The FCC has launched a $50-a-month subsidy for high-speed internet in low-income households, plus a $100 discount on a computer. Here's who's eligible, and how to apply.

• The FCC's $3.2 billion federal initiative to give people better internet is now open for applications.
• Eligible households can get broadband subsidies of up to $50 a month.
• Households that receive a Federal Pell Grant or get free school lunches are among those eligible.

Applications have just opened for a $3.2 billion federal initiative to subsidize high-speed internet for low-income households.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program offers eligible households discounts of up to $50 a month for broadband service, and up to $75 a month if the household is on Tribal lands.

The program, which launched Wednesday, also provides a one-time discount of up to $100 on a computer or tablet for eligible households.

The program is the biggest one yet to help households nationwide afford broadband service, the FCC said in February, after unanimously voting to formally adopt the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program.

To be eligible, at least one member of the household must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Has an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline.
• Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program.
• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
• Experienced a "substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough" since February 29, 2020, with a 2020 household income of $99,000 and under for single filers or $198,000 and under for joint filers.
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

The EBB is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Households that are eligible don't automatically get the subsidy. You have to apply at GetEmergencyBroadband.org or by calling 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application. You can also contact participating broadband providers directly to learn about their application process.

The initiative forms part of the $7 billion in aid Congress approved in December to help lower-income Americans get internet access.

"It will help those sitting in cars in parking lots just to catch a Wi-Fi signal to go online for work," Jessica Rosenworcel, the FCC's acting chairwoman, said after it approved the EBB in February.

"It will help those lingering outside the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for remote learning. It will help those who worry about choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries."

During the pandemic, many jobs, schools, and healthcare services have moved online - widening the digital divide. This is especially problematic in rural areas, which are more likely to both have limited broadband access and be located further from amenities.

The pandemic has led to what's been dubbed the "homework gap," where students without reliable home internet have struggled to keep up with remote learning.

An FCC member since 2012, Rosenworcel has pushed for the commission to use its authority and resources to expand internet access. She was appointed the commission's acting chairwoman in January.