How to Get Low-Income Internet Through gFiber (Google Fiber)
Updated
gFiber (formerly Google Fiber) does not advertise an income-based discount plan as of October 1, 2026. Its residential plans start at $70 a month for 1 Gig, which includes the Wi-Fi router and installation, and the price hasn't changed since 2012. That's a strong value for the speed, but it isn't a low-income plan. The good news is that eligible households still have several ways to lower their internet bill, whether they stay with gFiber or choose a lower-cost plan from another provider.
What happened to gFiber's ACP discount?
Like most providers, gFiber participated in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which took up to $30 a month off eligible households' internet bills. Congress didn't renew the program's funding, and ACP benefits ended in 2024. gFiber's old ACP page now leads to its regular plan lineup. Unless Congress funds the program again, the ACP discount isn't available from any provider.
gFiber's current plans and prices
- 1 Gig: $70/month, with a Wi-Fi 6E router and up to one extender
- 3 Gig: $100/month, with a Wi-Fi 7 router
- 8 Gig: $150/month, with a Wi-Fi 7 router, battery backup, and an uptime guarantee
Prices are before taxes and gFiber's local access fee. Equipment is included, there's no annual contract, and you can choose self-setup or a free professional install. For a budget-minded household, 1 Gig is the only plan to consider. It has more than enough speed for remote school, streaming, and video calls at the same time.
Find the most affordable plan at your address
We'll show you every provider that serves your home, including low-cost and discount plans gFiber doesn't offer.
Option 1: Apply for Lifeline
Lifeline is the FCC's long-running program for low-income households, and it's still active. It provides up to $9.25 a month off qualifying phone, internet, or bundled service from a participating provider, or up to $34.25 a month for eligible households on Tribal lands. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, and you can apply it to home internet or a mobile plan.
You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if someone in your household takes part in:
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension benefits
- Certain Tribal assistance programs
Apply online through the FCC's National Verifier, by mail, or with help from a participating provider. Texas and Oregon residents use their state's own process. You'll need to recertify each year.
Important: Lifeline only works with participating providers. Before you count on applying it to a gFiber bill, use the Lifeline program's "Companies Near Me" tool or ask gFiber directly whether it accepts Lifeline at your address. If it doesn't, many households apply their Lifeline benefit to a mobile phone plan instead and keep their home internet separate.
Option 2: Ask about your building's internet deal
Many apartment communities in gFiber cities have agreements with internet providers. Some include internet in rent or in a monthly amenity fee, and some public and affordable housing properties have partnered with providers on reduced-cost or free service for residents. If you rent, ask your property manager whether your building has a gFiber agreement and what residents pay before you sign up on your own.
Option 3: Compare low-cost plans from other providers
If gFiber's $70 entry price is too high, check whether another provider at your address has a dedicated low-income plan. Several large providers run their own income-qualified programs, often for about $30 a month or less, with eligibility tied to programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or the National School Lunch Program. Speeds are slower than gFiber's gigabit service, but usually enough for a small household.
Programs and prices vary by provider and change often, so compare the exact plan, any equipment charges, and how long the price lasts. RSINC's provider-by-provider guides, linked below, walk through how each program works.
Option 4: Look for local help
- State and city digital inclusion programs: Some cities and counties offer device programs, digital skills classes, or connectivity help. Check your city's website or local library.
- School programs: Districts sometimes lend hotspots or help families connect. Ask your child's school.
- Libraries: Many lend Wi-Fi hotspots for free with a library card.
Tips to keep your gFiber bill as low as possible
- Choose 1 Gig. The higher tiers add speed and perks most households don't need.
- Return equipment within 60 days if you cancel. gFiber may charge a replacement fee for unreturned gear.
- Skip optional add-ons like home phone unless you'll use them.
Need help sorting out discount options?
Call us and we'll walk through gFiber and other providers' low-cost plans available at your address.
Frequently asked questions
Does gFiber have a low-income discount?
gFiber does not advertise an income-based discount plan as of October 2026. Its residential plans start at $70 a month for 1 Gig, with the router and installation included.
Can I use Lifeline with gFiber?
Lifeline works only with participating providers. Use the Lifeline program's Companies Near Me tool or ask gFiber directly whether it accepts Lifeline at your address.
Is the Affordable Connectivity Program coming back?
The ACP stopped providing benefits in 2024 after its funding ran out. Unless Congress funds it again, it isn't available.