Today, we live in a connected world, one that relies on the Internet for many vital things such as work, staying in contact with friends, education, and advocacy. A situation only compounded by the recent pandemic where many people switched to working from home, and others used the internet as their main source of communication while in quarantine or sheltering in place.
The problem is that internet connections, especially ones that are high speed, can come with an equally high price tag. This makes it hard for low-income families to stay online, and the situation is due to get worse with the coming recession and potential cost-of-living crisis on the near horizon.
The good news is there is help available for those that are struggling, in the form of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Keep reading to find out all about this program and how it can help you reduce the cost of staying online.
What is The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The ACP is an initiative administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that offers low-income families the opportunity to stay connected online, something that they might otherwise find difficult financially.
So far the US government has provided ACP services to over 10 million households and spent 14.2 billion dollars keeping people online.
Overall, the benefit of enrolling in the ACP is that it can help you save money on your phone and internet connection bills. In turn, this can help you and your family, as well as other members of your household, stay online, even when money is tight.
Who is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
To qualify for the ACP program, a household should be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. However, there are additional situations in which you may access the ACP.
For example, if you are currently receiving any of these assistance programs, you’ll be automatically approved for ACP!
- Lifeline
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- SSI
- WIC
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Federal Pell Grant
- National School Lunch or Breakfast Programs
Bottom Line
The billion-dollar Affordable Connectivity Program intends to make sure that everyone has access to the vital resource that is the internet, no matter what their financial situation.
Therefore, if you are concerned about the cost of your broadband and internet service, enrolling in the ACP is a fast and simple way to lower the cost.
The ACP is available nationwide to those that meet the eligibility requirements, and in some cases can provide free cellular, broadband, and internet services.
How To Apply For ACP
Getting $30-75 off your internet is quick and easy!
Click here and complete a short survey to see if you or someone in your household may qualify for the ACP discount. That’s it!
