Affordable Connectivity Program Helps Households Save and Connect
Posted on 12/19/2023
The Affordable Connectivity Program helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service. The benefit provides a discount on internet service of up to $30 per month for eligible individuals.
Eligibility is based on household income, or if a person, their child, or their dependent are enrolled in government programs like Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Programs, SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), WIC, Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, or others.
1. To Apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program:
• Go to getinternet.gov to submit an online application or print out a mail-in application.
• Instructions to complete the Affordable Connectivity Program application online are available in English and Spanish. Call (877) 384-2575 for assistance in other languages, or to request to have an application mailed to you.
2. Pick an Internet Plan:
• Once approved, contact your preferred participating internet service provider to select a plan and have the discount applied to your bill.
• Find a participating provider near you.
○ Go to https://cnm.universalservice.org/ to find companies near you OR
○ Select an internet service provider that you are already familiar with.
3. Tips for Picking the Right Internet Plan:
• Ask the provider for plans that are free with the Affordable Connectivity Program. Many providers offer them, but they are not always advertised.
• Ask about hidden costs, such as prices that increase over time, installation fees, and equipment fees.
• Consider download speeds of 100mbps or higher if multiple people will be using the internet, or if you want to stream video.
• Consider upload speeds of 20mbps or higher if you want to use apps like Zoom, FaceTime, and Google Classroom.
If you need help with your application, a Multilingual Affordable Connectivity Program Support Center is available by calling (877) 384-2575. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. You can also email ACPSupport@usac.org for assistance.