Jonah JacobsThe coronavirus caused many of us to change our everyday lives. Offices were closed, and employees were told to work from home. And schools shuttered, forcing students to study online.
What do these shifts require for both you and your children to be successful? Internet service. But that can be difficult to afford if you’re on a tight budget, especially in these challenging times.
To get affordable home Internet, so you don’t skip a beat, try one of the following providers:
Access from AT&T
Eligible households can enjoy low-cost Internet from AT&T’s Access program. If you qualify, you could get service for less than $10 per month with speeds up to 25Mbps.
This service includes free installation, so you can get your WiFi set up by a professional. No deposit is required either, nor do you have to sign an annual contract.
Due to the coronavirus, AT&T has made it easier to qualify for Access. They’ve also waived home Internet data overage fees since families will need to be online more often.
Internet Essentials from Comcast
What does it take to get Internet from Comcast for just $9.95 per month plus tax? Being eligible for some other form of public assistance, such as SSI, SNAP, housing assistance, Medicaid, or the National School Lunch Program.
Internet Essentials can give you affordable Internet with no credit check or long-term contract. And due to the coronavirus, Comcast has decided to provide new customers two free months of service.
Mediacom Connect 2 Compete
Here’s cheap Internet made with students in mind. To get discounted Internet from Mediacom, your child will need to qualify for free or reduced lunches via the National School Lunch Program. As with other offers in this list, Connect 2 Compete can get you connected for a low price of just $9.95 per month plus tax.
Besides being affordable, Mediacom’s Internet also comes with no strings attached. You won’t have to worry about installation fees, equipment rental fees, a contract, or a deposit.
Verizon Lifeline
The Lifeline Discount Program from Verizon is a bit pricier than others on this list. However, it may suit you better if you or your children need super-high Internet speeds that come via Verizon’s fiber-optic network.
With Lifeline, you can save $20 per month on fiber-optic Internet. This can get you speeds of 200Mbps for $19.99 per month, plus taxes and equipment charges.
Is paying double for this service worth it? That depends. But if your family is using the Internet for entertainment in addition to studying and working, Lifeline may be your best bet.
Contact Your Existing Provider
If you already have Internet, but would like to pay less for service, contact your existing provider.
Like other industries, many Internet providers have made changes in response to the pandemic. Explain your situation and need for a more affordable service, and they may offer a discount to make this now necessary expense more manageable.
