What to know about new bargain internet program
The White House announced Monday that 20 internet providers will offer low-cost or free internet service to low-income households in an effort to boost connectivity across the country.
An estimated 48 million households — about 40% of U.S. households — are eligible for the benefit under the Affordable Connectivity Program, according to the Biden administration. The $1 trillion infrastructure package passed by Congress last year included $14.2 billion funding for the program.
In a news conference, President Joe Biden said high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, but a “necessity.”
Here’s what to know about ACP, including how to find out if you qualify and how to apply for the benefit.
Who is eligible?
Households are eligible if their income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or if a member of the household participates in other federal programs, including: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Pell Grant and Medicaid.
How do you apply?
You can claim your benefit online by visiting the White House website GetInternet.gov. There, you can fill out an initial questionnaire that will then direct you to an FCC online form.
Applications can also be sent by mail. Forms in English and Spanish can be found on the White House website.
Who are the participating internet providers?
Twenty companies have agreed to lower their rates for eligible consumers, according to the White House.
■ Allo Communications
■ AltaFiber (and Hawaiian Telecom)
■ Altice (Optimum and Suddenlink)
■ Astound
■ AT&T
■ Breezeline
■ Comcast
■ Comporium
■ Cox Communications
■ Frontier
■ IdeaTek
■ Jackson Energy Authority
■ Mediacom
■ MLGC
■ Spectrum (Charter Communications)
■ Starry
■ Verizon (Fios only)
■ Vermont Telephone Company
■ Vexus Fiber
■ Wow! Internet, Cable and TV
Need a discount for a computer, tablet or other device?
Households eligible for ACP can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a device like a laptop or tablet, with a copay between $10 to $50.
To find out what companies are participating in your state, visit: fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-providers.