Affordable Connectivity Program: How much can you get with the ACP? The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program designed to provide eligible households with a monthly discount on their internet bills. This program aims to make high-speed internet more affordable for low-income families, people who have experienced a significant loss of income during the pandemic, and those who live in tribal lands.
The US government provides households with a financial boost in order to help them pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet.
They do so through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a scheme that has been launched by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
In this article, we will discuss what the Affordable Connectivity Program is, who is eligible for it, how much discount one can get, how to apply for the program, and other important details about the program.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a program under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that provides a discount on broadband internet service to eligible households. The ACP aims to help low-income families, those who have experienced a significant loss of income during the pandemic, and those who live in tribal lands to have access to affordable and reliable internet services.
Who is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
To be eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program, a household must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- The household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level.
- At least one member of the household participates in certain federal assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline.
- The household experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020, and the household income in 2020 was at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers.
How much discount can you get with the ACP?
Eligible households can get up to $30 off their monthly internet bill. For households living on tribal lands, the discount can be up to $75 per month. The discount will be provided directly to the internet service provider (ISP) and will appear as a credit on the monthly bill.
“A low cost service plan that may be fully covered through the ACP,” reads the ACP official website.
“Through a separate non-FCC initiative, additional no cost plans may be available to Affordable Connectivity Program enrollees.
“To learn more please visit GetInternet.gov. Provision of a link to this initiative does not imply FCC endorsement of any particular participating provider.
“Only one monthly service discount and one device discount is allowed per household. To receive the connected device discount, you need to enroll in the ACP with a participating provider that offers connected devices (Note: not every internet company offers device discounts.) Your internet company will provide the discount to you.”
The ACP benefit can only be applied to any recurring charge for broadband rather than a one-time payment for the installation of the broadband at the house in question.
How to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
To apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program, eligible households can contact their internet service provider (ISP) directly or apply online. The FCC has set up a website, getemergencybroadband.org, where eligible households can apply online and find participating ISPs in their area.
What other benefits can you get with the Affordable Connectivity Program?
Apart from the monthly discount on internet bills, eligible households can also get a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. However, the household must contribute between $10 and $50 towards the purchase price, depending on their income level.
Can you still participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program if you already have an internet service?
Yes, you can still participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program even if you already have an internet service. The program provides a discount on the monthly bill and does not require households to switch their internet service provider.
How long will the Affordable Connectivity Program be available?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is available until the funds run out or six months after the end of the pandemic, whichever comes first. The FCC has set aside $3.2 billion for this program.
Conclusion
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a great initiative by the FCC to help low-income families and those who have experienced a significant loss of income during the pandemic to have access to affordable and reliable internet services. The program provides a monthly discount on internet bills and a one-time discount on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. If you think you are eligible for the program, contact your internet service provider or apply online through getemergencybroadband.org.
