If you’re a low-income American, you can now get a PC that’s completely loaded with all the top software plus computer training for just $149.
Unbelievable as this may sound, it’s 100% true. We’ve verified it for ourselves. And for you.
One of the Federal Communications Commission’s primary goals over the course of the next few years is to reduce the digital divide between rich and poor Americans. As part of that effort, they are encouraging a variety of cheap internet access programs. A little known part of those programs offer personal computers for as low as $149.
Three of the major programs are Internet Essentials, a program put together by cable television giant Comcast; Internet Basics, a very similar program from CenturyLink, one of the nation’s largest telephone companies; and Connect2Compete, an effort put together by a partnership between major public and private organizations.
(NOTE: We’re including Connect2Compete on this list of sources for $150 computers, but there is still some question as to whether the organization’s hype lives up to its reality. As far as we can tell, Connect2compete either directs you to Internet Essentials or Internet Basics where one of those organizations will actually become the source of your computer. If neither of those organizations are available where you live, you’ll be directed to Amazon, New Egg, Tiger Direct, Best Buy or Google Play where you’ll be shown the same retail price that’s available to any Tom, Dick or Harry who walks in off the street. In other words, Connect2Compete, despite its claims to the contrary, seems to be an insignificant player in the $150 computer business.)
Your own personal computer discounted as low as $149
For just $150 (plus tax, shipping and handling), Internet Basics will give you a new netbook. Both desktop PCs and laptop models are available. For one cent less, qualifying families will be able to purchase an internet-ready PC (laptop or desktop) from Internet Essentials. There are no activation fees, nor extra equipment fees to worry about. And believe it or not, the personal computer also comes loaded with world renowned the Norton Security Suite of software that provides you with top level online security. That’s worth an additional $160, but you get it absolutely free. All the computers from each of the organizations have been completely refurbished and are ready-to-go.
Now, we don’t want to make this sound like one of those late night infomercials, but wait! There’s more!
Both programs also include training, either over the internet or in person at more than 100 training centers across the country. Internet Basics offers free introductory computer education classes while Connect to Compete customers pay a small $1 fee per class.
The Internet Basics computer also comes with a 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee, 24/7 technical support, plus parental controls. You’ll even get your own customizable CenturyLink home page.
In some cities across the country, community organizations are working with Internet Basics and Internet Essentials to get these computers into the hands of needy Americans as efficiently as possible. For example, in Seattle a group called Interconnection will help you with all the application materials for Internet Essentials and Internet Basics. Interconnection is part of a national network of community-based organizations, so ask around about similar groups in your area.
Do you qualify for one of these free computers?
Who qualifies for these low-priced personal computers? Millions of American families and you may be part of one.
You may be eligible for Comcast’s Internet Essentials program if at least one child in your household is eligible for the National School Lunch Program. The word eligible is key because your household may qualify for a cheap computer if one of your children is eligible, even if they do not currently participate in it.
You may be eligible for CenturyLink’s Internet Essentials is anyone in your household currently participates in a Federal or State government assistance programs such as Medicaid, Food Stamps, Section 8 housing or a number of other programs. You may also qualify if your household’s total annual income is less than 135% of current federal guidelines in most states or even up to 150% in some others (Arizona, Florida, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas).
Find out now if you qualify. For more information, learn more about Internet Basics here (LINK), Internet Essentials here, and Connect2Compete here.
Dominique says
Hi my name is Dominique and I’m looking for affordable Internet and also a laptop if you could point me in the right direction to get theses basis nessesitys please call 509 514 **** or email ********@gmail.com
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
That’s what this website is all about, Dominique. We can’t summarize 5,000 pages here in the comments section, so you’ll just need to click around for a few minutes, particularly on the navigation bar at the top of the page, and you’ll quickly find everything you need to know
Sheryl Richardson says
The programs for us needing help are extremely hard to to find. The very government agencies that are knowledgable do not pass any information to us low income. Neither are these programs publicized. Very difficult to find programs especially when we can not afford the internet or cable. Kudo’s to you for helping the needy.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We do what we can, Sheryl. Thanks.
natalie d bassett says
question is whole 150 at one time?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Yes.
Erica says
I’m in long island n.y do I can get this?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Visit EveryoneOn.org and plug in your zip code. It will tell you all the service available in your area.
Eva says
Hi, I am a single mother with two school kids. I have already got very cheap internet from government, but I need free computer or laptop. I am living in Dallas area in Texas. Would you know any where I can apply for free computer? Thanks a lot.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Visit EveryoneOne.org, plug in your zip code, and the information you need will pop up.
Roy Charles Price says
As a senior citizen, I would like to have a laptop computer for $149.00. But as for training, I do not need it – it’s because I am deaf since birth. If I am to attend a training class, your place will have to hire an ASL interpreter which is very expensive for you to pay a big fee. I have already trained so much in operating a laptop computer a long time ago (Mostly self-taught, anyway).. I am living here in Beaverton, Oregon.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You can find out which low-income internet products and services are available in your zip code by visiting EveryoneOn.org.
Susan says
I live on the north coast of California, and I do not think these programs are available here. Am I right?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
It’s impossible for us to pinpoint accurately, Susan. If you live in a rural area, they probably are not available, but if you live in a city, one or more of them may well be available.
Martha Donohue says
I keep seeing articles that claim we can get a cheap laptop, but I can’t find any links or info on how we apply for the laptop! We are currently having financial problems and we need a laptop, so please send info on how to get it.
Thanks,
Martha
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Here you go, Martha. Visit EveryoneOn.org, plug in your zip code, and you’ll find exactly the info you’re looking for.
Tiffany White says
I’m on Sec. 8 housing and receive Food Stamps do I qualify for the $150 computer offer?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Visit EveryoneOne.org and plug in your zip code. It will tell you what programs are available in your area.
Jamie springfield says
I would like to find out if I could still get a laptop for the 150.00 that was offered to me when I first signed up. I now have the money so if you could let me know I would appreciate it, thanks for the great service
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You should be able to get the same deal now, Jamie. Check it out.
Sandra Robinson says
I would like to get a computer .. where do I get a application
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Just click on this link, Sandra:
http://everyoneon.org
Lisa M Hammersly says
Can you.tell me if I qualify for programs.thank.you
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We have no way of knowing if you qualify, Lisa. We don’t know your financial situation nor whether you participate in any qualifying financial assistance programs nor what your income is.
Yvette says
So as I’m going thru the information about pc/dt computers for low income ppl, it seems like its just for ppl with school age kids..What about the disabled/seniors who live in low income housing? Are there any of these programs for us?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
There are a number of programs, Yvette, and we would imagine that you qualify for at least a couple of them. Here’s where you can find them all:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Check them all out to find the ones available in your area.
martin sires says
Hi, my name is martin sires i have comcast already im low income.
i was wondering if you have desk tops for the same 149.00? do these computers have monitors key boards and mouse come with them after purchase.
And how do i go about getting a computer through you?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
This is NOT the organization that’s providing the computers, Martin, so we can’t tell you what kind of computers are available. We think that laptops are probably availalbe, but you should check with the individual provider for a 100% accurate answer.
Cathi A. Louk says
I am moving from Iowa to Olympia, to live closer to my family as I am 64, unable to retire, and seeking employment . I would more than appreciate the consideration to receive the affordable computer. How may I also qualify for this? Thank you
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Check out all the low-income internet plans shown at this link, Cathi:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Hopefully you’ll be eligible for one of them that’s available in your area. Pay particular attention to PCs for People and 4GCommunity.
kerry jerew says
hi could i find out more about getting a computer and learning how to use it ??
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Sure, Kerry. Just go to EveryoneOn.org, Put in your zip code, and click. You’ll get all the info you need.
Shelley Krill says
Is the cost of the pc on a payment program ,or dull in full?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
There are no credit plans, Shelley. You must pay at once.
Chelli says
Checking internet essentials…trying to figure out how/where to apply to get a PC. I qualify, that isn’t in question, but it’s all just an endless loop of links.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Visit the EveryoneOn.org website.
Click on “What we do.”
Then click on “Low-Cost Internet.”
Then click on “Availability by State.”
Then click on your state.
You’ll be presented with a wide choice of cities where inexpensive computers are available.
richard says
I am a disabled senior,forced to work,because
disability wont pay the bills for two.people.I.earn just under 24k per yr.We make too much for public assistance.Comcast shut off services,just too expensive.I guess we are just out of luck
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Not necessarily, Richard. You may qualify for PCs for People if it’s available in your area. It’s a private program designed for people in your situation. You can check it out on this page:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Jeffery James says
Well said Barbara, I’M in the same boat you’re in. It seems Most of the programs i really could use is just out of my reach. Worked 32 yrs and now I’m disable and everything is just out of reach. Very frustrating…I wish i was back at work.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
If some of the programs are “just” out of reach, there may be a solution for you, Jeffery. Check out PCs for People. It allows you to qualify with much higher income than any of the other programs and no children are necessary to qualify. Here’s where you can find more info:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Barbara says
I also feel frustrated. I am disabled, receive government assistance and have found only one
company that I was approved by to receive the low income internet services, AT&T and guess what, the speed in my area is not high enough. I feel that not having a child or not having a child on a discount lunch program is another punishment! When I was working, I had to pay higher taxes because I had no children, now I’m being punished again for the same reason. I paid higher taxes so other peoples children could be helped and now that I am unable to work and qualify for help, I’m limited!!! Go figure America
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Excellent points you make, Barbara. Unfortunately, you may need to wait until December 1 when Lifeline Broadband makes its debut.
Scott says
I’m a disabled frustrated person with very limited means. I have mental impairments no children and I’m not a senior citizen. The maze of dead ends, links and misleading info I was lead to by the info above was fruitless but appreciated. Everything requires internet today. I have one available program option which costs more than currently available options for service and hardware. I thank you for your efforts and I’m glad many of you can be helped. I however don’t fit again. I feel forgotten once more. Sad… So very very sad!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Your story breaks our hearts, Scott. So we really hope we can help you. If you live in an area served by the Sprint national cell network, we highly recommend PCs for People. You can qualify a lot easier for this plan because it’s requirements allow you to make more money and still qualify. Take a look:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet/pcs-for-people
Good luck. We really hope this works for you.
Ryan says
WOW EVERYONE!! READ THE ARTICLE!
All links are given and provided – yet you people are still incapable of figuring it out?
Look at how ignorant all of these people are.. They just see “$150 computer” and “cheap Internet” and the blinders go on and suddenly they’re just blind sheep.
Trust me it FRUSTRATES US (I distribute FREE PHONES) and I get people who completely disregard all rules and completely waste my time after they didn’t bother reading in the first place.
The writer did you a favor by fully and accurately describing the options available – please do them a favor and PRACTICE YOUR LITERARY SKILLS!
I’ll be checking back again to see how many MORE geniuses have asked already answered questions…
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
C’mon, Ryan, ease up a little. We, too, get frustrated when people repeatedly ask questions that are clearly answered in our articles, but we usually think to ourselves, “These people are desperate and that drives people to attempt shortcuts.” (And, truth be told, we sometimes feel like writing exactly what you wrote.)
christina smith says
What do I need to do to get a $149.95 computer?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Go to our “Low-Income Internet” link at the top of this page. Then contact any of the companies on the list. If you qualify, you can get one of the cheap computers.
Justa says
I would like to see if i qualify for the 150.00 internet ready pc.i do have a qualifying child that receives free lunch through our lunch program here in springdale Arkansas
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We’re not sure which program you’re referring to there in Springdale, but if you qualify you should indeed, be able to purchase a $150 computer.
Olga says
Where can I purchase a computer or laptop for the price under $150
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Click on the “Low income Internet” link at the top of this page. Virtually all the companies listed offer $150 computers — if you qualify. You can also read this article:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/pcs-for-people-best-internet-plan-for-low-income-americans
Nancee says
How do I see if there is internet available in my area? I live in the 48708 area. I have a qualified child.
Yolanda says
I would like to see if i qualify for the 150.00 internet ready pc.i do have a qualifying child that receives free lunch through our lunch program here in moses lake washington. what do i need to do to get started?
Kristi Wilson says
I currently work part time and need to find full time employment. A computer would help me in job applications, cover letters, resumes etc. My mother has a printer she will give me. I could also work from home as some companies request you have a computer.
Cheryl Ann Kellam says
I am interested. I am on a fixed income and caring for my grandkids. How can i get one and know which one is in my area.
Griselda Angulo says
Intrested in knowing if we qualify for a computer and internet.
Jennifer says
Ok so I am waiting on my paperwork to come so I can fax it back and get started! I think this is an awesome program! I sure hope it works smoothly and is not more of a hassle than benefit!! I do have a question, u understand you offer the laptop for $150 does that have to be purchased when you order the Internet or can it be purchased at any time? Also can more than 1 be purchased? Thanks in advance for you time!
DEE MATTOLA says
WE ARE IN HARD TIMES. HARD MAKING ENDS MEET. WE HAVE COMCAST BUT I DO NOT WANT TO CANCEL TO GET A LOWER RATE, WE NEED THE INTERNET NOW FOR SCHOOL. CAN WE GET AN AJUSTMENT ON OUR CURRENT BILL SOME HOW, PLEASE.
THANK YOU
james says
I’m a low income dad my son goes to school we get food stamps and tanf cash assistant and my son is on ssi how can I get unlimited internet gor cheep so he can do home work and watch his netflix ?
Brenda says
I would love to receive CenturyLink or Internet Basics cheap internet…I receive both food stamps & government assistance social security. .
I do not see Charlotte NC…are they a part of cheap internet also?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We can’t say for sure what’s in Charlotte, but watch our new states page for North Carolina to be added in the next week or so. It will have more info on what is available in your state.
https://www.cheapinternet.com/states
Jack Hornbeck says
In the photo at the top of the page you show a laptop instead of a desktop computer. Are desktop computers a part of the program too? I would however love to have a laptop. PS: I am on Food stamps.
Sayed says
Dear Admin,
I am comcast dubscriber for less than two months paying 39.00 per month without modem price which costs me sround $8.00.I have two children enrolled in school and as well I am low income, am I eligible to receive discounted rate $9.95 and laptop computer?
If possible plz send me specifications of laptop computer.appreciated
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
If you have children in the school lunch program, they yes you are eligible. However, you will first need to cancel your existing service, return the equipment, and then wait 60 days to enroll. You cannot have been a Comcast subscriber in the past 60 days and be eligible.
Tami says
I am on comcast Internet essentials for low income, when I signed up about a year ago I didn’t need a computer because I had one. But now our computer broke and my kids needed it to do there homework. Is there any type of help to get a cheap computer in utah? I was told you had to purchase the computer for $150 the day you activate the Internet essentials. So it’s to late for me to buy it.
Julie says
When I click on my state WI my city comes up (Appleton). But when I see all the service providers Im not seeing my state or city anywhere. How do I contact someone to find out which provider and get enrolled in this. This would help me out Tremendously, as my children and I both need it. Them for school work and me to communicate with teachers and ect since thats how they do all their communicating now.
Thank you so much
(any info or lead in the right direction would be greatly apprectiated.
Cheap Internet Administrator says
Can you tell us which site you were checking?
Denise says
I qualify for the internet basics program but it isn’t available in CT. Will the service be coming to CT? If so, when?
Cheap Internet Administrator says
Sorry to hear that. We don’t know.
Sandy says
None of these companies are in the Poconos in Pennsylvania. What good is the program if they do not service all areas? It is not rural where I live. The phone companies are Frontier and Blue Ridge Communications. Why does the government not negotiate with them? If you have any information on this please let me know.
carol says
Thank you carol.
Robin says
Just my luck. After 7 yrs of being disabled, I just qualified for Medicaid this yr. Sadly, I am already signed up with Centurylink for $33 a month. (a yr commitment) So I won’t be able to do that. And ComCast stops a mere 3 miles from my home. But since my computer broke down, I find it so ironic…lol. talk about Sod’ s law
Tamara Stern says
I would like to know how to get the PC for 150.00 or LESS I am on Food stamps, Medicade, & SSI I do NOT get that much SSI and I was wonder if I could get a PC for FREE if posable thank you very much you can E-mail me @ the address…
mary russell says
iam on section 8 do i quaifiy for the computer and internet service
Cheap Internet Administrator says
Yes:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet/internet-basics
phyllis crabtree says
i was wanting to know how i would sign up for the $9.95 a month enternet and the $149.00 laptop?
Toni Engley says
Where can I purchase the cheap cost PC?
carlene says
It would be nice to have this I’m disabled and would love to have internet and a computer but can’t afford it,if this is true it would be awesome,let me know where to get these things
Cheap Internet Administrator says
Look around, you’ve come to the right website.
Pele says
How do I get started with the cheap internet and the $150 computer?? Please get back to me at the above email.
Thank you
Kevin says
How do I get the laptop and high speed internet? Am moving so I moght as well bundle as a low income adult. Please get back to me.
Debbie says
My son,has the free lunch program.I would love to get on the low-income internet program and to be able to get us the free computer and it fully loaded.My son could do his homework at home.
Cheap Internet Administrator says
Well, maybe you should give the company a call.
marvin r. barrow says
i could use the service
Penny Lines says
Me too; I appreciate all of these articles.