Understanding The Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program (Also known among internet providers as the “ACP”) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiative designed to help households in the United States access affordable broadband services. This means, the program was created as a way to provide internet access for various purposes, including work, education, healthcare, and more for very affordable prices or even for free in some cases.

To be more technical, the ACP offers eligible households a discount of up to $30 per month towards internet service, while those on qualifying Tribal lands can receive up to $75 per month. This is important because nowadays, some internet providers are able to design internet data plans that can be covered entirely by the $30 per month, allowing you to have the service for free. Additionally, ACP participants can benefit from a one-time discount of up to $100 for purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. To qualify for this device discount, households must contribute between $10 and $50 towards the purchase price, this fee is referred to as the “co-payment”.

It's important to note that the Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Who Is Eligible For The Affordable Connectivity Program?

To be eligible for the ACP, a household must have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year
• Eligible for a participating provider’s existing low-income internet program
• Participation in one of the following assistance programs:
  • Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, including USDA Community Eligibility Provision schools
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (EBT)
  • Medicaid or Medical (California)
  • Federal Housing Assistance, including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program (Section 8 Vouchers), Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)/Section 202/ Section 811, Public Housing, and Affordable Housing Programs for American Indians, Alaska Natives, or Native Hawaiians
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
  • Lifeline Assistance Program
• Participation in one of these assistance programs and residing on Qualifying Tribal lands:
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
  • Tribal Head Start (income-based)

So, What Wireless Mobile Providers Offer ACP Plans?

A variety of internet service providers, including landline and wireless services, are participating in the Affordable Connectivity Program. To find providers offering the ACP benefits in your state or territory, you can visit the FCC’s official website and search for participating providers in your area.

By understanding the Affordable Connectivity Program, eligible households can take advantage of these valuable discounts and gain access to essential internet services. With the ACP, more families can stay connected, informed, and engaged in today’s digital age.

How Long Will The ACP Last?

The Affordable Connectivity Program initially began as the “Emergency Broadband Benefit” during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to provide temporary relief to households struggling with internet access during the crisis. However, recognizing the ongoing need for affordable broadband connectivity, the program has since evolved into the ACP, which now operates as an indefinite benefit provided by the government. This ensures that eligible households can continue to access essential internet services and stay connected in the long term, regardless of the pandemic’s status.

Where Can I Learn More About The ACP?

You can go to the FCC website to learn more and keep up to date about the Affordable Connectivity Program. There are contact details as well in case you need further assistance or in case you are an internet service provider that wants to register to provide the benefit.