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Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in California

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in California

Last updated: September 2025

Single moms in California need straight answers and fast options. This guide shows you how to get low‑cost internet, an affordable device, real digital skills, and help if your phone or utilities are about to be shut off. You’ll see clear steps, real phone numbers, and links to trusted organizations and state/federal departments like the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Department of Technology so you can act today with confidence. For affordable internet offers and state construction updates, start with the state’s Broadband for All portal and the CPUC consumer pages; both keep current information about programs, rights, and complaint lines you can use right now. (broadbandforall.cdt.ca.gov)


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These Five Contacts Handy

What This Guide Covers and Why It Matters

What you can do this week: You’ll learn how to enroll in California LifeLine, pick a low‑cost home internet plan from Access from AT&T, Xfinity Internet Essentials, or Spectrum Internet Assist, and grab a reliable refurbished laptop from Human‑I‑T or Tech Exchange—even if your budget is stretched. (cpuc.ca.gov)

What’s changed in 2025: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program is wound down, so you won’t get ACP credits on your bill now; rely on state LifeLine discounts, low‑cost provider plans, and device nonprofits while California builds out its Middle‑Mile Broadband Network to reach more rural and underserved areas. Bookmark Broadband for All updates for construction that may bring better options to your neighborhood. (cpuc.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your county’s 211 for hands‑on help finding local deals and free classes; if an ISP refuses to honor a posted low‑income price, file a utility complaint with the CPUC CAB so a specialist can contact the provider for you. (211ca.org)

The Fastest Way to Affordable Home Internet

Start by checking offers available at your address, then pick the plan that matches your needs and budget. Use EveryoneOn’s offer finder and confirm details on each provider’s site or by phone to avoid surprises. Save records of your application, any approval email, and your installation date. (everyoneon.org)

Low‑Cost Internet Options in California (2025)

Plan Monthly price Typical speed Who qualifies How to apply
Xfinity Internet Essentials 9.95(Essentials)/9.95 (Essentials) / 29.95 (Essentials Plus) 50 Mbps / 100 Mbps Income‑eligible households (various programs) Apply on Internet Essentials or ask Xfinity to switch your existing account
Spectrum Internet Assist $25 50 Mbps SNAP, NSLP, SSI (for 65+), and other qualifiers Start online at Spectrum Internet Assist and schedule install
Access from AT&T $30 (up to 100 Mbps) Up to 100 Mbps Income at or below 200% FPL or benefits like SNAP/SSI See eligibility on Access from AT&T; if approved, call 1‑855‑220‑5211 to apply your benefit
Human‑I‑T Gold Member internet As low as $14.99 Mobile hotspot or home options Income‑eligible Californians (free to apply) Call Human‑I‑T at 1‑888‑391‑7249 for help enrolling

According to provider pages updated in 2024–2025, Comcast still offers 9.95InternetEssentialsandSpectrum’slow‑incomeplanis9.95 Internet Essentials and Spectrum’s low‑income plan is 25 for 50 Mbps; AT&T lists 30Accessplansforupto100Mbps,whileHuman‑I‑Tprovidesa30 Access plans for up to 100 Mbps, while Human‑I‑T provides a 14.99 option to approved members. Always check current prices by phone because promotions and taxes can change monthly. (corporate.comcast.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If an ISP says you don’t qualify, ask for a written denial and escalate through the CPUC CAB; also recheck offers through the state’s Affordable Service Programs page or try EveryoneOn again with your zip code and benefit status. (cpuc.ca.gov)

How to Apply for California LifeLine (Phone and Mobile Discount)

Start with a carrier: Pick a LifeLine provider first (wireless or home phone), then enroll by phone or online; you get up to $19 off a monthly phone plan plus waived taxes/fees on eligible lines. Call the California LifeLine Call Center for in‑language support, or the LifeLine Administrator for application and renewal questions. (cpuc.ca.gov)

  • Steps:
    • Choose a provider offering California LifeLine and ask them to start your application; confirm your plan meets your call/text/data needs. Keep your application ID handy for status checks. (cpuc.ca.gov)
    • Submit documents the provider requests (ID, program proof, or income). If you need help scanning or uploading, drop by your library’s tech desk or a nonprofit such as Tech Exchange or St. Anthony’s Tenderloin Tech Lab for free assistance. (techexchange.org)
    • Track your status by calling the LifeLine Administrator at 1‑877‑858‑7463; keep dates, reps’ names, and case numbers in your notes. If denied, ask about appeals and then call CPUC CAB to file a complaint. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Timeline: LifeLine is processed by an administrator; approval time varies by carrier and paperwork. You can get help Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m., via the LifeLine Call Center, which offers multiple languages and TTY 1‑866‑272‑0358. (cpuc.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your carrier to re‑verify documents, then contact the LifeLine Administrator. If you suspect unfair treatment or delays, file with the CPUC CAB so they can reach your provider directly. (cpuc.ca.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in California Today

Call your utility and request a payment plan right now: For investor‑owned utilities (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, SoCalGas), you have a right to a payment plan—CPUC has required options up to 24 months for customers behind 60+ days. Tell the agent you want the 24‑month plan and ask them to note your account. Then call the CPUC CAB at 1‑800‑649‑7570 if the utility won’t cooperate. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Know your water rights: Under the Water Shutoff Protection Act (SB 998), most water systems can’t disconnect for at least 60 days after a bill is overdue; they must give you notice and offer payment arrangements. If you’re low‑income or have a medical hardship and agree to a plan, service should not be shut off. Ask your water provider for their SB 998 policy and appeal path. (oag.ca.gov)

Medical and life‑support protections: If someone in your home uses medical equipment or has a serious condition, tell your utility that you need Medical Baseline protections and request an in‑person visit before any disconnection; these rules come from CPUC decisions to protect vulnerable households. If your provider doesn’t respond, call CPUC CAB. (docs.cpuc.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint with the CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch online or by mail; ask 211 for emergency bill help and check whether a LIHEAP provider or the CPUC’s new arrears case management pilot is active in your area. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Reality Check: Funding for certain bill‑help programs runs out mid‑year. Always ask, “Are funds available right now?” and get the agent’s name, date, and a reference number. If you can’t get an appointment within two weeks, escalate to the CPUC CAB and your city’s council office for a faster callback. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Need a Computer or Hotspot on a Tight Budget?

You do not need to pay full price. Nonprofits across California refurbish computers, offer tech support, and help you connect to low‑cost internet.

  • Human‑I‑T (statewide): Call Human‑I‑T at 1‑888‑391‑7249 for low‑cost laptops, hotspots, and one year of free tech support; apply for Gold membership to access internet plans as low as $14.99. Check the California Connectivity Bundle if you prefer a hotspot you can use right away. (store.human-i-t.org)
  • Tech Exchange (Bay Area): Visit the Oakland TecHub for low‑cost computers, multilingual classes, and affordable internet enrollment help; see current hours and new downtown location plans at Tech Exchange and the general services page at Tech Exchange Home. (techexchange.org)
  • Computers 2 Kids (San Diego area): Call 1‑858‑200‑9790 or 1‑858‑200‑9788 to request a device or training, or visit C2K for hours and pickup details. Local libraries often host C2K classes and distribution events listed on San Diego Public Library calendars. (chamber.sdbusinesschamber.com)
  • PCs for People (selected regions): Some California partners distribute low‑cost computers through PCs for People; call the hotline at 1‑651‑800‑9097 for ordering and eligibility questions. Confirm service areas before you apply. (cal.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your library system; many offer device lending or point to local refurbishers. For Los Angeles, check LAPL Tech2Go; in Santa Clara County, parking‑lot Wi‑Fi is available at major branches via SCCLD Wi‑Fi, and statewide broadband for libraries is expanding via California Library Connect. (lapl.org)

Where to Learn Practical Digital Skills (Free or Low‑Cost)

Your best first stop is the local library and your county job center. Pair classes with a low‑cost device from Human‑I‑T or Tech Exchange so you can practice at home.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a class is full or canceled, ask for a referral to a nearby branch or CBO; many counties fund digital literacy through the California Advanced Services Fund Broadband Adoption program, so multiple agencies often run similar workshops. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Telehealth, Benefits, and Forms — Getting Through Online Systems

Health coverage and telehealth: For Marketplace plans and Medi‑Cal screenings, contact Covered California at 1‑800‑300‑1506 or request a call back from a certified enroller; use library help if you need a scanner. Veterans can ask their VA provider for a Digital Divide Consult to get a loaned tablet or data‑free VA Video Connect access. (www1.coveredca.com)

Child care while you train or work: Use the statewide hotline 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 and MyChildCarePlan.org to find openings and subsidies through your county Resource & Referral agency; staff can also help in Spanish by phone and chat. To ensure safety, check backgrounded caregivers via TrustLine. (mychildcareplan.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For Covered CA escalation, ask for a supervisor and note your case number; if you can’t get a prompt response, your health plan’s member services page has a “Who to contact” list. For child care, call the hotline again and ask to speak with a specialist for your zip code. (www1.coveredca.com)

Online Safety Essentials for You and Your Kids

Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA): Enable MFA on email, banking, and social accounts and use a password manager; CISA says MFA makes you far less likely to get hacked. Review family cyber tips together with older kids. (cisa.gov)

If your identity is stolen: Create a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1‑877‑438‑4338; get California‑specific resources from the AG’s Consumer Privacy pages, including an Identity Theft Victim Checklist. (ftc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a company ignores your dispute, file with the FTC, and consider a complaint to the CPPA about privacy rights under CCPA. For major breaches, check if your data appears in the CA AG’s Breach Portal before you change passwords and freeze credit. (cppa.ca.gov)

What California Is Building — Why Your Options May Improve

California is laying thousands of miles of open‑access middle‑mile fiber to connect rural towns and city neighborhoods that have been left behind; this backbone lets local ISPs build last‑mile service to your home over the next few years. Track Middle‑Mile progress and BEAD grants with the CPUC BEAD page and CDT updates to see when new builds land near you. (cdt.ca.gov)

Reality Check: Some state digital‑equity grant programs were paused in mid‑2025 due to federal changes. Keep using local classes and low‑cost plans now, and watch the Broadband for All updates page for status changes or new tools like the offer finder. (broadbandforall.cdt.ca.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: For job search help and digital upskilling in San Francisco, the SF LGBT Center Employment Services hosts co‑working hours and workshops; in Los Angeles, the LA LGBT Center features tech‑related scholarships through Pride in Tech. Ask your branch library about classes friendly to LGBTQ+ parents during childcare hours. (sfcenter.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Call Ability Tools at 1‑800‑390‑2699 to borrow assistive tech or find reused devices; the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP) provides specialized phones and relay services by dialing 711. The Department of Rehabilitation AT team can connect you to Voice Options speech devices and local advocates. (abilitytools.org)

Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA provider for a Digital Divide Consult to get a loaned tablet or help with data for telehealth; call CalVet at 1‑800‑952‑5626 for benefits assistance and local LINC contacts. For mental‑health crises, dial 988 then press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line. (telehealth.va.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: You have language‑access rights in California—state agencies must provide free interpreters and translations. If you are denied help due to language, call CalHR’s Language Access Program at 1‑916‑909‑3707 to file a complaint, and ask the program you’re using to provide services in your language. Pair that with child care help at MyChildCarePlan.org and digital classes at your nearest library. (calhr.ca.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you are eligible for Tribal TANF, contact your local program via CDSS Tribal TANF or the California Tribal TANF Partnership (toll‑free 1‑866‑720‑8263). Workforce training and youth programs are offered by the California Indian Manpower Consortium, which also lists regional office contacts. (cdss.ca.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Many libraries have boosted broadband through California Library Connect and the state’s Middle‑Mile Broadband Initiative; ask your library about extended parking‑lot Wi‑Fi and device lending. Track new builds on Broadband for All updates, which highlight progress in rural corridors. (californialibraryconnect.org)

Single fathers: Every program in this guide is available to single fathers too. Use 211 to locate a nearby digital navigator or AJCC, and check EveryoneOn for low‑cost internet if your situation changed recently. (211ca.org)

Language access — how to insist on your rights: If a health or social services office fails to provide an interpreter, contact the department’s civil rights office (e.g., DHCS Civil Rights at 1‑916‑440‑7370) or submit a complaint through CalHR’s Language Access page. Keep notes of dates, staff names, and promised callbacks. (dhcs.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for a digital inclusion program or navigator; many counties fund nonprofit navigators who can enroll you in internet offers, set up MFA, and teach Zoom or telehealth basics. (211ca.org)

Resources by Region — Where to Go Near You

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Relying on ACP credits that no longer exist: The federal ACP has ended; use LifeLine, provider low‑income plans, and Human‑I‑T or Tech Exchange to cover the gap. Save screenshots of prices before ordering. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  • Not asking for the longest payment plan: CPUC requires long payment options for IOUs; ask for the 24‑month plan if you’re 60+ days behind. If refused, call CPUC CAB to intervene. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  • Skipping language‑access help: If staff say “we don’t have interpreters,” ask them to follow state policy and, if needed, file a complaint with CalHR’s Language Access program. (calhr.ca.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First action Backup contact
Power/gas shutoff Ask utility for 24‑month plan and note reference number CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch 1‑800‑649‑7570
Water shutoff Request SB 998 payment plan and medical hardship review CA Attorney General guidance
Low‑cost internet Use EveryoneOn to compare plans Affordable Service Programs (CDT)
Discount phone plan Call California LifeLine or your LifeLine carrier LifeLine Administrator 1‑877‑858‑7463
A working computer this week Call Human‑I‑T 1‑888‑391‑7249 Tech Exchange (Bay Area)

County‑Specific Notes That Often Trip People Up

  • Los Angeles Utility Shutoff Help: LADWP is city‑owned and not regulated by CPUC, but you can still demand a payment plan and appeal; for internet/phone, CPUC still applies. Use 211 LA for escalations and CPUC CAB for telecom complaints. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  • San José Device/Wi‑Fi Changes: The SJ Access hotspot program ended; branches still loan Chromebooks without data. Use EveryoneOn or Tech Exchange for at‑home connections. (sjpl.org)
  • Riverside/IE Water Shutoffs: Under SB 998, ask for payment amortization and reduced reconnection fees if you qualify as low‑income; appeal if denied. (riversideca.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

  • Photo ID: State ID/driver’s license or other accepted ID for internet or phone enrollment (ask your provider for exact options). Check the instructions at Access from AT&T or Internet Essentials. (att.com)
  • Proof of eligibility: SNAP/CalFresh, Medi‑Cal, SSI award letters, or income documents; if you don’t have a printer, ask your library or Tenderloin Tech Lab to help you scan. (stanthonysf.org)
  • Your current bill: For shutoff protections or payment plans, have the latest statement, account number, and the date/time of any shutoff notice; call the CPUC CAB to document disputes. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  • Notes log: Keep a simple notebook with dates, reps’ names, and promised callbacks; it helps when escalating with CPUC or your city council office during appeals. (cpuc.ca.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

Tables You Can Use Quickly

1) Low‑Cost Internet Summary (Save this)

Provider Price Speed Key eligibility
Internet Essentials 9.95/9.95/29.95 50/100 Mbps Income‑eligible; various programs
Spectrum Internet Assist $25 50 Mbps SNAP/NSLP/SSI (65+)
Access from AT&T $30 Up to 100 Mbps ≤200% FPL or program‑eligible
Human‑I‑T $14.99+ Varied Gold membership (income‑eligible)

2) Get a Device Fast

Nonprofit What they offer Contact
Human‑I‑T Refurb laptops, hotspots, one year free tech support 1‑888‑391‑7249
Tech Exchange Low‑cost computers, multilingual classes 510‑866‑2260 (text/call)
Computers 2 Kids Devices + training, San Diego region 1‑858‑200‑9790

3) Know Your Shutoff Rights

Service Immediate action Key rule
Electric/gas Ask for 24‑month payment plan; call CPUC if refused CPUC directive on payment plans
Water Request SB 998 payment plan; ask about medical hardship AG guidance on SB 998
Phone/internet File LifeLine or utility complaint to escalate CPUC CAB help

4) Quick Learning Paths

Goal Where to start Link
Learn email/Docs Library classes (LAPL/SDPL) LAPL Digital Inclusion / SDPL Tech Help
Job search skills AJCC + CalJOBS Find AJCC / CalJOBS app
Safety online CISA family tips CISA Shields Up for Families

5) Regional Directory (Bookmark)

Region Top contacts
Los Angeles 211 LA, LAPL Tech2Go
San Diego 211 SD, SDCL Tech
Bay Area Tech Exchange, Tenderloin Tech Lab

FAQs — California Tech Help for Single Moms (2025)

  1. Are there any new discounts to replace ACP in California: No statewide ACP replacement exists as of September 2025. Use California LifeLine for phone, provider low‑income internet plans, and device nonprofits like Human‑I‑T while the state builds out more broadband. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  2. What should I say when I call my utility to stop a shutoff: Say, “I’m requesting the CPUC‑required payment plan” and ask for a 24‑month schedule if you’re 60+ days behind. If they refuse, call CPUC CAB. (cpuc.ca.gov)
  3. **Is 25thebestIcandoforSpectrum∗∗:SpectrumInternetAssistis25 the best I can do for Spectrum**: Spectrum Internet Assist is 25 for 50 Mbps; some families prefer $9.95 Internet Essentials if Xfinity is available. Confirm availability by address. (spectrum.com)
  4. How fast can I get a low‑cost laptop: Human‑I‑T can process orders and provides one year of tech support; Tech Exchange runs retail hours and monthly classes. Call to ask about same‑week pickup. (store.human-i-t.org)
  5. Where can I learn basic computer skills with childcare nearby: Libraries post family‑friendly programs like LAPL and SDCL; also ask your AJCC about class times that match school schedules. (lapl.org)
  6. How do I protect my teen’s phone: Enable MFA and strong passwords using CISA’s tips; teach them to ignore unknown links. If accounts are compromised, start at IdentityTheft.gov. (cisa.gov)
  7. I’m a veteran—can VA help with devices: Yes. Ask for a Digital Divide Consult for a loaned, data‑enabled tablet and data‑free VA Video Connect access through major carriers. (telehealth.va.gov)
  8. Will new fiber reach my rural town: The Middle‑Mile Broadband Network is under active construction statewide; it enables last‑mile builds. Track updates on Broadband for All. (cdt.ca.gov)
  9. How can I find child care that matches my class schedule: Use MyChildCarePlan.org and the hotline 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 to connect with your county R&R specialist; ask about subsidies and waitlists. (mychildcareplan.org)
  10. Where do I report a water provider that won’t offer a payment plan: Cite SB 998, request their policy, and if they still refuse, contact the AG’s office guidance and your city council; see AG water shutoff guidance. (oag.ca.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Acceso rápido: Compare planes de internet con EveryoneOn; para descuentos en teléfono celular o fijo, llame a California LifeLine al 1‑866‑272‑0350 (Español). Para computadoras y hotspots de bajo costo, llame a Human‑I‑T al 1‑888‑391‑7249 o visite Tech Exchange en el Área de la Bahía. (everyoneon.org)

Cortes de servicios: La CPUC exige planes de pago de hasta 24 meses para electricidad y gas; pídalo y apunte el número de referencia. Para agua, la ley SB 998 requiere un periodo de 60 días y planes de pago antes del corte. Si hay problemas, llame a CPUC CAB al 1‑800‑649‑7570. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Clases y ayuda local: Revise LAPL o SDCL para clases gratuitas de computación; llame al 211 para servicios en su condado. Para cuidado infantil y subsidios, use MyChildCarePlan.org o llame al 1‑800‑KIDS‑793. (lapl.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 provides general information for California residents and is not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits. Program rules and availability can change quickly, and county practices vary. Always confirm current eligibility, prices, and timelines with official program staff; when in doubt, call the agency number in this guide or file a complaint with the CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch for utility/telecom issues or contact your county 211 for local referrals. (cpuc.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you tried the steps here and still can’t get help, send your city council office and state assemblymember a short email summarizing your situation and the agency you contacted; include dates, case numbers, and a callback number. Pair that with a CPUC CAB complaint so a state specialist can push for a resolution. (cpuc.ca.gov)

End of Guide.

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