If you receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps), you may qualify for free or heavily discounted home internet in 2026. The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) officially ended on April 20, 2024, after funding ran out, but many major internet providers continue to offer $10/month or free high-speed plans specifically for SNAP households through replacement programs, state initiatives, or their own low-income offerings.
This complete guide explains every current option in 2026, who qualifies, which providers still offer $10/month internet for SNAP recipients, how to apply, and what speeds you can expect.
Short Answer – Key Options in 2026
| Program/Provider | Monthly Cost for SNAP Households | Speed | Availability | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cox Connect2Compete | $0 (free) | 100 Mbps | 19 states | Apply via Cox website |
| Spectrum Internet Assist | $0 (free) | 30–100 Mbps | 41 states | Spectrum.com/assist |
| Xfinity Internet Essentials | $0 (free) or $9.95 | 75–100 Mbps | 39 states | xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/internet-essentials |
| AT&T Access | $0 (free) | 100 Mbps | 21 states | att.com/access |
| Optimum Advantage Internet | $0 (free) | 50–100 Mbps | NY, NJ, CT | optimum.com/advantage |
| Mediacom Connect2Compete | $9.95 | 100 Mbps | 22 states | mediacomcable.com/connect2compete |
| Astound Powered by RCN | $9.95 | 100 Mbps | Select markets | astound.com/low-income |
| Frontier Internet Basics | $0 (free) | 50 Mbps | 25 states | frontier.com/internet-basics |
| Verizon Forward | $0 (free) | 100–300 Mbps | Select states | verizon.com/forward |
| State-Specific Plans | $0–$10 | Varies | Varies | Contact state broadband office |
Most providers require active SNAP participation and proof (SNAP award letter or EBT card image). Apply directly through the provider’s website or call the number listed.
Why Internet Providers Offer $0–$10 Plans for SNAP Recipients
After the federal ACP ended in 2024, internet companies stepped in with their own low-income programs to:
- Retain customers during economic hardship
- Meet state broadband expansion mandates
- Comply with FCC universal service goals
- Attract new subscribers in underserved areas
These plans are not funded by the federal government anymore — they are voluntary company initiatives or state-supported programs. That’s why availability varies by provider and ZIP code.
Eligibility Requirements for Most Plans
To qualify for $0–$10/month internet with SNAP:
- You or someone in your household must currently receive SNAP (food stamps).
- You must live in the provider’s service area (check ZIP code on their website).
- You cannot have had the same provider’s low-income plan in the past 90 days (some have waiting periods).
- Provide proof: SNAP award letter, EBT card photo (with personal info redacted), or case number.
Some plans also accept other programs (Medicaid, SSI, free/reduced school lunch, federal housing assistance), but SNAP is the most widely accepted qualifier.
Top Providers Still Offering Free Internet for SNAP in 2026
1. Cox Connect2Compete – $0/month
- Speed: 100 Mbps download
- Availability: 19 states (AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, IA, KS, LA, MA, NE, NM, NC, OK, RI, SC, TN, VA, WA, WY)
- Includes unlimited data, no contract, no credit check
- Apply: cox.com/connect2compete or call 1-855-220-6292
2. Spectrum Internet Assist – $0/month
- Speed: 30–100 Mbps (varies by area)
- Availability: 41 states
- Unlimited data, no contract
- Apply: spectrum.com/assist or call 1-844-488-8395
3. Xfinity Internet Essentials – $0 or $9.95/month
- Speed: 75–100 Mbps
- Availability: 39 states
- Unlimited data, no contract, includes security software
- Apply: xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/internet-essentials or call 1-855-8-INTERNET
4. AT&T Access – $0/month
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Availability: 21 states
- Unlimited data, no contract
- Apply: att.com/access or call 1-855-220-5210
5. Optimum Advantage Internet – $0/month
- Speed: 50–100 Mbps
- Availability: NY, NJ, CT
- Unlimited data
- Apply: optimum.com/advantage or call 1-866-200-2278
6. Mediacom Connect2Compete – $9.95/month
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Availability: 22 states
- Unlimited data
- Apply: mediacomcable.com/connect2compete or call 1-855-633-4226
7. Astound Powered by RCN – $9.95/month
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Availability: Select markets (CA, IL, MA, NY, PA, WA, DC)
- Apply: astound.com/low-income or call 1-800-427-8686
8. Frontier Internet Basics – $0/month
- Speed: 50 Mbps
- Availability: 25 states
- Unlimited data
- Apply: frontier.com/internet-basics or call 1-855-559-5707
9. Verizon Forward – $0/month
- Speed: 100–300 Mbps (fiber areas)
- Availability: Select states
- Apply: verizon.com/forward or call 1-800-VERIZON
10. State-Specific & Regional Plans
Many states offer additional low-cost internet through partnerships with local providers:
- New York – $15/month plans via Empire State Broadband Program
- California – $10/month plans in some counties
- Michigan – $10/month via Connect Michigan
- Ohio – $10/month through several providers
Search “[your state] low income internet program” or call 211 for local options.
How to Apply for Free Internet with Food Stamps
- Confirm SNAP Status
Make sure your SNAP benefits are active. Use your state’s portal or call your SNAP office. - Check Provider Availability
Visit the provider’s low-income page and enter your ZIP code (links above). - Gather Documents
- Current SNAP award letter or EBT card photo (redact personal info)
- Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
- Apply Online or by Phone
Most providers allow online applications with instant approval. Upload proof or mail/fax if needed. - Installation & Activation
- Many plans are self-install (modem/router mailed)
- Some offer free professional installation
- Activation usually within 3–7 days
- Save Money
- Combine with discounted Prime ($6.99/month for SNAP users)
- Use free Wi-Fi hotspots at libraries if needed
Common FAQs
Do I need to be on SNAP to get $10 internet?
SNAP is the most widely accepted qualifier, but many providers also accept Medicaid, SSI, free/reduced school lunch, federal housing assistance, or Veterans pension.
Is the internet really free with SNAP?
Many providers offer $0/month plans (Cox, Spectrum, AT&T, Optimum, Frontier, Verizon). Others charge $9.95 (Mediacom, Astound). No hidden fees for the service itself — only optional delivery/install fees.
What speeds can I expect?
Most plans offer 50–100 Mbps download (enough for streaming, video calls, homework). Fiber areas may reach 300 Mbps–1 Gbps.
Is there a contract or credit check?
No contract and usually no credit check — these are low-income programs designed to be accessible.
What if I already have internet service?
You can switch to the low-income plan with the same provider (if available) or apply with a new provider in your area.
Can I get free internet if I’m on Medicaid but not SNAP?
Yes — many providers accept Medicaid as a qualifier even if you don’t have SNAP.
How long do I keep the discount?
As long as you remain eligible (on SNAP or another qualifying program) and the provider continues the program. Re-verify annually or when requested.
What if my provider doesn’t offer a low-income plan?
Check state-specific programs or dial 211 for local broadband assistance options.
For SNAP eligibility or application help, visit snapeligibilitycalculator.com or call your state SNAP hotline.