We regret to inform our readers that the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has officially ended. As of February 8th, 2024, the program is no longer accepting new enrollments due to a lack of funding.
This program was tremendously helpful to many of our readers, and we have chosen to leave this article on our website as a tribute to what was and a placeholder in case the program is ever revived again in the future.
What was the ACP?
The ACP launched on January 1, 2022. The Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act allocated $14.2 billion to the ACP, which was designed to help close the digital divide and ensure that all Americans have access to affordable broadband internet service.
This program provided eligible households with a discount of up to $30 per month on their internet bills, and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
Since many internet providers offer discounted internet plans that cost $30 or less, this meant that low income Americans who qualified for ACP were often able to get their internet service completely free of charge.
This program also offered a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
Why did it end?
The ACP was initially created as a temporary solution to help families bridge the digital divide, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, it enabled many Americans who relied on government assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid to access affordable internet. However, it was only ever authorized as a temporary program.
Unfortunately, Congress did not extend funding for the program. The White House officially announced the end of the ACP program, with the final day of operation being May 31, 2024. It closed to new applications on February 8, 2024, as funding ran out.
What are my options now?
The end of the ACP does not mean the end of affordable internet. Many ISPs offered affordable low income internet plans before the ACP was introduced and many of those plans have continued after the ACP program ended. Below are some options that may help you continue to access affordable internet:
- Lifeline: The Lifeline subsidy can provide a $9.95 discount on either your phone bill or your internet bill if you meet the low income guidelines.
- Free & Low Cost Plans: Many ISPs and community organizations have stepped up to make sure that internet access continues to remain affordable for those who need it. Find a plan near you.
- Community Programs: Some cities have instituted free neighborhood WiFi and some libraries are letting residents take home internet hotspots to help bridge the divide.
Relief Recap
Although the ACP program has ended, there are still options that may be able to assist you with your internet bill. Please consider the other options on this list and subscribe to Low Income Relief for more ways to save money and get free stuff.
Thank you for great information on low income programs
I just got email from SPECTRUM and they said it may end early in 2024. It had a link to send your name and on a made letter to Washington to try to stop it. I asked a neighbor who has another company she does this with and has not been notified. I just wanted to see if you could add to your programming. Thanks for all you do .