Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington
Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows fast, practical ways to get online, get a working device, learn the skills employers expect, and protect your family’s data in Washington State. You’ll see exact phone numbers, program names, timelines, and backup options if a door closes. Keep this page handy and use the quick boxes below.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call Tech Connect Washington Helpdesk now to get a live Digital Navigator who can walk you through low‑cost internet, devices, and basic tech help the same day: 1-800-216-1132; or chat via the Digital Navigator Program at the Washington State Department of Commerce site. (commerce.wa.gov)
- Check out a free Wi‑Fi hotspot from your nearest library so your kids can do homework and you can job‑hunt or meet with your caseworker online this week: start with the Seattle Public Library hotspot program and look up hotspot or Wi‑Fi details at Tacoma Public Library or Timberland Regional Library. (spl.org)
- Apply for the federal Lifeline discount to cut a phone or internet bill by up to 9.25permonth(upto9.25 per month (up to 34.25 on Tribal lands); call 1-800-234-9473 or apply on the USAC Lifeline site. (usac.org)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Digital Navigator live help: 1-800-216-1132; details at the Digital Navigator Program page from Washington Commerce. (commerce.wa.gov)
- Washington 211 for any local help (devices, training, transportation to a class): call 211 or 1-877-211-9274; see the Washington 211 homepage for text and web options. (wa211.org)
- Lifeline Support Center (application questions, documents): 1-800-234-9473; start at the Get Help page on LifelineSupport.org. (lifelinesupport.org)
- Consumer complaints (billing, speed, accessibility): file online at the FCC Consumer Help Center or call 1-888-CALL-FCC; for regulated telecom issues in WA, call the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) consumer help line at 1-888-333-9882. (fcc.gov)
- Library tech help numbers to reserve a hotspot or computer: Seattle Public Library 206-386-4636 and Tacoma Public Library 253-280-2800 (see hotspot pages for specifics). (spl.org)
What’s Changed in 2025 that Affects Your Internet Bill
Most important: the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments on February 7, 2024 and ended benefits for most households in mid‑2024 after Congress did not extend funding. A few providers created their own “low‑income” plans to fill the gap. Use Lifeline plus these plans to cut costs. Read the official status and wind‑down dates at the FCC ACP page, then compare current low‑income plans on the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) low‑cost plans list. Always confirm pricing when you call—offers change. (fcc.gov)
Reality Check — funding and waitlists: hotspot kits and free computer programs are popular. Expect holds or lottery drawings in larger cities. Ask a Digital Navigator (1‑800‑216‑1132) to find the shortest line or a nearby alternative library. (commerce.wa.gov)
How to Get Internet Access This Week (Even if Money is Tight)
Start here so you can do school, work, and benefits tasks right away.
- Borrow a mobile hotspot for free with your library card. In Seattle you can borrow an “SPL HotSpot” for 21 days; Tacoma Public Library’s kits loan for about three weeks (renewals vary); Timberland Regional Library has public computers and daily Wi‑Fi. Ask staff for “hotspot” or “Library of Things” lending. Use library pages for hours, limits, and fees for lost devices. (spl.org)
- Use drive‑in Wi‑Fi maps if you need parking‑lot internet near community buildings. The Washington State Broadband Office Drive‑In Wi‑Fi map shows free outdoor Wi‑Fi statewide and links to partners. Keep a charger and be mindful of safety if you’re online from your car. (commerce.wa.gov)
- Ask your provider for a hardship plan today. Most ISPs offer payment plans or will move you to a low‑income tier without a credit check. If they won’t work with you on a reasonable arrangement, file an online complaint at the FCC Consumer Help Center and keep notes; if it’s a landline or regulated telecom issue, call the UTC at 1-888-333-9882. (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call a Digital Navigator (1‑800‑216‑1132) and ask for a referral to a library hotspot with the shortest wait; check Washington 211 for nearby “community Wi‑Fi” or computer labs; then apply for Lifeline to reduce monthly costs going forward. (commerce.wa.gov)
Replace the ACP Discount: Lifeline + Low‑Income Provider Plans
Lifeline cuts your bill every month, and several ISPs have ACP‑replacement or legacy discount plans. Stack these smartly.
Lifeline — the permanent federal discount
- Benefit: up to 9.25/monthoffphoneorinternet;upto9.25/month off phone or internet; up to 34.25/month on Tribal lands. Apply online, by mail, or through a provider; need to renew annually. See details and the National Verifier at the USAC Lifeline site; for questions, call 1‑800‑234‑9473. (usac.org)
- Eligibility basics: income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines, or participation in SNAP, Medicaid (Apple Health), SSI, Federal Public Housing, or Veterans Pension; enhanced benefit for residents on Tribal lands. Full rules and the Tribal benefit ($34.25) are listed on LifelineSupport.org. (lifelinesupport.org)
- Voice‑only discount note: voice‑only support has been phased down; check current amounts and minimum service standards on USAC’s Lifeline rules page. If you’re a survivor under the Safe Connections Act, special rules may apply. (usac.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call the Lifeline Support Center (1‑800‑234‑9473) for document help; if a company blocks or delays your enrollment, file a complaint at the FCC Consumer Help Center and contact the UTC if it’s a regulated telecom issue. (consumercomplaints.fcc.gov)
Provider low‑income plans available in Washington
Use Lifeline and these offered prices to get to a manageable payment.
- Astound Broadband — Internet First: 9.95/monthfor 50Mbpsor9.95/month for ~50 Mbps or 19.95/month for ~150 Mbps; no contract, options to apply by phone 1‑833‑730‑0644 or online. Look for occasional “3 months free” promos. (astound.com)
- Xfinity — Internet Essentials/Essentials Plus: recent Comcast materials show Internet Essentials “as low as 14.95/month”for 75Mbps,andInternetEssentialsPlus 100Mbpsfor14.95/month” for ~75 Mbps, and Internet Essentials Plus ~100 Mbps for 29.95/month. Confirm price tiers for your address when you apply; details appear in Comcast releases and community posts. Call Internet Essentials at 1‑855‑846‑8376 (Español 1‑855‑765‑6995). (corporate.comcast.com)
- Ziply Fiber — Lifeline support: Ziply advertises Lifeline discounts and explains the current $9.25 broadband support and Tribal enhancements; it also notes the phase‑down for voice‑only. Ask Ziply about discount entry plans in your area. (ziplyfiber.com)
- PCs for People — 5G/4G unlimited data‑only plans: about $15/month with no data caps (device purchase required) for income‑qualified households; Washington service ties in with the new Seattle location opened in 2025. (pcsforpeople.org)
- NDIA’s “Honor Roll” page: check the national rundown of low‑cost offers at or under $30/month (no data caps) to compare options by provider and region. (digitalinclusion.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask a Digital Navigator to call with you; then file an FCC complaint if a provider misrepresents eligibility or refuses to honor public pricing; ask Washington 211 to search providers by ZIP for any local municipal, PUD, or nonprofit options. (fcc.gov)
Free and Low‑Cost Computers and Devices in Washington
- PCs for People — Seattle hub (Fremont): refurbished laptops/desktops, accessories, and low‑cost internet; recycling drop‑off at 1121 N 35th St, Seattle; phone 206‑222‑2060; order online for statewide shipping. (pcsforpeople.org)
- Library device lending: hotspot kits and in‑branch computer time are free with a card; start with the Seattle Public Library hotspot page, Tacoma Public Library mobile hotspots, and Timberland Regional Library’s computers & Wi‑Fi pages. (spl.org)
- Tech donations & recycling: community tech recyclers like PCs for People accept donor equipment (data wiped) and use it to seed low‑cost home computers statewide. (pcsforpeople.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call Washington 211 and ask for local refurbishers, school district surplus pick‑ups, or charities that issue devices after a class; ask libraries if they run “device lotteries” or limited laptop loans. (wa211.org)
Fast Comparison Tables You Can Use When You Call
Low‑Income Internet Plans You Can Ask About
Provider | Typical Entry Price | Advertised Speed | Contract/Data Cap | How to Apply |
---|---|---|---|---|
Xfinity Internet Essentials | 14.95–14.95–29.95 | ~75–100 Mbps | No contract; equipment included | Call 1‑855‑846‑8376 or visit the program page listed under Comcast press releases |
Astound Internet First | 9.95/9.95 / 19.95 | ~50 / 150 Mbps | No contract; promos vary | Apply online at Internet First or call 1‑833‑730‑0644 |
Ziply Fiber (with Lifeline) | Lifeline applies (9.25off;Tribalupto9.25 off; Tribal up to 34.25) | Varies by fiber availability | No contract on many plans | Ask sales and mention “Lifeline” |
PCs for People mobile internet | $15/month plan | Unlimited 5G/4G (device purchase) | No data caps; device required | Order via PCs for People Connect |
Confirm price and fees at your address; providers can change offers. (corporate.comcast.com)
Where to Borrow Free Hotspots (Examples)
Library System | Hotspot Loan Period | Who Can Borrow | Key Link |
---|---|---|---|
Seattle Public Library | ~21 days | SPL cardholders | SPL HotSpot page |
Tacoma Public Library | ~21 days (auto‑renew if no holds) | TPL cardholders age 17+ | TPL Mobile Hotspots |
Timberland Regional Library | Public computers + long‑hours Wi‑Fi | TRL cardholders | TRL Computers & Wi‑Fi |
Always check your branch page for current holds and overdue fees for lost items. (spl.org)
Lifeline — What to Know Before You Apply
Topic | What You Need |
---|---|
Income/program proof | Benefit letter (SNAP, Apple Health/Medicaid, SSI, etc.) or income docs |
One per household | You must choose to apply to phone, internet, or a bundle — not multiple lines |
Tribal benefit | If you live on Tribal lands, ask for the up‑to‑$34.25 monthly discount + Link Up (one‑time connection help) |
Where to apply | Online via the USAC National Verifier, by mail, or through a participating provider; questions to 1‑800‑234‑9473 |
See full rules and Tribal details on LifelineSupport.org. (usac.org)
Quick Skills Training (Free or Low Cost) — Washington Examples
Program | What You Get | How to Join |
---|---|---|
Digital Navigator Helpdesk (Tech Connect Washington) | Phone coaching, class referrals, multilingual help | Call 1‑800‑216‑1132; see Commerce Digital Navigator |
Goodwill (Olympics & Rainier Region) | Two‑week basic computer courses (Tacoma, Longview, Yakima) | See event listings at Goodwill WA and call 253‑573‑6508 |
WorkSource Workshops | Computer basics, resumes, Northstar assessments; some workshops provide a free laptop after completion | See WorkSource Seattle‑King County workshops and call your local office |
Library Northstar Digital Literacy | Self‑paced lessons and proctored certificates | Start at Seattle Public Library Northstar or Yakima Valley Libraries Northstar |
Programs and seats vary by county; call to confirm dates. (commerce.wa.gov)
Public Utility District (PUD) Fiber — If You’re in These Counties
County/Area | PUD Network | What It Means |
---|---|---|
Grant County | Grant PUD High Speed Network (open‑access fiber) | Many homes already lit; choose from local ISPs that ride the PUD network |
Kitsap County | Kitsap PUD open‑access fiber | Residents work with KPUD + a retail ISP; financing options for last‑mile in some areas |
Jefferson County | Jefferson PUD fiber buildouts (2025 awards) | New grant‑funded areas with low‑income discounts; register interest on JPUD site |
PUDs sell wholesale service; you pick a retail ISP. Check your address with your PUD. (grantpud.org)
Learn the Digital Skills Employers Expect (and Keep the Training Free)
Get the basics fast, then build toward a certificate you can show in job interviews.
- Call a Digital Navigator first for an intake and a learning plan that fits your schedule and childcare — they can enroll you in classes or help you practice at home before your next interview. Use the Digital Navigator Program line: 1‑800‑216‑1132. (commerce.wa.gov)
- Library Northstar Digital Literacy lets you practice email, Word, Excel, internet safety, and more; librarians can proctor assessments so you can print certificates. Start with Seattle Public Library’s Northstar page or Yakima Valley Libraries Northstar. (spl.org)
- Goodwill and WorkSource classes run across the state and often include laptop giveaways after completion; WorkSource posts active “Computer Skills” workshops with Northstar testing and resume help on local calendars. Goodwill WA digital skills events and WorkSource workshops.
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask Washington 211 for “adult education—digital literacy” and “ESL with computers”; try the Seattle IT “Low‑cost Internet and Devices” directory to find nearby classes; and ask your school district’s family liaison about parent tech nights.
How to Stop Internet Shutoff in Washington Today
- Call your provider’s retention/billing line and ask for a payment plan, move to the low‑income tier, and get late fee forgiveness. Name the plan (e.g., Internet Essentials or Internet First) when you call. If you’re denied or quoted something different than the public offer, file at the FCC Consumer Help Center so the company must respond within 30 days.
- Switch to a discount plan immediately if your current tier is too costly. You can often change tiers without an installation visit. Compare NDIA’s low‑cost plans list and apply online or by phone.
- Use library or drive‑in Wi‑Fi until your plan kicks in so you don’t miss deadlines for TANF, housing, or job tasks. See SPL HotSpot and the Drive‑In Wi‑Fi map.
What to do if this doesn’t work: for landline or regulated telecom issues, call the UTC consumer help line (1‑888‑333‑9882). For internet billing or accessibility problems (screen‑reader access, TTY/relay issues), use the FCC complaint portal and note the accessibility category if relevant.
County‑Specific Variations That Matter
- Grant County: PUD fiber covers most homes; you choose a retail ISP riding the PUD network (100 Mbps to 1 Gbps plans are common). If fiber isn’t at your address, check the buildout map or ask a local ISP about wireless as a bridge.
- Kitsap County: KPUD’s open‑access fiber continues to expand; residents typically pay a one‑time connection fee and then pick from several ISPs. Call KPUD at 360‑626‑7744 or email Ourfiber@kpud.org to ask about estimates.
- Jefferson County: New grant‑funded fiber areas in 2025 include Toandos Peninsula and other rural zones; low‑income discounts are listed by JPUD for eligible customers.
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your county’s PUD or port to join or form a local Broadband Action Team through the Washington State Broadband Office; BATs help escalate build priorities and connect you to BEAD-funded projects.
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Hubs
- Seattle Housing Authority Digital Equity on Wheels: rotating pop‑ups (with Goodwill) that teach portal use, online rent pay, and basic skills; some events include laptop drawings; call SHA Digital Equity at 206‑615‑3580 and check SHA’s Digital Skills workshop posts.
- YWCA Technology Center (Seola Gardens, White Center): free computer access and job training; call 206‑670‑6775 and view the YWCA tech center program page.
- El Centro de la Raza (Beacon Hill): bilingual adult education (ESL, employment), Wi‑Fi and lab space; main line 206‑957‑4634; see the El Centro “Get Help” page for program contacts.
- St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle/King County: call 206‑767‑6449 for emergency help that can stabilize a budget so you can keep service; see SVdP’s help page. They also refer to tech and training partners.
- PCs for People — Seattle: refurbished computers and internet for income‑eligible families statewide; order online or visit the new Fremont hub; see PCs for People Seattle.
What to do if this doesn’t work: dial Washington 211 to find faith‑based and neighborhood groups offering connectivity stipends, devices, or class vouchers in your ZIP code.
Resources by Region (Examples to Get You Started)
- King County (Seattle/metro): Seattle Public Library hotspots & Northstar, WorkSource Seattle‑King County workshops, City of Seattle Digital Equity & low‑cost internet. Call Ask KCLS at 425‑462‑9600 for lockers and device questions in King County Library System.
- Pierce County (Tacoma): Tacoma Public Library mobile hotspots and Wi‑Fi 24/7 outside; Pierce County Library Wi‑Fi and computers information; check YWCA and WorkSource Pierce for job‑linked classes.
- Spokane County: public computers, self‑service hours, and events listed at Spokane Public Library; check WorkSource Spokane digital labs listings for Northstar practice.
- Yakima & Central Washington: Yakima Valley Libraries Northstar and interlibrary services; Goodwill Yakima location for computer classes; WorkSource posts workshops by county.
- Southwest (Clark/Cowlitz/Wahkiakum): call WorkSource in Kelso at 360‑577‑2250; use WA 211 to find device programs; Lifeline help is listed on WA 211 entries for your county.
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask the Washington State Broadband Office to connect you to your local Broadband Action Team and BEAD project leads; ask your county PUD or port about open‑access fiber timelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply for Lifeline. The benefit starts the month your provider activates it, not retroactively. Apply on LifelineSupport.org and call 1‑800‑234‑9473 if stuck.
- Assuming the ACP is still active. Many websites are outdated. Verify at the FCC ACP page and make a new plan (Lifeline + low‑income plan).
- Not returning library hotspots on time. These kits shut off after the due date and fees can block your card. Know your library’s rules—see SPL HotSpot and TPL hotspot FAQs.
- Calling the wrong office for complaints. Internet billing/speed: file with the FCC; landline or regulated telecom issues: contact the UTC.
Reality Check
- Hotspots and classes often have waitlists after new funding announcements or holidays. Ask about cancellations and put your name on multiple lists (e.g., Seattle Public Library plus a suburban system like KCLS).
- Provider prices can change mid‑year. Confirm by address, ask for fee waivers, and screenshot quoted terms. Compare offers using the NDIA low‑cost plans list before signing.
- Washington doesn’t regulate broadband rates. The UTC notes it doesn’t set internet pricing; it can still help with some telecom disputes and referrals. Use the UTC complaint page and phone when in doubt.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Apply for Lifeline: Use the USAC National Verifier (phone 1‑800‑234‑9473). Have an ID plus proof of program or income. Allow 1–3 business days for online review.
- Discount plan to request: Ask for Internet Essentials (Xfinity) or Internet First (Astound). Say “no contract, low‑income plan” and ask them to confirm all taxes/fees.
- Immediate internet: Borrow a hotspot from your library; see SPL HotSpot or TPL Mobile Hotspots. Expect a waitlist in bigger branches.
- Free, live tech help: Call a Digital Navigator at 1‑800‑216‑1132; ask for Northstar practice links and a class near you.
- Complaints: File with the FCC Consumer Help Center if a provider won’t resolve billing or accessibility issues; landline/regulated telecom complaints go to the UTC.
Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID: state ID, driver license, Tribal ID, or other accepted ID listed on the National Verifier page.
- Eligibility proof: SNAP, Apple Health/Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension, or income documents (pay stubs/tax return).
- Tribal residency proof (if claiming enhanced Lifeline benefit): document showing address on Tribal lands; ask a Digital Navigator for help if unsure.
- Email address & phone number you can check—needed for status updates from providers and USAC.
- Screenshots or notes of any verbal offers (date, agent name, price, fees) before you agree to service.
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
- Lifeline denial for “identity or duplicate household”: upload a clearer ID, or complete the Household Worksheet; call 1‑800‑234‑9473 and ask the Lifeline Support Center to review.
- Provider says “not available at your address”: switch to a different company’s low‑income tier; check NDIA’s plan list and ask a Digital Navigator to search by ZIP.
- Company won’t honor public pricing: escalate with an FCC complaint and note the plan name in your description; attach screenshots if you have them.
Diverse Communities — Tailored Pointers and Contacts
LGBTQ+ single mothers: many shelters and legal clinics now require online intakes. Ask a Digital Navigator for private browsing and security tips; check the City of Seattle Digital Equity pages for community grantees serving queer and trans residents, and use library Northstar modules on privacy to protect your data.
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request accessible formats and assistive tech in advance. Ask the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) for equipment, relay (dial 711), and interpreter support; HCA’s Language Access page explains free interpreter services for Apple Health visits. Call ODHH at 800‑422‑7930 (Voice/TTY).
Veteran single mothers: WorkSource and YWCA programs often give priority to veterans in job classes that include digital skills; ask WorkSource and the YWCA Technology Center about veteran‑priority seats and placement help.
Immigrant and refugee single moms: ask for bilingual help at El Centro de la Raza (206‑957‑4634) for ESL and tech basics; Hopelink runs beginner digital skills classes and English for Work. You can also request free interpreters for Apple Health through HCA’s Interpreter Services.
Tribal‑specific resources: claim the Enhanced Tribal Lifeline (up to $34.25/month) and Link Up (one‑time connection help). Check your Tribe’s broadband or digital equity projects financed by NTIA; several WA Tribes received 2024‑2025 awards for new builds and digital skills. Start with your Tribal office and the USAC Tribal Lifeline page.
Rural single moms with limited access: ask your PUD or port about open‑access fiber timelines (e.g., Grant PUD and Kitsap PUD), and use the Drive‑In Wi‑Fi map for temporary access; request mailing of paper applications from agencies if upload speeds are too low.
Single fathers: you qualify for the same programs. Ask WorkSource to add childcare‑friendly class times and ask DCYF’s Child Care Subsidy Contact Center (1‑844‑626‑8687) about Working Connections Child Care so you can attend classes.
Language access: for medical appointments, your provider must supply interpreters free of charge if you’re on Apple Health; see HCA’s Interpreter Services (clients) page and call 1‑800‑562‑3022 for language assistance. For DSHS programs, you can request interpreters at your CSO.
Will Washington’s Broadband Buildouts Help My Neighborhood?
Washington’s Broadband Office is moving $1.2B in BEAD funds through 2025 to extend high‑speed service, with eligible applicants including Tribes, PUDs, ports, and cities. Watch WSBO announcements and project timelines, and tell your Broadband Action Team where service is still missing. Awards and final proposals continue through late 2025 into 2026.
What to do if this doesn’t work: email InternetforAll@commerce.wa.gov through the WSBO funding pages and ask to be connected to the BEAD project leads covering your address.
Extra Help While You Learn: Child Care and Schedules
If class times clash with pickup and bedtime, ask about online/recorded options and child‑friendly labs.
- Working Connections Child Care (WCCC): child‑care subsidy through DCYF while you work or train; call 1‑844‑626‑8687 and apply via WashingtonConnection.org. Review copays and eligibility (up to 60% of State Median Income) on DCYF’s pages.
- WorkSource appointment texts: you can manage text reminders and reschedule online; see ESD’s WorkSource scheduler help page for shortcodes and privacy notes.
What to do if this doesn’t work: call your local WorkSource office (phone lists on regional sites) and ask for a “family‑schedule workshop track”; several offices run morning or mid‑day labs with childcare partners.
FAQs (Washington‑Specific)
- How fast can I get a free hotspot in Seattle or Tacoma: place a hold today; SPL loans for about 21 days, and TPL also loans roughly 21 days with some auto‑renewals if no holds. Wait times vary by branch; ask staff for tips to catch returns. See SPL HotSpot and TPL Mobile Hotspots.
- Can I still get the $30 ACP discount: not right now. ACP ended for most households in mid‑2024. Replace it with Lifeline and a provider low‑income plan like Internet First or Internet Essentials. Verify ACP status on the FCC ACP page.
- How long does Lifeline approval take: online applications through the National Verifier can approve the same day if your data matches; mailed applications take longer (10–15 business days). For help, call 1‑800‑234‑9473.
- Does Washington regulate internet rates: no. The UTC doesn’t set broadband prices but can advise on telecom issues and refer you. You can still file internet complaints with the FCC.
- Where do I find in‑person basic computer classes in Spanish: ask El Centro de la Raza about ESL with digital basics; Goodwill and WorkSource also run bilingual or interpreter‑supported sessions.
- I live on Tribal land; what’s different: you can get up to $34.25/month Lifeline discount plus Link Up for installation; contact your Tribal office for local fiber builds funded by NTIA grants. Start with the USAC Tribal Lifeline page.
- What if a provider denies the public low‑income plan or adds hidden fees: ask them to list every fee, then file at the FCC Consumer Help Center if the advertised plan isn’t available at your address without reason. Attach screenshots of the plan page.
- I’m in a rural area with no offers at my address — now what: check your PUD’s fiber map (Grant PUD and Kitsap PUD are examples), ask about construction estimates, and use the Drive‑In Wi‑Fi map for temporary access.
- How do I protect my data when using public Wi‑Fi: libraries note public Wi‑Fi is not encrypted; avoid banking, use a VPN if you have one, and log out of accounts. See Tacoma Public Library Wi‑Fi FAQ and practice Northstar’s privacy modules.
- Who do I call if I think there’s fraud with my Lifeline application: call the Lifeline Support Center at 1‑800‑234‑9473; for company misconduct, use the FCC’s complaint portal and OIG fraud tip line. See Lifeline Get Help, the FCC complaints portal, and the FCC OIG hotline.
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta sección se generó con herramientas de traducción asistida por IA. Verifique siempre los detalles por teléfono o en los sitios oficiales.
- Internet y dispositivos de bajo costo: Llame al 1‑800‑216‑1132 para hablar con un “Digital Navigator” (asistencia técnica y referencias); consulte Internet First (Astound) y Internet Essentials (Xfinity) y la lista nacional de planes de bajo costo de NDIA.
- Descuento Lifeline: Ahorro mensual de hasta 9.25(hasta9.25 (hasta 34.25 en tierras Tribales). Solicite en LifelineSupport.org o llame al 1‑800‑234‑9473 (inglés/español).
- Puntos de Wi‑Fi gratuitos y “hotspots” de bibliotecas: Reserve un “hotspot” en la Biblioteca Pública de Seattle o use la red de Tacoma Public Library. Revise el mapa estatal de Drive‑In Wi‑Fi.
- Clases y ayuda con computación: Busque Northstar Digital Literacy en su biblioteca y cursos en Goodwill o WorkSource.
- Quejas y defensa del consumidor: Presente quejas en línea en el Centro de Ayuda para Consumidores de la FCC; para telecom regulado, llame a la UTC (1‑888‑333‑9882). Use Washington 211 para localizar ayuda local.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Washington State Broadband Office (Department of Commerce)
- Federal Communications Commission — Consumer Help Center
- Universal Service Administrative Co. — Lifeline
- Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission — Consumer Complaints
- Washington 211
- Seattle Public Library Hotspot Program
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 information is for general guidance in Washington State. Benefits, prices, and timelines can change without notice and may vary by county, provider, or library branch. Always confirm details directly with the agency or provider and keep records of calls, emails, and screenshots. If you believe any information here is outdated or incorrect, use the contacts above to verify and let us know.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery