No credit history or poor credit history won’t deprive you of a broadband internet connection. If requests for a credit check or upfront deposit give you the ick, you’re not alone. Whether you’re weighed down by student debt, having a hard time saving up for rent, or simply struggling to make ends meet, we’ve got you covered.
Several internet service providers (ISPs) offer solutions for low-income households and individuals with varying financial constraints. There are contract-free plans, pay-as-you-go services, and other options to bag an internet connection without the standard credit check or deposit.
Do All Internet Providers Require a Credit Check?
Most ISPs run credit checks on new customers as a precautionary measure. The purpose is to ensure that they receive timely payments for their services and equipment, such as a modem and router, or gateway devices. However, there are two types of credit checks: .
While both of these credit checks show up on your credit report, soft inquiries do not affect your credit score. Therefore, if your main concern is about a credit enquiry affecting your score, you must confirm whether the ISP will conduct a soft or hard check.
Customers with a good credit score have nothing to worry about, but a poor credit score might entail a deposit. The deposit is a sum of money you have to pay beforehand as a form of assurance; in case a bill is unpaid, the provider will be reimbursed from this deposit and avoid any financial loss.
Although credit checks are customary, many ISPs forego the requirement under certain terms and conditions. The common trade-off is a prepaid internet plan instead of a postpaid one; this means you pay for the service in advance rather than at the end of the month.
Top Internet Providers with No Credit Check or Deposit
Don’t have a credit score? Going through a rough patch and need some time to build credit and gain financial stability? No problem! Let’s explore the best internet providers with no credit check or deposit options:
1. AT&T Prepaid Fixed Wireless Internet
AT&T is known for its contract-free internet plans, which means you don’t have to commit long-term and put down a deposit. You can pay as you go, which works well for customers living paycheck to paycheck. Even though a credit check is normally applicable, it can be skipped when you sign up for a prepaid wireless internet plan.
1. Price after $5/mo. AutoPay discount (w/in 2 bills). Paperless billing required. Monthly State Cost Recovery charge applies in OH, NV, TX.
2. Xfinity Prepaid Internet
If you prefer a cable internet service for use at home, we suggest Xfinity prepaid internet that is available for an all-inclusive monthly price with no strings attached. Xfinity Now is ideal for low-income households with flexible payment terms and contract-less plans; you simply refill your service every 30 days.
3. Metro by T-Mobile (5G Home Internet)
What do you say to joining America’s biggest 5G network? equips customers with a fast and reliable 5G Home Internet connection without the hassles of a credit check, deposit, or annual contract. Moreover, you get a 14-day trial period and a 5-year price guarantee – does it get better than that?
2. Delivered via 5G cellular network; speeds vary due to factors affecting cellular networks, including data prioritization.
3. with AutoPay, taxes and fees included.
4. EarthLink Wireless
offers a prepaid wireless internet connection for your home that is not subject to any contract or early termination fees. You get 5G or 4G LTE-powered internet, depending on your area. With EarthLink, you don’t pay by speed, but according to your data needs. The 100 GB Essentials Plan is perfect for light internet users on a tight budget.
Disclaimer: Actual speeds may vary depending on the distance, line-quality, phone service provider, and number of devices used concurrently. All speeds not available in all areas. Exclusions, taxes, fees, or modem service charges may apply. Not available in all areas. Limited-time offer; subject to change.
5. Mobile Hotspot & MVNO Solutions
Why invest in a dedicated home internet connection when you’re frequently on the go and have low data needs? You don’t need the fastest internet for checking emails, scrolling social media, and the occasional streaming in standard quality.
You can use your mobile internet plan to connect other devices via hotspot, or consider a cheap mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) solution like Mint Mobile and Visible.
Disclaimer: Upfront payment of $45 for 3-month plan (equiv. to $15/mo.) req’d. New customer offer for first 3 months only; then full-price plan options available. Taxes & fees extra. Customers who use over 35GB/mo. may notice reduced speeds for the rest of the monthly cycle in certain locations when our network is busy. Includes up to 10GB hotspot. Videos stream at ~480p. Availability, speed & coverage varies. See Terms.
4. Taxes & fees included. Get full plan details
Best Low-Income or Government-Subsidized Options
Low-income households can benefit from government-funded programs that provide internet service at reduced rates. Qualifying for these kinds of programs is likely to eliminate the requirement of credit checks and deposits.
- The was one such option that granted up to a $30 discount for internet service to eligible households; unfortunately, it was discontinued in June 2024.
- is another active government-backed scheme that contributes $9.25 per month for broadband services to low-income consumers all over the country.
Are you an elderly US citizen looking for an affordable internet plan due to limited income following retirement?
If yes, you may qualify for a senior discount on your internet service!
Check out our Senior Internet Guide
Pros and Cons of No Credit Check Internet Plans
👍 Pros:
- Easily accessible to people with no credit history or a low credit score
- No hard enquiries/no effect on credit score
- Flexible payments (pay as you go)
- No deposit or contract
👎 Cons:
- Limited choice of plans
- Limited speeds
- Tend to be pricier than standard plans
- No postpaid options
- Upfront equipment fees may apply
Tips Before You Sign Up
- Confirm service availability in your ZIP code.
- Ask about speed range and exact pricing in your area.
- Check with the provider if they run soft credit checks or hard credit checks.
- Look for trial periods or money-back guarantees so you can get a refund in case the service is unsatisfactory.
- Compare the cost of “no credit check” plans with traditional plans to evaluate if the price difference is justified.
FAQs
Can I get internet without a credit check?
Yes, many internet providers offer prepaid plans for consumers with no credit history or a low credit score.
How to sign up for an internet plan without a deposit?
Most internet providers do not request a deposit if your credit score is high or decent. In case of a low credit score, you may consider a low-income internet plan that doesn’t require credit checks.
Does AT&T run credit checks?
In general, AT&T runs credit checks on customers interested in signing up for their services. However, prepaid wireless internet can be obtained without a credit inquiry
Can I get Xfinity internet without a credit check?
Xfinity Now Internet is an affordable prepaid option that is available without a credit check or deposit.
