Best Internet Discount Alternatives for Military Families Now That the ACP Has Ended

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provided significant relief to military families by offering discounts on Internet services, ensuring that Americans had access to reliable and affordable Internet. However, with the ACP benefit coming to an end, many families – including military families – may be left searching for new ways to keep home Internet costs manageable. SmartMove is dedicated to helping military families stay connected, so we’ve gathered a list of other discount alternatives offered by SmartMove partners to get you started.

Why and When Did the ACP End?

The ACP, a government-funded initiative, was designed to assist low-income households with their Internet bills. The ACP was a $14.2 billion program that launched in December 2021 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but after two-and-a-half years of offering discounted Internet service to eligible consumers, the funding Congress initially made available for the ACP has since run out. The program has not received any additional funding from Congress and therefore ended on April 30, 2024. This has left 23 million households, including many military families, looking for new ways to maintain affordable Internet access.

Understanding the Unique Challenges for Military Families

Military families face unique challenges that make reliable and affordable Internet access essential. Frequent relocations mean constantly adjusting to new service providers and potentially higher costs. Deployments can strain communication, making a reliable broadband connection crucial for staying in touch with loved ones. Additionally, military families often have children who need WiFi for online learning and educational purposes, further emphasizing the need for dependable and affordable high-speed Internet.

Alternative Internet Discount Programs and Options

Several ACP alternatives are available that can help military families maintain low-cost Internet. These options include provider-specific military discounts, government and community-based assistance programs, low-cost plans, educational institution-based programs, and charitable programs.

Provider-Specific Military Discounts

Some Internet service providers (ISPs) recognize the unique needs of military families and offer special discounts:

• Xfinity: Offers a suite of military discounts. Military personnel will receive Xfinity Rewards Diamond status, which includes a gift card and other perks like free Peacock Premium.
• Spectrum: Provides military discounts and flexible plans tailored for military families.
• Optimum: Offers discounts for veterans.

Other providers that may offer military discounts include: Cox, Mediacom, Sparklight, GCI, Fidelity Communications, Hargray, Armstrong, MCTV, and more.

Government and Community-Based Assistance Programs

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program is a federal initiative that offers discounts on phone and Internet services for eligible households, including military families. This program helps reduce the monthly cost of essential communication services, such as Internet and cell phone plans.

The benefit is available for all states, and you can fill out an application using the National Verifier site. Residents of California (except people applying only for broadband benefits), Oregon, and Texas applicants must use their state’s designated website to apply for Lifeline.

Examples of major Internet service providers that participate in Lifeline include:

• Cox Communications: Offers discounted Internet or phone service (must pick one) to eligible customers through the Lifeline Program.
• Xtream (Mediacom): Those who qualify for benefits under the Lifeline Program, as well as other government assistance programs, are eligible for Xtream Connect, a new type of affordable Internet plan.
• Fidelity: If you are in a qualifying household, you may be able to reduce your bill by getting a Lifeline benefit on your home phone or Internet service through Fidelity.
• Armstrong: Participates in government assistance programs such as Lifeline.

Check out a more comprehensive list of ISPs that participate in Lifeline and other programs here.

State and Local Programs

Many states and local governments offer assistance programs aimed at providing affordable Internet to residents in need. These programs vary by location but can offer significant discounts or even free Internet services to qualifying households.

Low-Cost Plans

Several ISPs provide low-cost Internet plans designed for low-income households and families with K-12 children, which can be beneficial for military families:

• Xfinity Internet Essentials: This program offers Internet service as low as $9.95 per month to eligible households, including military families, with no contract and affordable monthly rates.
• Cox Connect2Compete: Discounted Internet designed for households with at least one K-12 student and who participate in one or more qualifying government assistance programs.
• Optimum Advantage Internet: Plans as low as $14.99 per month for up to 50 Mbps. Optimum is committed to bridging the digital divide by providing affordable Internet service to those who need it most.

Educational and Institution-Based Programs

School and University Programs

Some educational institutions offer discounts or free Internet access to students, including those from military families. These programs aim to ensure that all students have the necessary resources for their education.

Library and Community Center Resources

Local libraries and community centers often provide free or discounted Internet access. Military families can take advantage of these resources to access the Internet without incurring high costs.

Charitable Programs

Nonprofit Organizations

Several nonprofits focus on providing affordable or free Internet services to military families. Organizations such as Operation Homefront and Soldiers' Angels offer various forms of support, including assistance with Internet access.

How to Choose the Best Alternative

Selecting the best ACP alternative for affordable Internet involves several considerations:

• Evaluate Your Needs and Options: Assess your family's Internet usage, including speed and data plan requirements.
• Consider Flexibility and Long-Term Viability: Choose a plan that offers flexibility, especially if you anticipate PCS relocations.
• Check Availability in Your Area: Ensure the chosen service is available in your current and potential future locations.
• Gather Required Documentation to Qualify: Prepare necessary documentation to qualify for discounts or assistance programs.
• Combine Discounts: Look for opportunities to combine multiple discounts or programs for maximum savings.

How to Find Affordable Internet With SmartMove

SmartMove offers a convenient way to find the best Internet providers and deals tailored to your needs. By partnering with top ISPs, SmartMove helps customers get access to a variety of discounts and promotions, including many that benefit military families.

With SmartMove, military families can easily find and maintain affordable Internet access, ensuring they stay connected no matter where they are stationed. Get started with SmartMove today to secure the best deals for your household.