High-speed internet is all that is required in today’s world. Both private and public organizations are working on expanding internet availability for better use. Therefore, it is possible for United States residents to use broadband internet service free of cost with the affordable connectivity program with Low-Cost Internet.
However, the United States population has uneven internet availability, and this problem occurred during the time of the pandemic. What can you do to use high-speed internet service in your area? What is the other option if someone can’t afford the internet service in a specific location? And what if no reliable service provider is available in your area?
If we talk about long-term internet infrastructure solutions, then this can be complicated. Therefore, there are different ways available to offer free of cost internet services or at an affordable rate. The basic starting internet services are actually important not only during the pandemic time but also at any phase. So, let’s discuss it further!
Where Can You Find No-Cost Internet Access?
Several ISPs offer different programs to help low and fixed incomes households. This list increased during the pandemic that occurred when most people joined the FCC, which asked companies to waive fees, continue services, and make their Wi-Fi accessible publicly.
Meanwhile, the FCC’s program has ended, and some Internet service providers are still running their programs for people who need low-cost internet services. In addition, some of them are planning to continue the Affordable Connectivity Program, which can lower your internet cost every month.
How To Access No-Cost Optimum Internet
Optimum internet offers Altice Advantage to their new customers so that they can enjoy a 30 Mbps broadband plan at no cost for two months. Meanwhile, the eligible customers for this plan are college students or K-12 standard students. However, you have to ensure the availability of Optimum internet in your area.
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By Comcast Xfinity
Xfinity Internet service provider offers essential programs, which are available at $9.95 for the users who qualify, which is an unbelievable value. On the contrary, Comcast has also boosted the speed offered under essential internet programs after the pandemic.
Moreover, Comcast also provides internet connections to the teachers who registered for Xfinity visa prepaid cards to balance the charges for the first month of services.
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By AT&T Internet
AT&T Internet service provider is providing free internet services for specific school issues devices for two months and making a $10 million fund to help a student who was admitted to a distance learning platform. Furthermore, it has also started giving free telehealth services for two months to business consumers like hospitals. In addition, AT&T is providing special offers to first responders, including offering unlimited plans with free smartphones.
The AT&T Internet access program is accessible for low-income households who received SSI benefits or joined SNAP in California. During the pandemic breakdown, AT&T has enhanced its eligibility criteria for a program that participates in the given below programs:
- Head Start
- NSLP (National School Lunch Program)
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By Cox Internet
Cox Internet providers provided affordable data plans via its ConnectAssist package. This offer is made for one who receives government help and is available to families who participate in a low-income-based program, including Medicaid, WIC, TANF, SNAP, and many others.
The Cox ConnectAssist package is available at $30 per month, and therefore it is comparable to its basic internet plan. However, it offers to speed up to 100 Mbps which is four times its basic internet plan. This cox package also offers educational resources and Wi-Fi hotspot access through Cox Digital Academy. With multiple different and better qualifying programs, ConnectAssist is one of the highly available discounted internet services out there.
Cox also joined the Connect2Compete program. This program offers you a high internet speed of up to 100 Mbps at $9.95/month.
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By Mediacom Internet
Similarly, Cox, Mediacom’s Internet service provider, has 25 Mbps internet speed at just $9.99 as it also participates in the Connect2Compete program.
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By Synergy Internet
Synergy Internet service provider provides funds for low-cost or free internet plans through Synergy Charity Services. Households can use these funds if they participate in programs like SSI, SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance, NSLP, and other similar programs.
How To Access Low-Cost Internet By Verizon Internet
Verizon Internet service provider is a discount deals plan for individuals who are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program to get better internet services at no charge. This deals plan can also be used for only Verizon users who already use the Verizon internet plan and have been endorsed for the ACP. With these programs, users can get Verizon internet service with no hidden fees, no monthly charges, and no equipment charges.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
This ACP offers $30/month toward low-income households’ internet charges through households. In high-cost areas, Tribal land may be eligible for extra support of up to $75/month.
You can qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program if at least one member of your family meets the given below criteria:
- Is approved for the School Breakfast Program (SBP) or National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Currently qualifies for low-income programs offered by certain providers
- A Lifeline Program qualifier
- In the current academic year, has received a Pell Grant
- Benefits from SNAP or WIC assistance
The ACP replaces the EBB programs (Emergency Broadband Benefit) that were started to assist people. who is experiencing the effects of a pandemic?
