$15/mo. internet plans available to qualifying New York residents under state’s Affordable Broadband Act

After clearing some lengthy legal hurdles, New York State’s Affordable Broadband Act took effect in January 2025.

The act requires internet providers that serve over 20,000 customers to offer low-cost plans to qualifying households.

The price points include:

• $15/mo. for speeds of at least 25 Mbps
• $20/mo. for high-speed service of at least 200 Mbps 

According to the act, “These discounted rates are permanent, though providers may adjust prices once every five years. Any price increase must be announced 30 days in advance to customers and regulators, and are limited to the lesser of either the most recent consumer price index change or a maximum of two percent per year.”

How to qualify for New York’s low-cost internet plan

The income requirements for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in New York are 185% of federal poverty guidelines, or $55,500 for a family of four.

• Free or reduced-priced lunch through the NSLP
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Medicaid
• Senior citizen rent increase exemption
• Disability rent increase exemption
• Affordability benefit from a utility

AT&T stops 5G home internet service in New York

AT&T pulled its service after the internet service provider (ISP) requirement took effect. As reported by The Verge, AT&T said, “‘While we are committed to providing reliable and affordable internet service to customers across the country, New York’s broadband law imposes harmful rate regulations that make it uneconomical for AT&T to invest in and expand our broadband infrastructure in the state,’ the company said in statements provided to CNET and Ars Technica.”

Some providers in New York already provide low-income internet options:

• Optimum Advantage Internet – Up to 50 Mbps for $14.99/mo.
• Xfinity Internet Essentials – Up to 75 Mbps for $14.95/mo.
• Verizon Forward – A $20.00/mo. discount for qualifying customers
• Astound Internet First – Up to 150 Mbps for $19.95/mo.
• Spectrum Internet Assist – Up to 50 Mbps for $25.00/mo.

If you are interested in a low-income internet option, call your current provider to see if you qualify or find out what other internet options are available at your address.

See Allconnect’s News hub for more broadband information.