Home internet is not optional for job searches, school or health care, and it can still be made affordable. Here is what help exists now, how to qualify, and how to avoid paying more than you have to.
What happened to the Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) gave eligible households up to $30 a month off internet service. It stopped enrolling in February 2024 and ended on June 1, 2024, when Congress did not renew its funding. If you were on the ACP, your bill likely rose; the options below can bring it back down.
Lifeline
Lifeline is the long-running federal program that discounts phone or internet service. It provides up to $9.25 a month off service from a participating provider, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands. You can qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or if someone in your household takes part in:
- SNAP (food stamps),
- Medicaid,
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI),
- Federal Public Housing Assistance,
- the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or certain Tribal programs.
Apply through the FCC’s Lifeline National Verifier or through a participating provider. Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household, and it can go on either a phone plan or a home internet plan.
Provider low-income plans
Most large internet providers run their own discounted plans for eligible households, often with a set speed, no annual contract and included equipment. Eligibility usually follows public programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, the National School Lunch Program or Lifeline. Search the provider’s site for its “low-income”, “affordable” or “assist” plan, and check its broadband facts label for the current price and speed. Your Lifeline discount can sometimes be added on top.
Other ways to cut the bill
- Buy the right speed. The FCC’s benchmark of 100 Mbps down and 20 up comfortably serves most households; faster tiers cost more for little everyday difference.
- Own your equipment. Monthly router rental adds up over a year; check whether your provider allows a compatible router of your own.
- Watch promotional prices. The broadband label shows when an introductory price ends and what it becomes.
- Consider 5G home internet. Where the signal is good, it is often cheaper than wired plans. See fiber vs cable vs 5G.
Find what serves your home
A discount only helps if the provider reaches your address. Start with our address-check guide, then look up your Texas town. Older adults may also want our internet for seniors guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still available?
No. The ACP stopped taking new enrollments in February 2024 and ended on June 1, 2024, when its funding ran out. Lifeline and provider low-income plans remain.
How much is the Lifeline discount?
Lifeline provides up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service for eligible households, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands. One Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
Who qualifies for low-income internet?
Lifeline covers households at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or enrolled in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension. Provider plans set their own rules, often accepting SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or the National School Lunch Program.