Spectrum gives new customers a lower price for 12 to 36 months based on the selected plan. After this period, the $50 plan increases by $25 each month.
The price change can be surprising, especially for those who added Spectrum TV or Spectrum Mobile during sign-up.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) helped lower costs, but it has ended, and its benefits are no longer available. Customers with limited budgets may now look for cheaper options.
Spectrum provides two budget-friendly plans under Internet Assist, but families must meet specific requirements to qualify.
Below is a guide on eligibility and how to apply for Lifeline, an alternative to ACP.
What Happened at Spectrum After the ACP Ended
The ACP had full funding until April 2024. Spectrum customers already enrolled in the program received a partial credit in May—$15 for most or $35 for those on Tribal lands.
New customers who joined through the ACP and decided to continue their service also got these credits.
Those who chose not to keep their service had their Spectrum Internet disconnected in May.
Starting in June, Spectrum customers will no longer receive ACP-related benefits.
However, discounts for new internet service still apply until the promotional period ends (12 or 24 months).
Customers struggling with regular prices can seek help through the Lifeline program to lower their monthly bills.
They can also apply online for Spectrum Internet Assist, which offers two plans at reduced rates.
About the Spectrum Internet Assist Program
The Spectrum Internet Assist program did not start because of the ACP ending.
It has existed since 2016, providing a cable internet plan with 50Mbps download speed for $25 per month. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and submit documents.
Spectrum provides the modem or gateway for free, just like its other internet plans. However, Internet Assist customers must pay $5 per month for WiFi Service.
This charge applies to the gateway’s Wi-Fi feature or any Spectrum-provided router. There is no fee for using a router bought from a retailer.
In April 2022, Spectrum introduced another plan with 100Mbps download speed.
However, the WiFi Service fee for this plan is $7 per month. As with the 50Mbps plan, households must qualify based on specific criteria.
Who Can Get the Spectrum Internet Assist Program?
Someone in your home must participate in one of three government programs to get Spectrum Internet Assist.
The list below shows which programs qualify and which do not.
| Eligible | Not Eligible |
| National School Lunch Program (NSLP) | Social Security Disability (SSD) |
| Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) under NSLP | Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) |
| Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for people 65 and older | Social Security Retirement Benefits |
| Social Security Survivor Benefits |
How to Apply for the Spectrum Internet Assist Program
Submit your application online with a copy of proof of eligibility. Use income records or papers confirming participation in a government program.
Save the files as JPEG or PDF, keeping them under 3.75MB.
What you need:
- NSLP: Upload a recent document confirming your child receives free or reduced-price lunch.
- SSI: Upload an original SSI benefits award letter or a current benefits verification letter with the recipient’s name.
Enter your details and upload the required files through Spectrum’s online application to complete the process.
Plans and Prices
| Plan | Cost | Speed | Connection |
| Internet Assist | $25/month* (eligible households) | Up to 50Mbps (wireless speeds vary) | Cable |
| Internet Advantage | $30/month* (12 months for eligible households) | Up to 100Mbps (wireless speeds vary) | Cable |
| Internet Premier w/ Spectrum Advanced | $60/month† (12 months) | Up to 1,000Mbps (wireless speeds vary) | Cable, Fiber |
Spectrum offers different internet plans. Internet Assist and Advantage need eligibility, but the cheapest standard plan does not. It costs around $60 for the first year, then increases.
You might find a lower-cost option if you do not qualify for Spectrum Internet Assist and another provider is available.
Spectrum’s ACP Alternative
Spectrum informed customers affected by the ACP program’s end about a new offer.
They received an email about one Spectrum Mobile line included with Internet Premier for 12 months. The offer is worth $30 per month.
Other Low-Income Internet Options
If Spectrum Internet Assist is not an option and the standard Spectrum plan is too expensive, other providers may help. Some providers with similar low-income programs include:
- AT&T Access