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The digital divide is the gap between people who have reliable internet, devices, and the skills to use them and people who do not. It can follow lines of income, location, age, disability, and language. Federal, state, and local governments, schools, libraries, and private providers all work on it through subsidies, grants, and public access points.

People usually ask who is left without service, why rural and low-income areas often fall behind, and how the gap affects access to jobs, schooling, health care, and government services. They also ask about programs that help pay for phone or internet service and how to tell which claims about free government help are accurate.

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September 26last updated

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All Articles on Digital Divide

What the ‘Digital Divide’ Means for Access to Services

Losing internet access can cut off food benefits, health coverage, and job opportunities, and here is where to find offline help and support programs.

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America’s Digital Divide: The People Left Behind

Nearly every aspect of American life now requires internet access. Yet millions of Americans still lack reliable broadband service, creating a persistent gap between…

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The National Broadband Map: A Picture of Internet Availability

Access to high-speed internet has become as essential as electricity or running water. Yet millions of Americans still lack reliable broadband service, creating what…

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Do You Qualify for a Free Government Phone? Check Your Eligibility

For millions of Americans, the cost of a phone and monthly service creates a significant financial burden. The idea of a "free government phone"…

38 Min Read

Fact Check: Free Government Phones

Every month, millions of Americans receive free smartphones and unlimited calling plans through what's commonly called the "government phone" program. It's one of the…

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