Government Internet Subsidy Programs: Are They Still Active in 2025?
Teachers play a vital role in shaping the nation’s future by educating generations, and yet most of them earn less than other professionals with similar qualifications. This is why internet discounts for teachers are a small but meaningful way to reward them for their noble service.
Many teachers are forced to pay for school supplies out of their own pocket, which can amount to as much as 20% of their salary. With other financial burdens such as crippling student debt, any concession or rebate is always welcome.
The modern education system deeply relies on the internet, which is why both teachers and students can benefit from an inexpensive service. Fortunately, there are a good number of discount deals and affordable programs for teachers to choose from, so let’s explore.
Best Internet Deals and Discounts for Teachers
Internet service providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer exclusive internet deals for teachers so they can remain connected without upsetting their budget.
1. Verizon Teachers' Discount
Teachers can get a discount on home internet and mobile plans with Verizon; you can save even more when you bundle both services. Both new and existing Verizon Fios customers qualify for a price cut on their monthly bill:
- $5 off on the 300 Mbps plan
- $10 on the 500 Mbps plan
- $15 off the Gigabit plan
P.S. New customers also get free installation if they order online, which saves them another $99.
Eligibility criteria for Verizon teachers’ discount:
- You’re currently employed to teach pupils in kindergarten - grade 12 or serve as a post-secondary instructor; the offer does not accommodate retired teachers.
- You provide proof of employment as an educator during the registration process
- You have a home internet plan that is eligible for the discount
- You sign up using Verizon’s Teacher Discount Page
P.S. This discount deal is not available through the employer.
2. AT&T Discount for Teachers
AT&T offers amazing deals on mobile and home internet plans to teachers and their families. However, the offers are available at select locations and may not be redeemable in combination with other discounts.
- Save 25% on select unlimited mobile plans
- Get 20% off on your fiber internet plan when you bundle it with your unlimited wireless plan
- Save up to $1,700 when you buy iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch (terms and conditions apply)
- Claim $100 in bill credits (offer ends 8/31/25)
- More savings when you order online
Eligibility criteria for AT&T teachers’ discount:
- Offer is valid for K-12 classroom teachers and college/university professors, or instructors
- Applicants must provide an unexpired employee ID, a recent paystub from within 90 days, or an employment letter within 30 days
- Applicants certify that they are permitted to accept the offer under applicable law
- Requires purchase or transfer to an eligible wireless plan + purchase of a new smartphone on a qualifying 0% APR 36-month installment plan; availability of other installment options varies by location
P.S. Your eligibility for the teacher discount program is subject to annual recertifications.
3. T-Mobile for Education
T-Mobile offers budget-friendly cellphone plans for teachers and students to keep them connected on the go. These mobile plans are aimed at facilitating educational opportunities, so nothing comes in your way wherever you go.
- Cell phone plans start at $35 per month (plus taxes and fees) only
- Unlimited mobile hotspot data
- Education grade content filtering (optional)
- FREE trial
There are no specific requirements to sign up for a T-Mobile education plan, though you may have to provide proof of employment as an educator in an accredited institution.
Other Affordable Internet Options for Teachers
In case you don’t qualify for the aforementioned teacher discounts or cannot subscribe for other reasons (such as unavailability in your area), that’s okay. You can still find cheap internet near you, as many service providers offer exclusive plans for low-income households.
1. Xfinity Internet Essentials
Xfinity offers a fast, reliable, and affordable connection for as low as $14.95/mo.* to low-income users. You get to choose between two plans: Internet Essentials and Internet Essentials Plus. The former delivers download speeds up to 75 Mbps, and the latter delivers download speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Eligibility Criteria for Xfinity Internet Essentials:
- You need to be enrolled in at least one of the following government assistance programs: MEDICAID, Public housing assistance, SNAP, TANF, SSI, NSLP, LIHEAP, WIC, FEDERAL PELL GRANT, VA PENSION, Tribal assistance
- You’re not an existing Xfinity customer or haven’t used their services within the last 90 days
- You don’t owe any debt to Xfinity (no outstanding balance within the last year)
*Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Limited to residential customers meeting certain eligibility criteria. Subject to Internet Essentials program terms and conditions. Professional installation extra. Advertised price applies to a single outlet. Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit xfinity.com/networkmanagement.
2. Optimum Advantage Internet
Optimum may not have a particular internet plan dedicated to teachers, yet Optimum Advantage is the next best thing. You can get a 50 Mbps internet connection at the reasonable price of $14.99/mo.* only; not to mention, the cost of equipment is included in the plan, and installation is free.
Eligibility Criteria for Optimum Advantage Internet:
- Offer valid for new and existing customers; past customers without an unpaid bill within the last 60 days can also apply
- Candidate fulfills at least one of the following requirements: Enrollment in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), Recepient of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veteran approved for federal or state public assistance, Resident of New York City/attends a New York City public school
*Terms. Not available in all areas. Advertised speed for wired connection. Actual speeds, including over WiFi , may vary and are not guaranteed.
3. Spectrum Internet Assist
Spectrum Internet for low-income households is a 50 Mbps connection for $25 per month; an additional discount may reduce the cost to $15 a month. The Spectrum Internet Assist plan includes a modem, security suite, and unlimited data. Moreover, you can double the speed for an extra $5 per month and upgrade to Spectrum Internet Advantage.
Eligibility Criteria for Spectrum Internet Assist:
Applicants must be registered with one of the following government assistance programs:
- NSLP
- Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the NSLP
- SSI
FAQs
Can teachers in the US get free internet?
Teachers may get free internet as a benefit from their employer, although there is no government-funded initiative available. Nonetheless, teachers can avail of exclusive discounts from internet providers like Verizon and AT&T.
Which is the best internet for teachers?
Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T are the best internet options for teachers, as these carriers offer home and mobile internet packages at a great price.
Check for services and offers available in your area