CARACCIO.US

Author: Joseph

  • Government Internet: How to Find Out if You Qualify for Internet Welfare

    Government Internet: How to Find Out if You Qualify for Internet Welfare

    can YOU get the government to pay your phone bill or discount your wifi bill?

    USAC has a program called Lifeline that provides internet service. There was another program called The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), but it ended June 1, 2024. The ACP was enacted to replace the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), which Congress chose not to fund. However, less than a year later Congress chose not to fund the ACP either and set it to be defunded.

    Lifeline is still available though. Eligible individuals can receive up to a $9.25 discount per month on the cost of phone, internet, or bundled services (up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal Lands).

    One can qualify for Lifeline three different ways:

    1. Based on income;


    2. Based on eligibility for SNAP, Medicaid, or other programs; or

    3. Based on being a survivor of domestic violence or human trafficking crime.

    Based on Income

    You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (table below). The guideline is based on your household size and state (Hawaii and Alaska have their own columns but all other states have the same income cutoff). See information about how to calculate your household size.

    The table below reflects 135% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines.

    Household Size48 Contiguous States, D.C., and TerritoriesAlaskaHawaii
    1$21,128$26,393$24,287
    2$28,553$35,681$32,832
    3$35,978$44,969$41,378
    4$43,403$54,257$49,923
    5$50,828$63,545$58,469
    6$58,253$72,833$67,041
    7$65,678$82,121$75,560
    8$73,103$91,409$84,105
    For each additional person, add:$7,425 $9,288$8,546

    You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive months of pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.

    Based on Receipt of Other Qualifying Benefits

    Federal Assistance Programs

    You can get Lifeline if you (or someone in your household) participate in one of these programs:

    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
    • Medicaid
      Your Medicaid eligibility may be up for renewal.
      Learn more about how to renew (Spanish language information). 
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
    • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit

    You may have to show proof of participation, like a benefit letter or official document, when you apply for Lifeline.

    Tribal Assistance Programs

    If you live on Tribal lands, you can get Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if you (or someone in your household) participate in:

    • Any of the federal assistance programs listed above
    • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
    • Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
    • Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
    • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations

    You may have to show proof of participation, like a benefit letter or official document, when you apply for Lifeline. Learn more about the Tribal Benefit.

    Based on If You Are a Survivor

    The Safe Connections Act (SCA) helps survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes get discounted phone, internet, or bundled services.  If a survivor pursues a line separation request, the SCA requires mobile providers to separate phone lines linked to family plans where the abuser is on the account.

    If you are a survivor, you can participate in the Lifeline program if you provide proof of a line separation request and if you are experiencing financial hardship.  Survivors experiencing financial hardship may qualify through existing Lifeline program requirements mentioned above or through one of the SCA-specific methods below:

    • If your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
    • Enrollment in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
    • Enrollment in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast program, including enrollment at a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school or school district
    • Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year

    If you qualify for Lifeline, your privacy will be protected, and you can receive up to 6 months of emergency Lifeline support. For more information, visit the Survivor Benefit page.

    Qualify Through Your Child or Dependent

    You can get Lifeline if your child or dependent participates in any of the programs listed above.

    Program Rules

    The program rules, taken directly from the Lifeline website are provided below.

    By signing up for Lifeline, you agree to follow the program’s rules

    id card double  Prove your eligibility

    Lifeline is only available to subscribers who can prove their eligibility. When you apply for Lifeline, you must show proof of participation in a qualifying program or proof of income.

    task edit  Recertify every year

    Every year, USAC will check to confirm you still qualify. If we cannot confirm you qualify, you will receive an email or letter in the mail and may also receive reminders by email, mail, or pre-recorded messages on your phone. If you are asked to recertify, you must do so within 60 days, or you will lose your Lifeline benefit.

    user chat Keep your company up-to-date

    If you change your address, no longer qualify for Lifeline, or more than one person in your household gets Lifeline, notify your company within 30 days.

    home  One discount per household

    Only one discount is allowed per household. A “household” is a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.

    mobile phone text message  Use it or lose it

    If your Lifeline service is free, you must use it at least once every 30 days to maintain your service. If you don’t, you will get a 15-day notice to use it or it will get turned off.

    success  Be honest on your application and forms

    It is against the law to lie on any Lifeline-related forms or questionnaires.

    Is it Worth it? Should I apply?

    Probably not worth it. You probably shouldn’t apply. It seems like a lot of work for very little benefit. I would never voluntarily involve the federal government in my life any way, even if the program was offering more than $8 a month. This seems like an extremely dumb waste of taxpayer money.

    If you do want to see if you can get Uncle Sam to subsidize your phone or internet bill then you can checkout the website or the documents obtained therefrom.

  • TESLA’S VALUE DEPENDS ON GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES

    TESLA’S VALUE DEPENDS ON GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES

    TESLA’S GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES

    Introduction

    Tesla, the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has revolutionized the automotive industry with its innovative technology and ambitious vision. However, the company’s journey has been significantly influenced by government subsidies at the federal, state, and foreign levels. Its valuation as a company is completely disconnected from both its production of vehicles and its profits from selling those vehicles. Its majority owner, Elon Musk, is outspoken in his condemnation of government subsidies and government interference in free markets despite his wealth being primarily built by such subsidies. This report delves into the various forms of financial assistance Tesla has received, analyzing their impact on the company’s growth and competitive landscape.

    Federal Subsidies

    Tesla has benefited from a range of federal subsidies aimed at promoting the development and adoption of electric vehicles, aligning with national goals for reducing carbon emissions and fostering clean energy technologies. These subsidies include tax credits, grants, loans, and federal contracts.

    Tax Credits

    Tesla buyers have been eligible for federal tax credits under the Internal Revenue Code Section 30D1. These credits, up to $7,500 for new EVs, are designed to make electric vehicles more affordable for consumers3. Eligible customers purchasing used Tesla vehicles may also receive a tax credit of up to $4,0004. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduced modifications to these credits, including eligibility criteria based on vehicle weight and buyer income2. Tesla’s commercial vehicles, such as the Semi, also qualify for tax credits, with a maximum credit of $40,0005.

    Tax Credits for Energy Storage

    In addition to tax credits for vehicles, Tesla also benefits from the Federal Investment Tax Credit for its Powerwall energy storage systems6. This tax credit allows eligible homeowners to claim a percentage of the Powerwall purchase price as an income tax credit. The percentage varies depending on the year the system is installed, ranging from 26% to 30% between 2021 and 20346.

    Grants

    While specific details on federal grant amounts received by Tesla are limited in the research, the company has likely benefited from grants aimed at supporting EV charging infrastructure development7. For instance, the Biden administration announced $623 million in grants to expand the national EV charging network7. Tesla’s commitment to opening its Supercharger network to competitors positions it to receive a share of these federal subsidies8. This strategic move highlights how Tesla leverages its existing infrastructure and adapts to policy changes to access government support.

    Loans

    In 2010, Tesla received a $465 million loan from the Department of Energy’s Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) program to support the production of all-electric vehicles and the development of a manufacturing facility in Fremont, California9. This loan, which covered the period from fiscal year 2000 to the present12 was repaid in full in 2013, nearly a decade ahead of schedule13.

    Federal Contracts

    Beyond tax credits, grants, and loans, Tesla has also benefited from $41.9 million in federal contracts since 200812. These contracts likely involve collaborations with government agencies on projects related to electric vehicle technology and infrastructure.

    State Subsidies

    State governments have also played a crucial role in supporting Tesla’s growth through various incentives and tax breaks.

    California

    California has been a significant source of state subsidies for Tesla, providing over $3.2 billion in direct and indirect subsidies since 200915. These subsidies include tax rebates, grants, and Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) credits15. The ZEV credit program, which requires automakers to sell a certain percentage of electric vehicles, has been particularly beneficial for Tesla15. As a manufacturer solely focused on EVs, Tesla has generated and sold a substantial number of ZEV credits, estimated to be worth over $2.48 billion15. This strategic advantage has allowed Tesla to generate significant revenue and further invest in its EV technology and production.

    Other States

    Tesla benefits from state-level incentives for EV purchases and charging infrastructure development across the United States17. Many states offer tax credits, rebates, and other incentives to encourage EV adoption17. For example, Colorado offers a $5,000 state tax credit for new EVs with an MSRP under $80,00018. These state-level incentives further contribute to making Tesla vehicles more accessible to consumers and support the company’s growth in different markets.

    State Tax Credit for Powerwall

    In addition to vehicle incentives, some states offer tax credits for Tesla’s Powerwall energy storage product. For instance, a state tax credit equal to 10% of the Powerwall purchase price is available as an income tax credit in certain locations5.

    Foreign Subsidies

    Tesla’s global expansion has also been supported by subsidies from foreign governments.

    China

    In China, Tesla has received significant purchase subsidies for its EVs produced at its Shanghai Gigafactory19. In 2022, these subsidies amounted to approximately €400 million for about 250,000 vehicles19. China’s substantial EV market and government support have contributed to Tesla’s success in the country.

    Germany

    Tesla’s Gigafactory near Berlin has also been subject to potential state aid from the German government20. However, the German government has stipulated that research and development, as well as value creation, must take place in Germany for Tesla to be eligible for these subsidies20. This condition highlights the focus on local economic benefits and technological development in Germany’s approach to supporting EV manufacturers.

    European Union

    While the EU has expressed concerns about Chinese subsidies for EV manufacturers, it has recognized that Tesla receives fewer subsidies compared to other Chinese EV makers21. As a result, the EU has listed a lower tariff on China-made Teslas, demonstrating a nuanced approach to trade policy and acknowledging the varying levels of government support in the EV industry.

    Impact of Subsidies on Tesla’s Success

    Government subsidies have undoubtedly played a significant role in Tesla’s success. These subsidies have:

    • Reduced the cost of EVs: Tax credits and rebates have made Tesla vehicles more affordable for consumers, driving demand and increasing sales22.
    • Supported infrastructure development: Subsidies for charging infrastructure have enabled Tesla to build out its extensive Supercharger network, a key factor in attracting customers and alleviating range anxiety22. This robust charging infrastructure is a significant differentiator for Tesla and has contributed to its market leadership.
    • Facilitated global expansion: Subsidies from foreign governments have supported Tesla’s manufacturing and sales operations in key markets like China and Germany19.
    • Enhanced competitiveness: Subsidies have provided Tesla with a financial advantage, allowing it to invest in research and development, expand production capacity, and compete with established automakers23.

    Comparison to Other EV Manufacturers

    While Tesla has been a major beneficiary of government subsidies, other EV manufacturers have also received substantial financial assistance24. For example, states and localities have awarded over $13.8 billion in subsidies to EV and EV battery factories across the United States24. Companies like Rivian and Hyundai have received multi-billion dollar subsidy packages in Georgia24. The Biden administration has also allocated billions in grants to support the conversion of existing car manufacturing plants for EV production, with companies like General Motors and Stellantis receiving nearly $1.1 billion25. Other grant recipients include Harley-Davidson for EV motorcycle manufacturing, Blue Bird for electric school buses, and Cummins for zero-emission components25. Despite these subsidies, a report suggests that manufacturers are still losing money on each EV produced, indicating the challenges of achieving profitability in the EV market26.

    Conclusion

    Government subsidies have been instrumental in Tesla’s rise to prominence in the EV market. These subsidies, spanning federal, state, and foreign levels, have helped drive EV adoption, supported infrastructure development, and facilitated Tesla’s global expansion. While other EV manufacturers have also received significant government support, Tesla’s early focus on electric vehicles and its strategic utilization of subsidies have positioned it as a leader in the industry.

    The table below summarizes the different types and amounts of subsidies Tesla has received:

    Subsidy TypeLevelAmountPeriod
    Tax Credits (Vehicles)FederalUp to $7,500 (new) <br> Up to $4,000 (used)Ongoing
    Tax Credits (Commercial Vehicles)FederalUp to $40,000 (Semi)Ongoing
    Tax Credits (Energy Storage)Federal26% – 30% of purchase price (Powerwall)2021-2034
    Grants (Charging Infrastructure)Federal$623 million (total program)Ongoing
    Loans (ATVM Program)Federal$465 million2000-Present
    Federal ContractsFederal$41.9 millionSince 2008
    ZEV CreditsCaliforniaOver $2.48 billionSince 2009
    State Tax Credit (Powerwall)Varies by state10% of purchase price (in some locations)Ongoing
    Purchase SubsidiesChina€400 million (2022)Until 2022

    As the EV market continues to evolve, government subsidies will likely play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape and driving innovation. The long-term impact of these subsidies on Tesla and the broader EV industry remains to be seen, but their current influence is undeniable.

    Citations

    1. Credits for new electric vehicles purchased in 2022 or before | Internal Revenue Service, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/credits-for-new-electric-vehicles-purchased-in-2022-or-before

    2. Credits for new clean vehicles purchased in 2023 or after | Internal Revenue Service, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/credits-for-new-clean-vehicles-purchased-in-2023-or-after

    3. Electric Vehicles | Department of Energy, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.energy.gov/save/electric-vehicles

    4. Tax Credits for Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure – Alternative Fuels Data Center, accessed December 23, 2024, https://afdc.energy.gov/laws/ev-tax-credits

    5. Electric Vehicle and Energy Incentives | Tesla Support, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.tesla.com/support/incentives

    6. Energy Incentives | Tesla Support, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.tesla.com/support/energy/powerwall/learn/incentives

    7. Biden-Harris Administration Announces $623 Million in Grants to Continue Building Out Electric Vehicle Charging Network | FHWA, accessed December 23, 2024, https://highways.dot.gov/newsroom/biden-harris-administration-announces-623-million-grants-continue-building-out-electric

    8. Tesla to Open U.S. Charging Network, Reaping Federal Subsidies, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.investopedia.com/tesla-opens-charging-network-to-competitors-7110151

    9. www.energy.gov, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.energy.gov/lpo/tesla#:~:text=In%20January%202010%2C%20the%20Department,for%20powering%20specially%20designed%20all%2D

    10. Tesla gets loan approval from US Department of Energy, accessed December 23, 2024, https://ir.tesla.com/press-release/tesla-gets-loan-approval-us-department-energy

    11. TESLA | Department of Energy, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.energy.gov/lpo/tesla

    12. DeLauro in Letter to Congressional Leadership: Musk Chaos in …, accessed December 23, 2024, https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-letter-congressional-leadership-musk-chaos-government-funding

    13. Tesla repays federal loan nearly 10 years early – Business – CNN, accessed December 23, 2024, https://money.cnn.com/2013/05/22/autos/tesla-loan-repayment/index.html

    14. Mercury News – Tesla Motors fully repays $465 million federal loan nine years early, accessed December 23, 2024, https://eshoo.house.gov/media/in-the-news/mercury-news-tesla-motors-fully-repays-465-million-federal-loan-nine-years-early

    15. Gov. Newsom Says California Subsidies Powered Tesla’s Success, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.govtech.com/policy/gov-newsom-says-california-subsidies-powered-teslas-success

    16. California’s Support for Tesla is a One-Way Street – Berkeley …, accessed December 23, 2024, https://bpr.studentorg.berkeley.edu/2023/05/23/californias-support-for-tesla-is-a-one-way-street/

    17. Electric Car Rebates and Incentives: What to Know by State – Kelley Blue Book, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/electric-vehicle-rebates-by-state/

    18. Electric Vehicle Tax Credits | Colorado Energy Office, accessed December 23, 2024, https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/transportation/grants-incentives/electric-vehicle-tax-credits

    19. EU Concerns About Chinese Subsidies: What the Evidence …, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.intereconomics.eu/contents/year/2024/number/4/article/eu-concerns-about-chinese-subsidies-what-the-evidence-suggests.html

    20. Tesla to receive state aid only if research and development ‘takes …, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/tesla-receive-state-aid-only-if-research-and-development-takes-place-germany

    21. EU lists lower tariff on China-made Teslas as it revises duties | Trade …, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2024/8/20/eu-lists-lower-tariff-on-china-made-teslas-as-it-revises-duties

    22. EV MANUFACTURER SUBSIDIES 1 The Impact of Government Subsidies on EV Manufacturers Connor Quinton A Senior Thesis submitted in p – Liberty University, accessed December 23, 2024, https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2469&context=honors

    23. Elon Musk embraces Donald Trump and scorns subsidies. But Tesla still lobbies for US benefits – The Economic Times, accessed December 23, 2024, https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/business/elon-musk-embraces-donald-trump-and-scorns-subsidies-but-tesla-still-lobbies-for-us-benefits/articleshow/112465943.cms

    24. Report: At $13.8 Billion, Unnecessary Electric Vehicle Factory Subsidies Are in Overdrive, accessed December 23, 2024, https://goodjobsfirst.org/report-at-13-8-billion-unnecessary-electric-vehicle-factory-subsidies-are-in-overdrive/

    25. Biden-Harris Admin Giving Out Billions In EV Subsidies – American Energy Alliance, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.americanenergyalliance.org/2024/07/biden-harris-admin-giving-out-billions-in-ev-subsidies/

    26. Taxpayers Are Subsidizing Rich Electric-Vehicle Owners—To the Tune of Billions, accessed December 23, 2024, https://www.heritage.org/government-regulation/commentary/taxpayers-are-subsidizing-rich-electric-vehicle-owners-the-tune

  • ASTROS SIGN STEALING IN 2017

    ASTROS SIGN STEALING IN 2017

    bangin’ on a trashcan drummin in the street light

    Seriously, go check out signstealingscandal.com because what that guy put together is amazeballs and deserves to have eyes on it. You can put your ears on it too because he provides the audio for every pitch too so you can hear the alledged trashcan banging for yourself!

    After listening to an audiobook on the subject and then discovering Signstealingscandal.com, which is amazing and provides all of the data he collected with the script he wrote, I starting looking for myself to see if I could decide whether Jose Altuve was involved. I have yet to come to a conclusion but I made a lot of spreadsheets and a lot of charts.
    WHO WAS GETTING THE MOST CORRECT STOLEN SIGNS?

  • ball

    [wpcode id=”2771″]

    Click anywhere to move the ball

    [wpcode id=”2773″]

  • You Gonna Cry Like a Baby?

    You Gonna Cry Like a Baby?