How do I get government internet?
If your home needs a boost to cross the digital divide, take advantage of government programs for affordable internet service in your area.
Lifeline is a federal government internet program that can save you $9.25 to $29.25 monthly on your monthly internet bill. You can combine federal programs like Lifeline with internet provider initiatives that start at $9.95 monthly for 100 Mbps download speeds.
Do you qualify for government internet?
To qualify for Lifeline, your household will need to make less than or equal to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or qualify for one or more government assistance programs:
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Public Housing (HUD)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- And more
But if you’re not eligible for low-income internet, don’t worry—we have other articles with recommendations for cheap internet service for your home and current internet deals. Check out low-cost internet providers like Xfinity, Verizon Fios, Cox, and AT&T and see if these providers are in your area.
Cheap Wi-Fi government internet programs
Lifeline offers $9.25 per month off either internet or phone services to low-income households. Lifeline doesn’t have as much savings as older internet provider initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program, but it’s better than nothing.
Find out if you meet the requirements before you sign the dotted line for an internet plan.
Low-cost internet through Lifeline and internet providers
| Provider | Price of cheapest regular plan w/ Lifeline |
|---|---|
| Xfinity | $15.74/mo. |
| Spectrum | $40.74/mo. |
| Optimum | $20.74/mo. |
| AT&T | $25.75/mo. |
| Google Fiber | $60.75/mo. |
| Astound Broadband powered by RCN | $10.74/mo. |
| CenturyLink | $40.75/mo. |
| Cox | $10.94/mo. |
| Frontier | $28.74/mo. |
| Mediacom | $10.74/mo. |
| Verizon Fios | $19.99/mo. |
| Windstream | $30.74/mo. |
Data effective as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Taxes and fees may apply
Why you should trust us
Our internet experts have spent years keeping their ears to the ground for government assistant programs and internet provider programs that offer free or discounted internet for low-income households.
We strive to provide all the relevant links to help you get internet where you live, while also sharing our insight into which offers will get you the best bang for your buck, reliability, features, and customer satisfaction.
