depends on funding and stock.