The Affordable Connectivity Program is a government initiative aimed at providing low-cost or free internet access to underserved communities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is part of a broader effort to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Americans have access to essential information and services.
Through this initiative, eligible households can receive discounts on the cost of broadband service, as well as a one-time discount on the purchase of a computer or tablet. The program is open to households with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or those who participate in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP or Medicaid.
What Is The Affordable Connectivity Program?
In today’s digital age, having internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity for work, education, and staying connected. However, not all households have the same level of access to reliable and affordable broadband services. In order to address this issue, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
The Affordable Connectivity Program is an initiative that aims to help low-income households and those who are struggling financially get access to affordable and high-speed internet services. The program is part of the broader Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) that was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the Affordable Connectivity Program, eligible households may receive a discount of up to $30 per month on their broadband internet bill. In addition, they may qualify for up to $100 off the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. The program is available to households that participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as Medicaid or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The ACP aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all households have access to affordable and reliable internet services. The program is an important step in addressing the broadband gap and ensuring that low-income households have the resources they need to stay connected.
Here are some important points to note about the Affordable Connectivity Program:
- The ACP offers discounts of up to $30 per month on broadband internet bills.
- Eligible households may also qualify for up to $100 off the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
- The program is aimed at low-income households and those who are struggling financially.
- Participants must be enrolled in certain federal assistance programs to be eligible for the ACP.
- The Affordable Connectivity Program is part of the broader Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB).
Overall, the Affordable Connectivity Program is an important initiative that helps low-income households get access to the internet services they need. By providing discounts on broadband bills and devices, the program aims to ensure that everyone has the ability to stay connected and take advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital world.
Who Is Eligible For The Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program aims to provide affordable and reliable Internet service to low-income households in the United States. The eligibility criteria for this program are fairly straightforward.
Household Income
To be eligible for the program, the household income of the applicant must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The Federal Poverty Guidelines are updated annually and vary based on household size and state of residence. The table below shows the 2021 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia.
Household Size | Income Limit (135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines) |
---|---|
1 | $17,388 |
2 | $23,517 |
3 | $29,646 |
4 | $35,775 |
5 | $41,904 |
6 | $48,033 |
7 | $54,162 |
8 | $60,291 |
Participation in Federal Assistance Programs
In addition to meeting the income criteria, the applicant must also participate in one of the following federal assistance programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension Benefit
- Tribal-specific programs, such as those for Bureau of Indian Affairs general assistance or Head Start
New or Existing Subscribers
The program is available to both new and existing subscribers of internet service providers that are participating in the program. However, only one household member can receive the benefit per subscription.
Overall, the Affordable Connectivity Program offers an excellent opportunity for low-income families to access affordable and reliable internet service. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you should definitely consider applying for the program.
How To Apply For The Affordable Connectivity Program?
If you are struggling to afford internet access, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) might be the solution you are looking for. Here are the steps to apply for the program:
- Determine Your Eligibility: The ACP is available to eligible households considered low-income, which includes those below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level or those who experienced substantial loss of income since February 29, 2021. Also, people who participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as SNAP or Medicaid, and those who experienced unemployment or furlough may qualify for the program. Before applying, check with the ACP to determine if you are eligible.
- Select A Participating Provider: The ACP partners with many internet service providers across the country to make affordable internet plans available for eligible households. Check if a participating provider is available in your area and then choose a plan that fits your needs.
- Apply For The Program: Contact the participating provider to enroll in the ACP. The provider will verify your eligibility and provide you with information on how to choose the plan that is right for you or your household.
- Complete The Application And Enrollment: Once you have selected a participating provider and plan, you will need to fill out an application for the program. The application will ask for basic information about you and members of your household, income information, and proof of eligibility. Once you have completed the application, submit it to the participating provider for enrollment.
- Enjoy Your Affordable Internet: After your application is approved, you can begin enjoying your affordable internet plan. Remember to pay your bill on time to continue your service.
In conclusion, applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program requires determining eligibility, selecting a participating provider, filling out an application, and enrolling in the plan. By following these simple steps, you can gain access to affordable internet and stay connected to the world around you.
What Benefits Are Included In The Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is designed to provide affordable and reliable internet connectivity to eligible individuals and families throughout the United States. Here are some of the benefits of the program:
- Lower Monthly Cost: The program provides eligible households with up to $50 off their monthly internet bill.
- One-Time Equipment and Installation Fees: Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. They can also receive a one-time reimbursement of up to $100 for installation and activation fees associated with the internet service.
- Improved Quality of Life: The Affordable Connectivity Program aims to provide internet access to more people, which could have a positive impact on their daily lives. For example, students can use the internet for online learning, job seekers can apply for jobs online, and families can stay connected with loved ones who live far away.
- No Penalties for End of Service: Unlike some internet service providers, those who participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program will not be penalized for ending their service. This provides flexibility to individuals and families who may not be able to afford internet service on a long-term basis.
Moreover, the program is committed to providing access to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or income. It is also flexible, allowing eligible households to choose from a wide range of participating high-speed internet service providers.
In summary, by providing a lower cost of internet access, affordable equipment and installation fees, and a commitment to a high-quality internet connection, the Affordable Connectivity Program is a crucial initiative in providing equal access to technology and improving the lives of many Americans.
What Are The Program Requirements?
To qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, households must meet the following requirements:
1. Eligibility based on income
The program is primarily designed to help low-income individuals and families gain access to affordable internet connectivity. To be eligible, your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in certain assistance programs like:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Tribal specific programs
2. Enrollment in a qualifying low-cost service plan
The eligible households can enroll in a qualifying low-cost internet service plan. In order to enroll in a plan, you must not have any overdue bills or unreturned equipment with your current or previous internet service provider.
3. One household per program
Only one household is allowed per program. Multiple families or individuals cannot participate in the same household or unit.
4. No prior participation
You cannot have participated in this program for the last six (6) months. Additionally, the program is available for a maximum of one (1) service per household, whether through wireline or wireless communications.
5. Applicable taxes and fees
The program does not waive any taxes or fees that may apply to your internet service bills. However, these are expected to be reasonable and included in the advertised cost of the service.
What Are The Funding Sources Of The Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was created by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help low-income households in the United States gain access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet. The program aims to bridge the digital divide that has long been hampering thousands of American families’ lives.
To achieve its goals, the ACP provides funding through various sources, which include:
COVID-19 Relief Funds
The FCC has allocated a significant portion of the funding for the ACP from the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB), which was established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EBB program aims to provide financial support to eligible households for internet services to help them stay connected during the pandemic. The FCC has allotted around $3.2 billion from the EBB for the ACP.
Congressional Appropriations
Besides the COVID-19 relief funds, the Congress has appropriated $7.17 billion in funds for the development and implementation of the ACP over a ten-year period. The program is mainly funded through the US Treasury, and the funds are allocated annually based on the yearly budget process.
Public-Private Partnerships
The FCC encourages partnerships between private and public entities to support the ACP’s implementation. The program seeks to leverage private sector resources, innovative ideas and distribute the cost of providing affordable connectivity.
Universal Service Fund
The ACP receives funding support from the Universal Service Fund (USF), which was established under the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The USF is designed to promote the access to telecommunications services to all American citizens at reasonable costs, particularly low-income families, and those living in rural and hard-to-reach areas of the country.
In conclusion, the funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program comes from a combination of COVID-19 relief funds, congressional appropriations, public-private partnerships, and the Universal Service Fund. The funds raised are used to deliver affordable and accessible broadband services to low-income American households.
What Is The Impact Of The Affordable Connectivity Program On People and Communities?
The Affordable Connectivity Program has had a significant impact on people and communities across the United States. By providing affordable internet access to low-income households, the program has improved opportunities for education, employment, and communication.
Here are some of the key impacts that the program has had on people and communities:
- Improved Educational Access:
The program has helped low-income families and students gain access to the internet and, in turn, to education resources. Access to the internet is now a basic need for students, as most learning has moved to online platforms. By providing affordable internet access, the Affordable Connectivity Program has helped level the playing field for students from low-income households who may have otherwise been left behind. - Increased Employment Opportunities:
The program has also helped low-income individuals find and secure employment opportunities. With internet access, job seekers can search for jobs, submit applications, and even attend virtual job interviews. This access to job opportunities can lead to increased financial stability and improved well-being for individuals and their families. - Enhanced Communication and Social Connections:
The program has also had a positive impact on communication and social connections. With access to the internet, low-income families can stay connected with friends and family, particularly during the pandemic when in-person communication has been severely limited. They can also access telehealth services, which has become increasingly important during the pandemic. - Economic Growth and Development:
The program has also contributed to economic growth and development by providing internet access to businesses and entrepreneurs. Small businesses can now leverage online platforms to reach a broader audience, and entrepreneurs can start and grow their businesses without having to worry about high internet costs.
The Affordable Connectivity Program has had a positive impact on people and communities, particularly those from low-income households. By providing affordable internet access, the program has improved opportunities for education, employment, communication, and economic growth.
What Are The Concerns About The Affordable Connectivity Program?
As we discussed in the previous sections, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is an initiative aimed at providing affordable internet access to low-income families and households in the United States. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness and sustainability of the program. Let’s take a look at some of these concerns:
1. The Program May Not Reach Remote Areas
The ACP is designed to provide affordable internet access to low-income families and households in eligible areas. However, the program may not be able to reach families and households in remote areas due to logistical and infrastructural obstacles. As a result, many families who live in rural areas may not be able to take advantage of the program.
2. Funding for the Program May Not Be Sustainable
The ACP is a government-funded program, and its sustainability may depend on continued funding from the government. However, funding for the program may not be secure, especially with changes in administration and budget priorities. If funding is not available, the program may not be able to continue to provide affordable internet access to low-income families.
3. The Program May Not Address the Root Causes of the Digital Divide
While the ACP aims to provide affordable internet access, it may not address the root causes of the digital divide. These root causes include issues like lack of digital literacy skills, lack of access to devices needed to access the internet, and lack of awareness of available resources. Without addressing these root causes, the program may not be effective in bridging the digital divide.
To summarize, while the Affordable Connectivity Program is a well-intentioned initiative aimed at providing affordable internet access to low-income families and households, it may face challenges in reaching families in remote areas, sustaining its funding, and addressing the root causes of the digital divide. We hope that the government addresses these concerns and finds ways to make the program effective and sustainable in providing affordable internet access to those who need it most.
How Will The Program Be Implemented?
The Affordable Connectivity Program will be implemented in a phased approach over the next few years, starting in 2021. The program primarily aims to provide financial assistance to help low-income households access and maintain internet service. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will oversee the program’s implementation and distribution of funds to eligible providers. Here’s how the program will be rolled out:
- Phase 1: Provider Participation – The FCC will invite internet service providers (ISPs) to participate in the program and register for eligibility. Providers who meet the criteria will be designated as “approved providers.” The registration period for providers began in March 2021 and will end in mid-May 2021.
- Phase 2: Enrollment of Eligible Households – Eligible households can enroll in the program through the approved providers starting on May 12, 2021. The providers will be required to verify the eligibility of the households and process their enrollment applications.
- Phase 3: Distribution of Funds – Once the households are enrolled, the approved providers can begin receiving support payments for providing discounts and other assistance to low-income families. The program funding is expected to be disbursed monthly. The FCC will oversee the providers and ensure compliance with program rules.
- Phase 4: Evaluation and Assessment – The program will be evaluated periodically to determine its effectiveness in achieving its intended goals. The results of the assessment will guide the program’s refinement and future funding decisions.
Overall, the implementation of the Affordable Connectivity Program involves a coordinated effort among various stakeholders, including the FCC, eligible providers, and households in need. The success of the program will depend on the effective participation of all involved parties to ensure that low-income families have access to affordable internet and the benefits that come with it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a vital initiative that aims to provide affordable and reliable high-speed internet connectivity to low-income families and individuals. The program is supported by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is designed to bridge the digital divide in the United States.
Through ACP, eligible households will receive a monthly discount on their internet bills, up to $50. The program also offers a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. These benefits will help low-income families stay connected and have access to critical services such as healthcare, job opportunities, education, and essential government services.
As of March 2021, more than 825 broadband providers across the United States are participating in ACP. The program has already helped millions of families and individuals to stay connected to the internet during the Covid-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of digital access.
Closing the digital divide remains a significant challenge, but through initiatives such as ACP, we can overcome this challenge and ensure that all Americans have access to internet connectivity, which is essential for our daily lives. We encourage eligible families and individuals to take advantage of this opportunity and get connected to the internet today.