How To Get Free Internet Service

If you're on a tight budget, there are programs to help make internet service more affordable for low-income households. Government subsidies and low-income plans from ISPs can lower your internet bill. Let's explore these affordable plans and programs to reduce your connection costs.

1. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The ACP is a program that helps low-income families afford the internet by paying part of their bill. They give $30 a month towards the bill, but if you live in a Tribal area or a place with high-cost internet, you might get $75 instead. Over 20 million households have joined the ACP by August 2023.

2. Lifeline

Lifeline, a program backed by the FCC, aids low-income households with discounted phone or internet services. Recipients can receive a minimum $9.25 reduction on landline, wireless, broadband, or bundled services. Those residing on Tribal lands may qualify for an extra $25 discount.

3. Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB)

Starting on May 12, 2021, you could sign up for the Emergency Broadband Benefit program. It gives qualified households a discount of up to $50–$75 each month. If you need a new laptop, desktop, or tablet, you could get up to $100 off one of those too. Only one monthly service and one new device are allowed per household.

4. Connect Home USA

ConnectHomeUSA started in 2015 to bridge the digital gap for families in HUD-assisted housing. It now operates in 80+ US communities, with new ones added annually. Residents can access helpful resources for affordable internet and devices. Others can start their own inclusion program, even if not in these areas.

5. Internet First

Internet First is a program that provides cheap internet service for those who live in RCN, Grande, or Wave service areas and those who qualify for any of these public service programs:

– Medicaid

– Public housing assistance

– Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

– Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

– Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

– Head Start National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or Head Start

– Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

– Women, Infants, and Children program (WIC)

– Federal Pell Grant (applicable only for Illinois and Colorado)

– VA Pension

– Tribal assistance

You can get internet speeds up to 25Mbps for $9.95 per month through this program.

6. Spectrum

Spectrum has an Internet Assist program like Xfinity's Internet Essentials. For $14.99/month, you get up to 30 Mbps speed (WiFi may vary), no data limit, and no contract. It's for households with a member who receives National School Lunch Program, Community Eligibility Provision of NSLP, or Supplemental Security Income (age 65 or older).