HELPS in THREE MINUTES
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Do you have debt you can't afford to pay?

Are You Receiving Social Security, Pension or Disability Income?

WE CAN HELP.


HELPS is a nonprofit law firm and 501(c)(3) charitable organization. We serve senior citizens and disabled persons struggling with debt.


Call HELPS now to learn how your retirement income is protected by law and how we can help.

Thank you for your information.

Need immediate help? Call 855-435-7787 to speak to a HELPS representative.

Affordable Access To Technology

Cheap Internet or Computers for Senior Citizens and Persons In Need

In today's world, a working computer and internet access are more of a necessity than a luxury. If you have the internet you can have your own email address and be able to communicate with friends and family whenever you want. The internet can open an entirely new world of communication with loved ones and friends. HELPS Nonprofit Law Firm wants our clients to have access to the internet if that is their desire. Some senior citizens have younger children or grandchildren who are happy to help them with technology. Others have a friend who can help with setting up an email address and learning the basics of computer use.

Fortunately, there are some companies offering internet and access to technology at a reduced price for those who cannot otherwise afford them. Of course, many seniors might not need an actual computer, as their phone might be able to handle most everything they would want to do on the internet. Most cell phone plans now have the potential to access the internet. For those who don’t currently have internet service or who need a computer, here are some affordable options.

INTERNET SERVICE

Access to affordable internet is still limited for many Americans.

The Affordable Connectivity Program was introducted in the end of 2021. This program contributes of up to 30 dollars per month towards internet service for qualifying households (up to 75 dollars per month for households on tribal lands). You can learn more about the Affordable Connectivity Program here: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov

Lifeline, another federal program, can offer the monthly cost of your phone and internet service. You can view details about qualifying program on the Lifeline website, located here: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

If you receive Supplemental Security Income, the following providers provide discounted internet service: If you qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you can get affordable internet with Access from AT&T Altice Connects (from Optimum and Suddenlink), Astound Broadband, Spectrum Internet Assist, Verizon Lifeline, and Internet Essentials from Comcast.

CenturyLink’s “Internet Basics” is an affordable internet program at $9.95 a month for the first year and $14.95 a month thereafter. Applicants most likely qualify for the Internet Basics program if a) they participate in other governmental assistance programs such as food stamps (SNAP), public housing assistance, Medicaid, Section 8 housing, Supplemental Security Income, various Home Energy Assistance Programs, and National School Lunch; or b) their household income is at or below 135% to 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

OTHER TECHNOLOGICAL NEEDS

AARP's Senior Planet:AAARP offers technology courses for seniors in six regions of the United States. Two locations currently have in person instruction, but anyone in the United States can access their online courses. Find out more about AARP's technology courses here: https://seniorplanet.org/

Community Centers:Senior community centers provide many support services for seniors. It is a good starting place to see if there are any local resources that offer free computers. Find your local senior center through your State Unit on Aging (SUA) or Area Agency on Aging (AAA).

Local Government or Nonprofit Sources: Search online or in your phone book for other government or nonprofit agencies and charitable groups in your town that may offer free computers for seniors. Ask at your library, city hall or civic groups (such as Rotary) for help in locating local, county, and state agencies that may be involved in computer recycling and donation programs.

For example, Goodwill has partnered will Dell Computers to recycle donated computers. Call your local Goodwill store or visit in person to find out how to access a refurbished computer.

Local Computer Repair Shops: Computer repair shops in your neighborhood may have refurbished computers of any brand they are willing to donate to you for free or at minimal cost. Check your phone book or online and call a repair shop near you or go to the business and ask for help.

Learn More About Other Issues and What HELPS Can Do For You.

Peace of Mind
These HELPS clients were dealing with harassing debt collectors and anxiety over old Debt. HELPS provided a solution to their financial worries.