How to Apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program

Learn how to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program and get access to affordable internet and devices. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the application process easy and stress-free. Apply today and stay connected with the world.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a government initiative designed to help low-income households access affordable broadband services. With the rapid growth of technology and the increasing importance of the internet in our daily lives, it is crucial to ensure that everyone has access to reliable and affordable internet services. The ACP aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Americans can participate in the digital economy. 

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income households to help them afford broadband internet service. The program offers a discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Additionally, the program provides a one-time discount of up to $100 for the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers, subject to a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50.

The ACP is an evolution of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, which was established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the need for affordable internet access continues, the ACP aims to provide long-term support to eligible households.

How does one qualify and apply?

To qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, a household must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• A member of the household has an income that is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or participates in certain assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or the Lifeline program.

• A member of the household has been approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, in the current or prior school year.

• A member of the household received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.

• A member of the household meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

• A member of the household resides on qualifying Tribal lands and participates in certain federal assistance programs.

To apply for the ACP, you can follow one of these three methods:

• Online: Visit the National Verifier's consumer portal at acpbenefit.org, and follow the prompts to complete your application. You will need to provide information about your household income, participation in qualifying assistance programs, and other necessary details.

• Mail: Print and complete a paper ACP application, which can be found on the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) website. Mail the completed application, along with copies of documents proving your eligibility, to:

• Affordable Connectivity Program
  P.O. Box 7081
  London, KY 40742

• Contact a participating broadband provider: Some providers may allow you to apply for the program directly through them. Reach out to your preferred provider to inquire about their application process.

After your application has been approved, you will receive an eligibility determination from the National Verifier. You can then contact a participating broadband provider to enroll in their service and begin receiving the ACP benefit.

Companies that Have the Best Affordable Connectivity Programs

Several companies participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, and the best option for you will depend on your location and specific needs. Some of the largest providers offering ACP discounts include:

• AT&T: AT&T offers both wireline and wireless broadband services under the ACP. They provide various plans to choose from, and eligible customers can receive discounts on monthly service fees and device purchases.

• Comcast: Through their Internet Essentials program, Comcast offers affordable internet service to qualifying households. ACP recipients can receive discounted monthly rates and access to low-cost computers.

• T-Mobile: T-Mobile participates in the ACP by offering discounts on their wireless broadband plans. Qualifying customers can receive discounts on monthly service fees and eligible devices.

• Verizon: Verizon provides ACP benefits through their Fios and wireless broadband services. Customers can receive discounts on monthly service fees and select devices.

• Charter Spectrum: Spectrum offers discounted broadband service to ACP recipients through their Spectrum Internet Assist program. Customers can receive affordable high-speed internet service and access to low-cost computers.

It is important to research the available providers in your area, as well as their specific offerings, to determine the best option for your household.

How long does one qualify?

Once you are approved for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you will continue to receive the benefit as long as you remain eligible and the program is funded. However, you will need to recertify your eligibility annually or whenever requested by the National Verifier or your participating provider.

If your household's income or participation in qualifying assistance programs changes, you must notify your provider and the National Verifier. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your ACP benefit.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is an essential initiative to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable and reliable broadband services. By understanding the qualification criteria, application process, and participating providers, you can determine if your household is eligible and take advantage of this valuable program. With the support of the ACP, more households will be able to participate in the digital economy and access the educational, professional, and social opportunities that the internet has to offer.