WASHINGTON – Millions of low-income Americans will be able to get high-speed internet service for no more than $30 a month under an agreement the Biden administration has reached with major internet providers.
Twenty internet providers, including AT&T, Comcast and Verizon, have agreed to increase their internet speeds or cut the price of their services for eligible households, according to senior administration officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will announce the deal at the White House on Monday. The announcement is part of the administration’s push to expand access to fast, affordable internet service in rural areas and on tribal lands.
The bipartisan infrastructure law that Congress passed last year allows certain low-income families to receive a $30 monthly benefit or $75 a month on tribal lands to help pay for broadband service. Those who apply that benefit to one of the broadband plans covered under the deal to be announced Monday will essentially get high-speed internet service at no cost.
About 48 million households, or nearly 40% of those in the country, are eligible for the broadband benefit. To make sure that eligible families take advantage of the offer, the administration will launch a website (GetInternet.gov) that will provide details about how they can sign up and find participating internet providers in their area.
Households with annual incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, about $27,000 for an individual or $55,000 for a family of four, are eligible for the benefit program. Families also can qualify if they are enrolled in other federal programs, such as Pell Grants, Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income.
