If you receive SNAP (food stamps/EBT), you may qualify for free or low-cost internet in 2026, because, although the Federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024, several providers and state initiatives continue to offer special plans for households receiving SNAP benefits.
Can You Get Free Internet with Food Stamps?
Yes, SNAP benefits entitle you to participate in certain internet assistance programs. While there isn’t a specific program called “free internet with food stamps,” SNAP is used as proof of eligibility for federal programs and internet programs for low-income individuals.
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in June 2024 due to a lack of funding. As of 2026, the ACP is not active, but the Lifeline program and low-income plans offered by internet providers are still available.
The Lifeline Program
Lifeline is a federal government program that helps low-income households pay for phone or internet service. Lifeline is the primary federal program that provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for low-income households.
This federal program offers eligible low-income households a discount of up to $9.25 on their monthly phone or internet bill. If you live on tribal lands, you may qualify for even greater savings.
You are automatically eligible if you receive SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or other government benefits.
If you don’t currently receive benefits, you can apply for Lifeline if you can demonstrate that your household income is below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
For more information, visit: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
State and Local Internet Assistance Programs
Many states, counties, and cities also offer their own low-cost internet plans or device support programs. These programs are often funded through local grants or partnerships.
For example:
- Some school districts provide free Wi-Fi hotspots or data plans to students whose families receive SNAP benefits.
- Local libraries or community centers may help residents sign up for internet offers or provide free digital literacy classes.
- State public utility commissions sometimes partner with internet providers to offer additional discounts.
To find out what’s available near you:
Contact your local SNAP or social services office. or,
Call 211 or visit 211.org to search for programs in your zip code.
Companies Offering Discounted Internet Plans for SNAP Recipients
Some internet providers offer special low-cost plans for families receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or other government benefits. These programs often waive credit checks and include free equipment and no long-term contracts.
Xfinity Internet Essentials
With Xfinity Internet Essentials, you can get discounted internet service with speeds up to 100 Mbps.
You may be eligible for Xfinity Internet Essentials if you receive benefits through SNAP, Medicaid, Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or if you have a child in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The cost varies depending on the speed you choose:
Internet Essentials: 75 Mbps internet service for $14.95 per month
Internet Essentials Plus: 100 Mbps internet service for $29.95 per month
Other benefits:
- Option to purchase a discounted laptop
- Access to free online, print, and in-person internet training
- A wireless modem that provides in-home Wi-Fi at no extra cost
- Access to Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots
AT&T Access
AT&T Access offers low-cost internet service for eligible households. You are eligible if your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or if you receive benefits from SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, housing assistance, or TANF.
The standard AT&T Access plan costs $30 per month for speeds up to 100 Mbps and includes unlimited monthly data.
Eligible households whose maximum available speed at their address is 50 Mbps or less and who do not need unlimited monthly data may qualify for even greater discounts.
Other benefits:
- Includes Wi-Fi and installation, no equipment fees
- No deposit or annual contract
Cox Connect2Compete and ConnectAssist
Families with school-aged children who participate in SNAP, the National School Lunch Program, or other benefit programs may be eligible for internet for as low as $9.95 per month through Cox’s Connect2Compete.
Connect2Compete offers internet with speeds up to 100 Mbps and 1.25 TB of data per month with no additional overage charges.
Cox also offers the ConnectAssist plan, which costs $30 per month, for eligible households receiving benefits.
Spectrum Internet Assist
Spectrum Internet Assist offers affordable internet with 50 Mbps speeds for low-income individuals and families for $25 per month. You can get speeds up to 100 Mbps for an additional $5 per month with Spectrum Internet Advantage.
You may be eligible for Spectrum Internet Assist if you or a member of your household participates in the National School Lunch Program or receives SSI.
Other benefits:
- Home Wi-Fi service available
- Modem and security package included
- No data caps or contracts
Other ways to get low-cost internet
Whether you use the internet to apply for jobs, do schoolwork, or manage your benefits, the right resources can help make internet affordable for your household.
Here are some tips for finding low-cost internet options:
- Some programs, like Lifeline, require annual recertification. Be sure to keep your information updated with your internet provider to keep your discounts active.
- You may qualify for more than one program. For example, you can use Lifeline for your cell phone and an internet provider discount for your internet service. Compare options and determine which is best for your household.
- If you don’t know where to start, ask for help at your local library or SNAP office, or call 211 or visit 211.org.
Conclusion
Even without the ACP, SNAP recipients can still access free or affordable internet through Cox, Spectrum, Lifeline, and other internet service provider programs. These initiatives are vital for reducing the digital divide and empowering underserved communities.
