There are many ways to get discounts on home internet service, even now that the federal Affordable Connectivity Program has ended.
The best starting point is to contact your internet service provider. They can tell you the terms, conditions, and cost of your current plan. If you were part of the Affordable Connectivity Program that ended in April, they can tell you when the last payment was applied.
Households that were part of the Affordable Connectivity Program can decide to switch to another provider or end their internet service without paying a fee.
Tips for low-cost internet service
- Call your current provider and ask what low-cost plans they offer. Compare the speeds to what the service you’re receiving now. If you decide to stay with them, ask what you need to do to make sure you are on the correct plan.
If you’re not satisfied with the options, contact other providers. You can find a list by entering your zipcode in this online Offer Locator Tool.
- Be sure to ask about terms and conditions of the new plan, including one-time setup fees, device rentals, and price increases over time.
- Other important questions include: Is there a credit check? When you end your internet service, send a confirmation in writing, either by postal mail or email. (Call the company to get the address if it’s not on your billing statement.)
- Ask the company to send you a confirmation in writing as well. Have them include the last billing date of your service.
- What documentation does the company need (such as a Social Security Number)?
- Is there an early termination fee if you end service before the contract period?
If you have questions, HUD’s ConnectHomeUSA team is available to assist by sending an email message to ConnectHome@hud.gov.
If you were part of the Affordable Connectivity Program and you notice a fee for changing or ending internet service, you can file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission by calling 888-225-5322.