As part of Digital Inclusion Month, this week we are raising awareness on how to qualify for free or reduced-cost home internet service. The San José Public Library is continuing to celebrate digital inclusion throughout October. Check out our previous blogs on: building connected communities and ways to learn and develop digital skills.
Do You Qualify for Help on Internet Costs?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program to assist low-income households in paying for home internet services. Households who qualify for the ACP can get $30 per month off their internet service bill. Many internet providers also offer low-cost plans that are $30 or less, which the ACP benefit then completely covers!
There are many ways of qualifying, including:
-
Income & Household Size: Based on income and household size – set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, for 2023; Household Size and Max Income is:
- 1 - $29,160
- 2 - $39,440
- 3 - $49,720
- 4 - $60,000
- 5 - $70,280
- 6 - $80,560
- Assistance Programs: Enrollment in another assistance program, such as: SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, or LifeLine
- Lunch Program: A dependent child who qualifies for the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program
- Complete List: Review a complete list on the ACP website.
How to Sign-up for the ACP Benefit
You can apply directly for the ACP at GetInternet.gov. To apply you will need:
- Your home address
- An email address
- An official form of identification
- Proof of qualification
For more information on applying, you can view our Digital Skill Building lesson on the ACP, or you can connect with local community-based organizations that can help you with the ACP application process by visiting the City of San Jose's Affordable Connectivity Program page.
ACP Sign-up Events
Please join us on October 19, from 2–7 PM, at Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library where we will host an ACP enrollment event. Keep an eye out for more ACP enrollment events in the month of October.
Support the Future of the ACP Program
In an increasingly digital world, consistent internet access is no longer a desire, but a need. Millions of individuals and families don’t have high-speed internet service, leading to a digital divide that disproportionately impacts low-income families and other marginalized people.
The ACP benefit program is changing lives throughout California and across the country. Whether you personally qualify or not, you can support the future of this pivotal program by calling your U.S. Senator or Representative and encouraging them to support the ACP now and in the future.
You can also spread the word to others in your community who may be eligible for free or reduced cost internet service by:
- Forwarding the link to this blog or to GetInternet.gov
- Printing and posting a flyer in an approved community space
- Posting on social media
- Talking to coworkers, friends, family, and other community members and encouraging them to see if they qualify
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