Staying connected is a way of modern life. If you don’t have internet access or a working phone, you’re at a disadvantage. Unfortunately, internet and phone services are still considered a luxury, despite their omnipresence. They can be expensive, and when combined with other bills, they might not even seem like a necessity. After all, utilities like water and heating are critical to survival.
But that doesn’t mean going without. There are government programs and nonprofits to help individuals get inexpensive internet and phone services. While not everyone is eligible, those who are will find some relief thanks to these programs.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the ACP is the largest and most comprehensive program on this list. Those eligible will receive up to $30 per month toward a broadband internet plan ($75 per month if they live on tribal lands). They’ll also get a one-time discount on a computer, be it a laptop, desktop, or tablet. As long as the participant contributes at least $10 to the overall cost, the government will offer a discount of $100.
Individuals need to meet only one of the criteria in order to be eligible. Those falling below 200 percent of the federal poverty level qualify, and so do those receiving financial aid. If you currently receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SNAP, or any other programs, you can apply for the ACP. Participating in an aid program while living on qualifying tribal lands will also allow you to qualify. Low- and fixed-income households usually benefit and are eligible for the ACP, and most major internet providers are participants.
Lifeline
Lifeline is a program run by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Like the ACP, it offers discounted internet service for those whose income is less than 135 percent of the federal poverty level. It also has a focus on phone service. Low-income households, veterans, and senior citizens can all apply for Lifeline. If you participate in another government program like Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits, you also qualify. Participating in Lifeline is even a qualification for the ACP.
Eligible applicants will receive up to $9.25 per month for internet and phone services. This discount is available only once per household, however. While this doesn’t seem like much, it’s the only government program that offers aid for phone bills.
PCs for People
Internet devices are expensive, and even refurbished ones aren’t cheap. Enter PCs for People, a nonprofit that aims to give qualifying individuals affordable devices. People can donate their used devices to the group. These are wiped, reset, refurbished, and then sold to those who need them. PCs for People also offers low-cost internet plans, device repair, and even digital literacy lessons for seniors.
To qualify for PCs for People, applicants will need to either participate in a government assistance program or fall beneath the poverty line. Those who get SSI, Medicaid, SNAP, and similar programs are typically eligible. Low-income housing programs, like Section 42, are also accepted. Extended foster care and Pell Grant recipients are also welcome to apply.
Access Wireless and Infiniti Mobile
Most major carriers offer financial assistance. However, these plans are extremely limited and can still be too expensive. But if you’re currently enrolled in Lifeline or the ACP, there are government-funded phone service options. The two most popular and comprehensive of these are Access Wireless and Infiniti Mobile.
Access Wireless offers eligible households a free smartphone with unlimited talk and text. There is a data cap, but you can purchase additional data through prepaid cards. Each household is able to redeem only one smartphone and line; however, additional lines can be purchased through Kroger. You can also use your current phone instead of getting a new one. The program offers some internet-connected devices at affordable prices, like tablets.
Many of the same services are also available with Infiniti Mobile. Those who qualify also automatically qualify for the ACP. If you do, then you get to enjoy free talk, text, and data. Qualifying participants are able to get a free smartphone, or they can bring their own device.
EveryoneOn
Several nonprofit groups, like PCs for People, focus on providing low-income families and individuals with affordable internet devices. EveryoneOn is one of those organizations. For the past 10 years, its goal has been to provide low-cost internet and computers to those who need them most. This mission has grown all the more important after the pandemic, as many schools switched to online classes.
EveryoneOn also offers extensive training on in-demand job skills through its website. It has published articles on the digital divide between income classes as well. Anybody interested in their services can simply input their ZIP code on the website. EveryoneOn will then provide relevant links and resources for nearby low-cost internet and devices.
FreedomPop
Most mobile carriers require you to sign up for a plan in order to stay connected. Unfortunately, they can charge high prices just to make calls and texts. You’re also subject to hidden fees for services you don’t use. But some companies, like FreedomPop, offer unorthodox, customizable plans for mobile devices.
FreedomPop uses the Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) network for coverage, one of the largest in the nation. Customizable plans start at $2.99 per month; a freemium plan is also available. All FreedomPop plans include free unlimited Wi-Fi calls as long as you’re connected to the network.
Internet Essentials From Comcast
Although it’s not necessarily a program, it functions similarly to the ones listed above, Xfinity’s Internet Essentials plan offers high-speed, low-cost internet service to qualifying individuals. The requirements are similar to the above programs; you’ll need to qualify for a government assistance program like SNAP or SSI in order to apply. Additionally, you’ll need to live in an area that offers Xfinity internet. (Xfinity is one of the largest providers in the nation.) If you were an Xfinity customer in the last 90 days, you won’t be able to apply.
If you meet the criteria and are accepted, you’ll be able to enjoy speeds up to 50 Mbps for as little as $9.95 per month. If you need additional speed, it offers the Internet Essentials Plus package, with speeds up to 100 Mbps. If you link your ACP account, you’ll be eligible for free high-speed internet as long as you’re enrolled. You can also add Xfinity Mobile by using ACP credit.