More than 10 million veterans, service members, and their families faced an increase in their internet bills in June when the Affordable Connectivity Program came to an end. Military families accounted for nearly half of all ACP recipients. This change has caused concerns as some veterans may now have to pay $30 to $75 more each month, potentially leading to some losing access to the internet. At a time when telehealth has become crucial, with a significant increase in video-based telehealth visits among veterans, the impact of the end of the ACP on the well-being of the military community is significant.
Various options are available to help military families cope with the increase in internet costs. Many internet providers offer discounts specifically for military families, such as Cox’s ConnectAssist plan, which provides high-speed internet at a discounted rate for VA Pension and Survivors benefit recipients. Rise Broadband offers a 10% discount on monthly internet services for active and retired military members, and Starlink provides a $35 discount on its satellite dish through the Home Depot military discount. Verizon Fios offers discounts on its plans, and Xfinity provides a range of benefits for military members, including a free cellphone line for a year.
While some internet providers offer discounts for military families, there are also other resources available for affordable internet access. Lifeline, which has stricter income requirements than the ACP, offers a $9.25 monthly benefit that can be used for home internet or cellphone plans. Additionally, states or cities may have resources available to help keep military families connected. It is essential for military families to explore these options to lower their internet costs and ensure continued access to essential services like telehealth.
The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program has raised concerns about the impact on the well-being of the military community, especially with the increasing reliance on telehealth services among veterans. The loss of the $30 to $75 monthly discount provided by the ACP has financial implications for many military families, making it crucial to find alternative solutions to afford internet access. By taking advantage of discounts from internet providers and other government subsidies, military families can mitigate the impact of the program’s end and ensure they can continue to stay connected and access crucial services.
As internet bills increase for more than 10 million veterans, service members, and their families following the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program, it is crucial for these individuals to explore available options for affordable internet access. By taking advantage of discounts offered by internet providers specifically for military families, as well as programs like Lifeline, military families can reduce costs and continue to access essential services like telehealth. Exploring these resources will be key for ensuring that the military community can stay connected and receive the necessary support they need.
