ACP Internet Subsidy
FREE / cheap internet for income-eligible.
2026 status update
- ACP funding ran out June 2024.
- Congress debating renewal.
- Some ISPs continue similar discounts.
- Lifeline program still active (different).
- Senior internet help still available.
- Apply at lifelinesupport.org.
Lifeline (similar program)
- Federal program, still funded.
- $9.25/mo internet OR phone discount.
- Income limits 135% federal poverty (~$20K individual).
- Or qualifies if SNAP, SSI, Medicaid recipient.
- Lifelinesupport.org to apply.
- Most ISPs participate.
ISP low-income plans
- Comcast Internet Essentials — $10-15/mo.
- Spectrum Internet Assist — $20/mo.
- AT&T Access — $5-10/mo.
- Cox ConnectAssist — $30/mo.
- Income limits ~$30-50K/yr.
- SNAP recipients qualify automatically usually.
- Often FREE with Lifeline.
Apply
- Lifeline: lifelinesupport.org. Federal application.
- Then choose participating ISP.
- Apply individually with each ISP.
- Bring proof of income or assistance program.
- Approval 30-90 days.
- Free help: 2-1-1 hotline, library, senior center.
Free internet alternatives
- Library WiFi — free in lobby.
- McDonald's, Starbucks, Panera — free WiFi.
- Library hotspot lending — many lend free.
- Cell phone hotspot — share data with computer.
- Senior center computer rooms — free.
- Combine to bridge if can't afford home internet.
Senior internet essentials
Internet not luxury anymore — needed for telehealth, banking, government accounts. If income tight — apply for Lifeline + ISP discount programs. Most seniors qualify but don't know. EveryoneOn.org connects with discount programs by ZIP. Free.