Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri

Last updated: September 2025

This Missouri-specific hub shows you where to get low-cost internet, free or discounted devices, safe public Wi‑Fi, and practical digital skills training. It also covers how to stop shutoffs, where to complain if a provider won’t help, and where to turn if you need a human to walk you through an application. Links go straight to official state or federal pages and trusted local partners.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Get a phone or internet credit today: Apply for Lifeline online with the National Verifier through the consumer portal at the USAC Lifeline site or by phone at 1-800-234-9473; you can use your SNAP, Medicaid, or income to qualify. Use the provider finder to pick a Missouri company like Assurance, Access, or SafeLink after approval. Lifeline gives a $9.25 m o n t h l y d i sco u n t ($ 34.25 on Tribal lands). Call to confirm details before you switch plans. (fcc.gov)
Borrow a hotspot this week: Reserve a 21‑day checkout hotspot from a Missouri library system near you—try the Kansas City Public Library Tech to Go program or St. Louis Public Library’s hotspot lending. If you’re in St. Louis County, use the Bookable Hotspots program to reserve in advance. Bring your library card and ID. (kclibrary.org)
Stop a shutoff in progress: Call your utility first and ask for a payment plan, then contact the Missouri Public Service Commission Consumer Services Unit at 1-800-392-4211 to log a complaint if you can’t reach a deal. For energy crisis help, apply for LIHEAP (Winter ECIP and Summer ECIP) through MyDSS. For St. Louis City water bills, check the city Water Division’s assistance notice and call 314-771-2255. (psc.mo.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These Contacts Handy

Missouri Family Support Division info line: 1-855-373-4636 for SNAP/Medicaid/Child Care; live chat and uploads are on the MyDSS website; TTY 1-800-735-2966. (dss.mo.gov)
Missouri Job Centers (digital skills, resumes, WIOA training): Call 1-888-728-5627 or find a center on JobsMoGov; MoJobs online account available in English/Español. (jobs.mo.gov)
USAC Lifeline Support Center (application help): 1-800-234-9473, lifelinesupport.org; get status updates, document help, and provider lists. (lifelinesupport.org)
Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline (scams/bad bills): 1-800-392-8222; file online complaints and get identity‑theft tips. (ago.mo.gov)
Missouri Office of Broadband Development (state broadband & digital equity programs): broadband@ded.mo.gov, 1-573-526-1028; see Connecting All Missourians. (ded.mo.gov)

What This Guide Covers

Low-cost internet plans, device sources, and hotspot lending.
Digital skills training and “digital navigator” help in your city.
How to keep service on, get crisis help, and file complaints.
Regional resource lists and special supports for diverse communities.
Checklists, step-by-steps, and a quick cheat sheet you can screenshot.

Digital Access Basics for Missouri Single Moms

If you can’t afford home internet, you still have workable paths:

Lifeline gives a monthly discount on mobile or home internet; start at the USAC Lifeline page and enroll through a provider after approval. You’ll need a photo ID and proof of SNAP/Medicaid/SSI, or proof your income is at/below 135% of the poverty line. Keep your benefit active with the annual recertification. If you survived domestic violence or trafficking, Lifeline offers a 6‑month emergency benefit under the Safe Connections Act—ask the Lifeline Support Center for survivor‑specific guidance. (fcc.gov)
ACP ended in 2024, but Missouri’s Office of Broadband keeps a live list of options, and providers still run their own discount plans. Confirm pricing before you sign. (oembed-ded.mo.gov)
Public libraries and community partners lend hotspots and laptops and run free classes. Check Kansas City Public Library’s Tech to Go, St. Louis Public Library hotspots, and St. Louis County Library Bookable Hotspots. Bring your library card and return items on time to avoid fees. (kclibrary.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact United Way 2‑1‑1 for a live referral to agencies that pay past‑due internet or help with devices; if dialing 2‑1‑1 doesn’t work, call 1-800-427-4626. Also contact your local Community Action Agency through the Missouri Community Action Network directory to ask about device vouchers or digital skills classes. (uwheartmo.org)

Missouri Programs At‑A‑Glance

Program	What it helps with	Who qualifies	How to apply	Typical timeline
Lifeline (FCC/USAC)	$9.25/ m o . o ff p h o n e / in t er n e t ($ 34.25 on Tribal lands)	Income ≤135% FPL or programs like SNAP/Medicaid/SSI	Apply via LifelineSupport.org or call 1-800-234-9473; pick a provider after approval	Same day to 1–2 weeks depending on documents
LIHEAP (DSS)	Utility bills; crisis help via ECIP	Missouri resident, responsible for bill, ≤$3,000 countable resources and income below limits	Apply at MyDSS LIHEAP page or through the contracted agency in your county	Non‑crisis: about 10–30 days; Crisis ECIP: faster during season
Library Hotspots	Short‑term home internet	Adult library cardholder in good standing	Reserve and check out at your local system	Same day if in stock
Job Centers (MDHEWD)	Digital skills, job search, training	Missouri jobseekers	Find a center via JobsMoGov or call 1-888-728-5627	Same day orientation or next available class

Sources: USAC Lifeline consumer info, MyDSS LIHEAP, KCPL/SLPL/SLCL hotspot pages, JobsMoGov. Call to confirm current availability before applying. (fcc.gov)

How to Get Low‑Cost Internet in Missouri

Step 1 — Check Lifeline eligibility and apply

Where to apply: Use the USAC National Verifier at the Lifeline Support site or call 1-800-234-9473 for help. If you qualify, select a Missouri Lifeline company (e.g., Assurance Wireless, Access Wireless, SafeLink Wireless). (fcc.gov)
What you’ll need: Photo ID, proof of benefit or income, address. If you receive free “no‑bill” service, you must use it at least every 30 days to keep the benefit. Keep an eye out for the annual recertification notice. (fcc.gov)
If you live on Tribal lands: The Tribal Lifeline benefit is higher ($34.25/mo.). If you’re near Missouri’s borders with Kansas or Oklahoma and live on recognized Tribal lands there, ask the Lifeline Support Center to confirm your eligibility. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the USAC Lifeline Support Center again for a document review, or file an FCC complaint if a provider won’t process your approved discount. You can also ask the Missouri Public Service Commission how to escalate provider billing disputes. (fcc.gov)

Step 2 — Compare ongoing low‑income plans from local providers

Spectrum Internet Assist: 50 Mbps for about $25/ m o .; Wi ‑ F ia v ai l ab l e; n o d a t a c a p s; se p a r a t e “ A d v an t a g e ” t i er a t 100 M b p s f or$ 30. Eligibility is linked to SSI or school meal programs. Confirm offers in your ZIP. (spectrum.com)
Xfinity Internet Essentials: Budget plan commonly listed at $14.95/ m o . f or 75 M b p s an d a “ Pl u s ” o pt i o na ro u n d$ 29.95/mo. where available; check Xfinity’s current pricing and five‑year price lock updates in Missouri markets. Offers change by region—verify online for your address. (theverge.com)
Human‑I‑T Gold Membership hotspots: Prepaid 4G LTE hotspot device with service starting near $14.99/ m o . a f t er an$ 80 device purchase; call 1-888-391-7249 for eligibility and documentation help. (store.human-i-t.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use EveryoneOn to search offers by ZIP, and ask your library’s reference desk about in‑house digital navigators who can help you compare plans. You can also email the Office of Broadband Development to ask about current low‑cost options in your county. (oembed-ded.mo.gov)

Step 3 — Use library hotspot lending when home internet isn’t possible

Kansas City Public Library (Tech to Go): 21‑day loan; replacements and fines apply; call 816-701-3434 for help. (kclibrary.org)
St. Louis Public Library hotspots: 21‑day loan with renewal if no holds; fees for lost parts; service disabled when overdue. (slpl.org)
St. Louis County Library Bookable Hotspots: Reserve specific dates up to a year ahead; 21‑day checkout; replacement charges if lost. (slcl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about in‑branch computer time, request extended sessions for online applications, or ask a librarian about “digital navigator” one‑on‑one help. Try KC Digital Drive’s resource library if you’re in the metro. (kcdigitaldrive.org)

Where to Get a Low‑Cost Computer or Tablet

PCs for People—Kansas City (West Bottoms): In‑store desktops often start around $30 an d l a pt o p s f ro m$ 50; internet devices ~ $60 an d ser v i ce$ 15/mo. Bring SNAP/Medicaid or income proof. Address: 518 Santa Fe St., Kansas City, MO 64105. Phone: 1-816-259-0851. Check open hours on its Kansas City page before you go. (pcsforpeople.org)
Human‑I‑T: Refurbished devices with member discounts and low‑cost hotspots; call 1-888-391-7249 or use the Human‑I‑T Store to compare. (store.human-i-t.org)
Libraries & local coalitions: Some systems run device giveaways or certification‑linked laptop programs; see St. Louis County Library’s digital equity initiatives and KC Digital Drive’s Digital Inclusion Fund updates. (slcl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local Community Action Agency about device vouchers or used equipment. If you have a disability, Missouri Assistive Technology (MoAT) can connect you to device reutilization and low‑interest loans. (communityaction.org)

Build Digital Skills (Free or Low‑Cost)

Missouri Job Centers: Classes in basic computer use, résumé tools, and online job search; ask about WIOA‑funded training. Call 1-888-728-5627 or search by city on JobsMoGov. (jobs.mo.gov)
St. Louis—ConnectSTL Learning Labs: Free labs with digital navigators and help desk staffing by NPower Missouri; locations include Tandy, 12th & Park, and Marquette Recreation Centers. Call 1-314-310-1031 to schedule one‑on‑one help. (developstlouis.org)
Libraries: Use the St. Louis County Library “Computer Skills Center” via LearningExpress Library, and ask about Northstar Digital Literacy at your branch. (slcl.org)
KC Digital Drive: Regional digital inclusion coalition hosting learning circles, device support events, and a searchable resource library. (kcdigitaldrive.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Office of Broadband Development about Digital Opportunity grants in your area, and check NDIA’s site for national free resources and the Digital Navigator model so you know what to request from local partners. (ded.mo.gov)

How to Stop Utility or Internet Shutoff in Missouri Today

Call your provider’s collections line: Request a payment plan, note any medical needs, and ask about utility‑sponsored help. Ameren Missouri’s “Dollar More” offers up to $600/year, and Spire’s “DollarHelp” is available via 2‑1‑1. (ameren.com)
Apply for LIHEAP: Winter ECIP runs November–May (up to $800), an d S u mm er EC I P r u n s J u n e - S e pt e mb er (u pt o$ 300) when funding is available. Submit online or via your county’s contracted agency. Save proof of a shutoff notice for crisis processing. (mydss.mo.gov)
Call Missouri PSC Consumer Services: If you can’t reach a fair arrangement, call 1-800-392-4211 (TTY 1-866-735-2460) to file an informal complaint fast. You can also submit via the PSC complaint portal. (psc.mo.gov)
Water bill help: In Kansas City, call 311 (816-513-1313, opt. 1) and ask about KC Water’s assistance through the Mid America Assistance Coalition; in St. Louis City, check the Water Division’s current assistance credit (up to $500 one‑time) and enroll in a payment plan. (kcwater.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 2‑1‑1 to reach United Way, or call your Community Action Agency for emergency pledges. For unfair shutoff threats, also call the Office of Public Counsel (1-866-922-2959) for consumer advocacy. (psc.mo.gov)

Internet Consumer Rights and Complaints

File an FCC complaint if a phone or internet company won’t honor lawful discounts, refuses to unlock a device, or fails to address service problems. Use the FCC Consumer Complaint Center or call 1-888-CALL‑FCC. (fcc.gov)
Contact the Missouri Attorney General for scams, deceptive add‑on fees, or fake “support” calls; Consumer Protection Hotline 1-800-392-8222. The AG can mediate. (ago.mo.gov)
Know what’s stable in 2025: The U.S. Supreme Court kept the Universal Service Fund (which funds Lifeline, E‑Rate, rural health) in place in June 2025, so Lifeline remains active. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the PSC if your issue fits a state utility complaint, and if it’s a sales contract problem, file a written complaint with the AG and keep copies of your bills, texts, and emails. (psc.mo.gov)

Quick Reference: Who to Call (and Why)

Topic	Best first call	Backup
Apply for Lifeline or check status	USAC Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473	FCC Consumer Complaints if provider blocks discount
Energy shutoff / payment plan	Your utility; then PSC 1-800-392-4211	DSS LIHEAP portal or local Community Action Agency
Water bill help	KC Water 311 / St. Louis Water Division 314-771-2255	United Way 2‑1‑1
Low-cost internet plans	Spectrum Internet Assist; Xfinity Internet Essentials	Office of Broadband Development 1-573-526-1028
Local in‑person help	Missouri Job Centers 1-888-728-5627	Library digital navigators, KC Digital Drive

Sources: USAC, PSC, MyDSS, KC Water/St. Louis Water, DED OBD, JobsMoGov. (lifelinesupport.org)

Where to Learn Online Safely (and Pass Employer‑Recognized Tests)

Libraries + LearningExpress: Use your library card to access computer basics through LearningExpress on the St. Louis County Library “Computer Skills Center.” Ask your branch about Northstar Digital Literacy tests and certificates. (slcl.org)
Job Center workshops: Many centers teach Google Workspace/Microsoft Office basics; ask for a calendar when you call 1-888-728-5627. Check if WIOA can cover fees for certification classes. (jobs.mo.gov)
ConnectSTL’s labs (St. Louis): Digital navigators can sit with you to create email, apply for jobs, and practice telehealth. Call 1-314-310-1031 for one‑on‑one slots. (developstlouis.org)

Accessibility note: Ask for large‑print handouts or screen‑magnifier keyboards. Libraries and state agencies use Relay Missouri—dial 711 if you’re Deaf or hard of hearing. (oatstransit.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email broadband@ded.mo.gov about upcoming Digital Opportunity grants and free classes in your county, or check NDIA’s program resources to copy a skills checklist and ask your library to run that class. (ded.mo.gov)

Getting to Class: Transportation Options

OATS Transit serves 87 Missouri counties with scheduled and on‑demand rides; call 1-888-875-6287. Check your county schedule before you book; use Relay Missouri 711 if needed. (oatstransit.org)
MO Rides is a statewide referral line pairing you with local transportation providers; call 1-844-836-7433. (morides.org)
MO HealthNet members can request non‑emergency medical transportation rides through MTM Link or plan phone numbers; this includes rides to telehealth-support visits and some classes when medically necessary. (mydss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Job Center about bus passes tied to WIOA/SkillUP activities, and check with your Community Action Agency for gas card programs linked to training attendance. (mydss.mo.gov)

Digital Safety & Privacy Essentials

Avoid “support” scams: Companies won’t call you to demand gift‑card payments. Hang up, then call your real provider’s number. Report scams to the Missouri AG or the PSC Consumer Alert number. (ago.mo.gov)
Identity protection: Pull free credit reports via the AG’s “Free Annual Credit Reports” page and the FTC‑linked site. Freeze child credit files if needed. (ago.mo.gov)
Domestic violence safety: Use the Lifeline Safe Connections Act path to separate your phone line from an abuser without fees; ask the Lifeline Support Center for help. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit your library to use a public workstation in private browsing mode for applications, and ask the reference desk for safe‑use tips and a headset if you must call hotlines.

Special Pathways for Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: ConnectSTL hosts inclusive labs in St. Louis, and NDIA’s resources can help you find digital navigators who respect your identity. For legal or discrimination issues affecting service accounts, call the Missouri AG Consumer Protection Hotline and ask for mediation. (developstlouis.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Missouri Assistive Technology’s TAP for Internet can provide adaptive keyboards, pointing devices, and screen readers for home internet access, and TAP Wireless offers accessible phones or tablets with apps installed. Ask about device reutilization if money is tight. (at.mo.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Job Centers can connect you to veteran‑priority services, and USAC Lifeline recognizes VA Pension/Survivors benefits for eligibility. Contact your county Veteran Service Officer if you need DD‑214 help. (fcc.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Libraries and community colleges run ESL + digital basics classes (see St. Charles Community College’s Adult Education/ESL digital literacy class). Ask for interpretation by calling your program ahead; DSS offers translation at 1-855-373-4636. (stchas.edu)
Tribal‑specific resources: If you live on qualifying Tribal lands (often near Missouri’s western borders), you may receive enhanced Lifeline ($34.25/mo.) and Link Up support for activation. Confirm Tribal eligibility with USAC; address documentation is required. (lifelinesupport.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Email the Office of Broadband Development for BEAD project timelines in your county and use MoBroadband to track maps and cost‑burdened areas. While construction rolls out, request a library hotspot or a fixed‑wireless plan via EveryoneOn. (ded.mo.gov)
Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. Father‑led households can apply for Lifeline, LIHEAP, and job training the same way. Use 2‑1‑1 and Community Action for local referrals. (uwheartmo.org)
Language access, Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Use Relay Missouri (711) when calling utilities or state offices, and ask libraries for large‑print or ASL‑friendly classes. PSC and DSS list TTY lines on contact pages. (psc.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Office of Broadband Development to connect you to local Digital Opportunity grantees, and take your issue to the Attorney General if a provider refuses reasonable accommodation. (ded.mo.gov)

Resources by Region

Kansas City Metro (Jackson/Clay/Platte): KC Public Library Tech to Go for hotspots; device refurbishers include PCs for People (West Bottoms). Digital inclusion coordination via KC Digital Drive. For water bills, call KC Water (311). (kclibrary.org)
St. Louis City & County: SLPL and SLCL Bookable Hotspots; ConnectSTL Learning Labs; NPower Missouri help desk; Ameren “Dollar More” and Spire “DollarHelp” via 2‑1‑1; Water Division assistance info. (slpl.org)
Springfield & Ozarks: Check OACAC and Springfield Job Center for digital basics classes; OATS routes serve Greene and surrounding counties. (jobs.mo.gov)
Columbia/Jefferson City & Central: CMCA (Community Action), MoJobs account for classes, and MU Extension collaborations appear on OBD/Broadband updates. Use the Job Center locator for Columbia and Jeff City. (jobs.mo.gov)
St. Joseph & Northwest: Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph; OATS intercity routes to KC; MCPL (Mid‑Continent) branches often host digital basics; call ahead. (communityaction.org)
Bootheel/Delta: Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation (DAEOC) for utilities and training referrals; check Missouri CAN listing for your exact county office. (communityaction.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the Lifeline recertification email/text: If you lose your benefit, you’ll pay full price next bill. Add LifelineSupport@usac.org to your safe senders and set a calendar reminder. (lifelinesupport.org)
Relying on ACP discounts that no longer exist: ACP funding ended; some carriers quietly raised rates after credits expired. Always check the current low‑income plan’s base price and promo duration. (oembed-ded.mo.gov)
Not calling PSC before paying a “shutoff” scam: Scammers spoof numbers. Hang up and call your utility or PSC’s hotline. (psc.mo.gov)

Reality Check — What to Expect

Wait times: Non‑crisis applications like SNAP can take up to 30 days; Lifeline may be instant or a week depending on documents; library hotspot holds can stretch 1–3 weeks during school months. Plan buffer time. (mydss.mo.gov)
Funding windows: LIHEAP crisis (ECIP) only runs in set seasons and depends on funds in your county. Always ask your contracted agency if emergency slots are open before you wait in line. (mydss.mo.gov)
Policy changes: USF is stable after the June 2025 Supreme Court decision, but consumer plans and prices change. Verify each quote in writing. (reuters.com)

Low‑Cost Internet Plans Snapshot (verify for your ZIP)

Provider	Typical entry price	Speed tier	Where to check
Spectrum Internet Assist	~$25/mo.	50 Mbps (Advantage ~100 Mbps at ~$30)	Spectrum Internet Assist page
Xfinity Internet Essentials	~ $14.95-$ 29.95/mo.	~75–100 Mbps (varies)	Xfinity plan/pricing pages
Human‑I‑T Hotspot	$14.99/mo. service + device	4G LTE mobile hotspot	Human‑I‑T Store

Confirm current price and fees before enrolling. Offers vary by address and change often. (spectrum.com)

County‑by‑County Help (Community Action Agencies)

Community Action Agencies cover every Missouri county. Use the Missouri Community Action Network map to find your agency’s phone number and website. Examples: CAASTLC (St. Louis County), CMCA (Central counties), OACAC (Ozarks), DAEOC (Bootheel). (communityaction.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Lifeline — Apply & pick provider: Start at the USAC Lifeline site; call 1-800-234-9473 if stuck; one discount per household. (lifelinesupport.org)
Energy crisis: Apply at MyDSS LIHEAP; ask agency about ECIP amounts and season; bring shutoff notice. (mydss.mo.gov)
Library hotspots: KCPL Tech to Go; SLPL hotspots; SLCL Bookable Hotspots. Reserve early. (kclibrary.org)
Complaints/scams: PSC 1-800-392-4211; AG Consumer Hotline 1-800-392-8222; FCC complaints online. (psc.mo.gov)
In‑person help: Job Centers 1-888-728-5627; Community Action via Missouri CAN map; 2‑1‑1 for local referrals. (jobs.mo.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID.
Proof of eligibility: SNAP/Medicaid/SSI letter or benefits card; or income paystubs/tax return (last 12 months) for Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
Address proof: Lease, utility bill, or official mail with your name and address.
Shutoff notice (if crisis): For LIHEAP ECIP or utility hardship programs. (mydss.mo.gov)
Library card: Needed for hotspot/laptop checkouts.
Assistive needs list: If you need large print, screen magnifier, or TAP for Internet adaptive gear through MoAT. (at.mo.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

Lifeline: Call 1-800-234-9473, ask what document is missing, and upload again. If your provider says “we can’t apply it,” file an FCC informal complaint and switch providers after the credit posts. (lifelinesupport.org)
LIHEAP: Ask your county agency to review; correct the missing verification; escalate via DSS feedback if needed. Reapply next season if funds are exhausted. (mydss.mo.gov)
Library resources: Ask about waitlists, branch‑to‑branch holds, or alternative classes (virtual/recorded). If fees are a barrier, talk to the supervisor—some systems can reduce replacement charges case‑by‑case. (slpl.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

United Way 2‑1‑1: One call gets local referrals for device help, training, or emergency bills; TTY 1‑866-385-6525; text/chat options available. (firstcallforhelpsemo.org)
Community Action Agencies: From CAASTLC and USCAA to OACAC and DAEOC, agencies run energy help, job coaching, and digital basics. Use the Missouri CAN directory to find yours. (communityaction.org)
NPower Missouri (St. Louis): Free tech training for young adults and military‑connected learners; also staffs ConnectSTL help desk; email or call listings on the Missouri page. (npower.org)
KC Digital Drive: Grants, device drives, and monthly coalition meetings; nonprofits can request support and families can find resources in the library. (kcdigitaldrive.org)

Tables You Can Use

Key Phone Numbers & Websites

Agency/Resource	Purpose	Contact
USAC Lifeline Support Center	Lifeline eligibility, status, and help	1-800-234-9473; Lifeline consumer site
Missouri PSC Consumer Services	Utility complaints and mediation	1-800-392-4211; PSC complaint portal
Missouri AG Consumer Protection	Scams, unfair practices	1-800-392-8222; AG consumer site
Missouri Job Centers	Digital skills and employment	1-888-728-5627; JobsMoGov
Office of Broadband Development	State broadband/digital equity	1-573-526-1028; OBD website

Sources: USAC, PSC, AG, JobsMoGov, DED OBD. (lifelinesupport.org)

Library Hotspot Lending (Examples)

System	Term	Notes
Kansas City Public Library (Tech to Go)	21 days, no renewals	Replacement fee if lost; content filters applied. (kclibrary.org)
St. Louis Public Library	21 days; renew if no holds	Service disabled when overdue; fees for missing parts. (slpl.org)
St. Louis County Library (Bookable)	Reserve up to one year ahead; 21 days	One hotspot per household; replacement cost applies. (slcl.org)

Utility Help Pointers

Provider	Program	Where to ask
Ameren Missouri	Dollar More (up to $600/year)	Details and agency finder on Ameren’s site; or dial 2‑1‑1. (ameren.com)
Spire (natural gas)	DollarHelp grants	Start via 2‑1‑1; Spire’s DollarHelp page lists contacts. (spireenergy.com)
St. Louis City Water	One‑time credit (check current) + payment plans	Water Division announcements and FAQs; phone 314-771-2255. (stlouis-mo.gov)

Regional Digital Inclusion Leads

Region	Lead organizations
Kansas City Metro	KC Digital Drive; Kansas City Public Library; PCs for People KC. (kcdigitaldrive.org)
St. Louis	ConnectSTL (SLDC + City); NPower Missouri; SLPL/SLCL. (developstlouis.org)
Springfield/Ozarks	OACAC; Springfield Job Center; OATS Transit. (jobs.mo.gov)

Statewide Planning & Funding (FYI)

Topic	Missouri status
BEAD infrastructure funding	$1.7B+ allocated; Round 1 scoring closed Feb 20, 2025; sub‑rounds and BAFOs followed; contact OBD for timelines. (ded.mo.gov)
Digital Equity (DEA)	Digital Equity Plan accepted; State Capacity funding path announced March 2024. (internetforall.gov)
Broadband maps/engagement	Missouri’s OBD mapping tools and stakeholder summits ongoing. (content.govdelivery.com)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

LIHEAP processing happens through different contracted agencies by county (Community Action Agencies or partners). If one office is backed up, ask DSS for the nearest alternate intake site or upload documents on MyDSS to avoid mail delays. (mydss.mo.gov)
Library policies vary: Some allow renewals on hotspots, others don’t. Fines and replacement fees differ. Read your system’s rules closely. (kclibrary.org)
Water bill help is local: St. Louis City has its own assistance credit and repayment plans, while KC Water partners with MAAC and 2‑1‑1. Call first; funds are first‑come, first‑served. (stlouis-mo.gov)

How to Use State and Federal Departments (Fast)

Family Support Division (MyDSS): Apply for SNAP (up to 30 days; 7 days for some emergencies), Temp Assistance, and check LIHEAP status online. Call 1-855-373-4636 for help; TTY 1-800-735-2966. (mydss.mo.gov)
MDHEWD / JobsMoGov: Find Job Centers, WIOA training, hiring fairs, and digital skill workshops; phone 1-888-728-5627. Create a MoJobs account to register for services. (jobs.mo.gov)
Office of Broadband Development: Learn about BEAD builds and local Digital Opportunity grants; phone 1-573-526-1028; email broadband@ded.mo.gov. (ded.mo.gov)

FAQs (Missouri + 2025‑specific)

**How can I get internet for $0/ m o n t hn o wt ha t A CP e n d e d ? * * T rys t a c kin g t h e * L i f e l in e *$ 9.25 credit with a provider’s low‑income plan if your provider allows it, or use a library hotspot while you compare offers. Some carriers have sub‑$20 options that the Lifeline credit nearly covers; always confirm in writing. Check Spectrum Internet Assist, Xfinity price‑lock updates, and Human‑I‑T if a hotspot fits your needs. (fcc.gov)
How fast will LIHEAP crisis help arrive?
Winter ECIP runs November–May (max $800) an d S u mm er EC I P r u n s J u n e - S e pt e mb er (ma x$ 300). Actual timing depends on your county agency and funding—ask about “crisis” processing and upload documents via MyDSS to speed things up. (mydss.mo.gov)
I was told my line will be shut off tomorrow—what do I say?
Ask for a medical or hardship arrangement and a written payment plan. Then apply for LIHEAP or a utility program (Ameren Dollar More; Spire DollarHelp). If staff won’t help, call the PSC at 1-800-392-4211 the same day. (ameren.com)
Is Lifeline still funded in 2025?
Yes. The Supreme Court upheld the Universal Service Fund’s legality in June 2025, which supports Lifeline. You still must recertify yearly and use your service every 30 days if it’s a free plan. (reuters.com)
Where can I get one‑on‑one help to set up email, apply for jobs, or do telehealth?
Ask your library for a digital navigator; in St. Louis, ConnectSTL Learning Labs staffed by NPower offer appointments; in KC, KC Digital Drive lists tech‑help events. Job Centers also do one‑to‑one. (developstlouis.org)
Do libraries charge for hotspots if I’m late?
Yes. Policies vary; for example, SLPL disables service when overdue and charges replacement for lost parts; SLCL lists replacement costs; KCPL sets device fees. Return on time and keep the kit together. (slpl.org)
I need adaptive tech to use a computer—any help?
Yes. Missouri Assistive Technology TAP for Internet provides adaptive keyboards, mice, and screen readers for home internet access if you qualify; TAP Wireless can supply an accessible phone/tablet. (at.mo.gov)
Who do I call about harassing sales calls or a sketchy “tech support” bill?
Call the Missouri AG Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222. If a telecom is involved, also file an FCC informal complaint online. (ago.mo.gov)
What’s the fastest way to find local, real people?
Dial 2‑1‑1 to reach United Way, ask for “internet or device help,” and request a digital navigator or Community Action referral. If you can’t call 2‑1‑1, dial 1-800-427-4626. (firstcallforhelpsemo.org)
How can I track when new broadband finally reaches my rural road?
Email OBD (broadband@ded.mo.gov) with your address for project status; watch the BEAD page and mapping announcements; check MoBroadband’s consumer tools for updates. (ded.mo.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta guía ofrece rutas rápidas para conseguir internet de bajo costo, préstamos de hotspots de bibliotecas, apoyo para pagar servicios, y clases de habilidades digitales en Missouri.

Lifeline (descuento mensual): Solicite en el portal de USAC Lifeline o llame al 1-800-234-9473. Debe recertificar cada año. (lifelinesupport.org)
LIHEAP (ayuda de energía): Aplique por MyDSS (invierno ECIP: noviembre‑mayo, hasta $800; v er an o EC I P : j u ni o ‑ se pt i e mb re, ha s t a$ 300, según fondos). Llame al 1-855-373-4636 para apoyo en español. (mydss.mo.gov)
Hotspots de bibliotecas: Kansas City Public Library, St. Louis Public Library y St. Louis County Library ofrecen préstamos de dispositivos de Wi‑Fi. Reserve con su tarjeta de biblioteca. (kclibrary.org)
Quejas y estafas: Llame al Missouri PSC (1-800-392-4211) o al Fiscal General (1-800-392-8222). Para quejas de telecomunicaciones, use el sitio de la FCC. (psc.mo.gov)

Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre la disponibilidad actual por teléfono o en los enlaces oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Missouri Department of Social Services (MyDSS) for LIHEAP, SNAP timelines, and contact methods. (mydss.mo.gov)
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) & USAC for Lifeline rules, survivor benefits, and application support. (fcc.gov)
Missouri Office of Broadband Development (DED) for BEAD/DEA funding and contact info. (ded.mo.gov)
Public libraries in Kansas City and St. Louis for hotspot programs and digital skills. (kclibrary.org)
Missouri Public Service Commission and Attorney General for complaint processes and scam alerts. (psc.mo.gov)
United Way 2‑1‑1 and Missouri Community Action Network for local referrals. (firstcallforhelpsemo.org)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It is not legal advice and does not guarantee eligibility or benefits. Program funds, rules, speeds, and prices can change without notice. Always confirm with the official agency or provider before applying or switching plans. If you are in danger due to domestic violence or stalking, call 1-800-799-7233 (National Domestic Violence Hotline) or use a safe device. For emergencies, dial 911.

Final tip

If you feel overwhelmed, pick one action and do it today: apply for Lifeline, reserve a library hotspot, or call 2‑1‑1. Then come back for the next step when you’re ready.

Learn more:

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