FREE Government Internet for Low-Income

Connect to work, school, and family with government-supported internet programs.

Free or low-cost internet is available for low-income households, students, and more.

Trusted by programs like: FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program

Check Your Eligibility

Not sure if you qualify? Apply anyway to find out more!

Who Funds and Runs These Programs?

Funding

These programs are primarily funded by the U.S. Federal Government through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC allocates resources to ensure affordable internet access for low-income households, with additional support from the Universal Service Fund (USF), which is contributed to by telecommunications companies.

Management

The programs are managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), a not-for-profit organization designated by the FCC. USAC oversees the application process, verifies eligibility, and works with internet service providers to deliver benefits to eligible households.

Partnerships

Internet service providers like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast participate in these programs, offering discounted plans to approved applicants. Local and state governments also collaborate to promote awareness and accessibility.

Who Can Get Free Government Internet Services?

Government internet programs help eligible households access free internet or affordable internet to stay connected for work, education, and essential services. These federal and state initiatives support low-income families, seniors, veterans, and others, offering low-cost internet or no-cost plans to bridge the digital divide.

Low-Income Households

If your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (e.g., $62,400 annually for a family of four in 2025), you may qualify for free internet through Lifeline or state internet assistance programs.

Participants in Federal Assistance Programs

Those enrolled in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) can access low-cost internet via Lifeline or state-specific government internet programs with minimal paperwork.

Veterans and Military Families

Veterans receiving Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension benefits may be eligible for free internet. Some state programs provide additional discounts for military families.

Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Seniors (65+) and individuals with disabilities enrolled in Medicaid or SSI can qualify for affordable internet through Lifeline or state internet assistance plans tailored for these groups.

Residents of Tribal Lands

Households on Tribal lands can access free internet or enhanced discounts (up to $34.25/month) through Lifeline, with some states offering further low-cost internet support.

Students and Families with School-Aged Children

Families with children in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) for free or reduced-price lunches may qualify for free internet through state digital equity initiatives or government internet programs.

Main Programs Offering Free Government Internet Service

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The ACP provides a discount of up to $30/month on internet service (or up to $75/month for households on Tribal lands). Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 on a device like a laptop or tablet.

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program offers a discount of up to $9.25/month on internet or phone service (or up to $34.25/month on Tribal lands). It’s available to low-income consumers and can be combined with other benefits.

How to Apply for Free Internet

Verify Your Eligibility

Use the eligibility checker above to confirm you qualify. Make sure you have proof of eligibility, such as income statements or program participation documents.

Gather Necessary Documents

You’ll need a government-issued ID, proof of income (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs), and proof of participation in a qualifying program (e.g., SNAP award letter).

Submit Your Application

Apply through the official portal for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) or Lifeline. Fill out the form with your details and upload your documents.

Choose a Service Provider

Once approved, select a participating internet provider in your area. They’ll guide you through the setup process.

Get Connected

Your provider will set up your service, and you’ll be ready to enjoy free or discounted internet access!

Start Your Application

Need help with your application? Contact support for assistance.

Benefits of Free Government Internet

Affordable Internet Access

Save money with free or discounted internet plans, up to $30/month off your bill (or up to $75/month on Tribal lands).

Stay Connected

Access online resources for education, work, healthcare, and more, keeping you connected to what matters.

Easy Application Process

Quick and straightforward application with minimal documentation—get approved in minutes.

Support for All Ages

Programs designed for families, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

State-Specific Programs for Free Government Internet

Many states offer unique programs to help residents access free government internet, complementing federal initiatives like Lifeline. These state-specific efforts provide additional discounts, infrastructure improvements, or community access points to ensure affordable, high-speed internet for low-income households, rural communities, and underserved areas.

Arkansas: Arkansas Broadband Program

The Arkansas Broadband Program expands access to free government internet in rural areas using state and federal funds. It includes a pilot offering in-unit internet in affordable housing, partnering with municipalities.

California: Broadband for All

California’s Broadband for All initiative boosts free government internet access through state-funded subsidies. Eligible residents can receive additional discounts on plans, enhancing federal benefits.

District of Columbia: Tech Hubs Initiative

The District of Columbia’s Tech Hubs Initiative provides free government internet via high-speed Wi-Fi in underserved areas, alongside digital skills training and device lending.

Illinois: Connect Illinois Broadband Grant Program

The Connect Illinois Broadband Grant Program allocates $253.7 million to deliver free government internet to 87,163 households and businesses, prioritizing affordable fiber-optic plans.

Indiana: Next Level Connections

Indiana’s Next Level Connections program connects underserved areas to free government internet, providing affordable internet to over 50,000 homes and businesses.

Maine: Connectivity Hubs

Maine’s connectivity hubs, funded by state resources, offer free government internet through public access points, digital skills training, and telehealth services.

Massachusetts: MassBroadband 123

MassBroadband 123 expands free government internet in rural western Massachusetts, connecting thousands of homes and businesses with state and federal funding.

Michigan: MI Connected Future

MI Connected Future uses $67.8 million to provide free government internet to 67,857 households and businesses in rural areas, focusing on affordability.

New York: ConnectALL

ConnectALL enhances free government internet access with state grants, offering free or low-cost plans to low-income households in New York.

North Carolina: Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT)

The GREAT program delivers free government internet to rural North Carolina, connecting over 80,000 homes and businesses with affordable internet.

Puerto Rico: Community Technology Centers

Puerto Rico’s 8–10 community technology centers provide free government internet, device support, and social services, with satellite centers in rural areas.

Texas: Broadband Development Program

The Texas Broadband Development Program supports free government internet in underserved areas, offering state-supported discounts to residents.

Wisconsin: Broadband Expansion Grant Program

Wisconsin’s Broadband Expansion Grant Program connects thousands of rural homes and businesses to free government internet, funded by the American Rescue Plan.

Find Programs in Your State

Check if you qualify for federal and state programs. Get started now.

What Our Users Say

“Thanks to the Lifeline program, I can now stay connected with my family and access online resources for my kids’ education. It’s been a lifesaver!”

Sarah M. Tampa, FL

“I was struggling to afford internet, but this program made it possible. Now I can apply for jobs online and keep up with my community.”

James R. Columbus, OH

“The application process was straightforward, and now I have reliable internet for my online classes. I’m so grateful for this support.”

Emily T. Phoenix, AZ

About Us

About Us

At FreeGovernmentInternetService.com, we’re dedicated to helping low-income households stay connected by providing clear, reliable information about government programs like Lifeline. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide, ensuring everyone has access to affordable internet for education, work, and community engagement.

Our Mission

We strive to empower underserved communities by simplifying access to government internet programs like Lifeline. Our goal is to ensure every household can afford reliable internet, fostering opportunities for education, employment, and social connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the government offer free internet?

Yes, the U.S. government offers programs like Lifeline, which provides discounted or free internet to eligible low-income households. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in June 2024, but Lifeline continues to support affordable internet access.

How do I get free internet?

You can get free or discounted internet through the Lifeline program by applying via the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) website or a participating provider like AT&T, Verizon, or Comcast. You’ll need to prove eligibility based on income or participation in programs like SNAP or Medicaid.

How to get free government Wi-Fi?

The government doesn’t directly provide free Wi-Fi hotspots, but the Lifeline program can help you access discounted internet services, which may include Wi-Fi through participating providers. Check with local providers to see if they offer Lifeline benefits.

Can you get free internet without paying?

Yes, some Lifeline providers offer plans that can be fully covered by the program’s discount (up to $9.25/month, or $34.25/month on Tribal lands), meaning no out-of-pocket cost for eligible households. Availability depends on the provider and your location.

Who is eligible for the Lifeline program?

You’re eligible for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if you participate in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA). You’ll need to provide documentation to prove eligibility.