Affordable internet and phone service
Access to the internet is no longer a luxury — schoolwork, job applications, benefits, banking, and medical appointments all happen online. If cost is the barrier, start with the federal Lifeline program, which helps qualifying households pay for phone or internet service. Eligibility and benefits are set by the federal government and change over time, so check the official Lifeline site (lifelinesupport.org) for current rules and the application process. Some internet providers also offer their own low-cost plans for households that qualify for certain assistance programs; ask providers in your area directly and get details in writing. The USAGov benefits finder can point you to related programs you may qualify for. Never pay a stranger or a store to 'apply for you' — the official applications are free.
Free computer and internet access
You do not need your own computer to get things done. Public libraries offer free computers, internet, and Wi-Fi, and staff who can help with basic questions; many also let you check out devices or hotspots in some locations. Community centers, workforce centers, and some churches and nonprofit organizations also offer free access. If you need a device of your own, ask your library or 211 about device donation or refurbishment programs before buying new — many communities have programs that provide low-cost or free computers to residents. For most everyday tasks — email, forms, video calls, job applications — an older or modest device works fine. Spend your money on reliable internet access and a device that still receives updates, not on the newest model.
Digital navigators and people who can help
Many communities have digital navigators: trained helpers who assist people one-on-one with getting connected — setting up a device, applying for service discounts, learning basic skills, and finding affordable equipment. They are often based at libraries, community organizations, or public agencies. The National Digital Inclusion Alliance works with local coalitions and can help you find resources in your area; 211 is another good starting call. When someone offers to help you get connected, it should be free or clearly priced, and they should never need your passwords or payment card to 'set up' a free program. You can also learn at your own pace through DigitalLearn's free lessons, and practice on library computers.
What to ask when choosing service
When comparing internet or phone plans, ask five questions: What is the total monthly price after any introductory period ends? Is there a contract, and what does it cost to leave? Are there equipment rental or installation fees? What speeds do I actually need (video calls need more than email; ask what the plan supports)? And what happens if the price increases mid-plan? Get the answers in writing before signing up, and keep a copy. If service does not work as promised, you have rights — the FCC handles complaints about phone and internet providers, and the FTC handles deceptive advertising. Affordable access is the foundation for everything else in this section: digital skills, online job searching, banking apps, and community participation all start with being connected.
A real-world example
Hypothetical example: a household with two school-age children shares a parent's phone for internet. The parent calls 211, which connects them with a local digital navigator based at the library. The navigator helps them check whether they qualify for the federal Lifeline discount, applies for a low-cost provider plan, and arranges a refurbished laptop from a local device program — all at no cost to apply. The library's free Wi-Fi serves as backup while the new service is installed. Total spent: nothing but a few hours of appointments. The household now has reliable internet for schoolwork and job searching, and the parent has signed up for the library's free digital basics class.
Steps to take
- Check whether your household qualifies for the federal Lifeline program at the official site.
- Ask local internet providers about low-cost plans and get details in writing.
- Find your nearest public library and ask about free computers, Wi-Fi, and device programs.
- Call 211 or check the National Digital Inclusion Alliance site for a digital navigator near you.
- Write down the five questions to ask any provider before signing a plan.
- Set up a backup plan for internet access while you wait for installation.
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Official provider guides
These independent provider guides offer additional learning resources. Check current details directly with the provider; sharing a link does not imply an official affiliation with P.E.A.C.E.
- Lifeline Support (FCC) (opens in a new tab)
The federal Lifeline program helps qualifying households pay for phone or internet service. Check current eligibility rules on the official site.
- National Digital Inclusion Alliance (opens in a new tab)
A nonprofit network working on affordable internet and digital skills. Its site can help you find local digital inclusion resources and coalitions.
- USAGov: Find government benefits (opens in a new tab)
The official federal gateway to benefits programs, including help with internet and phone service costs, food, and more.
- USAGov: Find libraries and archives (opens in a new tab)
Find a public library near you. Libraries offer free computers, internet, and often digital skills classes.