Veteran & Military Internet Discounts: Save on Service
Reliable, affordable internet is essential for veterans and military families who depend on connectivity for jobs, school, telehealth, and keeping in touch.
This guide breaks down which internet providers offer military/veteran discounts, how to verify eligibility without hassle, and the government-assisted and nonprofit programs that can further reduce your monthly bill.Who qualifies and how to verify eligibility
Most major providers extend special pricing or perks to active-duty, Guard/Reserve, veterans, retirees, and sometimes spouses and Gold Star families. Expect to verify through a third-party tool such as ID.me or SheerID, or by uploading documentation like a military ID, DD214/discharge papers, or a Veteran ID Card. If you’re applying in-store, bring a government-issued photo ID plus your proof of service.
For government-assisted options like Lifeline, eligibility is based on participation in qualifying programs (for example, SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit) or on meeting income thresholds (typically at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines). You’ll confirm eligibility via the National Verifier and then choose a participating provider to apply your discount.
Major internet provider deals for veterans and military families
Verizon Fios
Verizon offers dedicated military and veteran pricing on Fios home internet in eligible areas, with typical savings applied to monthly plans and equipment. Look for no long-term contracts, autopay discounts, and easy online verification. Always confirm whether your discount stacks with new customer promos and whether taxes/fees are extra. See current terms here: Verizon Fios military discount.
Xfinity (Comcast)
Xfinity runs a Military Program that periodically includes account credits or special offers for new or existing military customers. Verification is usually quick online; moving benefits and self-install options can help families in frequent PCS cycles. Check what’s available in your area: Xfinity Military Program.
AT&T (including Fiber)
AT&T frequently advertises appreciation discounts for military and veterans (verification required). Internet offers vary by market and may change; ask explicitly whether home internet discounts apply in your ZIP and if they can combine with new customer deals. In addition, AT&T operates a low-income program called Access from AT&T for qualifying households (details in Sources).
T‑Mobile 5G Home Internet
T‑Mobile’s best-known military pricing is on wireless lines, but households in 5G Home Internet areas may find bundle savings or promotional credits—especially if you already have an eligible military wireless plan. These plans are generally month-to-month with equipment included, making them attractive for frequent movers. Confirm trial/return windows and any data management policies.
Other regional providers
Regional ISPs (Spectrum, Cox, Optimum, Frontier, WOW!, and many local fiber co-ops) may offer military appreciation credits, fee waivers, or move-friendly policies. Even when no published discount exists, you can often secure savings by asking sales or retention teams for “military recognition” or “loyalty” offers and by bundling with TV or mobile when it makes financial sense.
Government-assisted and nonprofit options
Lifeline monthly discount
Lifeline is an FCC program that provides a monthly discount (typically up to $9.25, or up to $34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands) on phone or internet service. Veterans qualify through income or by participating in eligible programs, including the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. You’ll apply through the National Verifier, then contact a participating ISP to apply the credit to your service.
ACP status and alternatives
Funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) lapsed in 2024. While enrollments are closed and most benefits have ended, many providers launched temporary transition credits or expanded low-cost plans ($10–$30/mo) to help fill the gap. Ask your ISP about any ongoing ACP-transition offers, and compare against Lifeline and provider-specific low-income plans to find the best net price.
VA Digital Divide Consult (devices and data for telehealth)
The Department of Veterans Affairs can help eligible veterans connect for telehealth through the VA Digital Divide Consult, which may include a loaned tablet and covered data plan for virtual appointments. Ask your VA care team or social worker to submit a consult on your behalf.
Community nonprofits and local aid
Nonprofits and digital equity partners offer low-cost service and devices to income-qualifying households, including many veterans. Look for refurbished computers, discounted hotspots, and basic broadband plans that can bridge gaps after a move or during career transition.
What to look for if you move often
- No annual contract: Month-to-month terms reduce risk during PCS orders.
- Self-install kits: Skip appointment delays and install the day you arrive.
- Move guarantees: Ask about transfer fee waivers or credits when service isn’t available at the new address.
- Flexible equipment: Gateways with built-in cellular backup or easy bridge mode make transitions smoother.
- Trial periods: Verify return windows to avoid early termination fees if coverage is poor in a new home.
Step-by-step: How to secure the best deal
- Check availability: Run your address with two or three ISPs to compare technology (fiber, cable, fixed wireless) and intro pricing.
- Gather documents: For military discounts, have your ID or DD214 ready. For Lifeline/low-income plans, collect proof of benefits or income.
- Verify online: Complete ID.me/SheerID steps during checkout to lock in military pricing; screenshot the confirmation.
- Ask about stackable savings: Request bundle credits, autopay/paperless discounts, and any “military appreciation” offers. Confirm whether these stack with new customer promos.
- Confirm total cost: Get the all-in monthly price with taxes, fees, equipment, and after promo expires. Note contract terms and price guarantees.
- Schedule smartly: If you’re moving, ship a self-install kit to arrive on day one. If service isn’t available at the new address, ask for a waiver of early termination or prorated credits.
- Re-check annually: On your plan anniversary or after a move, renegotiate. Mention your service record respectfully—many reps can apply loyalty credits.
Quick answers
- Can I combine a military discount with Lifeline? Often yes, because they’re different programs—one from the provider, one from the FCC. Always confirm stacking rules with your ISP.
- What counts as proof? For military deals: ID.me/SheerID verification, military ID, DD214, or a Veteran ID Card. For Lifeline: proof of qualifying benefits or income.
- What if I’m rural? Check fixed wireless (5G home internet) and satellite availability. Ask providers about trial periods to test speeds, and see if any low-income or veteran credits apply.
Important notes
- Offers vary by location and change frequently; confirm all terms at checkout.
- Military/veteran pricing may not combine with certain limited-time promos.
- Keep records of verification and promotions in case credits don’t appear on the first bill.