Access to the Internet is essential, yet many households can’t afford it. The federal government created the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to assist low-income households. The ACP provided a monthly discount of $30 on service, and a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.  Unfortunately, funding for the program ran out and the Federal Communications Commission, which was tasked with implementing the program, stopped accepting applications on February 7, 2024.

In Fairfax County, those options include low-cost Internet programs offered by Comcast, Cox and Verizon, whose eligibility requirements parallel those of the ACP.  If you weren’t eligible for the ACP, you likely also won’t be eligible for these programs.  They include Comcast’s Internet Essentials, Cox’s ConnectAssist and Connect2Compete, and Verizon’s Verizon Forward.  If you’re eligible, the monthly charges for the programs range from $9.95 - $30 per month. You can contact the providers directly to see if you qualify.  

Fortunately, the three primary cable TV providers in Fairfax County will continue to offer their own low-cost internet programs.

Comcast:
ACP at Comcast
Internet Essentials from Comcast

Cox:
ACP at Cox
Cox Connect2compete and ConnectAssist

Verizon:
Verizon Forward with ACP
Lifeline discount

For further information see the County Web page on ACP, email cprd@fairfaxcounty.gov, or call 703-324-5902; TTY 711.