TDS joins the FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit program

TDS Telecom (TDS®) announces its participation in the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program to support broadband connectivity for low-income households.

“The pandemic has put a spotlight on digital divides and this FCC action will help safeguard internet service to those most in need,” says Kit Beyer, director of External Affairs & Communications at TDS. “We are pleased to add EBB to our existing customer assistance program options.”

TDS is participating in EBB in locations where it currently offers the federal Lifeline program. Eligible TDS customers who take advantage of the EBB program will receive a credit that covers the monthly cost of internet service and a modem for TDS Connect service. The credit will remain in place until the program funds have been exhausted or the program ends. Taxes and fees may apply.

“EBB is a welcome step in providing additional broadband access support,” says Beyer. “As we look to the future, we will continue advocating on both the local and federal levels to find durable solutions to increase access to high-quality internet connections.”

In March 2020, TDS also signed the FCC’s “Keep Americans Connected” pledge and its extension, to ensure those impacted by the coronavirus pandemic could maintain their broadband and telephone connectivity. TDS adopted all three tenets of the policy related to voice and broadband customers and paused late payment penalties, suspended disconnects, and maintained any open Wi-Fi hot spots.

Customers interested in more information about TDS’ EBB rollout can visit tdstelecom.com/ebbp or call 1-888-225-5837.

 

Media Contact: Missy Kellor, Associate Manager-Communications | TDS | 608-664-4836 | missy.kellor@tdstelecom.com

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS Telecom/TDS®) delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban and rural communities throughout the U.S. With 1.2 million connections, TDS is a rapidly growing technology company. Powered by fiber-optics and new industry-leading technologies, TDS delivers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and offers internet-protocol based TV entertainment solutions along with traditional phone services. TDS also offers businesses VoIP advanced communications solutions, dedicated internet service, data networking, and hosted-managed services. Visit tdstelecom.com.

TDS Telecom, headquartered in Madison, Wis., employs 3,600 people and is a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. [NYSE: TDS], a Fortune 1000® company. Founded in 1969, Telephone and Data Systems provides wireless, broadband, video and voice; and hosted and managed services to approximately 6 million connections nationwide through its businesses: UScellular, TDS Telecom, and OneNeck IT Solutions. Visit tdsinc.com.

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