The Internet is a global network of linked computers that can communicate with devices and with one another. A wide range of wireless, electrical, and optical networking technologies connect the private, academic, commercial, public, and governmental networks, which range in size from local to worldwide. To use the Internet, you need to have a plan with your service provider. The plans are typically costly, and some people require assistance in order to pay for them. This post will explain how to use EBT or SNAP to get free Internet with EBT benefits.
In the United States, EBT is an acronym for Electronic Benefits Transfer. Receivers of government assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), can use this card-based system to pay for food at approved stores. Though they can only be used to buy authorized food items, EBT cards are comparable to debit and credit cards.
In 1994, EBT was initially introduced in the United States. Since then, it has taken the place of paper food stamps as the main method via which SNAP beneficiaries obtain benefits.
People from low-income families are the ones who receive government handouts. Low-income individuals typically have access to free Internet through charity organizations and the federal government.
You have to demonstrate that you come from a low-income family to be eligible for a free internet connection. You can easily be eligible for free government internet with an EBT card and further documentation. It can take time and effort to stay on the Internet, but we all know how important it is in today’s world.
Ways to get free Internet with EBT
If you are an EBT beneficiary, you can receive free Internet in several ways. These consist of the following.
1. Lifeline
A federal program called Lifeline provides low-income households with phone and internet service savings. The Lifeline program is run by the Universal Service Administrative Company. Lifeline provides a monthly internet or phone service savings of up to $9.25. Families living on eligible Tribal property can save up to $34.25 per month. Lifeline provides free voice calls and messages in addition to free Internet. Free government phones are also provided to eligible citizens.
The application process for Lifeline
There are three ways to apply for Lifeline, just like with ACP. These consist of the following.
- Online: Online applications are available at GetInternet.gov. That is the simplest and fastest method of application.
- By phone: You can apply over the phone by calling 1-800-234-0900.
- By mail: A paper application is available for download on the ACP website and can be submitted by mail.
You must provide the following paperwork in order for your benefits application to be approved. Take a peek.
- A copy of your tax return, pay stubs, or other records attesting to your income may be used as proof of income.
- A copy of your utility bill, lease agreement, or other document proving your residence could serve as proof of residency.
- A copy of your driver’s license, state ID card, or other official identification document can serve as proof of identity.
How to qualify for Lifeline
Similar to ACP, you can be eligible for Lifeline through EBT or the methods listed below. These consist of the following.
Income
If your household income is 135% or less than the federal poverty level, you may be eligible for Lifeline. Every year, the federal poverty level is revised. The most recent poverty levels are found on the US Census Bureau website. The table below reflects 135% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,128 | $26,393 | $24,287 |
| 2 | $28,553 | $35,681 | $32,832 |
| 3 | $35,978 | $44,969 | $41,378 |
| 4 | $43,403 | $54,257 | $49,923 |
| 5 | $50,828 | $63,545 | $58,469 |
| 6 | $58,253 | $72,833 | $67,041 |
| 7 | $65,678 | $82,121 | $75,560 |
| 8 | $73,103 | $91,409 | $84,105 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,425 | $9,288 | $8,546 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive months of pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
Participation in assistance programs
You may also qualify for Lifeline if you participate in specific government assistance programs. These programs include:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- The Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Certain Tribal-specific programs
How to apply for lifeline
There are three ways you can apply for lifeline. They include the following.
- Online: You can apply online at GetInternet.gov. That is the quickest and easiest way to apply.
- By mail: You can download a paper application from the lifeline website and mail it in.
- By phone: You can call 1-855-846-7548 and apply over the phone.
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Documents needed for Lifeline application
Below are some documents you may need to apply for the lifeline.
- Proof of income: This may be a copy of your tax return, pay stubs, or other documentation that shows your income.
- Proof of participation in another program: If you are applying for the Lifeline based on your participation in another program, you must provide proof. That can be a copy of your benefits letter or other documentation.
- Proof of identity: This may be a copy of your driver’s license, state ID card, or government-issued ID.
ACP and Lifeline rules
Participants in Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program are required to follow these guidelines.
- You risk losing your benefit if you don’t maintain it.
- Once a year, one must make corrections.
- Never give someone else your advantages.
- Each household may only have one participant.
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State and local internet assistance programs
Additionally, a lot of states, counties, and towns have their own affordable internet subscriptions or device assistance initiatives. These initiatives are frequently supported by grants or neighborhood collaborations.
For instance:
- For students whose families receive SNAP benefits, several school districts offer free hotspots or data plans.
- Local community centers or libraries can provide free digital literacy workshops or assist locals in signing up for internet deals.
- Internet companies and state utility commissions may collaborate to provide further savings.
To see what’s available in your area:
- Speak with the social services or SNAP office in your area.
- Visit 211.org or give 211 a call to find programs in your area.
Companies that offer free or discounted internet plans
Certain internet service providers give families who receive Medicaid, SNAP, or other government benefits with exclusive low-cost programs. These programs frequently offer free equipment, no long-term contracts, and waive credit checks.
Xfinity Internet Essentials
Discounted internet with speeds up to 100 Mbps is available with Xfinity Internet Essentials.
If you get benefits from SNAP, Medicaid, Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or if you have a kid enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), you might qualify for Xfinity Internet Essentials.
Depending on the speed you select, the price changes:
- Internet Essentials: $14.95 per month for 75 Mbps internet service
- Internet Essentials Plus: $29.95 per month for 100 Mbps internet service
Additional advantages:
- The choice to buy a laptop at a discount
- Availability of free online, print, and in-person instruction
- An inexpensive wireless gateway that provides free in-home Wi-Fi
- Xfinity Wi-Fi Hotspot Access
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Access from AT&T
For qualified homes, Access from AT&T provides affordable internet service. You qualify if you receive SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, Housing Assistance, or TANF assistance, or if your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty threshold.
- For speeds up to 100 Mbps and unlimited monthly data, the basic AT&T Access plan costs $30 per month.
- Additional savings may be possible to qualified households that do not want unlimited monthly data and whose maximum available bandwidth at home is 50 Mbps or less.
Additional advantages:
- Wi-Fi and installation are included, and there are no equipment costs.
- No annual contract and no deposit
Cox Connect2Compete and ConnectAssist
With Cox’s Connect2Compete, families with school-age children who take part in SNAP, the National School Lunch Program, or other assistance programs may be eligible for internet service for as little as $9.95 per month.
- Connect2Compete offers 1.25 TB of data per month with no overage fees and internet speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
- For benefit-receiving individual families, Cox also provides the $30 monthly ConnectAssist Plan.
Spectrum Internet Assist
For $25 per month, Spectrum Internet Assist offers low-income people and families reasonably priced internet at 50 Mbps speeds. Spectrum Internet Advantage offers speeds up to 100 Mbps for an extra $5 a month.
If you or a family member receives SSI or is a participant in the National School Lunch Program, you may qualify for Spectrum Internet Assist.
Additional advantages:
- Available in-home Wi-Fi service, together with a security suite and modem
- No commitments and no data caps
Other ways to get low-cost internet
The correct tools can help the internet more cheap for your family, whether you use it for job applications, homework, or benefit management.
Other pointers for locating inexpensive internet options are as follows:
- Lifeline is one of the programs that need annual recertification. To maintain your discounts, make sure your internet provider has your most recent information.
- You can be eligible for many programs. For instance, you can use an Internet provider discount for your internet and Lifeline for your cell phone.
- Compare prices and determine what is best for your home.
- Ask for assistance at your neighborhood library or SNAP office, or contact 211 or go to 211.org if you’re unsure where to start.
FAQs about Free Internet with EBT for Low-Income Families
1. Can I get free internet with an EBT card?
Yes. Many internet providers offer free or discounted internet services to EBT cardholders through special low-income programs. These offers are designed to help families stay connected for work, school, and healthcare needs.
2. Which providers offer free or discounted internet with EBT?
Top providers that offer EBT-based internet discounts include Xfinity, AT&T, Spectrum, Frontier, and Optimum. Each provider has its own eligibility criteria and benefits, so it’s best to check directly with them.
3. What programs help low-income families get free internet?
Programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) previously helped families access free internet. Although ACP has ended, many ISPs continue offering low-cost internet plans for EBT users and low-income households.
4. What are the eligibility requirements for EBT internet programs?
You generally qualify if you have an active EBT card or receive government assistance such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI. Some programs also consider household income levels.
5. How can I apply for free internet with my EBT card?
To apply, visit your preferred internet provider’s website and select their low-income or EBT internet program. Fill out the online form and upload proof of your EBT participation or other qualifying documents.
6. Is the free internet truly unlimited?
Not always. While some providers offer unlimited plans, others may have data limits or reduced speeds after certain usage thresholds. Always review the plan details before signing up.
7. Can I use my EBT card to pay for internet service?
No. You cannot use EBT funds to pay for internet service. However, your EBT eligibility can qualify you for discounted or free internet programs.
8. What happens if I lose EBT eligibility?
If you lose your EBT benefits, you might no longer qualify for the discounted internet program. You’ll usually be notified before any price changes take effect.
Bottom line
You can qualify for free internet service through Lifeline if you get EBT subsidies. Lifeline offers a monthly discount of up to $9.25. You can apply by mail, phone, or online for either program. If you are accepted into either program, you will receive a free phone and a free internet package.