Comcast’s Internet Essentials program is one of the largest and longest-running affordable internet initiatives in the United States. Launched in 2011, it was designed to help close the digital divide by providing low-cost residential internet to eligible low-income families. For as little as $9.99 a month, households can access reliable internet to fund their education, work, healthcare, and everyday communications. Millions of families across the country have already benefited from this program.
Key Features
Affordable price: $9.99 per month (originally $9.95), plus tax.
Eligibility: Families may qualify if they participate in federal assistance programs (such as SNAP, Medicaid, or housing assistance) or meet income requirements. For example, households with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible.
Nationwide reach: Available wherever Comcast Xfinity internet service is available.
No credit check: Designed to reduce barriers for families without traditional financial documentation.
Additional benefits: Low-cost computer options and digital literacy training to help families maximize their internet use.
What the Program Is
Originally launched in 2011, Comcast’s Internet Essentials program made home internet available for approximately $9.95 per month (roughly $9.99 plus tax), offering a simple, low-cost service tier aimed at low-income families.
The program was part of Comcast’s commitments tied to its merger with NBC Universal and has since become one of the largest private broadband adoption efforts in the U.S.
👉 You can learn more about eligibility and apply here: Internet Essentials official site — https://internetessentials.com
How it Works with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides a monthly credit of up to $30 toward internet service for eligible households. That means many qualifying families can effectively get their Comcast Internet Essentials service at no cost after applying the ACP credit.
- ACP credits can make the standard Internet Essentials service free for many qualified households.
- You apply for ACP separately, and then choose Comcast Internet Essentials as your provider.
Learn more or apply for the ACP here: ACP information & enrollment — https://www.xfinity.com/acp
Who qualifies for Internet Essentials?
Eligibility is based on income level and participation in certain assistance programs. While requirements may change slightly over time, many households qualify if they:
- Live in an area where Comcast internet service is available.
- They have a child eligible for the National School Lunch Program or receive certain public assistance.
- They must not have had Comcast internet service in the last 90 days.
- They must not have any recent unpaid Comcast bills or unreturned equipment.
Some program expansions have also allowed families receiving assistance such as SNAP, Medicaid, or housing support to apply.
How to Apply
Families who believe they qualify can apply through the Internet Essentials website or by contacting Comcast directly. The application typically requires basic information and proof of eligibility, such as participation in a qualifying program.
To see if you qualify and start the application process:
- Visit the official Internet Essentials site: https://internetessentials.com
- Check ACP eligibility to potentially reduce your monthly cost to $0: https://www.xfinity.com/acp
- Call 1-855-846-8376 for help with Internet Essentials or 844-389-4681 for ACP
Conclusion
Comcast’s $9.99 Internet Essentials program remains critical in the fight against the digital divide. By lowering costs and expanding eligibility, it enables low-income families to fully participate in today’s digital world. While limitations exist, the program continues to make a significant difference in reducing access gaps across the country.
