The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a United States government-sponsored program that aims to provide affordable internet access to low-income households. The program was created in 2021 by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which provided $14.2 billion in funding over five years.
The ACP replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, which was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to help people stay connected while working and learning from home. The EBB program provided a discount of up to $50 per month for broadband services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
The ACP is similar to the EBB program, but there are some key differences. First, the ACP provides a smaller discount of up to $30 per month, although households on qualifying Tribal lands can receive an enhanced discount of up to $75 per month. Second, the ACP does not have a time limit, while the EBB program was only available for a limited time.
The ACP was launched on December 31, 2021. As of August 2023, over 19 million households have enrolled in the program. The program has been successful in helping to increase access to broadband for low-income households. For example, a study by the Pew Research Center found that the ACP has helped to reduce the digital divide between low-income and high-income households.
Who is eligible for the ACP?
To be eligible for the ACP, a household must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Participate in certain government assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC
- Receive Lifeline benefits for phone service
- Be a veteran or member of a veteran’s household
- Be a Pell Grant recipient
How to apply for the ACP?
To apply for the ACP, you can visit the Affordable Connectivity Program website or contact your internet service provider (ISP). You will need to provide your name, address, income information, and proof of eligibility.
Once you have been approved for the ACP, you will receive a monthly discount on your internet bill from your ISP. You can also use your one-time device discount to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from a participating provider.
What documentation do I need to apply for the ACP?
When you apply for the ACP, you will need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility. This documentation may include:
- Proof of income, such as a pay stub or tax return.
- Proof of participation in a government assistance program, such as a SNAP or Medicaid card.
- Proof of receipt of a Pell Grant.
- Proof of veteran status, such as a DD-214 form.
- Proof of residency on qualifying Tribal lands.
Benefits of the ACP
The ACP provides a number of benefits to eligible households, including:
- Reduced internet bills: The ACP can save eligible households up to $30 per month on their internet bills. This can make a big difference in the budget for low-income families.
- Increased access to broadband: The ACP can help to increase access to broadband for low-income households. This is important because broadband is essential for many activities, such as work, school, and healthcare.
- Improved digital literacy: The ACP can help to improve digital literacy among low-income households. This is important because digital skills are increasingly in demand in the workforce.
Which ISPs participate in the ACP?
Many major ISPs participate in the ACP, including:
- AT&T
- Comcast
- Cox
- Frontier
- Spectrum
- Verizon
How is the ACP helping low-income households?
The ACP is helping low-income households by making broadband more affordable. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that 42% of low-income Americans say they have difficulty paying for broadband service. The ACP can help these families get the broadband they need without breaking the bank.
The ACP is a valuable resource for low-income households. It can help them save money on their broadband bill and get the devices they need to stay connected. If you are eligible for the ACP, I encourage you to apply.
Conclusion
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a valuable resource for low-income households. The program can help to make internet access more affordable and accessible, which can lead to a number of benefits, such as improved educational and economic opportunities.