Low-Income Internet Programs (2026)

How to Apply -- Step by Step

1. 1

   Check what ISPs serve your address

   Visit BroadbandNow.com or enter your address on each ISP's website to see what providers and plans are available at your location. Your options depend entirely on where you live.

2. 2

   See if you qualify for an ISP low-income plan

   Check eligibility for Comcast Internet Essentials (internetessentials.com), AT&T Access (att.com/internet/access), or Spectrum Internet Assist (spectrum.com/internet/spectrum-internet-assist). You typically qualify if anyone in your household receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or public housing assistance.

3. 3

   Apply for Lifeline to stack discounts

   Apply for the Lifeline program at lifelinesupport.org or call 1-800-234-9473. If approved, you can apply the $9.25/month Lifeline discount on top of your ISP low-income plan for even lower costs. Choose to apply Lifeline to internet (rather than phone) if affordable internet is your priority.

4. 4

   Gather documentation

   For ISP programs: proof of participation in a qualifying assistance program (benefit award letter, enrollment confirmation). For Lifeline: name, date of birth, last 4 of SSN, and proof of eligibility. Many applications can be completed online.

5. 5

   Apply and set up service

   Apply online through your chosen ISP's low-income program website. Most offer self-install kits that arrive within 5-7 business days. Some also offer in-store signup. Once your equipment arrives, follow the instructions to set up your modem and Wi-Fi.

6. 6

   Use free internet options in the meantime

   While waiting for home internet setup, use free Wi-Fi at your local public library (which also has free computers), community centers, or businesses like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Walmart. Many libraries also lend mobile hotspot devices you can borrow for free.

What Happened to the ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program)?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a $30/month internet subsidy ($75/month on Tribal lands) that served over 23 million households. It ended on June 1, 2024 when Congress did not provide additional funding. Households stopped receiving the discount and many could no longer afford their internet service. As of March 2026, there is no direct federal replacement program. Some ISPs voluntarily extended discounts or created their own programs to retain former ACP subscribers. Advocacy groups continue to push Congress for new digital equity funding, and some states are launching their own programs (California launched a LifeLine Home Broadband Pilot in January 2026 offering up to $30/month off internet).

Free Internet Options That Cost Nothing

If you cannot afford any paid internet plan, these options are completely free: Public libraries offer free internet access and computers during operating hours, and many also lend Wi-Fi hotspot devices you can take home for 1-3 weeks at a time. Community centers, workforce development offices, and social service agencies often have free internet and computers. Many businesses offer free Wi-Fi including McDonald's, Starbucks, Burger King, Walmart, Target, and most hotels and motels. Some cities offer free municipal Wi-Fi in parks and public spaces. Comcast Xfinity customers' routers broadcast public hotspots -- you can create a free Xfinity account to access these hotspots even without being a paying customer. If you have a Lifeline phone, you can use its data as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your other devices.

Why Internet Access Matters for Second Chances

Internet access is essential for rebuilding your life. Most job applications are online-only -- many employers no longer accept paper applications. Parole and probation reporting is increasingly digital. Benefits applications (SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance) are faster and easier online. Educational opportunities, from GED prep to free college courses, require internet access. Telehealth appointments save time and transportation costs. Staying connected with family and support systems helps prevent recidivism. Children in the household need internet for school. Without internet, you are cut off from the systems that help you move forward.

State-Level Broadband Programs

Several states have created their own affordable internet programs to fill the gap left by the ACP: California launched the LifeLine Home Broadband Pilot in January 2026, offering up to $30/month off internet service for qualifying households. New York's ConnectALL program provides subsidies for low-income internet. Other states have used federal BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding to expand affordable access. Check with your state's Public Utilities Commission or broadband office for programs specific to your area. Websites like EveryoneOn.org and GetInternet.gov can help you find programs in your state.

Internet for People in Transitional Housing

If you are in a halfway house, sober living home, or shelter, internet access can be challenging. Ask your housing provider if they offer Wi-Fi -- many transitional housing facilities include basic internet. If not, your Lifeline phone data can serve as a temporary solution. Public libraries are usually nearby and offer free access. If you are looking for your own apartment, having internet will be important for your housing search, as most listings are online. When you get your own place, apply for an ISP low-income plan immediately -- Comcast Internet Essentials at $9.95/month is often available even at apartments, and setup typically takes less than a week with a self-install kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) still available?

No. The ACP ended on June 1, 2024 due to lack of Congressional funding. As of March 2026, there is no direct federal replacement. The options on this page (ISP low-income plans and the Lifeline program) are the current alternatives.

What is the cheapest home internet I can get?

The absolute cheapest is Comcast Internet Essentials at $9.95/month stacked with the Lifeline $9.25 discount, bringing your cost to $0.70/month for 100 Mbps internet. Without Lifeline stacking, Comcast Internet Essentials at $9.95/month and AT&T Access at $10-$15/month are the cheapest standalone options.

Do I need a credit check for low-income internet?

No. Comcast Internet Essentials, AT&T Access, and Spectrum Internet Assist do not require credit checks. T-Mobile Home Internet offers a prepaid option with no credit check. You may need to resolve any outstanding balance with the ISP before enrolling.

Can I get internet if I have an unpaid balance with Comcast or Spectrum?

Comcast Internet Essentials may accept you if you enter into a payment plan for your outstanding balance. Spectrum Internet Assist may require no outstanding balance. Contact the ISP directly to discuss your situation -- many have flexible policies for low-income applicants.

What if there are no ISP low-income plans in my area?

If no ISP low-income plan is available at your address, consider T-Mobile 5G Home Internet (available in many areas not served by cable/fiber), your Lifeline phone's data as a hotspot, or free public Wi-Fi at libraries and community centers. Check with your local library about borrowing a Wi-Fi hotspot device.

Can I use Lifeline for both a phone and internet?

The Lifeline benefit can be applied to either phone service or internet service, but not both simultaneously. You must choose one. If you already have a free Lifeline phone, you could apply the Lifeline discount to internet instead and switch to a cheap prepaid phone plan like Tello ($8/month).

Are there free computers available for people who cannot afford one?

Yes. Public libraries offer free computer access. Comcast Internet Essentials participants can purchase a laptop or desktop for under $150. Organizations like PCs for People (pcsforpeople.org) provide refurbished computers to low-income individuals. Human-I-T (human-i-t.org) offers free and low-cost devices. Some reentry programs and community organizations also distribute free computers and tablets.

How do I apply for Comcast Internet Essentials?

Visit internetessentials.com and click Apply Now. You will need proof of participation in a qualifying program (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing, etc.) and your address. You can apply online, by phone at 1-855-846-8376, or in person at a local Xfinity Store. Approval typically takes 2-3 business days, and a self-install kit ships free of charge.