If you have SNAP benefits (food stamps), you could be getting home internet for $0 or $10 a month — and most people don’t know it.
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in April 2024, but major internet providers stepped in with their own low-income plans. In 2026, Cox, Spectrum, AT&T, Xfinity, Frontier, and others still offer free or near-free high-speed internet specifically for SNAP households.
This guide covers every current option — who qualifies, how to apply, and what speed you can expect.
2026 Free Internet Plans for SNAP Recipients — Quick Overview
| Provider | Monthly Cost | Speed | Available In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cox Connect2Compete | $0 | 100 Mbps | 19 states |
| Spectrum Internet Assist | $0 | 30–100 Mbps | 41 states |
| Xfinity Internet Essentials | $0 or $9.95 | 75–100 Mbps | 39 states |
| AT&T Access | $0 | 100 Mbps | 21 states |
| Optimum Advantage Internet | $0 | 50–100 Mbps | NY, NJ, CT |
| Frontier Internet Basics | $0 | 50 Mbps | 25 states |
| Verizon Forward | $0 | 100–300 Mbps | Select states |
| Mediacom Connect2Compete | $9.95 | 100 Mbps | 22 states |
| Astound Powered by RCN | $9.95 | 100 Mbps | Select markets |
| State programs | $0–$10 | Varies | Varies |
Most providers require proof of active SNAP participation — a SNAP award letter or EBT card image is usually enough.
Who Qualifies
To get a $0 or $10/month internet plan with SNAP, you generally need to:
- Be an active SNAP recipient — your benefits must currently be active
- Live in the provider’s service area — check your ZIP code on their website
- Not have used the same plan recently — most require a 90-day gap since last cancellation
- Provide proof — your SNAP award letter, EBT card photo (with personal info covered), or case number
Many plans also accept Medicaid, SSI, free/reduced school lunch, and federal housing assistance — but SNAP is the most universally accepted qualifier.
Every Provider Still Offering Free Internet for SNAP in 2026
1. Cox Connect2Compete — $0/Month
Speed: 100 Mbps | States: AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, IA, KS, LA, MA, NE, NM, NC, OK, RI, SC, TN, VA, WA, WY
Cox offers free 100 Mbps internet to households with K–12 students or adults in GED programs who receive SNAP. No contract, no credit check, unlimited data. Apply at cox.com/connect2compete or call 1-855-220-6292.
2. Spectrum Internet Assist — $0/Month
Speed: 30–100 Mbps | States: 41 states
Spectrum’s low-income plan is one of the most widely available in the country. SNAP households qualify automatically. No contract, unlimited data. Apply at spectrum.com/assist or call 1-844-488-8395.
3. Xfinity Internet Essentials — $0 or $9.95/Month
Speed: 75–100 Mbps | States: 39 states
Xfinity offers Internet Essentials free to qualifying households, including SNAP recipients. It includes security software and unlimited data. Apply at xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/internet-essentials or call 1-855-846-8376.
4. AT&T Access — $0/Month
Speed: 100 Mbps | States: 21 states
AT&T Access provides free high-speed internet to households on SNAP and other qualifying programs. No contract required. Apply at att.com/access or call 1-855-220-5210.
5. Optimum Advantage Internet — $0/Month
Speed: 50–100 Mbps | States: NY, NJ, CT
Optimum’s low-income program is available across its Tri-State service area. SNAP is a qualifying program. Apply at optimum.com/advantage or call 1-866-200-2278.
6. Frontier Internet Basics — $0/Month
Speed: 50 Mbps | States: 25 states
Frontier offers free DSL or fiber internet to SNAP households through its Internet Basics program. Unlimited data, no contract. Apply at frontier.com/internet-basics or call 1-855-559-5707.
7. Verizon Forward — $0/Month
Speed: 100–300 Mbps (fiber areas) | States: Select states
Verizon Forward offers free fiber internet to income-qualifying households including SNAP recipients. Available where Fios or 5G Home Internet is offered. Apply at verizon.com/forward or call 1-800-837-4966.
8. Mediacom Connect2Compete — $9.95/Month
Speed: 100 Mbps | States: 22 states (primarily Midwest and South)
Mediacom’s plan is available to households with school-age children on SNAP. At $9.95/month with unlimited data and no contract, it’s one of the most affordable paid options. Apply at mediacomcable.com/connect2compete or call 1-855-633-4226.
9. Astound Powered by RCN — $9.95/Month
Speed: 100 Mbps | Markets: CA, IL, MA, NY, PA, WA, DC
Astound offers a low-income internet plan at $9.95/month for SNAP households in its service footprint. Apply at astound.com/low-income or call 1-800-427-8686.
10. State and Regional Programs
Many states offer their own additional low-cost internet options through partnerships with local providers:
- New York — $15/month plans via Empire State Broadband Program
- California — $10/month plans available in select counties
- Michigan — $10/month via Connect Michigan
- Ohio — $10/month through several regional providers
Search for “[your state] low income internet program” or call 211 to find local options in your area.
How to Apply — Step by Step
Step 1: Confirm your SNAP is active. Log into your state’s benefits portal or call your SNAP office to confirm your benefits are current. If you’re not sure whether you qualify for SNAP, you can check your eligibility and estimated benefit amount before applying.
Step 2: Check provider availability. Go to the provider’s low-income page (links above) and enter your ZIP code. Not every plan is available at every address.
Step 3: Gather your documents. You’ll need your current SNAP award letter or an EBT card photo (cover your card number before taking the photo). A government-issued ID and proof of address are also commonly required.
Step 4: Apply online or by phone. Most providers process applications instantly online. You can also apply by phone using the numbers listed above. Some may allow mail or fax applications.
Step 5: Schedule installation or receive your equipment. Most plans ship a self-install kit within 3–7 days. Some providers offer free professional installation if you prefer.
Stretch Your Benefits Further
Once you have low-cost internet, a few more programs can help reduce other costs:
- Discounted Amazon Prime — SNAP recipients qualify for Prime at $6.99/month (vs. $14.99 standard). This gives you free shipping, Prime Video, and Prime Music. See the full list of EBT discounts available to SNAP recipients including retailer offers, entertainment savings, and more.
- Free Wi-Fi access — Most public libraries offer free Wi-Fi if you need internet access while waiting for installation.
- Lifeline program — A separate federal program offering discounted phone service. SNAP automatically qualifies you. You can also explore options for free phones with EBT through Lifeline-connected carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need SNAP to get free internet?
SNAP is the most widely accepted qualifier, but many providers also accept Medicaid, SSI, free/reduced school lunch, or federal housing assistance. If you’re on any of these programs, you may qualify even without SNAP. Check the specific provider’s eligible programs list.
Is the internet really free — are there hidden fees?
Plans from Cox, Spectrum, AT&T, Frontier, and Verizon are $0/month with no hidden service fees. Mediacom and Astound charge $9.95/month. Optional fees can apply for professional installation or equipment rental if you don’t have your own modem — ask the provider before applying.
What internet speeds will I get?
Most plans deliver 50–100 Mbps download speeds — enough for streaming HD video, video calls, and school assignments. Verizon Forward’s fiber option reaches 100–300 Mbps in eligible areas.
Is there a contract or credit check?
No contract and no credit check. These programs are designed specifically for low-income households and remove the typical barriers to getting connected.
What if my provider doesn’t offer a low-income plan?
Call 211 to reach your local United Way, which can connect you with state and community broadband programs. Many rural areas have programs funded through state broadband offices that don’t appear on national provider websites.
How long can I keep the discount?
As long as your SNAP benefits remain active and the provider continues its program. Most require annual re-verification. You’ll receive a notice when it’s time to recertify. If you need to renew your SNAP benefits, make sure to do so before they lapse to avoid losing your internet discount at the same time.
Can I switch from my current plan to a low-income plan?
Yes — if your current provider offers a low-income plan, you can switch to it. Most require a 90-day gap only if you previously cancelled a low-income plan with that provider. Contact the provider’s low-income line directly rather than general customer service.
What if I’m on Medicaid but not SNAP?
Many providers accept Medicaid as a standalone qualifier. Apply using your Medicaid case number or award letter instead. If you think you might also qualify for SNAP, it’s worth checking — SNAP can unlock even more provider options and additional benefits like free laptops for EBT holders.
Last updated: 2026. Provider availability and program terms change — verify current offers directly with each provider before applying.