It is almost impossible to complete school, look for a job, access public benefits or obtain healthcare without internet access. However, for many families, access to reliable internet is not affordable. To begin to address this issue, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently launched the Affordable Connectivity Program.
The ACP provides a discount of up to $30/month (up to $75/month for households on qualifying Tribal lands) toward internet service for any household with an individual who receives SSI, and Social Security will not count ACP assistance as income or a resource for eligibility purposes. Households that participate in SNAP (supplemental nutrition programs), Medicaid or Federal Public Housing Assistance, or whose income is less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may also be eligible for the discount. And eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 toward the purchase of a computer or tablet, if they contribute between $10 and $50 of their own funds toward the purchase.
The ACP includes additional ways to qualify for assistance as well. Go to http://www.fcc.gov/acp to apply, or for more information.