There are two federal programs related to phone and internet access: LifeLine and the Affordable Connectivity Program which includes the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program).

LifeLine is a federal program that aims to make phone and internet service more affordable for low-income households.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal program that aims to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet.

The eligibility is slightly different for each – but if you qualify for LifeLine, you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program. To apply for either or both, you will need proof of income like pay stubs and/or proof of enrollment in a federal assistance program.

Once you know you're eligible for either or both programs, you need to work with a company participating in the program to access benefits.

LifeLine Details

Do I Qualify? You qualify for LifeLine if you, or someone in your household, is on SNAP, NJ FamilyCare, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.

How do I apply? You can also qualify if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines.You can apply here.

More Info: For more information, here are FAQs. Once enrolled, your company is required to meet these minimum standards:

• Cell phones: Either includes at least 1000 minutes for mobile voice or speed of 3G or better and usage of at least 4.5 GB per month for mobile internet (data plan)
• Home internet: Speed of 25/3 Mbps and usage of at least 1024 GB per month
• Bundled service offerings: At least one of the services (voice or internet) must meet the minimum service standards to qualify for a Lifeline discount

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Details

Do I Qualify? You qualify for LifeLine if you, or someone in your household, is on SNAP, WIC, NJ FamilyCare, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations or received a Pell Grant in the current award year. You can also qualify if your income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

How do I Apply? You can apply here (but note that if you've already applied for and enrolled in LifeLine, you don't need to apply again) and then you need to reach out to acompany participating in the program.

Once enrolled, you could be eligible for:

• Up to a $30/month discount on your internet service
• Up to a $75/month discount if your household is on qualifying Tribal lands
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50)

For Assistance Applying (or Related Questions)

Universal Service Administrative Co.
Phone: 800-234-9473
Hours: 9am to 9pm ET, 7 days a week
Email re: LifeLine: LifelineSupport@usac.org
Email re: Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): ACPSupport@usac.org

FYI - if you already have LifeLine and/or ACP and are signed up with a participating company, Universal Service Administrative Co. can't help troubleshooting connection or hardware programs. You will need to reach out to the company.

Nonprofit Organization Option

PCs for People. A nonprofit organization that provides affordable computers, computer repair, and low-cost internet to people who meet the eligibility for the Affordable Connectivity Program and/or have a household income that is 60% of the area median income. They do not check citizenship or immigration status.

Some Participating Company Info

SafeLink Wireless (owned by Verizon). Wireless service for low-income households via the LifeLine program. Plans can use current phone or individuals can apply for a free phone. 1-800-723-3546. M-Sat 8:00 am - 10:00 pm ET; Sun 8:00 am - 7 pm ET.

Assurance Wireless (owned by T-Mobile). Wireless service for low-income households via the LifeLine program. New customers receive a free Android smartphone.1-888-321-5880.

Internet Essentials from Comcast Xfinity. Once approved, you can also apply for a Dell laptop or Chromebook for $149.99 by placing an order under the Low Cost Computer tab on the site. New Customers: 1-855-846-8376; Existing Customers: 1-800-934-6489. 8am-Midnight ET, 7 days a week.

LifeLine Discount Program from Verizon. Internet for low-income households via the Lifeline program. Once approved, order the appropriate plan for your needs. 1-800-922-0204. Mon-Sat 8am-7pm ET; Sun 8am-5pm ET. FYI: Call 1-800-837-4966 within 90 days of service installation to have the Lifeline credit applied to your plan & equipment.

You can also review this article rounding up various companies and related information.