How to Maximize Military Discounts for TV and Internet

Military families know all too well the pain of managing those frequent relocations that come with active-duty military life. While some aspects will remain challenging regardless of the situation, there are some parts that can be made much easier: like managing your home Internet and TV services.

Thanks to various military discounts, low-income options, and special offers, it’s easier to save money on Internet and TV than ever before. Whether you’re an active military member, veteran, or a military family member, you deserve the best services at the best prices. Learn more about the monthly discounts available to service members below.

Introduction to Military Discounts on Internet and TV Services

Many Internet service providers (ISPs) and TV service companies offer monthly discounts on TV or Internet services to qualifying active-duty military, veterans, and their families. These discounts acknowledge the sacrifices made by military personnel while aiming to provide much more affordable access to essential communication services.

Top Internet and TV Service Providers with Military Offers

There are plenty of military discounts for home Internet and TV available — you just have to know where to look for them. Some of the most popular discounts offered to members of the armed services include but aren’t limited to:

• Comcast Xfinity: Active military members and veterans who complete our verification process can receive a $50 Visa Prepaid card.
• Spectrum: Eligible customers can receive 300 Mbps of Internet service for $49.99/month for 12 months with auto pay. Those customers can also receive 65+ TV channels for just $24.99/month.
• GCI: Military members receive up to 20% off TV or Internet service.
• Optimum: Eligible customers can receive up to 50 Mbps of Internet service for only $14.99/month.
• Hargray: Active military members receive a $5 monthly discount on Internet and TV services.

These providers aren’t just known for lightning fast Internet, mobile phone plans, and excellent TV options — they’re also heavily invested in the success of the U.S. military and offer discounts as a way to say “Thank You.”

Streaming Services That Offer Military Discounts

Whether you want to stream NFL games or watch your favorite movie on demand, there are plenty of streaming apps that offer solid military discounts. Some of the most popular include:

• Hulu
• DirecTV Stream
• Paramount+
• Disney+
• Discovery+

Amazon Prime Video doesn’t offer any specific discounts to service members in America. However, they do offer up to 33% off for the annual Prime membership plans on Veteran’s Day.

Apple TV also doesn’t offer discounts for service members, but you may qualify for a 10% discount on other Apple products and accessories once you’ve verified your veteran or active military status.

Additional Benefits and Perks for Military Subscribers

Those in the military or first responders may qualify for programs and perks that go beyond traditional offerings, like:

• Contract Flexibility: Individuals in the service are always on the move, which is why many major providers offer flexible contracts or make it easier to change/pause plans for deployed personnel.
• Exclusive Deals: Depending on the ISP, this could include special bundles or premium channel access at reduced rates for active duty and even retired military subscribers.

Navigating the Signup Process with Military Discounts

Every program is different and has its own sign-up process. Generally, depending on the provider and discount offer, you should take into account the following steps before using your discount.

1. Verify Eligibility: Most providers require you to show proof of your military status with an official ID, ID.me verification, or documentation before you can receive a discount on your monthly payments.
2. Understand the Terms: Be sure that you’re clear about contract lengths, what the discount covers, and any additional fees you might be responsible for.
3. Inquire About Additional Offers: Ask about any current promotions that you can combine with the military discount. Combining offers isn’t always possible, but it can provide massive additional discounts if allowed.

Updating Your Plan When You Move or Get Deployed

Most service providers offer easy plan updates, pauses, or transfers for Air Force, Army, Marine, Coast Guard, etc. forces who move. If you’re unsure about the best steps to take, contact the customer service department of your ISP well in advance to arrange for service changes or relocation of your services.

Online Resources and Communities for Military Families Seeking Internet and TV Discounts

Military families can explore various government and non-government programs for financial assistance and special discounts:

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): This federal program provides up to $30 per month towards a household’s Internet bill, with even more support (up to $75 per month) for those living in Tribal lands or high-cost areas. Eligibility includes participation in programs like Lifeline, SNAP, or Medicaid, and meeting certain income criteria based on the federal poverty guidelines. It is important to note that this program will no longer accept applications and enrollments after February 7, 2024, and may be discontinued in April 2024. Visit the FCC website for the latest information.
• The Lifeline Program: Offered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), this program provides discounts of up to $9.25 per month to low-income consumers for Internet and phone service.
• Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB): This program is no longer in operation. However, those who enrolled at the end of 2021 received a 60-day transition period for continued benefits. Keep your eyes open for similar programs in the future.

Non-government Programs

Phone, Internet, and TV discount programs aren’t just offered by the government. Depending on where you live and your circumstances, you may qualify for other types of programs, like:

• Veterans Advantage: One of the most popular and well-known public benefit corporations that offers discounts to those who are active duty, retired military, National Guard, reservists, and their families. It does require a paid subscription (30-day free trial available), but in many cases, the discounts far outweigh the costs.
• Other Notable Discount Programs: Nonprofit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide various programs for affordable Internet access. These programs cater to different needs (including some that intersect with military discounts) and eligibility criteria.

In addition, companies like Apple, Samsung, Boost Mobile, Motorola, and more offer excellent discounts for current members of the military and veterans.

Get Started With SmartMove Today

Whether you’re currently in the military or a veteran, SmartMove is here to help you find the fastest, most reliable, and affordable Internet, phone, and TV bundles and packages. Get connected to explore the services available in your area today.