At give IT. get IT., we help connect people in need with the computers, technical support, and training they need to get better jobs and live more satisfying lives. Since COVID-19 struck, the number of people who need our help has quadrupled. When the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 was signed into law in March, we were excited to hear that it would help eligible individuals or families purchase a computer and Internet access.
Specifically, a $100 one-time discount authorized by the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) for a computer.
Part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 signed into law in March, the EBB gave the FCC $230 billion to deliver two extraordinary benefits to qualifying Americans:
These are fantastic, potentially life-changing benefits for people who qualify. Since receiving discounted broadband internet access is such a significant, recurring component of the EBB, the task of spending this $230 billion windfall fell to qualifying Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
While ISPs are doing a fine job managing the broadband service portion of the EBB, they are not equipped to implement the $100 discount on a qualifying device portion of the program. As a result, billions of dollars that SHOULD be helping people in need acquire computers are being used solely for broadband internet access.
Because organizations like give IT. get IT. – or even traditional sources of computers such as Best Buy and Staples – are not ISPs; we have no way of enabling our clients/customers to access the $100 discount on the computers they need to maximize the benefit of the free internet access they’re getting. At give IT. get IT., our waiting list includes hundreds of people who qualify for EBB benefits but cannot use the $100 discount towards the purchase of a high-quality used computer from us. That’s just wrong.
Access to affordable, reliable broadband internet is essential. We’re thrilled that millions of people across the country are getting internet access for free while the funds in the $230 billion EBB last. Imagine how much more valuable and productive this free access for Americans in need will be if they have a computer instead of their phones or a tablet. They can attend online classes, earn degrees and change their lives forever.
Until there’s a way for organizations like give IT. get IT. and retail stores to process the $100 device discount, qualifying Americans will have to pay full price for their devices or go without. That’s not the intent of the EBB and we’re doing everything we can to change that.
We’re collaborating with our longtime partners, The National Digital Equity Center, Connect ME, and others, to inform our representatives and garner support to get the EBB amended.
We need the support of our representatives in Congress and the Senate to convince ISPs to share the eligibility vetting results for qualified individuals so those individuals can access the $100 computer credit from the pool of $230 billion that was intended for Internet and computer assistance, but is currently limited to just Internet. Every day that goes by means fewer dollars for devices, and when that money is gone, it’s gone.
We see the computer credit as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help people in need acquire not just the internet access they need, but also the computers, training, and support they need to change their lives as was intended.
Organizations like give IT. get IT can help millions of Americans make the absolute most of the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program and position themselves for brighter futures.
This problem is nationwide, so no matter where you’re reading this, please call the offices of your U.S. representatives and senators and tell them you want the EBB amended so Americans in need can access the $100 discount on computers.
Thank you!
I applied EBB and approved
However, never get real thing
No broadband internet from THE CARRIER I registered and ordered
MY BENEFIT MAIGHT BR STOLEN
during my telephone order ( deaf using caption phone service)
Not to.mrntion the $100 discount on PC in this program,no any retailer accept my approved EBB account ID
It looks like joke or it only benefit the internet providers not to the people who in real need of this help
Contact me for help
Sorry to hear this, Felix. We share your frustration. Who is your internet service provider?
Mine is T-Mobile.
I got approved for the internet help, called CenturyLink gave them my approval numbers, and then emailed them the approval and they said it was all good. They shut my internet off a few days ago. They sent me a bill for over 300 and said they have got nothing and I should pay the bill if I want service
I also got approved for the internet help. Already was a CenturyLink customer for basic internet $45 per month. I also gave them my approval numbers, and then emailed them the approval documents and completed the CenturyLink EBB application. CenturyLink responded that my internet subscription $45 per month was not an EBB qualifying plan. They said, in order to get the EBB benefit, I had to cancel my plan and agree to the only qualifying plan (Lifetime) offerted, costing $85 per month. To get EBB help from CenturLink, $85/mo qulified new plan – minus EBB benefit $50 = $35 out of pocket per month. A net $10 per month saving and then have to live with $85 per month when EBB expires. Nope. Not worth it. I am VERY displeased with CenturyLink and their give with one hand and take back with the other. They are not acting in good faith and are not providing EBB help that was intended. CenturyLink violates the good intention of EBB by enriching themselves and their stockholders. I wrote to FCC.org reuesting guidance to obtain an EBB benefit that I can afforde (63, stage 4 cancer, veteran, on disability fixed income). FCC responded that it was not FCC’s problem and my only recourse was to take it up with CenturyLink. Loop, no help, CenturyLink is (legally) not honoring the spirit or intent of the EBB program. Very displeased with CenturyLink. And very stuck. They got me by the short hairs.
I had the same problem with CenturyLink my current plan is $45 and was told I had to upgrade my plan to the higher amount. I asked if that would improve my city 10mps speed. They said no and then I said no. The customer service folks are no doubt trying to upsell for bonuses. You have to wonder if corporate really knows what is happening.
I’m almost in the same predicament. I qualify for the EBB program, but since I’m a current customer, I can’t get the discount. I continue to pay $65 monthly. I’ve recently lost half of my income, but it doesn’t make a difference. They make their own rules and no one is here for us to tell them no.
I really need this help as well but I can’t seem to find anything worth the trouble. It is too bad we cant file some kind of mass lawsuit or sue the government of those responsible causing all of us stress and strife and for the false pretense of legitimately reduced priced internet services or access as well as 100 dollar discounts on computers or hotspot devices. The EBB has only benefited the rich and wealthy by scamming money from the poor by lying by omission and heartlessly getting every penny they can from Human Beings who need it the most! These devices and services should all be free for everyone anyway! Especially if we ever want to really actually succeed in bettering ourselves as a race!
It took finely 2 months 3 weeks and 2 days arguing with att that the signed a contract with the government stating they would provide internet to the home via mobile or landline I choose mobile so kids could access no matter were we were. they said then i had to choose diff phone plan which meant they were getting paid twice. I said absolutely not I pay my phone which is 35$ a month and Ebb pays 50$ a month for mobile internet. which if i just add to phone bill i pay 10.00 more and i get hot spot unlimited text and talk. for 45$ and they wanted me to increase my package to 85$ a month just in order to get a 10$ hotspot. Which they are contracted to give you free anyways with ebb approval. So after 14 or more supervisors contactng on twitter and being hung up multiple times along with hours of waiting. I did how ever I did receive hotspot and stayed at 50$ and i enrolled into the Auto payment which automatically gives 5$ discount at att which made my bill 0 every month. But i still have not got the computer voucher Att , walmart all said they do not offer that. pc for people want you to transfer your internet provider to them in order to get computer. I do think the turning point was when I said you what here is the deal you want me to increase package to 85$ to get everything i previously got for 45. nope but i will do this i will decrease my package to the 25$ package and use the qualifying benfit for internet still with you and you still have to provide me with the hotspot and now your going to get less money but i still will get all my services. they didnt like that idea and gave it to me immediately (if only i had thought to say that early on!
I’m beyond furious with the EBB thru Straightalk cell phone service. I was approved for the benefit & all was good for 3 months. And all of the sudden, my phone wasn’t making or receiving calls/texts. I look on the app & it says “inactive”. So I called straightalk & they claim that my number was inactive for more than 30 days so the phone number that I’ve had for 5 years is gone!! It was not inactive for that long! when I realized my phone wasn’t working, I assumed EBB was ended & I bought a service card. But I couldn’t add it. So I called customer service. And there was no explanation from customer service at straight talk. They just kept saying they could issue me a new number.
My phone was not inactive for 30 days so I have no clue as to why I lost my number. That number is connected to all of my bank accounts, apps, and my the only contact that I had for family and friends to contact me. So now I am locked out of most of my accounts bc of 2 factor authentication & I cannot receive texts to my cell number. I will never regiment straighttalk to anyone. And I wish I never applied for EBB & just continued to purchase a service card every month. It wasn’t worth the 3 months of benefits bc I lost my cell phone number .
I am struggling with this as well. My son is approved for the EBB internet & $100 device discount but there seems to be many issues
#1 providers on the list are not all available in our area
#2 not all providers are a broadband (understandable) but even if a provider does offer service none of them offer a standard package base . **for instance if there is a $50 credit allowance for internet service & they offer a device T-mobile for example, either 10gb usage cap per month at a great speed if you are in an area that is in network but after 10gb have been used will slow down to a terrible unusable 2g speed. Ok but they are paid by the government for that pacakage price yet if I sign up not an essential it is $50 for 50gb allowance slow down speed !?! Problem inflation of price with decreased benefit for the consumer because of the payment method. That is discrimination a manipulation of a government affiliation to receive tax payers money . So devalue the customer because ot financial hardship yet gain a customer & money ! Terrible injustice & illegal ! But they offer a tablet also 100 gb usage high speed yet slow down 2g… ok tablet so small is is smaller than a standard school book! Ok y’all other company’s 6, 10, 15, 20 25 usage caps for the entire $50 from government but if you were to sign up without EBB APPLICATION code & choose a plan with the same data limit prices will be lower & if you choose a plane that is within or closest to the $50 you will have a larger or unlimited data on the phone only with hotspot limit if they offer but cannot have them add the EBB to your account to pay it if existing or you are thrown into the property segregated essential package or low income pile of customers they say you can choose a higher plan if need more so pay more … does anyone else see this ? Absolutely disrespectful, manipulative & fraudulent . I am glad for the EBB opportunity I have yet to find a company with a device provided tablet or laptop . Human IT didn’t offer me service in my area so you cannot buy the computer , Pc for people is out of stock online with no local store ability anywhere in Florida Walmart only select locations Atlanta GA & another far away place with AT&T & cricket providers for service & again have an allotted package of ver very low data limit & that is the only way to obtain your device is if internet is purchased from them. So this is a serious glitch so much that I lost track of the #count as I wrote this! I worked for Verizon for 7 years until back surgery & my health plummeted, now I mention this because most ,MOST of not all company’s have their set rate service packages that correlate with the applicable devices , so you choose the device , the plan & typically address is entered at the credit check or account holder set up & because it is wireless and will be mobile , the system isn’t going to say yay or nay on available we can serve the customer , no it is a system to select options or features . But when there is promos or specific packages that include specific features or allotments allowance most of the time it is all packages in so if they are not wanted but included you must specify to block . Now with all of that being said , each company that sign up as a provider to offer service to those who are in need to keep us connected that have created special service packages & or devices to better the American people for their ability to work from home & further their education & stay connected with loved ones or for my situation of home school , home health & mental health services for my mentally & emotionally needy child which is all pre pandemic , but services are very needed . I can tell you AT&T service at my home has sure reduced to no service at all but was working prior but works 2 miles up the road & I pay $300 so anyway , what homeschool or k12 virtual or remote learning is going to be fully covered service wise on 10gb or less or even 25 data cap high speed then drop to unable to even connect a device or update or upload the class work or homework file much less the learning video? Oh wait or zoom psychiatrist or home health or connected to live classroom feed or enough to rewatch a science lab tutorial? I’m sorry to seem or sound petty but am I ? If a company is going to join as a partner to help America during a pandemic or even just for approved poverty citizens in general then there should be no segregation in service package plans that are extremely lower service at the same price or higher than those of standard package price ! That is inflation & manipulation of financial money slotted to anyone who needs it. But I guess that is what happens if you are lumped into the poverty bucket, companies tossing crumbs at you but taking the $! It is the same with Florida & I’m sure many other surrounding companies & state paid insurances like Medicaid offering lakeview mental health services , only one contracted to do residential or local treatment yet do not provide what their own mission statement is ! I have been refused my son ability to go anywhere else yet when in there he didn’t even receive therapy 5weeks , no school as said, no strict structure as said totally struggling told & begged help school & the low income mental help CHS for years BUT even the psychiatrist & therapist directors etc and well he was bullied 16 yr old boy beat up yep beat & molested there while they charge $947. Pls a day for services .. they are the number 1 here yep over $300 million no profit! Ok and sadly reported to Medicaid for fraud DCF oh even more but see my point a systematic injustice at its finest! So no service for us yet I still pay my bill that has no service & no computer my newest computer is a 2012 toshiba , I don’t get food stamps or welfare my son does get Medicaid & I am Medicare on social security disability who wow just finished my appeals that same issue they lost my paperwork which cut my check cut my insurance bc under age , it is ok they are giv agency’s but I can pay then refile & paid back ??? Nope it doesn’t work that way! See while people have been fighting people many other issues exist . Not all company’s are bad but many stemmed from greed , great service offered for relief temporarily for help but seems so limited and dangled I have yet to receive my stimulus checks bc I haven’t been able to file my taxes , seems crazy but social security literally sent wrong papers they are wrong I will not agree to a lie! So I am financially strapped behind struggling & my husband works so hard , 2 back to back range huricane damage & a wrong insurance average estimated total to replace my roof but all companies tell me way off $9k to repair their instruction total replace & their est $5k before take out deduction plus relevel foundation & new blocks bc broken& walls etc I have begged called help but none I have a child that is so messed up it is crazy .. hates world life & God … he is adopted & well too much to mention simply put did right innocent smart done wrong school super Intendent & why try why be good .. y’all love unselfish love not pride or greed & still bc he is Medicaid he can have this good stuff bc we poverty but only dangle crumbs or can’t have this computer or tablet unless our service and only ones with the devices .. but that is the way it is . It would be great if we really saw a genuineness in This mess instead of capitalism! Bit to mention penalties & segregation of those who are not vaccinated as if terrorist! Both can still contract the covid any type , both can spread it any type , yet only one can be praised & allowed a privilege & thank by President & companies & now punishment by companies loss of jobs or forced mask or what next refusal of service if no proof of vaccination? Dang we are not dogs without a rabies shot (can still catch & spread) we are people ! We are the AMERICAN PEOPLE WHO ARE TO BE UNITED Not SEPARATED by financial class or mental or disability or vaccination classification or verification! People better rise up in Love the Love of God & know their American rights the origination of what freedom really is , not the freedom to sin or to trample & take in greed!
Hello, with T-Mobile’s EBB Program, it can only be used on a data line if you have a tablet with data, at T-Mobile. Here is the link to apply online with T-Mobile for the EBB Program, if you have a data line: https://www.t-mobile.com/emergency-broadband-benefit . If you want to use your EBB Benefits with a company that allows you to have a phone and data on that phone, then you should look at Assurance Wireless or Boost Mobile or other providers, each carrier has a different program. Here is a link to all of the various providers by state: https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers
You need to get out the right information boost Mobile does not give free phones they do the same thing Metro, Att, Verizon wireless and almost every other place including yall do. The tablet with the internet or pay your phone bill. Spectrum knocks it off whatever internet your already getting like mine was the 20 dollar plan & they just use the ebb for it so i have no bill. They dont even do the tablet deal.
Please share your experience with the FTC at FTC.gov. They need these examples to build a case!
There are 2 problems with that suggestion…
1. The FCC’s website does not have a VIABLE, LEGITIMATELY HELPFUL complaint system for issues with EBB.
2. When it is an issue with the provider which is what they say this is, they tell you to contact the provider which does zero good. They say you have to get the device from your carrier which is not possible. AT&T doesn’t have any devices priced within EBB pricing & discount criteria.
This is the first artical i found that addresses this part of the ebb program I was told by my provider comcast that they are only participating in the wifi portion and that they are not offering the laptop 100. credit. I am completely blessed for what i did qualify for but they should of not included the laptop portion if they never intended to allow people to get it.
Thank you, Thomas. Yes, this is a very frustrating situation that we are doing everything we can to change.
Hi, everyone. I too qualify for EBB. I’ve been trying to get it since the beginning of it being available. My current carrier is Straight Talk, which is affiliated with Verizon. I tried, through them, but I prefer to handle things primarily on-line, a maddening quirk of Straight Talks, seems to be to ultimately require you to call them, about anything except paying them money, or aquiring their pitifully useless ” points”. They have 20 ways, online, by texting, and by their automated phone system for those, but nothing for other business. Also, when I tried to fill out the online form to qualify going through Straight Talk, it came back that I did not qualify, which is hilarious because I qualify, believe me, three times over, what’s required. Also, they don’t offer the tablet, laptop, or computer benefit. I’m annoyed that I have to search around, and change carrier’s, from the one I’ve been a long term customer of and that I’m relatively satisfied with, all things considered, to another carrier I’m unfamiliar with, in order to simply claim a benefit for which I am eligible. I gave up then in frustration. But, only momentarily. I’ve tried it twiceore, with them. Everything looks fine, then right at the moment of actually getting to access the EBB benefits, suddenly something goes wrong. That was the final straw. I saw an advertisement online, and tapped on it, and went to a site for Q-Link Wireless, promoting it’s EBB program. The good news is I qualified, got the I.D. number, all that, and was sent a SIM card kit to change the card in my Mororola phone, that I did not purchase from Straight Talk, to a SIM card from QLink. I followed instructions and got it in there, only to find, I couldn’t make the phone call they told me to make, in order to finish the activation process of switching my phone, with it’s current number, over to them. I had to take out their useless card, and put my old one back in, to have service, and be able to go online and make inquiries as to what happened. Or be able to text, or phone, anyone. After reading some tech articles, I went to try again. Guess what? I can’t get the SIM tray to open. It opened perfectly fine, before. Now, it’s as though it’s locked. It doesn’t show my phone as SIM Locked, I checked. It’s not toggled over to Lock SIM, in my security settings, and I don’t use the PIN, from the carrier, to unlock my phone to be able to use it. It’s as though Straight Talk got wind of my defection, and locked the SIM card, to prevent my leaving their service. Meanwhile, back on the ranch, my plan with them expired, and to be able to have internet, and do anything, at all on my phone, I had to purchase another plan for the month, from them. I purchased the cheapest one they have for $35. That’s not my usual plan. Usually I get a $55 plan, because I use alot of data, since I use my phone for everything. Not having a laptop, tablet, T.V., or WiFi, because I’m poor, as hell, and can’t afford any of those. Frankly, I really can’t afford my usual phone service that comes to over $60, and change, each month. I get SSI, I’m disabled, and on Medicaid. I’ve heard we can get a ” free” phone, and 250 minutes of service, each month, and ” free” Wifi, but I believe I tried those, before, some time ago, and I had results, about like the ones I’m having now, with the EBB. There’s always some little something, that prevents people from ever getting any of these so called ” free” benefits people think we’re getting. A search online will make you think poor people have it made, by all the stuff that pops up. But, I’m telling you, as someone who’s lived on about $9,000 a year, for almost 10 years, and who has tried, by availing myself of these opportunities, to break out of poverty, maybe retrain, at home taking online classes for a job more condusive to the disabilities, I have. I’d need to do all that from home, being unable to afford to buy a vehicle, and maintain it, in order to go to school, and be retrained. Or go look for work, after I am, much less, actually go to work, each day. And now, there’s Covid, and I am 55, and have three different types of autoimmune disease. I even investigated one program, in which they assure people, with very low incomes, that they can be assisted in purchasing their own home. To help them get out of these cruddy, shoddily run, subsidized government apartments like I live in. Huh. If that was so,and it was that simple, then why don’t I know a single person, who ever did this? Or even tried to? I italicized the word ” free”, because nothing is ” free”. Nothing. Not even, for the poorest, of the poor. I always wonder, what happened to all the funds that were given to run such programs, if no one can qualify, in the end, to get any of the benefits the program is supposed to be making available, to people? They’re supposed to be making it easy, for people, already struggling with issues, that thwart their efforts, to actually avail themselves of some kind of assistance, here. I mean, the money, millions of dollars,just keeps being thrown out here for all of this. Again, when I look around, no one living in my low income government housing is getting any of it. I know, I’m not. So, who is getting it, then? Where does the unclaimed benefit money wind up? I’m still in limbo, here with EBB. I’m going to try to open the SIM tray, again and activate QLink’s SIM card, once more. After that, I can request another one, and be FORCED into CALLING Straight Talk, so they can argue with me, get me confused, and upset, and still not give me the relevant information I need in order to get my measly $50, a month of phone service, and $100 of credit towards a computer, being required to pay any additional costs, fees, surcharges, taxes, and overages, myself. Which will probably add up to just about $50 a month. Blame it, on the Puritan’s. People think being poor, and having to be given things, shows that a person is weak, lazy, unintelligent, has a low character, and dubious morals, is probably a drug addict, or alcoholic, dropped out of high school, has 4 kids, by 4 different people, none of whom they married, and none of whom they contribute any support towards, and they are being frowned upon by God himself. Otherwise, we’d all be blessed, with plenty, and not be poor beggars, you see? Now, isn’t that the way the poor, are seen here? I believe it is. In America, we have a real problem with anyone getting anything they didn’t work for, getting it given to them for ” free”. So, we’re made to pay, for everything we get, one way, or another. Sometimes, the price is too high, and people who are already disadvantaged, and beat down by struggling with life in poverty, do not have what it will take to pay what’s being asked of us for those benefits we’re meant to have for ” free”.
I’m qualified on EBB thru Assurance wireless. They said they offer the iPad that is a “hotspot”. They never sent a link that coolpad says they have to. They told me the deadline date was the 15th. Day after tomorrow. Assurance said it will take them a week to try to resend it. Then told me only random people were picked for the iPad/hotspot. How are the ISP’s getting away with ripping off 230 BILLION dollars meant to help the poorest of the poor. How do we start a lawsuit against the ISP’s?
I received the EBB on my home internet. I still had to pay $25 deposit, pay the first bill in full ($73) and rent their equipment ($15). I have not figured out how to buy a laptop though.
Thank you, KB, for sharing the additional charges you had to pay. We sincerely appreciate your comment. It encourages us to keep pushing!
I had EBB set up with century link internet. Then I moved to a new place just a few blocks away. I can’t afford to set up internet service at my new address because Centurylink is requiring a $100 installation fee, payment of first bill in full which increased by $25. It’s been extremely difficult the past couple of months especially when my children were back at home for online learning due to a delta variant outbreak at their school.
Why don’t people mention who their ISPs are?
Yes I receive the $50 internet discount which comes in good need for my daughter online school yet the $100 off for computer the only site I see doing it is a site called PCs for people.com and very old computers no web cam or good storage
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. Every comment helps us make a better case to help us access this $100 credit!
Yes how can i use the 100 credit for tablet i got the 50 internet takrn care but cant use the 100
Even with Pcs for people, you have to get internet through them to get the $100 credit on pcs. so its all or nothing with them.
Yes, but keep in mind that the internet is completely free and you will have to purchase a Hot Spot which I paid $5 for and I paid $11 for a Laptop which was a total of $16 for a Laptop, a Hotspot & free internet. It’s impossible to find a better deal my friend. I can see that people are not thoroughly reading or understanding how this works. Take your time and read and understand the details & instructions on their website.
What company did you get the laptop from? All I see are tablets and I want a laptop.
Where did you purchase your hotspot and laptop from?
Where did u get the laptop from what company?
Where did you get a hot spot from for $5.00?
Kimberly I appreciate your advice what’s a good read on this and where should I read on this you are right it seems like one heck of a deal
I am with the rest of the commenters here… Where did you shop for fulfillment of your benefit plan? PLEASE let us know…
The EBB Hotspot cost is now $55 (no more $5 deals). The current EBB laptop at $11 is a Chromebook computer with 4 GB RAM and 16 GB SSD storage. They have offered a laptop with the Intel 2nd generation CPU with 6 GB RAM and 250 GB storage for $11 and a better laptop with the Intel 4th generation CPU with 8 GB RAM and 500 GB storage or 250 GB SSD storage for $49.99 based on availability. So the minimum cost is now at least $66.
Note that the windows based computers use Windows 10 and that will be supported until October 2025. Microsoft will not upgrade systems with CPUs that are older than the Intel 8th generation.
Microsoft heading the cause to replace perfectly good computers with new ones when they develop operating systems that don’t support millions of computers used in homes. I am not upgrading. I really don’t like the new operating system that totally took away the easy navigation home button. Bring back Win7
I applied and qualified for both EBB benefits. We were on the internet essentials plan with Xfinity (Comcast owned?) . We struggle to pay $10 month so I immediately called them with approval. Excited for device since I worked from home and my laptop broke a year ago. I also have joint custody of grandkids and it would be used for them as well. I had past due account of $20 I 2as told to pay that and then they’d accept EBB towards ofc a higher plan and I wouldn’t be able to change back to 10 plan once EBB expires. And no device ebb part. So I found PC’s for people and thought I had a plan for laptop. Nope bc yes they have and most have webcams etc , however you are required to use 50 credit towards their hotspot to use your device credit. You can order online or through store in person. I jumped in car and thought woohoo I’ll be working again! Thankfully 8 called again before driving 30 minutes to store front. First associate at PC’s for people failed to mention I had to buy their modem/ router whatever thingy for 55.00 and minium 10 towards laptop. Unexcited and sad ,I like a deflated balloon defeated by greed/ red tape took my sad self in house to come up with a better plan….. after much research…. I’d have better luck with a dollar scratch off sadly in hopes of getting device. I will be calling my state representative. If anyone else has any other suggestions for device please please let me know anywhere near Colorado. Thank you to all sharing/ caring.
Edit… Typo… The word This.
Hi. QLink Wireless, offers the entire EBB package. I’m not sure, but I think they might be an affiliate of T-Mobile, and I have no idea how this would work anywhere, but where I live, here in Texas. Thank you, for offering your condolences, for that. You’re too kind. I know QLink Wireless does offer the $50 a month, phone service, and the $100, towards a tablet, a computer, or a laptop computer ( is that right? Either, one?) thru the EBB benefit program because I’m going thru them, now. If you’re already qualified, and getting EBB, you’d have to switch your benefits and service over to them, of course. I’ve qualified, and all, got the I.D. number, and everything, and they sent me a SIM card kit, to change out the SIM card, so I can switch over from my current carrier, Straight Talk, to them. I have my own unencumbered phone, and I wanted to keep my same number. But, that’s where it got stupid. Switching that card, turned into a nightmare from hell, and I still haven’t gotten ” free” phone service from EBB. I’m now in a kind of limbo, between the two carriers, and I had to buy the cheapest plan Straight Talk had, to have internet/ phone service, at all, because my plan ran out on the 5th. I was really hoping not to have to pay anything, or anything, much, anyway, for phone service this month. I was certain, this time, I’d be getting the EBB benefit, and I had planned on being firmly separated from my old carrier, by now. But, alas. No. Yeah, well. Eggs. Baskets. Chicken’s hatching. Whatever. It’s a long story. See my other, prior comments, where I’ve already discussed this, at length. Anyway, for your purposes, I found QLink Wireless thru an online advertisement, and I tapped on it, out of frustration, really. But, If you want to try, just search, “QLink Wireless EBB”. Or put “QLink.com” in the address bar. Those should get you to the page you need. So you can attempt to get that computer or tablet, like they promised everyone they could get. I hope I’m not sending you into a lion’s den. But, I feel that if you’re already getting EBB, it might go easier for you to be able to go ahead and get that computer, too. If it’s even possible to do so with QLink, wherever you are, of course. It’s worth a try, anyway. Do you feel like you’re at work, right now? Cause, I sure do. This doesn’t feel like ” free”. It feels like ” hourly wage”, to me. Well, Good luck! Hope you get your computer. It would be nice if somebody did, I swear!
Qlink wireless is a joke. I had straight talk and everything was fine. I found out about the ebb program from an email from qlink wireless I filled out some of the application but it would not allow me to change my adress and I didn’t want the sim shipped to the wrong adress. So I look on straight talk applied and received the ebb program my service stayed on no bill and had contacted my internet provider they were going to make my bill 10$ a month when all of the sudden my phone quit working. QLINK ported my number anyway sent the sim to the wrong adress twice I was with out a phone for almost two months. I missed two job interviews and when it finally arrived I put the sim in and had data for about a day then nothing. They bend the truth it’s only 3gb of data and to purchase more was unreal amount like 20$ for a GB. They said but you can use your home internet credit to get unlimited data and a free tablet. Well I wanted internet at home but I was like fine you are the worst company I have ever dealt with ever. So now I have unlimited data that doesn’t work half the time and if it does you better have patience because it’s gonna be awhile. Then the tablet they sent is garbage you can’t do anything on it it just doesn’t do anything it took three day 24/7 to finish the set up. Now they want ten dollars and I’m just sending it back it sucks as a paper weight. QLINK appears to be easier to get but that’s only because they are trying to suck people in them bend them over and you know. So I would stay away from qlink and hit me up if you want a tablet
I’ve called every provider in my area with a “checkmark” for offering devices and none… Not a single one has desktops or laptops available for the $100 one time discount. I really thought I’d be able to get the computer from somewhere like WalMart. Pcforpeople doesn’t even let you use the $100 discount unless you have their other services
We hear you, Ally. It’s extremely frustrating and we’re doing everything we can to access this $100 discount so we can offer it to potential clients like you. We’ll keep you posted!
Here’s how the program works: you can only use the program at 1 company at a time, so you can’t get free wifi from Comcast and a tablet from AT&T, for example. You have to choose a company that sells cell phones/devices AND service, like Verizon, T-mobile, etc. There’s a list on the FCC’S website of providers in each state and it shows which ones offer the $100 discount on devices. The device can be anything that accesses the internet, so cell phones, tablets, hot spots, laptops, desktop computers all qualify.
You apply on the FCC’s website or any provider’s website that you want to use. If you already signed up with a company and don’t like them or can’t get a device, you can transfer to another company whenever you want. Get your ID/account number that’s given when you’re approved for the program to give to the new company to speed things up. ATT has a tablet or hotspot offer & service and Tmobile/Verizon has a device, as well as Qlink who has a tablet. Qlink never sent my tablet though. There’s supposedly a waiting list but they’ve been saying that for a while now. I think Cricket, Boost, PC’s for People and Assurance Wireless, and others, do the device credit and service too. *If you qualify for the EBB, you may also qualify for the Lifeline Program, which is the discounted/free cell phone and service program for very low income households.
The tablet from Qlink is a piece of trash with 16g total memory. A joke. How long do you think you stay online with that? Don’t waste your time or benefit.
Note that the EBB device benefit can ONLY be used one time, so if you used on something totally useless, you CANNOT go to another company and get another device with the $100 benefit and between over $10 and less than $50 copayment. Only the EBB service discount can be transferred to another company if you got the device benefit previously.
I knew about this program before most people! I got a text message from q Link wireless asking if I wanted a free tablet I knew it was a catch so I started to dig and dig some more and find out about this program months before it went live!!! I’m getting four or five text messages a day from q Link asking me if I still want the tablet!!! No I don’t! Number one it’s a cheap Android tablet I would prefer a real computer and $100 off! Number two if I get the tablet it’s going to have internet on it… Well I’m already getting money off my home Wi-Fi service through the emergency broadband benefit if I accept that tablet, That emergency broadband benefit is going to pay for the internet on the tablet which I simply do not need a tablet or internet I desperately need a computer!!!! If I buy a tablet I would get an iPad, because I normally use Apple products and/or Windows sometimes! Q Link is just taking advantage of free government money and the tablet again I’ve seen YouTubers talk about it It is a crappy cheap tablet that’s going to give you more of a headache than anything else!!! We should be able to buy any computer laptop tablet of our choice and get the $100 off!!!!! This program would be better if we could go out by our own computer take a copy of the receipt and upload it after we’re verified for the program and they send us a check for $100 reimbursement!!!!
We couldn’t say this any better than you just did, Jimmy. Yes, tablets serve a purpose but there’s no better way to take advantage of internet access than a reliable computer that can help people access the training and education programs they need to get ahead.
Jimmy, ive been spending hours exactly trying to find an answer to the same thing. im also on qlink and extremley annoyed when they keep asking me if i want a shitty tablet, what id really like is much better service (im only with them bc theyre the only unlimited minutes plan i know) and 100 for a computer which i really need. if you know of any other unlimited plans esp in nyc let me know
Jimmy I have been so angry over qlinik and the tablet fiasco. I deleted that text many times daily, and was bombarded with emails and phone calls. This has been for an entire year. I couldn’t use my ebb money anywhere because qlink had put me on their roster without my knowledge or approval. I contacted The Universal Services Administrative Company at the EBB Support Center who helped me get taken off qlinks roster so I could go to another company. A week or so later, qlink started sending me emails that said my tablet had been shipped, then 2 days later an email that said my tablet had arrived and I owed them $10.01. Yeah, it’s worse but I’m worn out. Every program that was meant to help us maintain thru COVID is ripe and rotten with fraud. The government has given a green light by not taking action against these criminals. I could go on and on but it’s so upsetting. I’m a disabled vet, I love my country. We survived World Wars, terrorist, plagues, economic disasters; but we can’t overcome the flu? 4 Trillion dollars dished out to “recover the economy”, more than the total and cost of the Afghan War. The vast majority went to business, around 2.3 trillion, and in many cases they weren’t required to show they were impacted by the pandemic or even that it would keep their workers employed. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to go so far off topic. The ebb program ends on the 19th. Maybe I should have taken the free tablet. : )
—
Chris W. – Artist
Charley’s Stick Figure Art
FYI. The EBB program did not end on August 19. It is still in effect as of today. As far as I know, the EBB funds have not been exhausted and the Government has not declared an end to the pandemic.
Valuable information: visit http://www.fcc/ebb.gov and click on providers in my area and you will see an entire list of providers where some offer laptops and some don’t but it will include a link to their website and phone numbers. It’s a helpful & valuable resource for people looking for more providers participating in the EBB Program.
Agree 100%
I was like how do you purchase something more than $10 but less than $50 and it be worth anything.
The state sure loves to throw money away.
What go to the cheap laptop computer phone tablet if you have to throw it away it’s going to be obsolete and 6 months
Was told by an overseas AT&T rep. that I was allow to recieve either discounted service OR $100 off a device but not both.
Wow. That’s just wrong, Daniel. We appreciate you sharing this with us for documentation purposes as we do everything we can to correct this glitch.
The EBB choices are either 1) A free Lifeline smartphone from your choice of participating providers and free unlimited talk text and data or 2)$50 off of your monthly home internet bill AND $100 toward a computer, laptop or tablet. But it says Customers must pay at least $10 but not more than $50 toward their chosen device. What can they get for between $110 and $150???? And I have been searching and searching and cannot find information about where to buy it or how to be reimbursed or anything. I am a service coordinator at a senior housing community and our residents need this information.
I want to say T-Mobile. I spoke with a EBB rep here in VA and they explained after my first billing cycle it will reflect that i am enrolled with EBB and the payments will be take care of the following month, After this is reflected in the bill i was going to go back and add the tablet and see what would transpire with the EBB reflecting on my bill.
I hope this helps .
Maybe pcs for people since you need internet and computers for each resident. They could each get a laptop/tablet with mobile Hotspot
I was approved May 17th for EBB, filed out info for Windstream and have not received any credit on my Bill or even a confirmation from Windstream. Have any credits be applied to anyone so far?
Thank you for commenting, Diane. We’re sorry to hear you’re having this difficulty with Windstream. We recommend sharing this comment on their social media pages where other customers of theirs can see it in addition to perisisting with their customer service team. It’s been less than a month so hopefully your billing issue will be resolved soon!
I applied for this probably about 3 months ago or so and I finally, today, got the email that says I was approved for the tablet through Windstream and also the $50 monthly credit so now I’m just waiting on the tablet to come in and for my bill to show the $50 credit and the tablet that is coming in is actually the Samsung Galaxy tab 8
Finally found someone addressing this!!!!I was frustrated myself after finding the computer had to be purchased through whoever I’m getting my internet with.That just isn’t right!!!!!!
We share your frustration, Tonya. Thank you for sharing your experience and helping us build our case for support!
WARNING: THERE IS AN INTERNET PROVIDER LISTED ON THE FCC WEBSITE WHO ARE NOT LEGITIMATE AND WILL SCAM YOU AND ONCE YOU ENTER YOUR CREDIT CARD INFORMATION, YOU WILL GET SEVERAL CHARGES ON YOUR CC FROM CHINA AND THEY CHARGED MULTIPLE AMOUNTS ON MY CC ADDING UP TO A TOTAL OF NEARLY $500. THE NAMES OF THESE COMPANIES ARE CLEO COMMUNICATIONS AND ALSO KLFY. XYZ. THE TWO ARE THE SAME COMPANY AND THEY WILL TAKE YOUR MONEY AND YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE ANY SERVICES OR PRODUCTS FROM THEM. I’M CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF RECEIVING MY $500 BACK FROM THESE SCAMMERS. THERE ARE REVIEWS ONLINE IF YOU GOOGLE THE COMPANY ALL WITH THE SAME COMPLAINTS BASICALLY.
Please report to the FCC
I spoke to 2 Metro by Tmobile stores and Assurance Wireless and both only know about the broadband benefit but not the $100 off toward a tablet. Why does FCC have them on the list then? Isn’t this kind of program suppose to alleviate or make life easier? Instead, we’re like hungry wolves searching for nothing! We are already in a desperate situation so no need to rub it some more please.
I have already sent 3 emails to Jessica Rosenworcel about this exact problem starting in march. I even told her a way they could fix the problem. They can do the coupons like they did for the analog to digital switchover for the broadcast signal. Offer anybody that is eligible a way to call in or email your eligibility if you are approved. Or use the verification with the USAC or the Lifeline registry. Then people that are elegible and want a coupon that they can use at walmart and other places can turn them in to the stores or other places that offer a table,desktop or laptop for 10 to 50 dollars and the coupon the government/fcc sends you can use it to get one and not stuck with providers provideing them. So they should do the coupon route they did for the digital switchover for people to get boxed for the analog tv’s.
Also told her the way this program is run really hurts the people that need it most because like in my state people on lifeline got hurt bigtime when Tmobile bought out sprint. Most lifelines in my state used sprint and when tmobile bought them out most lost service to lifeline cause of no tmobile in the 1/2 the state and ones that get tmobile are lucky to get a bar. Even the ones that travel the main highway through are state lost service. Tmobile say they might not have tower here for 2 to 3 years and the people have to use roaming they have with other isp’s in them area’s which ain’t no good when they cancelled the contract with uscellular they have in my area. We lost service to lifeline pretty much in 4 or 5 college towns in WV(Buckhannon,Clarksburg,Fairmont,etc. (Qlink,AssuranceWireless,etc except for safelink which you can request an at&t sim)use tmobile for lifeline which don’t work. Way it hurts people is we have trouble even getting the cheap tablets cause we have trouble with the lifeline service and if can’t get internet on the smartphones how can you expect to use the ebbp to get internet.
So if they use the coupon system for people that want them then they could use the coupons at say Walmart,Bestbuys,etc to get a tablet,computer or laptop and use it with an isp like cable system and isp’s not offering a device and make the program work the way it was meant for.
Quit hurting the people who need the ebb the most and just helping the isp’s make free billions for their ceo’s and stock market people.
p.s. I though the ebb was suppose to be for school kid,people looking for jobs and familys that need internet for everyday life so why should telcos be allowed to offer whats suppose to be for that able to sign people up for the service and only give like 10 gig of hotspot service to people to use other devices when not meant to be used on smartphone. Should be purely unlimited service for any isp that wants to sign up for ebb money. They also throttle you like for useing 25 or 32 gigs on the smartphone to dialup speeds which isn’t good for internet.
Everybody should be complaining besides to their local repesentive but all to the FCC to get this fixed.
Jessica.Rosenworcel@fcc.gov
Brendan.Carr@fcc.gov
geoffrey.starks@fcc.gov
nathan.simington@fcc.gov
Great suggestion, Marvin!
Thank you for sharing so much, I can’t believe I wasnt really aware of all this! I’ll be sharing with my community !
I qualify for EBB, but can’t get a computer or laptop with the $100 off because no local stores can honor EBB credit. I want to go to college, but desperately need an up to date, quality working laptop or pc (not a cheap, crappy, older refurbished one). It be nice to be able to go to BestBuy, Walmart or even a local computer repair shop to get a good & reliable laptop or pc. They really need to get this EBB glitch fixed quickly.
We could not agree more, TracyLynn. Thanks for commenting!
The computer models at Best Buy, Walmart, Target, etc., are the computers with the Intel 11th generation CPUs. They range in prices over $400. The government subsidy for the EBB device is $100 with a required copayment from the participant. Only by refurbishing older computers can you cover the cost of the EBB computer. The program does not cover the additional over $300 cost for an up to date device.
Note that the original IBM PC computer in 1981 cost over $1000.
I am approved for lifeline and I applied for EBB through Optimum, but they keep saying that my application is rejected because it didn’t have “first fl” on my address. It is the same house, I am getting the service, why does the address need to match completely? I’ve applied 5 times and it was only recently that they told me recently that everything have to match EXACTLY. Who can I contact for this? It’s ridiculous that because I have every proof that I was furlough, made less then what I did in 2019 in 2020 etc.
We’re so sorry to hear this, Natsu. Keep pushing and hopefully you get this resolved!
I still can’t believe that T-Mobile is denying….first responders (Police, Fire, EMT) access to the EBB funding. They say that if your on the 1st responder program your already getting a discount. It’s a Federal discount and shouldn’t be up to T-Mobile to decide. I wonder what America will think about you… T-mobile….denying 1st responders??
The $50 off a month worked flawlessly on my end but I am only able to find 1 website that has these $100 off computers and thats with Pcsforpeople.org/ but there selection SUCKS! Its not legally right for only one company to offer or honor this program, thats called a MONOPOLY. Yet again, the government passed ANOTHER bill without fully reading it.
Monopoloy
Wonder who owns it
qlink wireless is under investigation and company recently raided by fcc and post office for frauding government and ripping people off during pandemic.
The CEO of qlink just happened to be on the board that serves the lifeline assistance program. How convenient is that? He probably thought hed get away with his huge scam.
Run as far away from qlink as possible. The tablet is not worth $10 and does not have internet service unless you connect to
existing wireless or wired hotspot or home network
I belong to one of the biggest isp’s in the world (Spectrum) but still cant use the $100 towards a pc.
Did you get $50 with spectrum?
I was approved 5/18/21 and apply with spectrum
That day. They have me going in circles for
about 6 weeks. Every time I’d call to see if
I was approved they would ask me for different
information. One time they canceled me and
I had to get a new Q.ID number.
Anyway the last thing they told me was I would have to
be on a $79.00 plan to get the credit. For the past 30
years I’ve been paying about $36.00 So in order to
get the $50 credit I would have to pay the difference between
$36. and $79. Which is $43. Monthly and once the credit ends
I could not go back to old plan. I’d be paying $79. Monthly.
So I just gave up.
I had Lifeline service through QLink before EBB was implemented. They enrolled me (apparently twice with two distinct confirmation emails in two different months) into EBB when it was deployed. They also “confirmed” a tablet would be sent with a bill for $49 (but never disclosed ANY info up front about the make and model of this tablet, so it may not even be worth $149.) Well, they NEVER sent said tablet anyway. I don’t know if I still have that benefit to take to another provider, or if it “already got claimed” in Qlink’s system without actually delivering me any actual product (despite many messages it’ll be shipped “soon™”)
Furthermore, my QLink EBB/Lifeline service was TOTALLY shut off from them without warning for “non-usage” (depsite that’s supposed to only happen if 30 days go by with no usage, and I had been using the service all that month. I was on customer support call with them just two days prior to the shut-off.) It seems my ATT Prepaid plan I used prior to QLink just kind of “stole” the EBB benefit and applied it to itself. (Apparently, a past “inquiry on using EBB” on ATT customer support was misinterpreted as “yes, please take my EBB and apply it.”) I’m fine with the internet service provided by ATT, but as far as I can tell the do NOT provide the $100 device discount on anything, so that is still going to waste.
I’d really like a productivity device other than just the phone I have right now, particularly a laptop or a decently sized tablet with a keyboard case. It’s all just a huge mess with trying to get one, though.
Here to see if there is any updates on getting the $100 off for a laptop. I was able to get $50 off with Spectrum on my bill. Also if people don’t know it doesn’t matter if you are on the Spectrum assist for $22.99 a month. It will make your bill $0 monthly.
Unfortunately not, Renita. We haven’t been able to gain access to these funds and we aren’t aware of any other computer retailers or organizations like ours that have either.
Hi,
What is spectrum assist?
I live in Oregon and already had internet service. I signed up for EBB through my provider and was approved and have the credit listed on my bill here for July. I couldn’t figure out how to get the device so I called my home phone/internet provider and they said they didn’t know anything about that part. It took me 3 hours of researching to discover that unless you sign up with a provider that has a checkmark by it, you cannot get a device. Why on Earth would I sign up with a different provider, and secondly, the only ISP in my area is the one I am currently with. What a waste.
I have contacted Every ISP in my service area & None provide devices so that I can purchase a functional device using the $100 credit portion of the program. This needs to be remedied as it limits the beneficial intent of the program.
The implementation has Not been well thought out or planned.
Further, I do Not think that the $100 device credit should Only be applicable with the service provider. It does Not allow the consumer the opportunity to locate the device that is best for their needs & it Penalizes the consumer – if the service provider does Not participate in that portion of the program. Totally Unfair & contrary to the programs intent.
Was able to get EBB through Hughes easily (qualified for Lifeline phone assistance, but have not seen actual assistance yet so hopefully it works also) but am also having the same issues as everyone else. Hughes doesn’t have computer products and can’t figure out how to take advantage of the discount. Extremely frustrating to think you will be able to do something to help your family just to have it yanked away..
I have contacted Every ISP in my service area & there are None that provide devices so that I can purchase a functional device using the $100 credit portion of the program. This needs to be remedied as it limits the beneficial intent of the program.
The implementation has Not been well thought out or planned as I had great difficulty dealing with well known providers who seemed to lack information regarding the $50 monthly service credit.
Further, I do Not think that the $100 device credit should Only be applicable with the service provider of the $50 service credit. It does Not allow the consumer the opportunity to locate the device that is best for their needs & Penalizes them – if the service provider does Not participate in that portion of the program.which is Unfair & contrary to the programs intent.
I am very grateful about the concept of the program but rather disappointed with the difficulty obtaining the $50 service credit from the ISP & absolutely No options or providers of the $100 device credit available.
I qualify for the EBB and I would love to use it especially since I have 4 kids, but I have not used it because I cannot seem to find anyone that actually offers the laptop, which is preferred for my kids. It’s frustrating trying to use this benefit but only having the option to get the $100 credit through the same provider when I cannot find not even one company that offers both. It’s ridiculous! I am on a very fixed income and we are barely making it. The only way I will ever have a computer in my home is if this program actually allows us low-income families to get them.
I haven’t gotten my 1st bill yet but the discount applied through Spectrum here in Florida Hernando County they knew all about the emergency broadband they worked out where I could get home Wi-Fi phone and cable under $50 but nobody seems to know about the hundred dollars off for the laptop tablet or computer anywhere but I guess I’m fortunate to be able to have home Wi-Fi as of now you’re fortunate to have Lifeline for a cell phone seeing how the minutes run out so fast for the cell phone the Wi-Fi does come in handy and the house phone does too. But if anybody does have any information on the laptop tablets or home computer it’d be much more helpful being disabled having all those services to have that as well please let me know of any information on that. thank you God bless
My aunt can’t even get pass the EBB’s put your initial screen. What?
How can there be error just for putting your initials? She can’t move pass the screen.
What’s the deal? EBB website is terrible.
I was putting my full initials and it said “wrong” it was my first n last name initials only, I was trying my first middle and last
Oh and below the submit button is a “I’m not a robot” that I missed the 2nd time after my initials were wrong.
Hello, I a got approved for the EBB Program yesterday. Finally, after waiting and making phone calls to the Lifeline hotline. I got my App # and ready to hit some phone providers. I will physically check out Boost, Verizon, At&T, Cricket, and Walmart stores, ask questions to the best of my ability about the program and my options. I was researching the program so I fell across this Blig. I wanted to read about what I am going to be expecting on on my way out the door. I will post back in a few days with whatever info i come across on. But apparently that 100$ discount is the a concern, an essential BEnefit from this program that (how conviniently) we cant assess as easilly as the internet/phone service. Competition between brands and also loss of money with actaully giving physical decent product. Well.
here we go
Same issue here that’s how I found this article. I have had lifeline approval for over a year and that phone has not only never worked for anything other than spam it has put me in 2 life threatening situations that I couldn’t even call 911 because it was froze. It’s through Assurance. Numerous contacts with them and their solution is buy a better phone that MUST be bought through them at twice the price as anywhere else for a refurbished phone. Now I am approved for this EBB and would really like to start my own Social Media Organization and Management company and not only can I not find a laptop or tablet with the discount every single place that offers the internet or cell phone with hotspot requires you pay for a full month up front and then get approved through them even after you have already been approved through the EBB program. Both Lifeline wireless and EBB are useless and doing nothing but giving money to these companies that register to “offer” it.
I post about the lifeline part because I tell everyone I can do NOT use Lifeline as emergency communication. I am lucky I am not dead. But those spam offers and trojan viruses sure manage to go through. Considering many that rely of Lifeline are elderly it’s no wonder they get scammed and our taxes are paying for the services promoting it.
You are totally right! This is a big scam!! We need to report this to the FTC! They can’t build a case without supporting evidence! These stories are terrible and it needs to be scrutinized! These companies need to be held accountable, PLEASE share your experience at FTC.gov !!
Can you tell me how to obtain this $100 discount for a desktop or laptop?
I’ve searched and searched and there’s no instructions for this.
These comments should be posted in reverse chronological order.
The EBB program run by Altice is horrible. It took me 7 applications over 45 days to get approved. There is no one at Optimum (owned by Altice) who knows anything about the program, no department responsible for it. They have outsourced eligibility review to Solix, and even after the contractor finds you eligible, they repeatedly deny the application stating either that the names don’t match or the account does not exist. Turns out the ISP has a typo in my address (not my name) and I had to match the typo to get their algorithm to accept the approved application sent by Solix. No one to communicate with, not one request for a supervisor to call was ever met, even after seven requests.
Again, I am getting the “duplicate’ rejection! What is wrong with your website?
The EBB program run by Altice is horrible. It took me 7 applications over 45 days to get approved. There is no one at Optimum (owned by Altice) who knows anything about the program, no department responsible for it. They have outsourced eligibility review to Solix, and even after the contractor finds you eligible, they repeatedly deny the application stating either that the names don’t match or the account does not exist. Turns out the ISP has a typo in my address (not my name) and I had to match the typo to get their algorithm to accept the approved application sent by Solix. No one to communicate with, not one request for a supervisor to call was ever met, even after seven requests.
You can’t buy computer or tablet for under $150, so what is the point of the discount program?
I don’t have time to read all the comments here so excuse me if this not new information.
First my EBB status:
-I applied at getemergencybroadband.org and was approved for EBB on May 21, 2021
-I then signed up at Spectrum’s site for EBB here: (I already had internet through them) https://www.spectrum.net/support/internet/emergency-broadband-benefit/
I have since the June bill been getting $50 taken off, so I’m a happy receiver of that part of the benefit.
I was also interested in getting the $100 off a laptop, since I figured getting a $150 Chromebook for $50 would be worth it just to have around the house or when traveling. No big loss if it breaks or I lose it. But I couldn’t find any information or any websites that said they participate in that part of the program.
Now I’m trying again and that’s why I’m posting here. As many posts say, there’re almost no websites that even mention this.
I did find one site that claims to sell used PCs and laptops under the EBB program, they’re called PCs For People and their EBB page is here:
https://ebb.pcsrefurbished.com/ebb
As I read it, I have to sign up for their internet service to be able to take advantage of the computer discount, so I can’t do it since I’m already getting the EBB internet discount through Spectrum.
As a last comment I want to mention that the official approval email from EBB mentioned the $100 computer discount in the beginning where it’s just siting the same language that’s the reason we’re all here talking about this in the first place, but the “How to Sign Up” section does not mention it at all.
This is what it says:
How to Sign Up
Contact a phone or internet company and ask to sign up for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program.
Tell them you have been approved by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
Use the same information you used on your Emergency Broadband Benefit application (full legal name, date of birth, social security number, and address).
After you sign up with a phone or internet company, you will receive your Emergency Broadband Benefit!
For more information about the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, visit http://www.usac.org/about/emergency-broadband-benefit-program/.
If you have questions about your broadband device, service, or bill, contact your phone or internet company. If you have questions about the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, call us at 1 (833) 511-0311 or send us an email at EBBHelp@usac.org.