Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you fast, practical steps to get affordable internet, a working computer, and real tech training in New Jersey. It links straight to official programs and local help so you can act today. You’ll see what to do first, where to get help by county, and what to try if Plan A fails. For quick screening and benefits applications, start with NJHelps and bookmark NJ 2‑1‑1 for anytime referrals. (njhelps.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Go straight to a low‑cost internet plan and ask for the cheapest eligible offer in your ZIP code; compare Optimum Advantage Internet and Verizon Forward, and check coverage with Spectrum Internet Assist if Spectrum serves your address. (optimum.com)
Apply for the federal Lifeline discount for phone or home internet through the National Verifier; after approval, pick a carrier like Assurance Wireless or SafeLink Wireless to activate service. (usac.org)
Get in‑person help at a public library or One‑Stop Career Center today; use NJ State Library’s directory to find a library tech helper or find your One‑Stop for free public computers and digital classes. (nj.gov)

Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Utility shutoff or billing help: Call NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241 and review the Winter Termination Program protections. (nj.gov)
Energy help and application status: Use DCAid Energy Assistance or call the USF/LIHEAP hotline at 1-800-510-3102 for agency contacts. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
Find local resources 24/7: Text your ZIP to 898‑211 or call NJ 2‑1‑1 at 1-877-652-1148 for live referrals; chat and email are also available. (nj211.org)
Low‑cost computers and hotspots: Call Human‑I‑T at 1-888-391-7249 or check PCs for People eligibility to buy a refurbished device. (store.human-i-t.org)
Free online tech courses: Enroll in SkillUp NJ for 5,000+ self‑paced modules, or get live help via NJ One‑Stops. (nj.gov)

What “Digital Literacy” Means for Your Household

Digital literacy means you can get online, use a device, fill forms, protect your identity, and manage work or school tasks. Start with what you need this week—job search, telehealth, or school—and match a class or tool to that goal. Tap SkillUp NJ for short Microsoft or Google basics, and ask your library about the NJSL + Partners digital literacy labs offering step‑by‑step lessons. (nj.gov)

Reality Check: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended funding in 2024, so $30 monthly ACP discounts are no longer available; use Lifeline and low‑cost ISP plans instead, and verify current offers with each provider before you switch. See the FCC ACP wind‑down notice and keep an eye on provider pages like Comcast Internet Essentials for ongoing low‑income options. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re stuck picking a plan, call NJ 2‑1‑1 and ask for a “digital navigator” referral, or visit a One‑Stop Career Center for a 15‑minute device and internet needs check. Use the One‑Stop locator to walk in during weekday hours. (nj211.org)

How to Get Affordable Home Internet in New Jersey

Start with the plan you can afford this month, not next year. Ask providers for low‑income or “Advantage/Assist/Forward” options and confirm the final bill after fees. Compare offers below and apply online or by phone.

Low‑Cost Internet Options You Can Apply for Today

Plan	Monthly price	Typical speed	Key eligibility	Where to apply
Optimum Advantage Internet	$14.99	50 Mbps	Low‑income households in Optimum areas	Optimum Advantage Internet or call 1-866-213-0308
Optimum Advantage+	$25.00	100 Mbps (fiber in some areas)	Low‑income households	Optimum Advantage+ Internet
Verizon Forward	Discounted off Fios/5G/LTE Home	300 Mbps+	Recent proof of Lifeline, SNAP, WIC, Pell, or income up to 200% FPL	Verizon Forward
Spectrum Internet Assist	$25.00	50 Mbps	Qualifying low‑income households	Spectrum Internet Assist
Comcast Internet Essentials	$9.95/$ 29.95	50/100 Mbps	Qualifying low‑income households in Xfinity areas	Internet Essentials

According to provider pages, Optimum lists Advantage Internet at $14.99 an d A d v an t a g e + a t$ 25, Verizon Forward applies a discount to in‑market Fios/5G Home plans if you meet income or benefit rules, Spectrum Internet Assist posts $25 f or 50 M b p s, an d C o m c a s t co n t in u es I n t er n e tE sse n t ia l s a t$ 9.95 or $29.95 for higher speed; always confirm current pricing in your ZIP. Optimum pricing and Optimum Advantage set NJ benchmarks; Verizon Forward and Spectrum Assist outline eligibility; Internet Essentials explains low‑income tiers. (optimum.com)

Tip: Some providers now advertise multi‑year price guarantees on mainstream tiers; Comcast has a five‑year price‑lock and unlimited data on new plans, which might matter if your household needs higher speeds for work‑from‑home. Read new plan pages or articles, then compare to low‑income plans to decide. Comcast 5‑year guarantee and reporting from The Verge explain current pricing moves. (corporate.comcast.com)

Lifeline (phone or internet discount): Lifeline gives up to $9.25/ m o n t h f or b ro a d ban d or$ 5.25 for voice‑only; income must be at or under 135% of the federal poverty level, or you qualify through programs like SNAP or Medicaid. Apply through the USAC National Verifier and then pick a provider—examples include Assurance Wireless and SafeLink Wireless, which activate service for eligible households. Voice‑only support remains paused at $5.25 through at least December 1, 2025. (usac.org)

Important: The ACP ($30/month broadband) is not taking new applications and ended funding in spring 2024, so don’t count on an ACP credit when you set a budget; if Congress restarts funding, the FCC will update notices. Read the FCC ACP wind‑down and the ACP page status at FCC ACP. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the EveryoneOn offer locator to scan all discounted ISP offers by ZIP, and ask NJ 2‑1‑1 for nearby “digital navigator” help choosing a plan that fits your income and address. (everyoneon.org)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Jersey Today

Act the day you get a shutoff notice. Call your utility to set a deferred payment plan, then apply for energy programs to lower your bill going forward. Protection rules and special credits can prevent shutoff or bring your balance down.

Call your utility and ask for a payment plan: Document the call and the agent’s name. Then call NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241 if the utility refuses to offer a fair arrangement or if you need help understanding your options. (nj.gov)
Ask about Winter Termination Program (WTP) protections: WTP blocks shutoffs from November 15 to March 15 for households in qualifying programs (like LIHEAP or USF) and those with serious hardships; you must request protection. Read WTP details from NJBPU and confirm dates on recent press releases. (nj.gov)
Apply for energy aid immediately: Use DCAid to apply for the Universal Service Fund (USF) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). As of September 2025, LIHEAP for the 2025 season is closed until the new cycle opens October 1, 2025, while USF still helps many families—call 1-800-510-3102 to check your window and find an agency. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

Extra relief: New Jersey’s Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) applies automatic bill credits for eligible customers tied to WTP/LIHEAP/USF enrollment; the current round is scheduled as $25 m o n t h l ycre d i t ss t a r t in g in A ugu s t 2025 f or a t o t a l o f$ 150 to $175 depending on the announcement. Watch NJBPU REAP updates and review recent BPU press notices for the exact credit total and timing this year. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your situation is urgent, ask NJ 2‑1‑1 about PAGE/NJ SHARES one‑time assistance to address a shutoff notice, and request a same‑day callback from the BPU after you file a utility complaint. Document every notice you receive and keep copies of your applications. (nj.gov)

Where to Get a Low‑Cost Computer, Tablet, or Hotspot

You don’t need a brand‑new device to study, work, or run a home business. Refurbished computers from trusted nonprofits can be reliable and affordable. Ask for a one‑year warranty and tech support when possible.

Source	Typical prices	Eligibility	What you get
PCs for People	Laptops often $50-$ 150+	Income under 200% FPL or 60% AMI, or on a qualifying program	Refurbished laptops/desktops, low‑cost internet options, 1‑year warranty
Human‑I‑T Store	Laptops from about $129	Income‑qualifying “Gold Membership” for lower pricing	Refurbished devices, hotspots, tech support at 1-888-391-7249
Internet Essentials device offer	Discounted PCs from partners	In Xfinity areas (Internet Essentials eligible)	Low‑cost computer and online learning center links

PCs for People lists 2025 income limits (200% FPL) and accepts benefit‑based eligibility; Human‑I‑T posts current device pricing and support options; Comcast maintains the Internet Essentials device channel in its markets. Confirm warranty and return policies before you purchase. PCs for People eligibility and Human‑I‑T store detail documentation and pricing, and Comcast explains device access routes. (pcsforpeople.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a librarian about local refurbishers or donation drives via Digitunity’s map (shows refurbishers that serve individuals), and check county community action agencies through Family Success Centers for one‑time device giveaways. (digitunity.org)

Get Free or Low‑Cost Digital Skills Training Near You

Target a short class that solves one problem: a resume, video interviews, spreadsheet basics, or safe browsing. New Jersey offers both self‑paced and instructor‑led options.

SkillUp NJ: Take 5,000+ free, self‑paced online courses including Microsoft Office and digital literacy modules; enroll on SkillUp NJ and track completion for your resume. (nj.gov)
One‑Stop Career Centers: Walk in for public computers, resume help, and, in some counties, digital literacy classes in person; use the One‑Stop directory for hours and services at your location. (nj.gov)
Public libraries: Many libraries host step‑by‑step computer basics; the NJSL + Partners initiative includes regional hubs and “Access Navigators” for one‑on‑one help. Check your local branch through the NJ libraries directory. (njstatelib.org)

Program	Cost	Format	Notes
SkillUp NJ	$0	Online, self‑paced	100+ certification prep tracks
NJ One‑Stop Career Centers	$0	In person	Free public computers, career coaching
NJSL + Partners Labs	$0	In person	Digital literacy labs, Access Navigators
Literacy New Jersey	$0	In person/online	ESL, GED, and digital literacy tutoring
Per Scholas Newark	$0	Full‑time cohort	IT Support, Cybersecurity, CompTIA prep
Goodwill South NJ	$0	Classes	Northstar Digital Literacy, MS Office
Year Up United NJ	$0 w/stipend	Hybrid	IT Support, Data Analytics, internships

NJDOL’s SkillUp is official and free; One‑Stops list resource rooms and in some counties offer “digital literacy classes”; the NJ State Library runs statewide digital inclusion projects; nonprofits like Literacy New Jersey, Per Scholas Newark, Goodwill, and Year Up provide structured tech training with job placement links. Verify class dates and enrollment windows before applying. SkillUp NJ, One‑Stops, and NJSL publish active offerings; Per Scholas Newark and Year Up NJ post current cohorts. (nj.gov)

New 2025 grants: NJDOL announced $6M for Digital Equity Training to bring credentials and digital skills to WorkFirst NJ (TANF/GA) participants; ask your county caseworker for a referral to new classes. Read NJDOL’s July 8, 2025 release and track grantee announcements for your county. NJDOL digital equity grants and Literacy New Jersey are part of current efforts. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your library about Access Navigators for one‑on‑one help, or call NJ 2‑1‑1 and say “digital skills class near me” for a local list, including evening or childcare‑friendly options. (njstatelib.org)

Local Public Places to Get Online Today

Most One‑Stops and libraries offer free Wi‑Fi, public computers, and printing. Use these when your home internet is pending or when devices are shared at home. Check the One‑Stop directory for hours, and ask your branch about “computer help” time blocks via the NJ public libraries directory. In Camden, the One‑Stop lists “digital literacy classes,” and many branches statewide run beginner computer hours. (nj.gov)

Accessibility: If you need large print or screen‑reader training, contact the Talking Book & Braille Center (TBBC) and ask about LEAP iPhone/iPad classes hosted at libraries in Newark, Hackensack, Cherry Hill, and more. Call 1-800-792-8322 for LEAP info or use the TBBC contacts page. (njstatelib.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJ 2‑1‑1 to locate a Family Success Center with public computers or printing; many centers host resume labs and can point you to partner sites with Wi‑Fi. (nj211.org)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tech and Access Tips

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use libraries and One‑Stops for private computer time when safety matters; ask NJ 2‑1‑1 for LGBTQ‑affirming programs and privacy‑friendly help desks. Enroll in SkillUp NJ for remote courses if you prefer learning at home. (nj211.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request large‑print forms or screen‑reader‑friendly PDFs when applying online, and ask agencies for TTY lines. For vision support, contact TBBC and LEAP; for broader disability services, call the DHS Division of Disability Services at 1-888-285-3036 via DHS hotlines. (njstatelib.org)

Veteran single mothers: Contact DMAVA Veteran Service Offices at 1-844-671-1019 to ask about training referrals and tech support; ask caseworkers about devices or transportation support for classes. You can also check Year Up NJ for training pathways that align with your GI Bill career goals. (nj.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can learn digital skills while getting ESL in one place—start with Literacy New Jersey and ask the Office of New Americans about local language access and legal referrals; public libraries provide free Wi‑Fi and printing for immigration forms. For benefit screening regardless of status for eligible programs, use NJHelps for SNAP/NJ FamilyCare info. (literacynj.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: The Lifeline “Tribal” enhanced $25 discount applies only on federally recognized Tribal lands, which New Jersey does not have; if you recently moved from qualifying Tribal lands, you may have different options. Check USAC’s Tribal Lifeline rules and map, and confirm with your chosen provider. In NJ, use standard Lifeline and local low‑cost plans listed earlier. (lifelinesupport.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: BEAD broadband buildouts will target unserved addresses in counties like Sussex and Warren; watch NJ Office of Broadband Connectivity for construction updates. The NJBIDE pilot also funds expansion in several rural counties; ask your township clerk about project timelines near your road. (nj.gov)

Single fathers: All programs listed are gender‑inclusive. Use NJ 2‑1‑1 for childcare while you attend classes, and enroll in SkillUp NJ to learn after bedtime hours. (nj211.org)

Language access: Many state pages include translation tools. Ask agencies for interpreters and translated forms, and ask libraries for bilingual tech classes. Start with Office of New Americans and your local library for language‑specific workshops. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request accommodations in writing and save the request email. If you meet resistance, contact the NJBPU Customer Assistance line for utility matters or email the NJ State Library for library service access concerns. (nj.gov)

Resources by Region

North Jersey: Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Hackensack

Use Per Scholas Newark for free IT tracks and check Newark Public Library’s digital classes calendar; ask JVS MetroWest about job‑linked digital training. One‑Stops in Hudson, Essex, and Bergen provide PCs and staff help via the One‑Stop directory. (perscholas.org)

Central Jersey: Trenton, New Brunswick, Plainfield, Elizabeth

Tap Year Up United NJ Virtual Campus for hybrid training with stipends; NJ State Library (Trenton) hosts statewide digital inclusion projects. Check county Family Success Centers for computer access and parent‑friendly workshops near childcare hubs. (yearup.org)

South Jersey: Camden, Atlantic City, Vineland, Bridgeton

The Camden One‑Stop lists “digital literacy classes,” and Atlantic County libraries host LEAP sessions for vision support. Connect with Goodwill South NJ for Northstar Digital Literacy or MS Office. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use NJ 2‑1‑1 to find county‑specific computer labs and ask about “digital navigator” pilot programs supported by local United Ways and libraries. (nj211.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Banking on the ACP credit that no longer exists; price your plan without it and use Lifeline plus low‑income offers instead, and verify every fee before you sign. (fcc.gov)
Waiting until shutoff day to call the utility; call early, ask for WTP or a deferred plan, and then apply through DCAid with hotline support at 1-800-510-3102. (nj.gov)
Skipping documentation; save income proofs and program letters for Lifeline’s National Verifier and for ISP low‑income plans, which often need fresh eligibility proof. (usac.org)

Reality Check: Funding, Wait Times, and Service Gaps

Reality Check: New broadband builds take time. BEAD and state pilots (NJBIDE) are moving through approval and deployment stages; check your address but expect months before crews reach rural roads. Use mobile hotspots or public Wi‑Fi while construction proceeds. See NJ BEAD updates and NJBIDE county list for current phases. (nj.gov)

Reality Check: LIHEAP application windows open each fall; non‑crisis processing can take 10–15 business days at minimum when offices are busy, and longer if paperwork is incomplete. Use DCAid to submit early and call 1-800-510-3102 if you can’t upload documents. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

Reality Check: Free career programs have cohorts and waitlists. Check Per Scholas Newark and Year Up NJ for next start dates, and use SkillUp NJ while you wait. (perscholas.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need	Fastest option	Backup option
Home internet under $30	Optimum Advantage or Spectrum Assist	Verizon Forward or mainstream tier with price lock
Phone or broadband discount	Apply for Lifeline and activate with Assurance Wireless	Use SafeLink or another carrier listed by USAC
Public computers near me	One‑Stops directory	NJ public libraries directory
Device on a tight budget	PCs for People	Human‑I‑T store
Shutoff notice help now	Call NJBPU Customer Assistance 1-800-624-0241	Apply via DCAid + ask NJ 2‑1‑1 for local funds

Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

Photo ID: State ID or driver’s license for DCAid, Lifeline, and ISP low‑income plans.
Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, child support order, or benefit letter for Lifeline and PCs for People eligibility.
Benefit proof if applicable: SNAP/NJ FamilyCare/SSI award letter for Lifeline Verifier and Verizon Forward.
Shutoff notice or past‑due bill: For NJBPU Customer Assistance escalation and PAGE/NJ SHARES.
Email account access: Required for SkillUp NJ, One‑Stop appointments, and online ISP orders.

If Your Application Gets Denied

Read the denial reason carefully: Most denials come from missing documents or name mismatches. Fix and re‑upload using the Lifeline National Verifier or DCAid portal. (usac.org)
Ask for a supervisor or a written appeal: For utilities, call NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241 and request a complaint number while you appeal. Keep copies of bills and notices. (nj.gov)
Get a second set of eyes: Take papers to a One‑Stop or library; ask a “digital navigator” at NJ 2‑1‑1 to review your uploads and file naming. (nj.gov)

Internet, Devices, and Energy Programs at a Glance (New Jersey)

Program	Who qualifies	What you get	How to apply
Lifeline (federal)	≤135% FPL or on SNAP/Medicaid	$9.25/ m o b ro a d ban d or$ 5.25 voice	USAC Lifeline, then choose a carrier
Optimum Advantage	Low‑income in Optimum areas	$14.99-$ 25/mo internet	Optimum Advantage online/phone
Verizon Forward	Income/benefit verified	Discounted Fios/5G Home	Verizon Forward
Spectrum Internet Assist	Provider eligibility	$25/mo internet	Spectrum Assist
PCs for People	≤200% FPL or program	Low‑cost devices & LTE	PCs for People eligibility
Human‑I‑T	Income‑eligible	Low‑cost devices & hotspots	Human‑I‑T Store
USF (state)	Low‑to‑moderate income	Monthly gas/electric credits	DCAid
LIHEAP (state/federal)	Very low income	Annual energy grant	DCA HEA

Lifeline amounts and eligibility come from USAC; ISP essentials plans are posted by each provider; USF/LIHEAP details and timelines are on DCA with hotline 1-800-510-3102. Confirm availability by county and funding.

County Examples You Can Use Right Now

Newark & Essex: Apply for a free Per Scholas cohort in IT Support or Cybersecurity via Per Scholas Newark; for basic skills and ESL with digital practice, use Literacy New Jersey. Libraries in Newark also host LEAP classes via TBBC if you or a family member has vision loss.

Camden: Visit the Camden One‑Stop for digital literacy classes and resume help; then apply for USF or LIHEAP through DCAid if winter bills are piling up. Ask about low‑cost internet via Verizon Forward if Fios or 5G Home is available at your address.

Sussex & Warren: Rural areas may have limited wired options. Check Optimum Advantage and Spectrum Assist depending on your service area, and watch NJ BEAD updates for build timelines. Visit your One‑Stop for public computers and resume printing this week.

Atlantic City & Cape May: Call 1-800-624-0241 about REAP credits timing if you had WTP protections last winter; Atlantic County libraries host LEAP classes for vision support, and Goodwill South NJ runs digital skills workshops.

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Family Success Centers: Free family hubs with workshops and referrals; find your site through DCF’s directory and ask for computer lab hours or digital basics classes. Many centers partner with libraries and One‑Stops for skills sessions.
United Way & Digital Navigators: Some counties have “digital navigator” pilots; call NJ 2‑1‑1 for referrals and check your local United Way pages for device events and navigator hours. The regional network model is outlined by United Way of Greater Philadelphia & Southern NJ.
Faith‑based and community nonprofits: Look for device donation days and laptop grants; examples include Catholic Charities (Diocese of Camden) and Gateway Community Action Partnership for South Jersey families, and JVS MetroWest for job‑linked training in North Jersey. Ask your center to post tech‑help hours.

Timelines You Can Expect

Task	Typical timeline	Notes
Lifeline approval	Same day to 7 days	Apply via National Verifier; activation with provider adds shipping time
ISP low‑income plan install	3–10 days	Optimum/Verizon may offer free install; confirm fees on plan pages and Verizon Forward
USF credit	30–60 days	Apply via DCAid; credits post on utility bills after processing
LIHEAP grant	10–15 business days+	Seasonal windows; check DCA HEA page
SkillUp course	Same day start	Enroll via SkillUp NJ

USAC and DCA timelines vary by volume; always ask for confirmation emails and save screenshots of submissions.

FAQs (New Jersey, 2025)

**How do I get internet under $20 am o n t h w i t h o u t A CP * * : U se * [Opt im u m A d v an t a g e] (h ttp s : // www . o pt im u m . co m / a d v an t a g e - pl u s) * i f a v ai l ab l e a t$ 14.99, or check Comcast Internet Essentials at $9.95 in Xfinity areas; if not available, try Lifeline plus a low‑income plan to reduce your bill.

Can I still apply for ACP: No. ACP ended funding in spring 2024 and is not accepting new applications. Watch the FCC ACP page for any changes. Use Lifeline and provider low‑income plans instead.

Where can I learn computer basics with childcare‑friendly hours: Start with Family Success Centers and your local library directory; ask for evening “computer basics” or “email setup” classes. One‑Stops also offer flexible scheduling via the One‑Stop directory.

What is REAP and do I apply: REAP is an automatic bill‑credit program for eligible utility customers; there’s no application, and credits (e.g., $25 per month) roll out starting around August bill cycles. Check NJBPU’s REAP page and watch recent BPU press releases for this year’s totals and dates.

How do I get a free or very cheap laptop: Check PCs for People for income‑based purchases or Human‑I‑T for low‑cost refurbished devices; some libraries host laptop donation days posted on Digitunity’s resource map.

Is there tech help if I have a disability: Yes—contact TBBC for LEAP classes on iPhone/iPad accessibility and ask DHS hotlines for statewide disability services. Many libraries also offer one‑on‑one device help.

I live in a rural area with weak service—what now: Check low‑cost wired plans first, then consider provider price‑locked plans if you need higher speeds. Watch NJ BEAD updates and the NJBIDE pilot for build timelines in your county.

Where do I get one‑on‑one help to fill forms online: Ask for an “Access Navigator” at your local library via NJSL + Partners or request a digital navigator referral through NJ 2‑1‑1.

Are there tech training programs with job placement: Yes—Per Scholas Newark and Year Up NJ pair training with employer connections; Goodwill South NJ and SkillUp NJ add credentials that boost hiring.

Who can help me file taxes online using a library computer: United Way VITA programs serve many NJ counties; start with United Way of Northern NJ’s VITA portal for virtual or in‑person help, and ask NJ 2‑1‑1 for a local VITA site.

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Este resumen en español fue creado con herramientas de traducción de IA y puede contener errores. Use los enlaces oficiales para verificar.

Internet de bajo costo: Revise Optimum Advantage Internet, Verizon Forward y Spectrum Internet Assist según su dirección. El programa federal ACP terminó; use Lifeline para un descuento mensual.
Computadoras de bajo costo: Vea PCs for People y Human‑I‑T para equipos reacondicionados y hotspots.
Entrenamiento digital gratis: Inscríbase en SkillUp NJ y busque ayuda en su biblioteca con NJSL + Partners.
Apoyo de energía y evitar cortes: Aplique por USF/LIHEAP y llame a NJBPU al 1-800-624-0241 sobre protecciones WTP y créditos REAP.
Ayuda 24/7: Llame a NJ 2‑1‑1 (1-877-652-1148) para “navegadores digitales” o centros locales.

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.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 only. Always confirm availability, dates, and amounts with the official agency or provider pages before applying. Program funding, eligibility, and processing times can change quickly, and county‑level rules may differ. For live help, contact NJ 2‑1‑1 or the specific agency listed in this guide.

What to do if this doesn’t work

If you tried these steps and still can’t get connected, ask a librarian for a “digital navigator” referral through NJSL + Partners, and call NJBPU Customer Assistance for utility issues or DCAid for energy help. Keep notes of dates, names, and confirmation numbers so you can escalate faster.

Tables Summary Index

Low‑cost internet plans in NJ (above)
Digital skills training programs (above)
Devices and hotspots sources (above)
Energy and utility programs (above)
Timelines for common applications (above)

All figures and program details reflect official pages as of September 2025; always verify current offers and enrollment windows with the provider or agency before you apply. FCC ACP updates and NJDOL and NJBPU notices change often—check dates on each page.

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