Do you need help paying your phone bill that may cover landlines, cell phones, or Wi-Fi services? Help may be available through free government phone and broadband internet programs. They're called the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).

The programs provide discounts and do not provide free phones. However, providers may cover the cost of the phone for the consumer.

Phone discounts through Lifeline

If you receive federal benefits from one of these assistance programs, you may be eligible for a discount on your phone bill through the Lifeline program. It provides eligible customers up to $9.25 off the cost of phone, internet, or bundled services.

If you need help with your cell phone bill, you'll get a fixed number of minutes each month at a reduced price. For broadband service, you'll get a fixed amount of data each month at a lower cost.

You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Maryland:

Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Medicaid
Federal Public Housing Assitance
Renda de Segurança Suplementar (SSI)
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Program

You may also qualify if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

There are rules and restrictions, including only one lifeline service per household.

You will have to recertify your discount every year.

You sign up for Lifeline through the phone company. Find Lifeline providers in Maryland.

Search the database for discounted telephone services or dial 2-1-1 for more information.

Broadband Internet Discounts

If you need help paying for internet or a computer, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) may be able to help. It's available to eligible low-income households who earn below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line or if someone in your family receives government benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.

This program provides a discount up to $30/month, $75 a month for qualifying Tribal land, a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer.

Again, only one service and device discount is allowed per houshold.

Check to see if you qualify e find a provider.

If you are in the Lifeline program, you must opt in to the Affordable Connectivity Program with your provider or another participating internet provider.