What? I Can Get a Free Phone!
The Affordable Connectivity Program, or ACP, is a new government program that helps low-income people get internet access. If you qualify, you can get the ACP benefit by answering a few questions and providing some documents that prove you are eligible. You can only get this benefit once per household.
You can qualify for the ACP benefit if you are part of a government program that helps people in need, or if your household income is at or below twice the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This can help you and your family stay connected and access important information online.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new, long-term, $14 billion government program that helps pay for internet in low-income households and also helps to pay for devices that are internet-capable, like tablets and laptops.
Who is eligible?
This program is for low income earners who earn less than 200% the Federal Poverty Line.
The Federal Poverty Line (FPL) is a measure used by the government to see if you make enough money to qualify for certain help. For example, for a family of four, the FPL in 2022 was $26,500.
If a person makes less than double that amount, which is $53,000 for a family of four, then they might qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This can help you get internet access and support if you're a low-income family. The same principle applies for an individual.
Look at this page (and scroll to the Household Income Qualification) to see if your income level qualifies.
What are the qualifications?
For foster students who are enrolled in one or more of these programs, you may qualify:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Medicaid
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Veterans & Survivors Pension Benefit
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Federal Pell Grant recipients in the current award year
Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs
What does this benefit cover?
This program (at the time of this post) was offering:
$30 per month discount on your internet or phone service
$75 per month discount if you’re on a qualifying tribal land
$100 (one-time) device discount on an eligible device
Each household can get one ACP benefit for internet and a one-time $100 discount on a device.
But, what's a household? A household is people who live at the same place and share money and bills. It doesn't include everyone at that place; the FCC and USAC know that more than one household can live at the same address. If two households at the same address want ACP, each household must fill out a Household Worksheet, which is available in English and Spanish — the worksheet is available in English and Spanish.
Where do I apply?
Get your questions answered and apply on this website.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal government initiative designed to provide internet access and support to low-income individuals and families. This program offers financial assistance in two main forms: a discount on monthly internet service and a one-time discount on a device, such as a laptop or tablet. To be eligible, households must meet certain income criteria or be enrolled in specific government assistance programs. A household is defined as individuals who live together and share financial responsibilities, though it's important to note that multiple households can reside at the same address. Each eligible household can receive only one ACP benefit, but the program aims to bridge the digital divide by making internet access more affordable and accessible to those who need it most.
