Affordable Connectivity Program

An FCC benefit program that historically helped ensure households could afford the broadband they needed.

Important Update on ACP Status: As of mid-2024, the Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new applications and enrollment due to a lack of additional funding from Congress. However, many state-level broadband programs and the Lifeline program remain fully active.

Program Overview

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was an FCC benefit program that provided a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households could also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.

Because the program is currently paused, we highly recommend utilizing the permanent Lifeline program to secure your free cellular service and a discounted tablet.

Who Qualifies (Legacy Rules)

Legacy ACP rules allowed households to qualify if their income was at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if someone in the household participated in programs like:

  • SNAP / Medicaid / WIC / SSI
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance
  • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program
  • Federal Pell Grant (in the current award year)

Required Documents

When applying for equivalent programs (like Lifeline), you will need proof of identity and eligibility:

  • Identify: Valid Government ID or Passport.
  • Program Partcipation: An official benefit award letter (e.g., SNAP or Pell Grant document).

How to Apply for Alternatives

  1. Check Lifeline Eligibility: If you met ACP limits, you may very likely meet Lifeline limits.
  2. State Specific Programs: Several states (like California and Texas) offer state-funded "Lifeline+" plans that mirror ACP benefits.
  3. Submit application via National Verifier: Validate your identity securely online.

Benefits Included (Alternative Lifeline Offers)

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Monthly Savings

Up to $9.25 off standard phone/internet bills (up to $34.25 on Tribal Lands).

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Device Specials

Providers regularly run tablet promotions for $10.01.

State Availability

Visit our By State directory to find state-specific internet subsidies that have replaced ACP in your area.

ACP FAQs

Will the ACP return?

It depends entirely on the United States Congress passing legislation to appropriate new funds for the program. Advocacy groups are actively pushing for its return.

If I lost ACP, what should I do?

If you have not already, apply for Lifeline immediately. You should also check with your current ISP to see if they offer a low-income "basic" tier plan independent of federal programs.

Protect your connectivity with Lifeline

Apply for Lifeline Today