Millions of Americans pay full price for internet service when they don't have to. Low income internet programs exist at the federal, state, and provider level — and qualifying is often easier than people expect. Here's what you need to know to start saving.
What Are Low Income Internet Programs?
These are subsidized or discounted internet plans designed for households that meet specific income or benefit-enrollment thresholds. They come from two main sources: government-backed programs and voluntary provider discounts. Some stack together, meaning you can combine a federal subsidy with a provider deal to get service for very little — or even free.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) — What Happened
The Affordable Connectivity Program was the largest federal effort, offering eligible households up to $30/month off internet bills (up to $75/month on qualifying tribal lands). It ran out of funding in June 2024 and is no longer accepting new enrollments. If you were enrolled, your discount has ended.
However, Congress has introduced legislation to revive or replace it, so it's worth checking affordableconnectivity.gov for updates. Don't write it off permanently.
Lifeline: Still Active and Worth Applying For
Lifeline is the older, still-active federal program. It provides:
- Up to $9.25/month off phone or internet service
- Up to $34.25/month on qualifying tribal lands
- One benefit per household (not per person)
You qualify if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or if someone in your household participates in:
- Medicaid
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- Tribal-specific programs (like Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance)
Apply through lifelinesupport.org or directly through a participating provider. Approval usually takes a few business days once you submit documentation.
Provider-Specific Discount Programs
Several major ISPs run their own low-income internet programs, sometimes independently of federal subsidies. These vary by location and availability.
Comcast Internet Essentials
- $9.95–$29.95/month depending on tier
- Open to households eligible for public assistance programs
- Includes a modem; no annual contract
- Apply at internetessentials.com
AT&T Access
- $10–$30/month depending on speed tier
- Available to SNAP participants
- Includes unlimited data
- Apply at att.com/access
Spectrum Internet Assist
- ~$24.99/month for up to 30 Mbps
- Available to households with a student in the National School Lunch Program or if a member receives SSI
- No contracts, no data caps
Cox Connect2Compete
- $9.95/month
- For households with K-12 students receiving free or reduced lunch
- Available in Cox service areas only
Availability depends entirely on your address, so check each provider's website with your zip code before assuming you qualify.
How to Find Out What You're Eligible For
The process isn't as complicated as it looks. Follow these steps:
- Check your income. Use the current federal poverty guidelines (updated annually at aspe.hhs.gov) and calculate 135% of the guideline for your household size.
- List your benefits. If anyone in your home receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or similar assistance, you likely qualify for Lifeline and most provider programs.
- Search by your address. Programs vary by state and provider coverage area. Enter your address on each ISP's site to confirm service availability.
- Gather documentation. You'll typically need a government-issued ID, proof of income (pay stub, tax return) or proof of program participation (benefit letter or EBT card).
- Apply directly. Submit through the National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org for Lifeline, or through the provider's site for their own programs.
- Recertify annually. Lifeline requires annual recertification to confirm you still qualify. Missing this step cancels your benefit.
State and Local Programs to Check
Many states run their own internet assistance programs layered on top of federal options. California's California Lifeline extends the benefit. Texas, New York, and Illinois have similar state-level expansions. Contact your state's public utilities commission or search "[your state] + low income internet assistance" to find local options.
Some nonprofits and public libraries also distribute free or subsidized hotspots and routers in underserved areas — worth a call to your local library or community action agency.
Comparing Your Options in One Place
Sorting through which programs are active, what each provider offers in your zip code, and how discounts stack can get confusing fast. Mercoly makes it easier to compare and find trusted low-income and subsidized internet providers in one place, so you're not bouncing between a dozen websites.
Don't Leave Money on the Table
Subsidized internet is a real, available benefit — but it requires you to take action and apply.
Start comparing your options today and lock in the lowest rate you're entitled to.