Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in New York

Last updated: September 2025

This hub is built for action. Every section starts with what to do first, then gives backups. Links are descriptive and go straight to official help.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Stop an internet or phone shutoff now: Call the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) Emergency Hotline at 1-800-342-3355 and explain your shutoff notice; also ask your provider about the state’s low‑cost plans under the Affordable Broadband Act and request a 30‑day medical or financial hardship hold when available via your provider’s retention line and the PSC’s helpline at 1-800-342-3377, and read how the PSC enforces consumer protections on [DPS’s File a Complaint page]. (dps.ny.gov)
• Slash your monthly bill with a guaranteed low‑cost plan: Ask your provider for New York’s Affordable Broadband Act plans—$15/monthforatleast25Mbpsor$20/month for at least 200 Mbps—and verify details on [ConnectALL’s consumer resources] and [the Governor’s January 23, 2025 announcement]; if your provider refuses, cite the law and report it to the PSC helpline at 1-800-342-3377. (broadband.ny.gov)
• Get free home internet if you live in NYCHA: Enroll in Big Apple Connect—call Optimum 1-866-580-1410 or Spectrum 1-866-960-1754; confirm eligibility and what’s included (modem, router, in‑unit Wi‑Fi) on [NYC’s Big Apple Connect page] and [ACCESS NYC’s program page]. (nyc.gov)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Internet/utility complaints & 72‑hour shutoff help: PSC Hotline 1-800-342-3355; general Helpline 1-800-342-3377; read complaint steps on [DPS File a Complaint] and see [AskPSC consumer info]. (dps.ny.gov)
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Call 1-800-234-9473 or apply at the [FCC’s Lifeline page] and check Tribal benefits at [USAC’s Tribal Lifeline] if you live on Tribal lands. (fcc.gov)
• Low‑cost state internet plans: Confirm offers and your eligibility on [ConnectALL’s Affordable Broadband Act consumer page] and see statewide updates on [ConnectALL’s main site]. (broadband.ny.gov)
• Find free public Wi‑Fi: Use [LinkNYC’s how‑to‑connect] and map kiosks via [NYC Open Data’s LinkNYC Map]; call 311 if you need help finding a kiosk. (link.nyc)
• Domestic violence & tech safety: NYC 24‑Hour HOPE line 1-800-621-4673 (TTY 1-866-604-5350) via [ENDGBV Get Help], and ask about the Safe Connections Act Lifeline support on [FCC’s Lifeline for survivors]. (nyc.gov)

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Why This Matters Right Now in New York

Your time and budget are stretched. Start with discounts you can get this week, then build skills you can use to earn more and keep your family safer online through trusted public programs. The state has enforceable low‑cost internet plans under the Affordable Broadband Act you can claim through your provider, which the PSC is actively implementing and reviewing for speed standards on [the PSC’s ABA proceeding]; the City runs Big Apple Connect for NYCHA homes documented on [NYC’s Big Apple Connect site]; and the federal Lifeline discount continues even though the Affordable Connectivity Program has ended “for now,” per [the FCC’s ACP status update]. (dps.ny.gov)

What Counts as “Digital Literacy,” and How to Use This Guide

Digital literacy is being able to get online safely, fill out forms, apply for work, talk to your child’s school, and protect your privacy. You can learn these skills free at libraries and SUNY ATTAIN labs listed on [NYPL TechConnect] and [SUNY UCAWD ATTAIN]; you can also borrow devices through public library lending programs like [QPL lendable technology]. Use state consumer rights with [ConnectALL’s consumer resources] to keep costs low while you learn. (web.nypl.org)

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Fastest Ways to Cut Your Internet/Phone Costs

Affordable Broadband Act low‑cost plans (state law)

What to do first: Call your current provider and ask specifically for “the Affordable Broadband Act reduced‑cost plan.” Plans must be no more than $15/monthforatleast25Mbpsor$20/month for at least 200 Mbps, with no extra fees—see [ConnectALL’s ABA FAQ] and the [Governor’s ABA launch press release]; if the agent refuses, tell them you will file a PSC complaint and then file it on [DPS’s File a Complaint] or call 1-800-342-3377. (broadband.ny.gov)

• Expect quick enrollment if you already receive SNAP, Medicaid, HEAP, or school lunch; [ACCESS NYC’s ABA page] lists qualifying programs, and you can verify speed/price compliance on [DPS’s ABA proceeding notice]. (access.nyc.gov)
• If your ISP is small (under 20,000 customers), it may seek an exemption; the PSC still enforces consumer protections—document calls and keep order numbers as noted on [DPS consumer information]. (dps.ny.gov)

Reality check: Some providers changed offerings or exited markets after the law took effect—AT&T withdrew a 5G home plan, reported by [The Verge]; the law remains in force after a federal appeals decision covered by [Reuters/AP]. Always ask for the written summary of your plan. (theverge.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a PSC complaint immediately on [DPS File a Complaint] and request interim service protection; then contact [ConnectALL consumer resources] to report non‑compliance and get help escalating. (dps.ny.gov)

Big Apple Connect (free internet for NYCHA households)

What to do first: If you live in a NYCHA development, call Optimum 1-866-580-1410 or Spectrum 1-866-960-1754 and say “I want Big Apple Connect.” Check what’s included (modem, router, in‑unit Wi‑Fi, common‑area Wi‑Fi) on [NYC OTI’s Big Apple Connect] and confirm expansion timelines via [ACCESS NYC’s program page]. (nyc.gov)

• The city pays the ISP directly, per [a Mayor’s Office release]; you owe only for add‑ons you choose. Keep confirmation emails and a screenshot of your $0 line item. (nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 311 and say “Big Apple Connect enrollment problem,” then report the issue to [NYC OTI’s program page] and submit a PSC complaint via [DPS File a Complaint] if billing shows charges. (nyc.gov)

Lifeline (ongoing phone or internet discount)

What to do first: Apply for Lifeline online or by mail at the [FCC’s Lifeline portal] or call 1-800-234-9473; the standard discount is up to $9.25/month(upto$34.25 on Tribal lands), per [FCC Lifeline] and [USAC Tribal Lifeline]. (fcc.gov)

• Survivors under the Safe Connections Act can get a fast line separation and up to six months of emergency Lifeline support—see [FCC survivor guidance] and ask your carrier for their SCA process in writing. (fcc.gov)
• New York carriers that participate include Verizon, Assurance, and others; start at the [FCC Lifeline page], then confirm with your chosen carrier’s Lifeline page such as [Verizon Lifeline]. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the National Verifier can’t auto‑match your benefits, upload recent award letters; if denied, appeal with new proof via the [FCC Lifeline portal] and ask a digital navigator at [NYPL TechConnect] to help scan documents. (fcc.gov)

Public Wi‑Fi & Hotspots You Can Use Today

What to do first: Use LinkNYC for free high‑speed Wi‑Fi, device charging, and free U.S. calls—see [LinkNYC how‑to‑connect] and kiosk locations on [NYC Open Data’s LinkNYC map]; for extra security, use the private profile option noted by [LinkNYC]. (link.nyc)

• Libraries offer computer time and classes statewide; NYC systems post daily schedules on [NYPL TechConnect], [Queens Public Library workshops], and [Brooklyn Public Library tech help]. (web.nypl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your local branch is full, ask staff to hold a spot or call 311 for the nearest alternative; use [LinkNYC] until your next class and save your work to cloud storage. (link.nyc)

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Free or Low‑Cost Devices

What to do first: Check your library’s device lending options—QPL lends laptops and tablets with multi‑month renewals as shown on [QPL Lendable Technology]; NYPL lends Chromebooks for up to three months under [NYPL Chromebook Loans]; and BPL continues hotspot/laptop lending at select sites listed on [BPL Loan Program]. (queenslibrary.org)

• If you need to own a device, verified nonprofits sell refurbished computers and low‑cost home internet: [PCs for People] (eligibility at or under 200% FPL, devices and $15/monthinternet)and\ast [Human‑I‑T]\ast (low‑costlaptopsstartingnear$130 and tech support). (pcsforpeople.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a digital navigator at [NYC’s Neighborhood Tech Help] or [NDIA’s Digital Navigator directory/toolkit] to help compare specs, warranty, and hotspot coverage; if you need assistive devices, borrow from the state’s [TRAID program] before buying. (nyc.gov)

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Skill‑Building You Can Start This Week

What to do first: Join a free class near you. NYPL runs hundreds of TechConnect workshops each month listed on [NYPL TechConnect]; BPL posts classes from basic email to editing and “digital navigator” sessions on [BPL’s calendar]; QPL offers multi‑language tech training via [QPL Tech Workshops]. (web.nypl.org)

• For career‑focused certificates, SUNY’s ATTAIN labs provide Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, and more at no cost—find locations on [SUNY UCAWD ATTAIN] and check nearby EOCs and outreach centers via [UCAWD’s main page]. (ucawd.suny.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If classes are full, ask to be added to waitlists and check back daily on [NYPL TechConnect]; if commute is tough, try online sessions posted by [NYPL TechConnect mobile site] or contact an ATTAIN lab listed on [SUNY ATTAIN] for remote options. (m.nypl.org)

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How to Stop Internet or Phone Shutoff in New York Today

What to do first: If you have a 72‑hour disconnection notice, call the PSC Emergency Hotline 1-800-342-3355, then your provider’s retention or hardship line; use [DPS’s File a Complaint guidance] and document names, times, and promises. Ask for any medical or financial hardship protections your provider offers and request a payment arrangement aligned with your budget. (dps.ny.gov)

• Ask to switch immediately to the state’s low‑cost plan under the Affordable Broadband Act; confirm plan pricing and speed posted by [ConnectALL’s ABA FAQ] and reference the PSC’s proceedings on [DPS’s ABA notice] if the agent is unsure. (broadband.ny.gov)
• If electric service is part of the issue (no power means no modem), request emergency HEAP if eligible; see amounts and closure dates on [OTDA’s HEAP page] and NYC‑specific updates on [ACCESS NYC HEAP]; if closed, ask when the program reopens and whether local funds are available through your county. (otda.ny.gov)

Reality check: Disconnections rose across parts of New York in 2025; if you’re behind, act early and get payment plans in writing, as reported by [The Guardian]; the PSC can help advocate, but you must call. (theguardian.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate to a PSC complaint specialist at 1-800-342-3377 and request a supervisor; then ask a legal aid hotline through 311 or a digital navigator via [Neighborhood Tech Help] to submit documents online while you’re on the phone. (dps.ny.gov)

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Program Snapshot Tables (Keep These Handy)

Affordable Internet & Phone Options (New York, September 2025)

(broadband.ny.gov)

Devices & Where to Get Them

(queenslibrary.org)

Free Classes & Digital Navigators

(web.nypl.org)

Timelines You Can Expect

(broadband.ny.gov)

Who to Call When Things Go Sideways

(dps.ny.gov)

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Online Safety & Privacy for Moms

What to do first: Protect accounts with a password manager and two‑factor login; ask a librarian at [NYPL TechConnect] for a 20‑minute privacy tune‑up, and, if you’re at risk from a partner, follow tech‑safety tips from [NYC ENDGBV Staying Safe] and request a line separation through the [FCC’s Safe Connections Act]. (web.nypl.org)

• If you’re in danger, call 911 and then the NYC HOPE line 1-800-621-4673; Family Justice Centers provide free safety planning and tech‑safety guidance listed on [ENDGBV Get Help]; you can also see statewide resources on [NY Courts’ DV resources]. (nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a Family Justice Center in person (ask 311 for the nearest site) and request phone‑plan separation plus emergency Lifeline under SCA; bring any screenshots of threats and the device itself; see [FCC’s survivor page] for what carriers must do. (fcc.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Targeted Support and Access Notes

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use library classes that affirm your privacy at [NYPL TechConnect] and [BPL Tech Help]; ask for chosen‑name email setup and incognito browsing guidance; for safety planning, speak to the HOPE line on [ENDGBV Get Help] and request SCA protections via [FCC Lifeline for survivors] with large‑print notices as needed. (web.nypl.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask [ACCES‑VR] about assistive tech for work and [TRAID] for free device loans before buying; blind or low‑vision moms can request training and tech through [New York State Commission for the Blind]; libraries must provide accessible formats and TTY/711 access listed on [DPS directory info]. (acces.nysed.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Connect with the [NY State Department of Veterans’ Services] (1-888-838-7697) for claims support and referrals, and ask VA’s Caregiver Support Line 1-855-260-3274 for telehealth and caregiver tech help via [VA Caregiver Support Program]; use [FCC Lifeline] if income‑eligible. (veterans.ny.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Call the [Office for New Americans Hotline] (1-800-566-7636) for free legal referrals and English classes, and contact [NYC MOIA Basic Care] for IDNYC and We Speak NYC English resources; public Wi‑Fi is free at [LinkNYC] while you attend classes at [QPL workshops]. (dos.ny.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you live on or near St. Regis Mohawk, Seneca Nation, or Onondaga Nation territories, call your Nation offices listed on [SRMT contact] or [Seneca Nation] and ask about connectivity projects; you may also qualify for enhanced Lifeline as detailed on [USAC’s Tribal benefit]. (srmt-nsn.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Use regional library systems like the Southern Tier Library System for digital cards and online learning through [STLS “For the Public”], and ask about mobile hotspots at branches like [Cuba Library’s hotspot program]; report dead zones to [ConnectALL] and request county broadband updates. (stls.org)

Single fathers: These same programs are gender‑neutral—ABA, Lifeline, libraries, and [SUNY ATTAIN] serve all parents; if you share custody, ask your library about account PIN privacy, and use [DPS complaint lines] if a shared bill risks shutoff. (ucawd.suny.edu)

Language access: Ask for interpretation by saying your language upon calling 311 or 1-800-342-3377; MOIA and ONA offer multi‑language help on [MOIA Basic Care] and [ONA Hotline page]; request large‑print or braille notices under SCA rules per [FCC accessibility guidance]. (nyc.gov)

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Resources by Region (Where to Go First Locally)

New York City: Start with [Big Apple Connect] if you’re in NYCHA, classes at [NYPL TechConnect] and [QPL Tech Workshops], and on‑site help through [Neighborhood Tech Help]; for free Wi‑Fi outdoors, use [LinkNYC how‑to]. (nyc.gov)

Long Island (Nassau/Suffolk): Use [Verizon Lifeline] if eligible, ask your ISP for ABA plans per [ConnectALL ABA FAQ], and check your local library’s device loans; for Tribal benefits in parts of Suffolk/Nassau, confirm via [USAC Tribal Lifeline]. (verizon.com)

Hudson Valley (Westchester–Ulster): Find a trained navigator through [Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley], call your provider for ABA plans under [ConnectALL], and borrow hotspots or devices at local libraries noted by [Mid‑Hudson Library System examples like Patterson]. (senylrc.org)

Capital Region: Take free classes at SUNY EOCs/ATTAIN labs listed on [SUNY UCAWD ATTAIN], use [FCC Lifeline] for your phone bill, and check county library device loans; for HEAP questions when seasons reopen, follow [OTDA HEAP] updates. (ucawd.suny.edu)

Central NY & Mohawk Valley: Onondaga families can ask Nation offices on [Onondaga Nation “About Us”] for community links; check ATTAIN at Syracuse EOC on [SUNY UCAWD]; apply for ABA discounts via your ISP using [ConnectALL ABA]. (onondaganation.org)

Finger Lakes & Southern Tier: Get a digital library card and online learning via [STLS], ask branches about hotspots like [Southworth Library], and apply Lifeline on [FCC Lifeline] to cut phone costs. (stls.org)

Western NY (Buffalo/Niagara): Use [PCs for People] for affordable devices/service, ask your ISP for ABA plans via [ConnectALL ABA FAQ], and request help at county libraries; if you’re a veteran, call [DVS 1‑888‑838‑7697]. (pcsforpeople.org)

North Country: St. Regis Mohawk families can call Tribal offices via [SRMT contact]; everyone can use [LinkNYC map] when in city centers and apply [Lifeline] statewide; report dead zones to [ConnectALL]. (srmt-nsn.gov)

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County‑ and City‑Specific Situations You Asked About

How to stop a Con Edison shutoff (NYC/Westchester): Call PSC Emergency 1-800-342-3355, then Con Edison to request a medical or financial hardship hold and a realistic payment plan; apply for HEAP or Emergency HEAP if power is necessary for heat control via [OTDA HEAP]; if denied, file a [DPS complaint]. (dps.ny.gov)

How to stop an internet shutoff when ACP ended: ACP ended June 1, 2024 “for now” per [FCC ACP FAQ]; ask your ISP to switch you to the ABA plan and waive late fees; if refused, escalate to the [PSC] and cite the [ConnectALL ABA] requirements. (fcc.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming ACP still lowers your bill: ACP ended “for now,” so bills often spiked; pivot to [Lifeline] and [Affordable Broadband Act] plans instead, and set calendar reminders to re‑certify Lifeline yearly. (fcc.gov)
• Not filing a PSC complaint: A phone call to your ISP isn’t enough; formal complaints on [DPS File a Complaint] often get faster, documented results and can pause shutoffs. Keep screenshots and case numbers. (dps.ny.gov)
• Skipping device loans while saving up: Borrow first from [QPL lendable tech] or [NYPL Chromebook Loans] to avoid missing deadlines; then buy through [PCs for People] or [Human‑I‑T] when ready. (queenslibrary.org)

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Reality Check

Funding shifts can slow some programs. Library hotspot lending has tightened after federal rule changes, as reported by [The Verge on E‑Rate hotspots]; the State is filling some gaps through ConnectALL grants posted on [ConnectALL Capacity Grant], but availability varies each quarter. Always call to confirm current availability before applying. (theverge.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Cheapest lawful internet today: Ask your ISP for the [Affordable Broadband Act] plan; $15or$20, no junk fees. (broadband.ny.gov)
• Free for NYCHA: Enroll in [Big Apple Connect] by phone today. (nyc.gov)
• Phone discount: Apply for [Lifeline]; survivors ask for SCA emergency support. (fcc.gov)
• Skill‑building: Book a class at [NYPL TechConnect] or find a navigator via [Neighborhood Tech Help]. (web.nypl.org)
• Shutoff crisis: Call PSC Emergency 1-800-342-3355, then file a [DPS complaint] online. (dps.ny.gov)

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Application Checklist (print/screenshot and check boxes)

• Photo ID for you: State ID, IDNYC, or passport; see [MOIA Basic Care] for IDNYC help. (nyc.gov)
• Proof of address: Lease, Con Edison bill, or NYCHA letter; if unstably housed, use a shelter or caseworker letter noted by [ACCESS NYC – Cash Assistance]. (access.nyc.gov)
• Eligibility proof: SNAP/Medicaid/HEAP awards for ABA/Lifeline per [ConnectALL ABA] and [FCC Lifeline]. (broadband.ny.gov)
• Income proof if needed: Recent paystubs or 1040 for [FCC Lifeline] or nonprofit device programs like [PCs for People]. (fcc.gov)
• Device needs list: Accessibility notes for [TRAID] loans and ACCES‑VR requests via [ACCES‑VR]. (justicecenter.ny.gov)
• Shutoff documents: Final notice, account number, medical letters; file with the [PSC complaint portal]. (dps.ny.gov)

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If Your Application Gets Denied

What to do first: Re‑read the denial letter and note the reason and date. For Lifeline, re‑upload documents and appeal through the [FCC Lifeline portal]; for ABA plans, escalate to the [PSC complaint system] with your call log. (fcc.gov)

• Ask a navigator at [Neighborhood Tech Help] or your local [NYPL TechConnect] branch to scan/submit better copies and draft a short appeal note; request TTY or large‑print materials when needed per [FCC accessibility rules]. (nyc.gov)
• If you’re a survivor, mention the Safe Connections Act and ask for temporary support listed on [FCC survivor benefits]; if you’re a veteran, ask [DVS 1‑888‑838‑7697] to help document financial hardship tied to service. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your State Senator or Assembly Member’s office for a constituent inquiry and copy the [ConnectALL Office]; legislators and the state office can often push stalled cases. (broadband.ny.gov)

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Real‑World Examples (what works on the ground)

• Bronx, NYCHA mom: She used [Big Apple Connect] to drop her bill to $0 and told Spectrum not to add paid TV; when a promo push appeared, she called 1-866-960-1754 and had charges reversed noted on the [program FAQ]. Then she booked [NYPL TechConnect] for Excel. (nyc.gov)
• Buffalo caregiver veteran: She kept phone costs down with [Lifeline] and got caregiver coaching with the [VA Caregiver Support Program]; when her ISP balked at ABA pricing, a [PSC complaint] resolved it within days. (fcc.gov)
• Queens immigrant mom: She borrowed a [QPL laptop], learned email basics at [QPL workshops], and got legal screening via the [ONA Hotline] (1-800-566-7636); now she’s in a SUNY [ATTAIN] QuickBooks class. (queenslibrary.org)

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Tables: Extra Tools for Special Situations

Assistive Tech and Disability Support

(dol.ny.gov)

When ACP Ended, What Now?

(broadband.ny.gov)

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Required Documents (by Program)

(dps.ny.gov)

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What to Do If a Section Didn’t Work for You

• Couldn’t reach a navigator: Use the [NDIA directory/toolkit] and try another site; ask your child’s school or a nearby branch listed on [NYPL TechConnect]. (digitalinclusion.org)
• Rural signal is weak: Borrow a hotspot at participating libraries like [Cuba Library] to test carriers before you buy; report dead zones to [ConnectALL] to inform buildouts. (cubalibrary.org)
• ISP claims they don’t offer ABA: Quote the Governor’s 1/23/2025 press release and [ConnectALL ABA FAQ], then file a [DPS complaint] with dates and agent names. (governor.ny.gov)

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Troubleshooting Corner: Quick Scripts You Can Use

• To request the ABA plan: “I’m asking for the New York Affordable Broadband Act reduced‑cost plan: $15foratleast25Mbpsor$20 for at least 200 Mbps, no extra fees, as posted by the State on [ConnectALL’s ABA FAQ]. Please switch me today and email the order confirmation.” (broadband.ny.gov)
• To stop a shutoff: “I’m requesting a 30‑day medical/financial hold: I’ll submit documents within the timeframe. I’m also filing with the NYS PSC per [DPS guidance]—please note my case.” (dps.ny.gov)
• To separate a phone line (survivor): “I’m making a Safe Connections Act line‑separation request: Please process remotely in an accessible format; I will apply for emergency Lifeline per [FCC survivor guidance].” (fcc.gov)

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FAQs (New York, 2025)

1. Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still available: No. The FCC states ACP “has ended for now” as of June 1, 2024; switch to Lifeline and the State’s Affordable Broadband Act plans described on [FCC ACP FAQ] and [ConnectALL ABA]. (fcc.gov)
2. What are the exact ABA prices and speeds: $15/monthforatleast25Mbpsor$20/month for at least 200 Mbps, inclusive of taxes/fees, per [ConnectALL ABA FAQ] and [PSC proceeding notice]. (broadband.ny.gov)
3. Can providers refuse ABA: Most cannot; small ISPs may seek exemptions, but you can complain to the PSC via [DPS File a Complaint] and the PSC can enforce compliance. (dps.ny.gov)
4. What if my provider left New York: Some providers adjusted services after ABA took effect, like AT&T’s 5G home product leaving per [The Verge]; ask another ISP about ABA‑compliant plans or consider [PCs for People internet] if available. (theverge.com)
5. Do libraries still lend hotspots: Many do, but inventories and funding changed; check your local branch (e.g., [BPL program] or [Cuba Library]), and use [LinkNYC] in the meantime. (bklynlibrary.org)
6. Where can I learn Excel or resume tools free: Try [NYPL TechConnect] and [SUNY ATTAIN]; both offer beginner‑friendly classes with certificates. (web.nypl.org)
7. I’m undocumented—can I apply for these: ABA and Lifeline are not “public charge” determinations per [ACCESS NYC ABA]; for legal questions call the [ONA Hotline] or [MOIA]. (access.nyc.gov)
8. How do I report a bad actor (scam or upsell): File with the [Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection] and the [PSC complaint portal]; keep screenshots and names. (dos.ny.gov)
9. I need assistive technology for my child: Start with [TRAID] for loans and [ACCES‑VR] for school‑to‑work transition supports; if blind/low‑vision, contact [NYSCB]. (justicecenter.ny.gov)
10. Is there state funding to expand digital equity: Yes—New York’s ConnectALL runs grants and a Digital Equity Plan you can track at [ConnectALL Digital Equity] and the [Capacity Grant page]; local libraries often partner on these projects. (broadband.ny.gov)

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Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA para su conveniencia.

• Internet más barato por ley del estado: Pida a su proveedor el plan de la [Affordable Broadband Act] ($15/mespor\ge 25Mbpso$20/mes por ≥200 Mbps), y si se niegan, presente una queja ante la [Comisión de Servicios Públicos del Estado] (PSC). (broadband.ny.gov)
• Internet gratis en viviendas de NYCHA: Inscríbase en [Big Apple Connect] llamando a Optimum 1-866-580-1410 o Spectrum 1-866-960-1754; el costo es $0 para el paquete básico. (nyc.gov)
• Descuento mensual en teléfono o internet: Solicite [Lifeline] (hasta $9.25/mes; más en tierras tribales) por teléfono 1-800-234-9473 o en línea; sobrevivientes de violencia pueden pedir beneficios bajo la [Safe Connections Act]. (fcc.gov)
• Aprender habilidades digitales gratis: Use clases de [NYPL TechConnect] y [QPL talleres]; también hay ayuda en persona con [Neighborhood Tech Help]. (web.nypl.org)
• Corte de servicio: Si hay aviso de desconexión en 72 horas, llame al PSC: 1-800-342-3355 y presente queja en [DPS File a Complaint]. (dps.ny.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [Federal Communications Commission (FCC): Lifeline & ACP]
• [New York State ConnectALL Office]
• [NYC Office of Technology & Innovation: Big Apple Connect]
• [New York State Department of Public Service (PSC)]
• [New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (HEAP)]
• [New York Public Library TechConnect]

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.

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Disclaimer

Important: This guide provides informational resources, not legal advice. Program rules, funding, and timelines change. Always verify current availability, amounts, and deadlines directly with agencies using the official links provided—such as [FCC Lifeline], [ConnectALL], and [DPS complaint]—and keep written confirmations for your records. (fcc.gov)

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🏛️More New York Resources for Single Mothers

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• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
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• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
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• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
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• 🏦 TANF Assistance
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• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
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• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
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• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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