Do you live in Louisiana and get help from the SNAP program (also known as food stamps)? If yes, you might qualify for Free Internet with Food Stamps in Louisiana. Internet service can be expensive, and many families need help paying the monthly bills. That’s why the U.S. government offers programs to help low-income households stay connected.
The internet helps you connect with people anytime, anywhere. You can chat with friends and family using apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. You can even video call using apps like Google Meet or WhatsApp, so you can see and talk to loved ones even if they live far away.
The internet is more than just a way to talk to people. It helps people find jobs and make money. Many people work online as YouTubers, writers, social media helpers, or online chat agents. These jobs are great for people who want to work from home.
The internet also makes homes safer. Many home security systems use Wi-Fi to watch your home and alert you if something is wrong. It’s a smart way to protect your family.
Moreover, If you get food stamps in Louisiana, you may be able to get free or cheap internet through programs like Lifeline. This can help you to Stay in touch with family, Learn new skills, Apply for jobs, Get schoolwork done, Use healthcare and other services online. Don’t miss out! Having internet at home can make life easier and open up more opportunities.
How to get free internet with Food Stamps in Louisiana
Let me first define Food Stamps before going over how to use them to get a free internet connection. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps, is a federal program in the United States that offers low-income people and families nutrition assistance. To purchase food at certain stores, SNAP recipients use an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
To qualify for SNAP, you have to fulfill specific income and asset requirements. The size and makeup of the household affect the income limit. Although there are some exceptions for homes and cars, assets are likewise restricted.
You can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program or Lifeline using the paperwork you have from your Food Stamps application. A government program called the ACP makes high-speed internet service more affordable for low-income households. The program offers a one-time discount of up to $100 or $32 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop, or tablet, as well as a monthly savings of up to $30 or $9.92 on an internet subscription. To be qualified for the ACP or Lifeline, you have to fulfill specific asset and income conditions. The size and makeup of the household affect the income limit.
READ MORE: ACP Alternatives for Low-income – Free Tablet and Internet
How to qualify for Federal Government Program (Lifeline or ACP Program)
To be eligible for the ACP program, you must meet a number of requirements. These consist of the following.
Considering your household’s income
If your income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you are eligible for ACP, and also 135% or less income is required for the Lifeline Program. The recommendation depends on your state and family size. The federal poverty threshold, for instance, is $35,700 for a household with two persons and $26,200 for an individual.
The table below reflects 135% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,128 | $26,393 | $24,287 |
| 2 | $28,553 | $35,681 | $32,832 |
| 3 | $35,978 | $44,969 | $41,378 |
| 4 | $43,403 | $54,257 | $49,923 |
| 5 | $50,828 | $63,545 | $58,469 |
| 6 | $58,253 | $72,833 | $67,041 |
| 7 | $65,678 | $82,121 | $75,560 |
| 8 | $73,103 | $91,409 | $84,105 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,425 | $9,288 | $8,546 |
When you apply for Lifeline, you may need to show proof of income, such as a tax return or three consecutive months of pay stubs.
If you, your dependent, or your child are enrolled in specific government aid programs
If you, your dependant, or your child are enrolled in any of the following government assistance programs, you may also qualify for Lifeline or ACP.
- Supplemental Nutrition Support Program
- Medicaid
- Housing Assistance from the Federal Government
- The Lifeline
- Free and Discounted School Lunch Program
- Program for School Breakfast
- WIC Survivor Benefits or Veterans Pension
READ MORE: Free Internet Service For Home
Documents needed for the ACP application
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) may require different documents depending on how you apply. Nonetheless, the following are examples of standard documents.
Identity proof: This could be a government-issued document, like a passport, driver’s license, or tribal ID.
A tax return, pay stubs, or other records attesting to your income could serve as proof of income.
Evidence of involvement in specific assistance programs: You must submit proof of enrollment in any government assistance programs if your application for the ACP is based on your involvement in them.
Your utility bill, lease agreement, or other documents attesting to your residence may serve as proof of residency.
Copies of these documents must be scanned or uploaded to your application if you are applying for Lifeline or ACP online. Copies of the supporting documentation must be mailed to the address listed on the application form if you are applying by mail.
READ MORE: Free Government Lifeline Internet – How to Get
How to apply for ACP or Lifeline
After you have gathered all the required paperwork, you can apply for free internet through the ACP program. The program accepts applications through three different methods.
Online
The procedures listed below can be used to submit an online application for ACP.
- Visit the GetInternet.gov site.
- The “Apply Now” button should be clicked.
- Register for an account or log in with an already-existing one.
- Provide information about your household income and involvement in government aid programs.
- Upload your proof documents in a copy form.
- Examine your application, then send it in.
Mail application
ACP applications can also be sent via mail. The steps listed below can be used to carry out the procedure.
- The FCC’s website offers the ACP application form for download.
- Accurately complete the application.
- Collect the necessary paperwork and include it with the application.
- The application and supporting materials should be mailed to the address listed on the form.
Through your internet service provider
Additionally, you can apply to your service provider for free internet. The following steps may be helpful.
- To find out if your service provider offers the ACP and how to apply, get in touch with them.
- Collect the necessary documents, including proof of residency and income.
- To apply for the ACP, adhere to the instructions given by your service provider.
ACP rules
- You have to make use of your advantages or risk losing them.
- Every year, recertification is mandatory.
- Only one benefit per person or household is permitted.
- Your ACP benefits cannot be transferred to another individual.
Lifeline Rules
| Rule Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | $9.25/mo for broadband or bundle; $5.25/mo for voice-only; up to $34.25/mo for Tribal households |
| Eligibility | Income ≤ 135% FPG or participation in qualifying programs |
| Household Limit | 1 discount per household |
| Service Standards | Broadband ≥ 25/3 Mbps, Mobile data ≥ 3G & 4.5 GB, Voice ≥ 1000 min |
| Recertify & Update | Annually recertify; update address/eligibility within 30 days |
| Usage Requirement | At least one use every 30 days |
| Consumer Protections | Selectable service type, hotspot devices, ability to switch providers |
| Fraud Safeguards | No false info, toll-blocking, no deposit, legal penalties |
Bottom line
In Louisiana, food stamps can be used to receive free internet if you are eligible for Lifeline or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Lifeline or ACP is a government initiative that offers low-income households internet service discounts. The ACP is available for online, postal, or internet service provider applications. If accepted, the benefit on your internet subscription will be no more than $30 per month. This implies that if your monthly price is less than $30, you may be eligible for free internet.
FAQ: Free Internet with Food Stamps in Louisiana
1. Can I get free or reduced-cost internet if I receive SNAP benefits?
Yes. SNAP recipients in Louisiana qualify for federal internet subsidies through Lifeline and previously through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Lifeline provides up to $9.25/month off internet or phone service. ACP offered up to $30/month, but it was discontinued in mid‑2024.
2. What are Lifeline and ACP, and how do they differ?
- Lifeline: An ongoing FCC program offering up to $9.25/month discount on your phone or internet bill (up to $34.25 for Tribal lands).
- ACP: Provided a larger discount—up to $30/month for eligible households—but it ended for new applicants in February 2024.
3. How do I qualify?
– Based on SNAP participation: Simply being enrolled in SNAP makes your household eligible for Lifeline (and formerly for ACP).
– Income threshold: Household income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines also qualifies.
4. How do I apply?
- Apply through the National Verifier (managed by USAC) to check eligibility.
- Once verified, receive an Application ID, then choose a local Lifeline provider in Louisiana (such as Vexus Fiber) to activate your service.
- Maintain service usage every 30 days and recertify annually to continue receiving the benefit.
5. Which internet providers in Louisiana participate?
Several regional providers like Vexus Fiber participate in Lifeline in Louisiana. Some major ISPs nationwide, like AT&T and Comcast’s Internet Essentials, also offer low-cost plans that pair well with Lifeline.
6. Are Lifeline and ISP discounts combinable?
Typically, you can only use one federal benefit at a time (either Lifeline or ACP, when active). However, some ISPs offer extra discounts (e.g., low-cost plans, waived equipment fees) that can stack on top of Lifeline.
7. What speeds and services can I get?
Lifeline-eligible plans vary by provider, but generally include basic broadband speeds (min. 25 Mbps/3 Mbps). Some ISPs also offer discounted high-speed tiers ($30/mo for ~100 Mbps) for SNAP households.
8. What happened to the ACP? Can I still benefit?
New applications for ACP closed on February 7, 2024. Existing enrolled households may continue until funding runs out. New applicants should instead apply for Lifeline and local ISP assistance.
9. Can I get help finding what’s available in Louisiana?
Yes. You can:
- Visit getinternet.gov, the FCC’s portal, and enter your Louisiana address.
- Contact providers like Vexus Fiber’s Louisiana Lifeline portal to enroll.
- Reach out to local community organizations or library branches for assistance signing up.
