DHSed practical guide · Sources checked November 12, 2026
Start with what you need: internet at home, a computer for an application, printing, or help using a website. These are different problems, and the fastest answer may be a library visit rather than a new internet contract.
Local starting point: the Desert Hot Springs Library lists 14380 Palm Drive and 760-329-5926. Ask about computer access, Wi-Fi, printing, accessibility and current help sessions before traveling.
Compare current home-internet options
RivcoConnect lists low-cost plans and the California LifeLine Home Broadband Pilot. Its current page describes possible support through participating providers for qualifying households. This is separate from Federal Lifeline. Eligibility, the participating plan and service at your exact address must be checked.
Start at RivcoConnect's current offers page, or call 866-922-1016 for a starting point. If you receive CalFresh, Medi-Cal or another listed benefit, ask whether that helps establish program eligibility; do not assume the discount applies to every internet account.
Ask for the price after all charges
- Does this provider actually serve my street address?
- Which plan qualifies, and what proof do you need?
- What is the full monthly bill, including equipment and other charges?
- Are setup costs, a contract or cancellation charges involved?
- When can the price or discount change?
Write the answers next to each option. A headline price can be difficult to compare if one plan includes equipment and another charges separately. Ask about the ongoing price, not only the first bill.
Do not apply for an expired ACP offer
The FCC says the federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended June 1, 2024, and warns about websites still advertising enrollment or collecting information for it. An old ACP advertisement is not a current benefit. Use the County's current options and the provider's official process instead.
Prepare for a public-computer visit
Take the website address, your own email access and only the documents needed for the task. Ask whether an appointment, library card or printing charge applies. Staff may explain computer use without being able to decide a benefits case or provide legal advice.
Keep passwords and verification codes private. Sign out when finished, remove downloaded personal files and collect printed pages. If a form is hard to understand, ask the responsible program about phone, paper or language assistance rather than submitting guesses.
Your next step
For a task this week, call the library about access and help. For home service, compare the full written price and eligibility at your address. Use the application folder guide before uploading private documents.
Keep going
Sources and updates
- County Library: DHS branch address, phone and current services
- RivcoConnect: current internet plans and California LifeLine pilot
- FCC: Affordable Connectivity Program ended; misleading offers warning
Prepared by DHSed with AI assistance from the linked public sources. Check current availability and the rules for your situation with the responsible provider. Send a correction.