The ability to access data is as crucial to the lives of people today as electricity is to any advanced society. It is used for working, learning, playing, socializing, and so much more. However, internet services are costly, and people cannot afford to pay those hefty amounts of money. If you are one of those people who want to know how they can use the cheap internet then you don’t need to worry anymore. we shall also unveil ten programs and resources that can assist you in reducing that cost.
1. Lifeline Assistance Program
Owners of mass communication companies should be aware of the Lifeline Assistance Program, commonly referred to as the Universal Service Fund, whereby the government seeks to increase the affordability of communications services to homeowners of low income. Currently, enrollees can be given up to a $9.25 discount for their claim on the internet bill every month. To be eligible, you have to earn less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or if you receive SNAP, Medicaid or SSI benefits.
2. Less costly internet called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Under the newly created ACP, consumers can get up to a $30 monthly discount on their internet bill. The ACP is an enlargement of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program that was initiated during the COVID-19 outbreak to address the challenges faced by households with bill payments for internet services. To become an ACP enrollee, own income must be at or below 200 per cent of the federal poverty guidelines or receive SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI benefits.
3. Internet Essentials
Internet Essentials is an internet service offered by Comcast where people qualify to access cheap high speeds on the internet. The program provides InternetEssentials Pluss which has downloading speeds of 100 Mbps and uploading of 20 Mbps for $29.995 per month only. Currently, to be eligible for this service, one has to be a Comcast customer and partake in government aid in the form of SNAP, Medicaid or SSI or have a student who is in the FRSP program.
4. Access from AT&T
Access from AT&T is also a program that offers affordable internet to people who meet certain requirements. With doses starting at only $10 per month, the program is currently available with plans that include download speeds of up to 100 Mbps only. To apply you must be an AT&T customer living in a household that receives program benefits such as SNAP, Medicaid or SSI.
5. Spectrum Internet Assist
Charter Communications doing business as Spectrum currently has a service called Spectrum Internet Assist, which delivers affordable broadband access to those in need. The program provides a download speed of up to 30 Mbps for only $14.99 per month. You have to be a household currently receiving benefits and serving a child eligible for NSLP or receive the Lifeline Assistance Program.
6. Medicaid and SNAP Discounts
A few ISPs have asked the FCC to allow them to serve low-income consumers by providing them with additional internet connectivity for a reduced price if they are members of Medicaid or the SNAP program. For instance; AT&T provides $5 per month of its internet plans to its clients who are an aspect of Medicaid or SNAP. Do not forget to call your ISP to discuss any possible discount that could be offered to you.
7. Public Library Wi-Fi
If you are seeking an option for having an internet connection at home for free then the next best solution for you is to use the Wi-Fi from the public library. Most libraries open their premises to the public, mainly to its inhabitants, giving them free access to the internet through the Wi-Fi offered. Also, many libraries providing access to computers and the Internet provide patrons with free computer and Internet literacy classes.
8. Mobile Hotspots
A mobile hotspot is a hardware device that can be carried around and used to connect other devices to the internet through cellular networks. Mobile hotspots can be costly but providers who offer affordable plans or those who provide special rates to allow-income customers have been identified. For instance, Safelink Wireless provides its eligible customers with a new mobile hotspot plan of 3 GB for only $29.!!.Go to your mobile service provider and find out if there exist any cheaper offers or subscription plans that you could subscribe to.
9. Barter
One may decide to exchange what he or she has, goods or services with another person to be connected to the internet at a relatively cheaper price. For instance, they could get you to mow the lawn, clean or perform any other chores in exchange for a break on your internet bill. Or you may be willing to pave your skills or offer your services to another person who has internet service and lacks the same. Trade can be an advantageous exchange wherein you can cut down your expenses grassroots on the internet service.
10. Finally you can request your internet service provider to give you a discount.
Finally, you can request your Internet service provider: ‘Hey, can you lower my bills?” Some customers receive gifts or get special offers when they switch their providers, again it’s probably also good to try to switch to a different provider briefly. Moreover, some providers develop tariff schedules where customers who subscribe to internet service can also subscribe to another service phone or television and pay a lesser amount. Many Internet service providers will offer special deals and promotions that can often be sought out; also, utilizing multiple services from the same provider is far cheaper than picking individual options.
Conclusion:
It has become more necessary than ever to maintain an internet connection, but it is costly. Luckily, there are severalitiatives and tools aimed at making Internet connection more affordable. Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Programs are available for government assistance to help reduce internet costs, while Internet Essentials and Access from AT&T are two programs available to the community. Make sure to check on the programs out there and it is always safe to negotiate with your Internet service provider for an offer. These are some of the options that availed to a person, there is no reason why one cannot be connected to the internet and all these plus.
