How does Affordable Broadband Act work?

The Affordable Broadband Act is a permanent law guaranteeing discounted internet for eligible households, unlike the Affordable Connectivity Program which was a temporary COVID-19 pandemic benefit. The law requires large internet providers to offer 25 Mbps (or more) plans for no more than $15 per month. Internet providers can also comply with the law by offering 200 Mbps (or more) plans for no more than $20 per month. These reduced-cost plans already include taxes and equipment fees, so you don’t pay more. Plans, speeds, and providers depend on your location. You don’t have to buy any other services (sometimes called “bundles”) with the plan. Mobile and dial-up services aren’t included.

Am I eligible for Affordable Broadband Act?

You may qualify for low-cost home internet if someone in your household receives any of the following benefits: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Medicaid Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption Disability Rent Increase Exemption Affordability benefit from a utility, such as the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Free or reduced-priced lunch through the National School Lunch Program Not enrolled in any qualifying programs? You may still qualify based on household income. Contact your internet provider for income limits.

Affordable Broadband Act

How it works

The Affordable Broadband Act makes it easier for people who receive benefits like SNAP or Medicaid to get discounted internet service at home.

The Affordable Broadband Act is a permanent law guaranteeing discounted internet for eligible households, unlike the Affordable Connectivity Program which was a temporary COVID-19 pandemic benefit.
The law requires large internet providers to offer 25 Mbps (or more) plans for no more than $15 per month. Internet providers can also comply with the law by offering 200 Mbps (or more) plans for no more than $20 per month.
These reduced-cost plans already include taxes and equipment fees, so you don’t pay more.
Plans, speeds, and providers depend on your location.
You don’t have to buy any other services (sometimes called “bundles”) with the plan.
Mobile and dial-up services aren’t included.

Eligibility requirements

You may qualify for low-cost home internet if someone in your household receives any of the following benefits:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Medicaid
Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption
Disability Rent Increase Exemption
Affordability benefit from a utility, such as the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Free or reduced-priced lunch through the National School Lunch Program

Not enrolled in any qualifying programs? You may still qualify based on household income. Contact your internet provider for income limits.

Immigration status requirements

These plans don’t count as “public charges” and won’t affect your immigration status.

Required documents

Each internet service provider (ISP) has its own requirements. Contact your ISP to learn more.

How to apply

Find an internet service provider (ISP) that serves your address.

Look for terms like “low cost,” “reduced cost,” or “Affordable Broadband Act” on provider websites. Popular programs include Spectrum Internet Assist, Optimum Advantage, and Verizon Forward.

Verify your eligibility directly through the ISP to apply.

Find your provider

Get help

Call 311 for more information about low cost internet.

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Last Updated March 16, 2026

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