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Internet Assistance & Incentive Programs: Federal, State and Local Options
Everyone deserves access to fast, reliable internet. Whether you’re working from home, attending online classes or managing everyday tasks, staying connected is essential. If the cost of internet service is a concern, federal, state and local assistance programs may be able to help. This 2026 guide from Mercury Fiber explains your options and where to find available internet assistance and incentives.
Why Internet Assistance Programs Matter
More Americans have access to high-speed internet than ever before thanks to federal and state broadband investments. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) is investing $42.45 billion to bring reliable internet to unserved and underserved communities, while the E-Rate Program provides up to $4.456 billion annually to help schools and libraries stay connected.
Even as broadband becomes more widely available, affordability remains a challenge. According to the Pew Research Center, 22 percent of U.S. households still don’t subscribe to broadband service, even when it’s available, with cost being one of the biggest barriers.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) helped eligible households save up to $30 per month on internet service until it ended in 2024, leaving approximately 23.3 million households without that benefit. Today, programs like Lifeline, along with state, local and provider-sponsored initiatives, continue to help eligible households access affordable, reliable internet.
Not all internet assistance programs work the same way. Some reduce your monthly bill, while others expand broadband access, connect schools and libraries, or improve digital literacy.
Federal Internet Assistance Programs
Here are some of the current assistance programs. For most households, Lifeline is the only remaining federal program that directly reduces monthly internet costs.
| Program | Who It’s For | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | Low-income households | Up to $9.25/mo. off internet ($34.25/mo. on Tribal lands) | ≤135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, or SNAP / Medicaid / SSI / other qualifying programs; one per household |
| E-Rate | Schools & libraries (not individuals) | 20% – 90% off eligible broadband & internal connections | Based on poverty level; rural locations get a higher discount |
State and Local Programs in the Areas We Serve
The following programs are helping expand broadband access and digital inclusion in the states Mercury Fiber serves.
| State | Broadband Office | Key Programs | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) | BEAD network buildout ($451.7M initiative); Digital Opportunity plan; “Low-Cost Option” plans capped at $30/mo. for qualifying providers | Kansas coverage |
| Michigan | Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) | ROBIN infrastructure program ($238M) + BEAD; maintains a list of low-cost ISP plans; digital-literacy programs | Michigan coverage |
| Indiana | Indiana Broadband Office (IBO) / OCRA | Next Level Connections buildout; digital-equity & literacy investments (no direct state monthly bill discount) | Indiana coverage |
| Missouri | Office of Broadband Development (OBD) | Connecting All Missourians buildout ($1.7B); digital-adoption grants; directs residents to federal Lifeline | Missouri coverage |
| Ohio | BroadbandOhio | ORBEG residential expansion grants + BEAD ($793M); Digital Opportunity/Inclusion grants | Ohio coverage |
Across all five states, the most dependable monthly savings for consumers still come from federal Lifeline paired with low-cost provider plans. State programs primarily expand access and build digital skills.
How To Find the Right Program and Apply
Applying for assistance is easier than you might think.
Individuals and Families
Start with Lifeline. You may qualify for this program if you or someone in your household participates in Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs or receives other forms of assistance.
Most applicants can complete the Lifeline application online in just a few steps:
- Gather proof of income or program participation
- Apply online
- Pick a participating provider
Schools and Libraries
The Universal Service Administrative Company oversees the E-Rate program. Candidates participate in a competitive bidding process. Visit the program’s website to see if your school or library is eligible.
Everyone
The cost of high-speed internet varies by provider. Compare affordable internet plans and check your state broadband office for local digital-equity resources.
How Mercury Fiber Helps You Save
Internet assistance programs can lower your bill, but choosing the right internet provider is just as important. Some providers advertise low introductory rates that increase after the promotional period ends, making it difficult to predict monthly costs. Finding a provider with flat-rate pricing can help you avoid price hikes and better manage your budget.
At Mercury Fiber, we believe affordable internet should also be simple and transparent. That’s why we offer competitive pricing with no data caps, no annual contracts and a three-year price guarantee, so you know what to expect on your monthly bill.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or ultra-fast fiber, Mercury Fiber has plans and special offers to fit your needs. Combined with local, hometown support across Kansas, Michigan, Indiana, Missouri and Ohio, Mercury Fiber makes it easier to enjoy reliable high-speed internet without hidden fees or surprise price increases.
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Affordability Connectivity FAQs
The main federal program still available to individuals is Lifeline, which provides up to $9.25 per month off internet for eligible low-income households. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in June 2024. Schools and libraries can use E-Rate, and most states run broadband offices that fund network expansion, digital-equity programs and lists of low-cost provider plans.
E-Rate is a federal program that helps schools and libraries—not individual households—afford broadband and telecom. It provides discounts of 20 percent to 90 percent based on the poverty level of the school or library, with a bonus for rural locations.
Yes. Mercury Fiber participates in the federal Lifeline program and offers affordable plans with no data caps, no annual contracts and a three-year price guarantee, including fixed wireless starting around $25 per month. It’s a local, transparent option across Kansas, Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, and Ohio.