How to get Low-Income Internet

Internet access is essential in today's digital age, and your financial situation shouldn't be a barrier. Explore the various affordable internet options tailored for individuals with limited income.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers monthly savings ranging from $30.00 to $75.00. Additionally, the Lifeline program provides further monthly discounts between $9.25 and $29.25. Combine these with specific internet provider plans starting at just $9.95 monthly for 100 Mbps download speeds.

Continue reading to discover more about low-cost internet plans.

Eligibility Criteria for Affordable Internet

Different affordable internet options have distinct qualification standards. Generally, you're likely eligible if you meet the below criteria:

• Your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
• You benefit from government assistance programs such as:
• National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
• Public Housing (HUD)
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

If you don't meet these criteria, explore other cost-effective internet solutions. Providers like Xfinity, Verizon Fios, Cox, and AT&T offer competitive rates. Input your zip code to identify available providers in your vicinity.

Navigating Affordable Internet Options

Several programs offer budget-friendly internet services:

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): This initiative provides up to $30 off monthly internet services (or up to $75 for those on tribal lands). In certain U.S. regions, plans start at $19.99 monthly, making the ACP discount potentially cover the entire cost.

Lifeline: A government-backed program offering a $9.25 monthly discount on internet or phone services. While its savings are modest compared to ACP, it can be combined with ACP benefits for greater discounts.

Internet Provider Initiatives: Various providers offer discounted rates, some as low as $9.95 monthly. Eligibility often revolves around the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), but criteria can differ by provider.

Before committing, ensure you meet the necessary requirements.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Overview

Introduced in late 2021 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the ACP aims to support low-income households in accessing the internet for essential tasks. Qualifying households can receive up to $30 monthly towards their internet service (or $75 for those on tribal lands).

Eligibility for ACP includes:

• Household income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
• Participation in federal assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline, NSLP, or receiving a Federal Pell Grant.
• Qualification for your internet provider's low-income program.
• Application Process for ACP: Visit ACPBenefit.org to apply. Once approved, contact your provider to select an eligible plan and apply your ACP discount.

Other Noteworthy Programs

• Internet Essentials from Comcast: Offers 50 Mbps download speeds with complimentary in-home Wi-Fi at $9.95 monthly.
• Access from AT&T: Collaborates with ACP to provide up to 100 Mbps download speeds at no cost for eligible households.
• Spectrum Internet Assist: Provides broadband speeds of 30 Mbps and a complimentary internet modem. Wi-Fi service is available for an additional $5 monthly.
• Astound Broadband’s Internet First: Offers internet access at $9.95 monthly for eligible households, with the first 60 days free.
• Optimum Advantage Internet: Provides up to 50 Mbps internet speeds at $14.99 monthly.
• Verizon Lifeline: Enhances the Lifeline Discount Program, potentially making its starting plan entirely free.

  Internet connectivity is pivotal for various daily activities. With the assistance of programs like the ACP, Lifeline, and specific ISP initiatives, everyone can stay connected. Embrace these opportunities to secure high-speed internet service tailored to your budget.

  FAQ

  • How can I get low-income internet? The U.S. Government has a discount via the Affordable Connectivity Program and the Lifeline program. Many internet service providers have plans that are very affordable if you get the basic level plan and these can come in at below $25 per month. Apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program and the Lifeline program.

  • Can my internet be free? Any plan you can find under $30/month out the door will be free if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program’s $30/month discount. Check the website of the provider to see if they offer a low-income internet plan.

  • How can I get free government internet? You can qualify for the government’s Affordable Connectivity Program if your family's earnings are at or below twice the federal poverty threshold, or if you get SNAP benefits, or are enrolled in Medicaid, Lifeline, NSLP, or have received a Federal Pell Grant. If you meet the requirements, submit an application.

  • What speeds am I likely to get with a $10/mo. plan? Providers who offer a plan at $9.95 specifically for the ACP program will have speeds of around 50 Mbps download. That’s enough for basic online activities like checking email and viewing social media and news. It’s also sufficient for light streaming on one device.

  • How can I get a personal computer that’s affordable? A couple of resources are there for you on this. Connect All, and PCs for People have good deals. Ask your current internet provider if they have any deals for computers. For example, Comcast has an Essentials program that has a computer for $150. Cox works with PCs for People to make different computers available at affordable pricing.