Government Internet Subsidy Programs: Are They Still Active in 2025?
Tired of paying a large sum every month for home internet? What if we told you there’s more value available at a lower price? It’s not a miracle, it’s only good research, and we’re here to share our findings.
Cheap internet does not mean slower speeds. Internet providers offer deals and discounts for families, students, and bundle customers that help you save on costs and still receive top-notch services. This blog explores the top affordable WiFi services you can check out and reevaluate your internet needs to get a plan that is actually made for you!
But before that, here are a few recommendations we think you should do to find out what internet speed will work for you:
- Run a quick speed test and check if you’re getting the speeds you’re paying for.
- Take our custom plan builder quiz to find out which speed is ideal for your home.
- Try an easy zip check to see all available options in your area.
And then, you’re set to explore the best budget-friendly internet plans we have shortlisted.
The Best Internet Plans Under $40
| Speed | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Xfinity | 300 Mbps | $40/mo. (for 1 year) |
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| Spectrum | 100 Mbps | $30/mo. (for 1 year) |
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| WOW! | 100 Mbps | $30/mo. In select markets. With AutoPay. |
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| Kinetic | 300 Mbps | $39.99/mo. With AutoPay* |
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| RCN | 600 Mbps | $35/mo. For 1 year. In select areas. |
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| Optimum | 300 Mbps | $40/mo. w/ $10 ACH Autopay discount for Internet and/or Video services. In select markets only. |
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| altafiber | 400 Mbps | $40/mo. For 12 months with eBill |
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| Fidium Fiber | 100 Mbps | $30/mo. w/AutoPay & Paperless Bill |
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| Ziply Fiber | 50 Mbps | $20/mo** | Order Now |
| Verizon | 300 Mbps | $34.99/mo. w/ Auto Pay & any Verizon mobile phone plan |
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*AutoPay required to achieve advertised price
**Prices shown are before taxes and fees and require autopay and paperless billing.
The Best Internet Plans for Low-Income Families
Many internet providers offer discounted internet plans that offer great value at an affordable price. Xfinity Internet Essentials is one of the best programs out there currently that offers internet starting as low as $14.95/mo. However, this plan is limited to families that are eligible for a low-income plan.
To qualify for the Xfinity Internet Essential program, you need to be:
- Enrolled in another assistance program such as the National School Lunch Program, housing assistance, Medicaid, etc.
- A new Xfinity customer (must not have Xfinity services in the last 90 days)
- Clear of any outstanding debt with Comcast/Xfinity
You can apply for this program on Xfinity’s official website.
Top Limited-Time Discounted Internet Deals
Xfinity Now Internet
One of the top low-income internet plans is offered by Xfinity through the Xfinity Now Internet. This internet plan offers speeds starting at 100 Mbps at $30/mo. This plan comes with unlimited data, a WiFi gateway, and a getting-started kit. There are no contracts or installation fees for this plan, which makes it quite cheap and value-rich!
Spectrum Internet Gig Bundle
Spectrum is currently offering a discount on a bundle that includes 1 gig internet at $40/mo. This helps you save $30/mo. when combined with 2 Unlimited Plus lines at $30/mo. per line (save $10/mo per line) and/or Spectrum TV plan. You can save on both your internet and phone service and sort multiple services into a single bill. That’s both convenient and affordable!
WOW! Super Special Pricing
WOW! also has an amazing, cheap internet deal going on currently that is offering 1 gig internet at $55/mo. This is a total saving of $25/mo. The plan comes with unlimited data, symmetrical fiber speeds, a WiFi modem, and no contracts. Make sure to check if WOW! is available in your area before you place an order.
Look Out for Government Assistance Programs
If you’re looking for internet on a budget, you should also check out the Government Assistance Programs that are currently active. These programs offer internet and phone plans at subsidized prices for low-income families. Lifeline is one of the most popular assistance programs that offers a $9.25 discount on your monthly broadband bill.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Cheap Internet Plan
If you’re looking to buy a cheap internet plan, you should take into consideration that the advertised price may be a little different from the bill you will receive. This happens when internet plans come with additional charges (notoriously known as hidden fees), such as:
- Data overage charges
- Installation charges
- Activation fee
- Equipment rent/lease
Luckily, to dodge these charges, we have Broadband labels that often draw a very clear picture of the division of your internet bill. Make sure to check and carefully read those before you buy a plan.
If you’re confused between providers or want to compare plans and prices, you can talk to our live agents for a free consultation!
Check for services and offers available in your area