💰 Cut Your Bill With Government Programs
Millions of Americans are eligible for phone and internet discounts through federal assistance programs but don't know it. These programs could save you up to $30 per month on internet service and provide free or heavily discounted phone service.
In today's digital world, phone and internet access are no longer luxuries—they're necessities for work, education, healthcare, and staying connected with loved ones. Yet many households struggle with the rising costs of these essential services. What most Americans don't realize is that there are several government programs specifically designed to make these services more affordable for qualifying individuals and families.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program is the federal government's largest internet subsidy program, replacing the temporary Emergency Broadband Benefit that was created during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ACP provides substantial monthly discounts on internet service for eligible households.
What the ACP Offers:
- Up to $30 per month discount on internet service for eligible households
- Up to $75 per month discount for households on qualifying Tribal lands
- A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider
- Available from a wide range of participating internet service providers
Who Qualifies for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The eligibility criteria for the ACP are broader than many people realize, meaning millions of Americans who qualify aren't taking advantage of these savings.
You May Qualify If:
- Your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (approximately $60,000 for a family of four)
- You or someone in your household participates in certain assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance
- You participate in Tribal specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance or Tribal TANF
- You're eligible for a participating provider's existing low-income internet program
- Your child receives free or reduced-price school lunch or breakfast
- You received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
📱 Did You Know?
Over 20 million households have enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program, but an estimated 28 million more eligible households haven't yet claimed their benefits.
Lifeline: Phone and Internet Assistance
The Lifeline program has been helping low-income Americans access phone services since 1985, and it has evolved to include internet services as well. While less generous than the ACP, Lifeline can be combined with ACP benefits for maximum savings.
Lifeline Benefits Include:
- A discount of up to $9.25 per month on phone or internet service
- Up to $34.25 per month for those on qualifying Tribal lands
- Choice of applying the discount to either mobile phone service, home phone service, internet service, or a bundled package
Lifeline eligibility requirements are similar to those for the ACP. You may qualify if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or if you participate in certain assistance programs.
How to Apply for These Subsidies
Applying for phone and internet subsidies is easier than you might think, and most of the process can be completed online.
For the Affordable Connectivity Program:
- Visit AffordableConnectivity.gov
- Click "Apply Now" to start your application
- Provide required documentation showing your eligibility
- Once approved, contact a participating internet provider to select a plan and have the discount applied
For Lifeline:
- Visit LifelineSupport.org
- Use the "Check if I Qualify" tool to verify eligibility
- Apply online or print an application to mail in
- Choose a Lifeline provider in your area once approved
Special Low-Cost Internet Plans
Beyond government subsidies, many major internet providers offer their own low-cost plans for qualifying households. These programs can be combined with ACP discounts for even greater savings.
Popular Provider Programs:
- Comcast Internet Essentials: $9.95/month for 50 Mbps service
- AT&T Access: $10/month for plans up to 100 Mbps
- Spectrum Internet Assist: $17.99/month for 30 Mbps service
- Cox Connect2Compete: $9.95/month for 100 Mbps service
- Verizon Fios Forward: Discounted fiber plans starting at $19.99/month
When combined with the $30 monthly ACP discount, many eligible households can receive high-speed internet service at little to no cost.
Tips for Maximizing Your Phone and Internet Savings
Smart Ways to Save Even More:
- Bundle services when it makes sense (but calculate the total cost carefully)
- Apply for both ACP and Lifeline if you're eligible for both programs
- Shop around and compare offers from different providers in your area
- Negotiate with your current provider before switching services
- Consider family plans for mobile service if you have multiple lines
- Check for additional state-specific programs that might be available in your area
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive both Lifeline and ACP benefits?
Yes, eligible households can receive both Lifeline and ACP benefits simultaneously. You can apply the Lifeline discount to one service (phone or internet) and the ACP discount to another, or apply both to the same internet service for a deeper discount.
Will these programs affect my credit score?
No, applying for and receiving government subsidies like Lifeline and the ACP does not impact your credit score.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes, for both programs, you need to recertify your eligibility annually. However, the process is typically straightforward and can be completed online.
Don't Pay More Than You Have To
Check your eligibility for phone and internet subsidies today. These programs exist to ensure everyone has affordable access to essential communication services. Don't miss out on savings you're entitled to receive.