Access to the internet isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s for applying to jobs, attending school, managing government benefits, or simply staying informed, being connected is part of daily life.
But for many low-income households, especially those receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), the cost of staying online can be a real barrier.
Thankfully, there are several affordable internet programs designed specifically to help SNAP recipients and others with limited income stay connected without sacrificing financial security.
Lifeline
One of the most well-known programs is Lifeline, a federal initiative aimed at making phone and internet services more affordable. Through Lifeline, eligible households can receive a monthly discount of up to:
- $9.25 on internet or phone services nationwide
- $29.25 in tribal areas
If you already receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you automatically qualify for Lifeline. That means no extra paperwork—just proof of enrollment in any of these programs.
And if you’re not currently receiving government assistance, you can still apply if your household income is 135% or less of the federal poverty level.
Just remember, the benefit is limited to one person per household—a household being defined by those who share financial responsibilities, not necessarily family.
Local
Beyond the federal Lifeline program, some state and municipal programs go a step further. In many areas, local governments work with internet providers to offer extra discounts or even subsidized equipment like routers or tablets.
Some school districts are also stepping in to support families. If a household receives SNAP and has school-aged children, students might receive free hotspots, low-cost data plans, or school-issued devices to make sure learning can continue from home without disruption.
These local efforts help close the gap between affordability and accessibility, especially for communities hit hardest by economic challenges.
Providers
It’s not just the government stepping up. Many telecom companies have launched their own low-income internet plans. These are often geared toward families receiving benefits like SNAP, WIC, or SSI.
Some common features of these plans include:
- Monthly costs starting around $9.95
- Speeds up to 100 Mbps, which is more than enough for streaming, homework, and video calls
- No long-term contracts or credit checks
- Discounted or free equipment setup
Even better, these offers can often be combined with Lifeline for additional savings.
Here’s a quick example of what combining plans could look like:
| Program | Monthly Cost | Speed | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | -$9.25 | Varies | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, income |
| ISP Low-Income Plan | $9.95 | Up to 100 Mbps | SNAP, WIC, SSI |
| Combined Savings | ~$0.70 | Up to 100 Mbps | With both programs applied |
Access
To apply for these internet savings:
- Check Lifeline eligibility at lifelinesupport.org
- Apply online or through a participating service provider
- Contact your local internet provider and ask about low-income or SNAP-specific internet plans
- Ask your child’s school if they offer student hotspot or device programs
These programs are designed to be as accessible as possible, with simple application processes and minimal requirements. Just make sure your documentation is up to date, and don’t hesitate to call your internet provider for help applying.
Final Thoughts
No one should have to choose between groceries and staying connected. If you’re receiving SNAP or other benefits, programs like Lifeline, combined with local and provider-specific initiatives, can make internet access truly affordable.
Staying online isn’t just about convenience anymore—it’s about opportunity, education, and security.
FAQs
Can SNAP recipients get free internet?
They may qualify for low-cost or nearly free internet programs.
What is the Lifeline program?
A federal discount program for phone and internet services.
Is Lifeline only for SNAP users?
No, it also covers Medicaid, SSI, and low-income households.
How fast is Lifeline internet?
Speeds vary, but some plans offer up to 100 Mbps.
Do I need to apply for Lifeline?
Yes, unless your provider automatically confirms your eligibility.
