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Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah

Last updated: September 2025. Start with official programs that work in Utah and keep these two bookmarks open: Connecting Utah — Utah Broadband Center and 211 Utah resource search for live referrals; keep the phone for USAC Lifeline Support handy at 1-800-234-9473. (connecting.utah.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box (save these)

What This Guide Covers and How to Use It

You’ll find fast steps first, then deeper help—program rules, where to apply, documents, typical wait times, and Plan B if something falls through. Keep these three anchors open: ConnectingUtah.com for state broadband grants and speed tests, Utah Digital Opportunity Network to find digital navigator help near you, and Utah State Library technology hub for statewide library tech services. Always verify before you apply; funding shifts month to month. (connecting.utah.gov)


How to Get Internet and Phone Service You Can Afford

Start here. This section lists options with the fastest on‑ramp—Lifeline first, then low‑cost plans, then short‑term borrowing at libraries. Confirm current availability when you call.

Lifeline (phone/internet discount)

  • What it is: A federal discount on phone or home internet—up to 9.25monthly,orupto9.25 monthly, or up to 34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands. Apply online, by mail, or through a Lifeline carrier. Use the helpline 1-800-234-9473 for application status or paper forms. See USAC Lifeline Get Help and Tribal Lifeline details for eligibility and documents. (lifelinesupport.org)
  • Reality check: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in mid‑2024; do not plan your budget around it. The FCC confirmed April 2024 as the last fully funded month, with the program closing out thereafter. Use Lifeline plus a provider low‑cost plan instead. Read FCC wind‑down notices and ACP final month notice. (fcc.gov)
  • Eligibility & documents: Income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines or participation in programs like SNAP or Medicaid; bring an ID, proof of address, and proof of participation/income. See FCC Lifeline overview and request a paper application via USAC Lifeline Support if needed. (fcc.gov)
  • Timeline: Online applications can approve the same day if databases auto‑match; mailed applications take longer. If stuck, call 1-800-234-9473 or ask a digital navigator through Utah Digital Opportunity Network directory for hands‑on help. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Lifeline provider to submit the application with you; if denied, appeal via USAC and file a utility complaint with Utah DPU if a carrier mishandles your discount. (usac.org)

Low‑cost internet and mobile plans in Utah

  • Xfinity (Comcast): Internet Essentials (9.95for50Mbps)andInternetEssentialsPlus(9.95 for 50 Mbps) and Internet Essentials Plus (29.95 for 100 Mbps) continue after ACP; Comcast added 5‑year price‑lock offers in 2025. Check availability with Comcast’s ACP/Essentials update and Utah pricing news at Comcast Utah newsroom for current tiers. (corporate.comcast.com)
  • AT&T: Access from AT&T offers low‑cost plans (up to 100 Mbps; pricing currently at $30/month after 2024 updates). See income and SNAP rules at Access from AT&T and policy changes at AT&T support article. (att.com)
  • CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber: Lifeline applies to eligible service; Utah also offers a small state telephone assistance discount (TAP) added automatically for qualified subscribers of participating carriers. Learn more at CenturyLink Lifeline page and confirm state credits via Utah DPU. (centurylink.com)
  • Mobile‑only Lifeline carriers: Companies like Assurance Wireless, SafeLink, Life Wireless, and others serve Utah; compare options through the National Verifier company finder at USAC Companies Near Me and call 1-800-234-9473 for help. (usac.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t afford even the low‑cost plan, borrow a hotspot short‑term and re‑apply after a budget review; ask libraries or a digital navigator via Utah Digital Opportunity Network and use community Wi‑Fi listed by UEN/eduroam locations for school accounts. (utahdigitalequity.org)

Borrow Internet and Devices Fast (No Cost)

Your library may lend hotspots, Chromebooks, or provide one‑to‑one tech help. Supplies are limited; many are first‑come, first‑served.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your branch is out of hotspots, ask when new devices arrive (many run on annual grants) and use 211 Utah to find a nearby library that lends devices, or check the Utah State Library tech page for statewide options. (211utah.org)

Get a Working Computer for School, Work, or Telehealth

  • PCs for People (low‑cost devices/internet): Income‑qualified families can buy refurbished desktops and laptops, and sign up for low‑cost wireless home internet. See eligibility and online store at PCs for People; Utah partners also appear in Utah Broadband Center stories and local events. (pcsforpeople.org)
  • Human‑I‑T (nationwide shipping): Free membership unlocks discounted devices and bilingual tech support; look for “Get It Done” laptops starting near $130 and low‑cost hotspots. Visit Human‑I‑T membership and Human‑I‑T store for current inventory. (store.human-i-t.org)
  • CompUtah (in‑state refurbishment coalition): Utah coalition refurbishing donated computers for families, with a growth plan to expand distribution; follow updates and donation details at CompUtah and ask a local partner about availability. (computah.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a digital navigator for a device voucher referral through Utah Digital Opportunity Network and check your child’s school—many districts maintain device pools and eduroam access listed by UEN across K‑12 and colleges. (utahdigitalequity.org)

Learn Digital Skills That Lead to Better Jobs

  • Utah Adult Education (USBE): Adult basic education, GED prep, English classes, and digital literacy are offered statewide; fees are capped (max $100 per year; waivers possible). Find programs via USBE Adult Education and ask about Northstar or work‑ready computer skills at your local site. (schools.utah.gov)
  • Libraries & Makerspaces: SLCPL’s Creative Lab and tech classes, County Library tech series, and Weber’s makerspaces are hands‑on and free. See SLCPL Creative Lab and Weber County Library services for locations and schedules. (about.slcpl.org)
  • Digital navigators (coaching): Get one‑to‑one coaching to pick a plan, set up a device, and stay safe online. Search the statewide directory at Utah Digital Opportunity Network or ask your librarian for a navigator trained with the NDIA toolkit standard. (utahdigitalequity.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If classes are full, ask to be placed on the waitlist and request self‑paced options (e.g., LinkedIn Learning via Davis County Library or Provo’s Northstar site). Use 211 Utah to search “digital literacy.” (daviscountyutah.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Utah Today

  • Call the utility first and set a plan: Rocky Mountain Power at 1-888-221-7070 and Dominion Energy at 1-800-323-5517 can set payment arrangements; RMP says they won’t demand same‑day cash or prepaid cards—beware scams. Read RMP scam advisory and Dominion’s billing/support page. (rockymountainpower.net)
  • Apply for HEAT (LIHEAP) and add the HELP credit: HEAT is open seasonally with crisis help; in Salt Lake/Tooele, Utah Community Action shows typical processing at 6–8 weeks, then 6–10 days for credits to post; ask about HELP ($18/month RMP discount) when you apply. Use HEAT office directory and HELP program page. (jobs.utah.gov)
  • Water bill help (Salt Lake City): Contact SLC Public Utilities Customer Service 1-801-483-6900 to request payment options and to avoid shutoff; learn payment methods at SLC “Pay My Bill” and use after‑hours emergency 1-801-483-6700 if there’s a leak or sewer backup. (slc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint with the Utah Division of Public Utilities and ask 2‑1‑1 for church or charity “last‑resort” help while HEAT processes. Confirm shutoff moratoriums or wildfire‑related public safety shutoffs at RMP news. (dpu.utah.gov)

State of Utah: Where Policy and Funding Come From

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a grant you counted on is paused, call the Utah Broadband Center and ask for local planning partners, then ask your city about public Wi‑Fi or eduroam coverage via UEN while you wait. (connecting.utah.gov)

Energy, Internet, Devices, and Skills — Quick Comparison Tables

Low‑Cost Internet Plans (verify address and speeds)

Plan Monthly Cost Who Qualifies How to Apply Notes
Internet Essentials 9.95/9.95 / 29.95 Income‑eligible; Lifeline helps with phone Online or Xfinity store 50–100 Mbps tiers; 2025 price‑lock offers exist. (corporate.comcast.com)
Access from AT&T Up to $30 Income ≤200% FPL or SNAP Online; support via AT&T No contract/installation fees advertised. (att.com)
Lifeline (any provider) −9.25/−9.25 / −34.25 Tribal Income or benefit‑based Apply/Support Use with low‑cost internet and mobile. (fcc.gov)

Energy & Utility Programs

Program What It Does Eligibility Where to Apply Typical Timeline
HEAT (LIHEAP) One‑time bill credit; crisis help ≤150% FPL; priority for kids <6, seniors, disabled Local HEAT office by county SLC/Tooele: 6–8 weeks processing; 6–10 days to post funds. (jobs.utah.gov)
RMP HELP $18 monthly electric discount Qualify for HEAT and be an RMP customer Check box on HEAT or apply separately Usually posts with/after HEAT approval. (jobs.utah.gov)
Weatherization Free energy‑saving home upgrades Income‑eligible; renters may qualify Local agency via state page Multi‑month wait; big savings after install. (jobs.utah.gov)

Devices

Source What You Get Cost Range Where to Start Notes
PCs for People Refurb laptops/desktops; wireless internet 0–0–200+ Online store Eligibility required; 1‑year warranty typical. (pcsforpeople.org)
Human‑I‑T Discount devices; bilingual support Often 120–120–200+ Free membership Low‑cost hotspots; live tech help. (store.human-i-t.org)
Library Loans Hotspot/Chromebook 1–3 weeks Free Local library Supplies limited; renewals vary. (provolibrary.gov)

Learn & Level Up

Provider Offer Where Notes
USBE Adult Education GED/English/digital skills Statewide Fees capped; waivers available. (schools.utah.gov)
SLCPL Creative Lab Media, coding, tech labs Salt Lake City Free classes and labs. (about.slcpl.org)
Utah Digital Opportunity Network Digital navigators Statewide One‑to‑one help. (utahdigitalequity.org)

County‑by‑County: HEAT Offices and Contacts (who processes your application)

Region Counties Local Agency Contact/Apply
Northern Box Elder, Cache, Rich Bear River AOG Use state directory for phone/office hours. (jobs.utah.gov)
Wasatch Front North Davis, Morgan, Weber Futures Through Training (FFT) 1-801-394-9774; online or mail‑in options. (futuresthroughtraining.org)
Salt Lake/Tooele Salt Lake, Tooele Utah Community Action (HEAT) 1-801-359-2444; 6–8 weeks typical. (utahca.org)
Mountainland Summit, Utah, Wasatch MAG HEAT 1-801-229-3855; online/mail. (magutah.gov)
Southeast Carbon, Emery, Grand, San Juan SERDA/SEUALG HEAT 1-435-613-0100; phone/mail/email accepted. (serda.utah.gov)
Southwest Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Washington Five County AOG HEAT Main line 1-435-652-9643. (fivecountyheat.org)
Uintah Basin Daggett, Duchesne, Uintah Uintah Basin AOG Use state directory for numbers/addresses. (jobs.utah.gov)
Central Juab, Millard, Piute, Sanpete, Sevier, Wayne Region Six (Six County) See directory for your office. (jobs.utah.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

  • 211 Utah (United Ways of Utah) connects you to rent/utility help, digital classes, and local charities; call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888-826-9790, text ZIP to 801‑845‑2211, or search 211Utah.org; hours and channels vary—check the site. (211utah.org)
  • Neighborhood House (SLC) & Comcast Lift Zones bring free Wi‑Fi spaces and digital navigator help to Westside families; read the Westside digital navigator grant story and ask about current hours at Comcast Utah: Neighborhood House and search Lift Zones at Comcast Project UP. (utah.comcast.com)
  • Asian Association of Utah (Refugee & Immigrant Center) offers ESL, navigation, and referrals—call 1-801-467-6060 and see programs at AAU and the state listing at DHHS/211 provider page. (aau-slc.org)
  • Catholic Community Services (Refugees/Immigrants) lists ESL, cultural orientation, and tutoring; contact 1-801-977-9119 and explore opportunities at CCS Utah and education resources via Refugee Welcome Collective — Utah. (ccsutah.org)
  • Utah Pride Center provides programs, support groups, and resource navigation for LGBTQIA+ families—call 1-801-539-8800; see hours and programs at Utah Pride Center and the DHHS/211 profile. (utahpridecenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a charity is out of funds, ask when the next intake opens and call 211 Utah to widen the search. For rental and utility hearings, keep DWS case notes in myCase up to date to avoid delays. (211utah.org)

Resources by Region (who actually helps you near home)

Diverse Communities: What to Know and Where to Call

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check (delays, denials, shortages)

  • HEAT and weatherization wait times: Non‑crisis applications can take weeks; UCA notes 6–8 weeks processing plus 6–10 days to credit your account—expect longer in winter. Plan to borrow a hotspot via library loans while you wait. (utahca.org)
  • Device inventories change: Refurbishers restock monthly; check PCs for People and Human‑I‑T weekly and join their email lists. Prices may rise before school starts. (pcsforpeople.org)
  • Scam alerts: Utilities won’t demand gift cards or instant payment over text; see RMP’s scam warning and verify with your utility’s published number. If a Lifeline call feels wrong, hang up and call USAC Lifeline Support directly. (rockymountainpower.net)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (print/screenshot)

  • Photo ID: Driver license, state ID, or other government ID for you. See forms guidance at DWS Eligibility and Lifeline’s document list if applying for phone/internet. (jobs.utah.gov)
  • Proof of address: Recent bill or lease; verify address matches your application on myCase and with your library account. (jobs.utah.gov)
  • Income proof (last 30 days): Pay stubs, award letters; HEAT requires last month’s income and current power/gas bills per UCA HEAT and regional lists. (utahca.org)
  • Program proof (if using eligibility): SNAP/Medicaid/Lifeline letters; call USAC Lifeline Support for what counts if databases don’t auto‑match. (usac.org)
  • Utility account info: Account numbers, past‑due notices; SLC water customers can get account help at 1‑801‑483‑6900 or SLC Utilities page. (slc.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Read the denial: It must state the reason and appeal steps—keep a copy. For DWS benefits, call 1‑866‑435‑7414 and ask how to submit an appeal; see links within DWS Eligibility contact page. (jobs.utah.gov)
  • Fix and re‑apply: For Lifeline, upload the missing document or request a paper review through Lifeline Support; for HEAT, call your local office (see state directory) and ask about crisis lanes if you have a shutoff notice. (lifelinesupport.org)
  • Escalate: If a utility won’t honor a payment plan or stops service despite your pending aid, file an informal complaint with Utah DPU and note your case number and dates. (dpu.utah.gov)

Real‑World Examples

County‑Specific Variations That Matter

  • Processing times vary: UCA (SLC/Tooele) posts 6–8 weeks; other counties can be faster. Check your county’s site (e.g., SERDA for Southeast or Five County for Southwest) and call to confirm. (utahca.org)
  • Library lending policies differ: Murray’s 7‑day device loans vs. Provo’s 3‑week loans; always ask about renewals and fines before checkout. Policies are posted at Murray Library and Provo Library. (murraylibraryut.gov)

FAQs (Utah‑specific)

  1. How do I apply for Lifeline without a computer?
    Use a public computer at your library or call 1‑800-234‑9473 to request a paper form; a digital navigator can submit for you. Start with Lifeline Support and find help via Utah Digital Opportunity Network. (lifelinesupport.org)
  2. Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still giving $30 off?
    No—the FCC ended ACP funding in 2024 (April was the last fully funded month). Switch to Lifeline plus low‑cost provider plans. Read FCC wind‑down and ACP closure FAQ. (fcc.gov)
  3. What’s the fastest way to stop a shutoff?
    Call your utility’s main line to set a payment plan, then file HEAT. Use RMP and Dominion pages for exact steps. (rockymountainpower.net)
  4. Can I borrow a hotspot to get my kid online for homework?
    Yes—many libraries lend hotspots/Chromebooks; start with Provo Library devices and ask your own branch. Check other options at Utah State Library tech page. (provolibrary.gov)
  5. What’s the RMP HELP discount and how do I get it?
    HELP is an RMP bill credit (up to $18/month) for HEAT‑qualified customers; the easiest way is to apply for HEAT and get HELP automatically. See HELP program and HEAT directory. (jobs.utah.gov)
  6. I’m a veteran—can VA help with internet or a device?
    Yes; ask for a Digital Divide Consult to get connected, including loaned tablets and waived data for video visits (some carriers). Contact VA SLC for appointments. (telehealth.va.gov)
  7. Where do I learn basic computer skills near me?
    Try USBE Adult Ed for structured classes and your library for free workshops; SLCPL’s Creative Lab and County Library tech series are good starts. (schools.utah.gov)
  8. Does Utah offer any state help for phone bills?
    Utah’s small telephone assistance discount is added automatically for eligible subscribers with participating carriers; confirm details with your provider or Utah DPU and see CenturyLink Lifeline. (dpu.utah.gov)
  9. Who do I call if a company mishandles my complaint?
    File with Utah DPU (1‑877‑874‑0904). For Lifeline issues, contact USAC Lifeline Support (1‑800‑234‑9473). (dpu.utah.gov)
  10. What if I need language or disability access?
    Ask DWS for interpreter services; call Relay Utah by dialing 711 (Spanish 1‑888‑346‑3162); many agencies provide large‑print or TTY support on request through DWS Eligibility Services. (relay.utah.gov)

Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Esta guía resume cómo obtener internet, teléfono, y ayuda con servicios públicos en Utah. Para referencias locales llame al 211 o visite 211Utah.org; para descuentos de teléfono/internet (Lifeline), llame al 1‑800‑234‑9473 o visite Lifeline Support; para ayuda con luz y gas (HEAT/LIHEAP), use el directorio de oficinas; para agua en Salt Lake City, llame 1‑801‑483‑6900 y visite SLC Public Utilities; para veteranas, pida en el VA un “Digital Divide Consult” en Telehealth VA. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme los detalles con las oficinas oficiales. (211utah.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 information is for general guidance in Utah and does not replace advice from an attorney, a caseworker, or your utility/provider. Program amounts, eligibility, and timelines change. Always confirm with the agency or provider, and keep copies of everything you submit. For emergencies that risk health or safety, call 9‑1‑1; for crisis referrals, dial 211 Utah; for veterans in crisis, dial 988 then 1 or contact VA resources directly. (211utah.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

If you hit a wall or a link is down, call the statewide hotlines first: 211 Utah for referrals and DWS Customer Service 1‑866‑435‑7414 for benefits. For phone/internet disputes, contact USAC Lifeline Support and, if needed, file a complaint with Utah DPU so a consumer specialist can step in. (211utah.org)

Tables and content notes

  • Amounts and policies cited reflect agency pages reviewed in September 2025; where programs are seasonal or grant‑funded, call to confirm availability before applying. See UCA HEAT for current timelines, HELP credit page for the $18 figure, and FCC ACP updates for status of federal discounts. (utahca.org)

Keep this guide bookmarked and update your notes after every phone call. It saves time—and keeps the lights and internet on for you and your kids.

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