The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal assistance program that helps eligible low-income households afford internet service and connected devices. Established in 2021, ACP provides enhanced benefits compared to earlier programs, including monthly service discounts and one-time device assistance.

Program Benefits

The ACP provides comprehensive assistance for internet connectivity:

• Monthly service discount: Up to $30 per month off internet service
• Enhanced Tribal benefits: Up to $75 per month for eligible households on Tribal lands
• Device discount: One-time discount of up to $100 toward the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from a participating provider
• One benefit per household: Only one ACP benefit per household

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for ACP, your household must meet one of the following criteria:

Income-Based Eligibility

Household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This threshold is higher than Lifeline (which uses 135%), making ACP accessible to more households.

Program-Based Eligibility

Automatic qualification if anyone in your household participates in:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
• WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)
• Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
• Federal Pell Grant recipient (current award year)
• Various Tribal assistance programs

Additional Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old (or an emancipated minor)
• Must be a U.S. resident in a participating state or territory
• Must not already receive an ACP benefit

Device Assistance

One of the key features of ACP is device assistance. Eligible households can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 toward the purchase of:

• Laptop computers
• Desktop computers
• Tablets
• In some cases, smartphones (depending on provider)

The device discount requires a co-payment of more than $10 and less than $50 from the consumer. Providers determine which devices are available and pricing.

Combining with Lifeline

Eligible households can receive both Lifeline and ACP benefits simultaneously:

• Lifeline: Up to $9.25/month service discount
• ACP: Up to $30/month service discount (up to $75 on Tribal lands)
• Combined: Up to $39.25/month in service discounts (potentially free service)
• ACP device discount: Up to $100 toward device purchase

Service Options

ACP benefits can be applied to various internet service types:

Application Process

To apply for ACP benefits:

1. Verify eligibility using our eligibility checker or the National Verifier
2. Gather required documents (proof of identity, address, and eligibility)
3. Choose a participating ACP provider in your area
4. Apply through the National Verifier or directly with your chosen provider
5. Wait for verification (typically 7-14 business days)
6. Select a service plan and, if desired, use the device discount
7. Activate service once approved

Maintaining Benefits

To continue receiving ACP benefits:

• Recertify annually: Complete the recertification process each year
• Keep information updated: Notify your provider of address or other changes
• Use the service: Maintain active service to continue receiving benefits
• Follow program rules: Only one benefit per household