Access to the Internet is essential, yet many households can’t afford it. In 2021, the federal government created the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to assist low-income households. However, funding for the program ran out, and the Federal Communications Commissions closed down the program on May 31, 2024. Some of the low-cost options created by individual providers, however, remain in effect. 

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 - $50 per month. You can contact the providers directly to see if you qualify.  

Comcast:
Internet Essentials - Details
Internet Essentials - FAQ

Cox:
Cox Connect2compete and ConnectAssist
Cox and the Affordable Connectivity Program

Verizon:
Verizon Forward
Lifeline discount