Affordable Internet Options for Military Families After the End of the ACP

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided a monthly discount of $30 to $75 on internet services to low-income households, including military families, has come to an end. However, there are still several options available to military families to access affordable internet. In this article, we will explore these options and provide guidance on how to navigate the various discounts and programs available.

The Importance of Affordable Internet for Military Families

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that video-based telehealth visits account for nearly 12% of outpatient care among veterans, a 2,300% jump from pre-pandemic levels. This highlights the importance of reliable and affordable internet access for military families. However, according to a report by the Federal Communications Commission, the monthly cost of an internet subscription is a key barrier to broadband adoption for veterans.

Discounts from Internet Providers

Several internet providers offer discounts for military families. These discounts can be a great way to access affordable internet, and can be used in conjunction with other programs to maximize savings.

• Cox: Cox offers a discount plan called ConnectAssist, which provides speeds up to 100Mbps for $30 a month, a $20 discount from their standard rate. This plan is available to anyone who receives a VA Pension and Survivors benefit.
• Rise Broadband: Rise Broadband offers a 10% discount on monthly internet services for active and retired military members. This discount can be applied to plans ranging from $25 to $100 monthly.
• Starlink: While Starlink does not offer a direct military discount, Home Depot offers a 10% discount on the Starlink satellite dish, which can be used to access Starlink’s internet services.
• Verizon Fios: Verizon Fios offers a military discount on their internet plans, with savings of $5 to $15 per month depending on the plan.
• Xfinity: Xfinity offers a variety of discounts for military members, including a $180 virtual prepaid card, a subscription to Peacock Premium, and a free Xfinity Mobile cellphone line for a year.

Other Resources for Affordable Internet

In addition to the discounts offered by internet providers, there are several other resources available to help military families access affordable internet.

• Lifeline: Lifeline is a government program that provides a monthly discount of $9.25 on home internet or cellphone plans. While the program has stricter income requirements than the ACP, it can still be a valuable resource for military families.
• Low-income internet options: There are several low-income internet options available, including programs offered by non-profits and local governments. These programs can provide affordable internet access to military families who may not be eligible for other discounts.

Conclusion

While the end of the ACP may have left some military families without access to affordable internet, there are still several options available. By taking advantage of discounts from internet providers and other resources, military families can access reliable and affordable internet. We hope this article has provided valuable guidance on navigating these options and finding the best fit for your family’s needs.

Image: A military family using the internet

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Image: A person using a laptop