How a new government benefit is helping low-income households pay for high-speed internet so they can educate themselves, earn an income, and shape their future.
Reliable internet access isn’t just about streaming our favorite shows, it’s about our ability to educate ourselves, apply for jobs, earn an income, start a new business, see the doctor, and help contribute to our democratic society.
In 2021 during the pandemic, the federal government recognized the need for internet access; and in an effort to help bridge the digital divide, implemented the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program to temporarily provide discounts on internet bills for marginalized families and individuals. Understanding that we are in the new era of connectivity and that broadband access affects us all! The federal government under the Biden-Harris Administration has gone a step further. Together with internet providers, the Federal government has replaced the EBB and installed the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program designed to help low-income households pay for broadband internet service. This new program establishes a more permanent, long-term solution to help bridge the digital divide by allowing even more families to qualify for and be able to access the internet.
ACP provides a monthly discount of up to $30 for eligible families’ internet services and up to $75 for households on tribal lands. The program also offers a one-time subsidy of up to $100 for the purchase of a computer, laptop, or tablet from an internet service provider. Once an eligible household completes an application and is approved, it receives a Federal discount which is paid directly to the service provider. In some cases, the subsidy may completely cover the cost of the internet service.
Who Is Eligible?
You are eligible for ACP if anyone in your household:
- Receives Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition benefits or SNAP.
- Participates in free and reduced school meals or Pell grant programs.
- Receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), SNAP, or Veterans Pension and Survivor Benefits.
- Participates in the Lifeline program.
- Has an income that is below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Participates in the Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
You can learn more about and sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program here or find out if you are eligible by calling the FCC at 877–384–2575 or visiting GetInternet.gov.
