Alternative Government Programs for Low-Income Families After ACP
- Author: Elizabeth Miller
- Posted: 2025-02-25
With the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), many low-income households are searching for alternative ways to access affordable internet, utilities, transportation, and essential services.
Fortunately, several government-backed programs still provide financial assistance based on eligibility criteria linked to programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, and TANF.
1. Lifeline Program – Discounted Internet & Phone Services
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What it does: Provides a $9.25/month discount on phone or internet services ($34.25/month for tribal lands).
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Who qualifies: Households participating in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), VA pension programs, or with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty level.
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How to apply: Visit Lifeline National Verifier.
2. Free or Discounted Cell Phones (via Lifeline)
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What it does: Offers free or low-cost cell phones and service plans through providers like Safelink Wireless, Assurance Wireless, and more.
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Who qualifies: Lifeline-eligible participants (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, etc.) automatically qualify.
- How to apply: Apply through Lifeline-partnered carriers.
3. Low-Cost Internet Plans from Providers
Major internet providers have pledged to offer low-cost broadband options for eligible households:
- Comcast Internet Essentials – Internet for qualifying low-income families.
- AT&T Access – Internet plans for SNAP participants.
- Spectrum Internet Assist – Reduced-cost internet for qualifying families and seniors.
- Verizon Forward Program – Discounted internet for eligible customers.
4. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
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What it does: Helps cover electric, heating, and cooling bills for low-income families.
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Who qualifies: Households enrolled in SNAP, SSI, TANF, or meeting income-based qualifications.
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How to apply: Visit Benefits.gov or contact your state’s LIHEAP office.
5. Discounted or Free Public Transportation
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What it does: Offers low-cost or free public transportation for low-income individuals and seniors in select cities.
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Who qualifies: SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI participants may qualify depending on their local transit agency policies.
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How to apply: Check your city’s public transportation website or local government office.
6. Free or Discounted School Meals (NSLP & SBP)
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What it does: Provides free or reduced-cost meals for children in public schools through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP).
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Who qualifies: Families receiving SNAP, TANF, or meeting specific income guidelines.
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How to apply: Automatic enrollment for SNAP participants; others can apply through their child’s school district.
Maximizing Government Assistance
The loss of ACP has made broadband access more expensive for low-income families, but alternative government programs still provide essential financial support.
By leveraging programs like Lifeline, LIHEAP, and local transit discounts, eligible households can reduce costs while maintaining access to critical services.
If you’re unsure about what assistance you qualify for, take a look here.
To learn more about these programs and check eligibility, visit Benefits.gov or contact your local government office.
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