How To Get Low-Income Internet?
The Obama administration has announced a series of initiatives to help close the digital divide. One of these is the launch of affordable Internet programs for low-income American households. These programs will provide direct benefits to those who participate, including reduced costs for internet services. This article will tell you more about eligibility and how to apply. ..
A. Government-Funded Internet Services
1. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is an internet-assistance program launched by the US administration along with Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This program works to ensure internet access to low-income American households for their work, education, business, etc. The ACP provides a variety of services such as discounted or free broadband access, computer training and support, and more. ..
- Increased productivity
- Reduced stress levels
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased energy levels
The company offers a discount of up to $30 per month on its internet services, as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of devices like laptops, tablets, desktops, etc. If your household spends between $10 and $50 each month on internet service, you can qualify for the discounts.
The thing to be noted is that the ACP allows a discount of only one month for one device per household.
The FCC offers a program called “Eligibility for Financial Assistance” which is available to people who have income equal to or less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The program includes a number of benefits, such as free TV and internet, and free rent.
2. Lifeline Broadband Program
Lifeline is a low-income internet program run by the Federal Communications Commission. It has been in place since 1984. Lifeline provides access to the internet for low-income Americans, and it is one of the most popular programs in the FCC’s portfolio.
- Increased productivity
- Reduced stress levels
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased energy levels
The Tribal Regions program offers discounts on phone bills and internet services for up to $9.25 per month, as well as discounts on phone bills and internet services for up to $34.25 per month, if you reside in qualifying Tribal regions.
You are eligible for this program if your household income is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You will also be eligible if any member of your household is enrolled in one of the given programs: You are eligible for this program if your household income falls below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Additionally, you will be eligible if any member of your household is enrolled in one of the given programs: If you and all members of your household fall below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for one or more government assistance programs. ..
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) Medicaid Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit (VPSB) ..
B. Low-Income Internet Assistance By Providers
Many ISPs are working together to improve internet affordability and accessibility. Some providers offer free or low-cost internet to students as part of their programs.
Some of the top service providers offering such assistance are: -A support group for people with mental illness -A suicide hotline -A domestic violence hotline ..
Altice Advantage Internet: Offering up to 50 Mbps at $14.99 per month Access from AT&T: Offering up to 100 Mbps at $30 per month Cox Connect2Compete: Offering up to 100 Mbps at $9.95 per month Mediacom Connect2Compete: Offering up to 25 Mbps at $9.95 per month Spectrum Internet Assist: Offering up to 100 Mbps at $29.99 per month Xfinity Internet Essentials: Offering up to 50 Mbps at $9.95 per month ..
Conclusion
The relevance that the internet holds in our lives cannot be understated. And that’s why it comes at such a heavy price. Thanks to the programs announced by the government, you can now access the internet at a low cost. If you fall into a prescribed category, you will be eligible to get yourself enrolled in these programs. However, if you ascertain that you are not eligible, don’t lose hope! In such a case, you can try exploring a few cheaper providers in your locality. If you live near places like libraries, cafes, hotels, or bus stations that usually have free Wi-Fi, that would be a jackpot! Thus, if you stay alert and explore more options, you can definitely save a lot on your monthly internet bills. ..
The Affordable Connectivity Program does not provide beneficiaries with direct cash to purchase internet plans. Instead, the ACP offers a monthly discount on your internet purchases based on your income and residential place. The funds only get distributed among the ISPs for the loss they have to bear. ..
The Connect2Compete program provides students with free or discounted internet services from large telecommunications companies. This program is designed to help students stay connected and learn more about their online opportunities.
