The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal benefit designed to assist eligible low-profits households pay for internet service and related gadgets. Created and administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), this program ensures that millions of Americans can afford high-speed net—something crucial for paintings, college, healthcare, and staying related.
In 2026, this system continues to be active and keeps to provide month net reductions and one-time device subsidies for qualifying candidates. With rising costs and increasing reliance on on-line services, ACP is one of the most valuable sources for low-income households and seniors throughout the US.
What Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
- The ACP became a federal initiative in the U.S. Designed to assist lower-income households find the money for broadband internet provider through giving a monthly discount on their internet bill.
- Eligible households additionally should obtain a one-time device cut price (for a laptop, desktop, or pill) of as much as $100 while shopping for thru participating companies.
- For households on Tribal lands, the ACP subsidy might be higher (up to $75/month) instead of the same old $30/month.
What Benefits Are Available?
Eligible families can obtain:
- Up to $30/month discount on internet service
- Up to $75/month bargain for families on qualifying Tribal lands
- A one-time $100 bargain in the direction of the purchase of a computer, pill, or desktop computer (you have to make contributions among $10 and $50 closer to the purchase)
These benefits are paid directly to your internet service issuer, that means you don’t must cope with reimbursements or paperwork after approval.
Who Qualifies for ACP in 2026?
You can also qualify in case your household income is at or below two hundred% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if you take part in at the least one of the following applications:
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section eight)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- Free or Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast Program
- Federal Pell Grant recipient (current year)
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)
- Lifeline Program
Tribal families have extra pathways to qualify, along with participation in Bureau of Indian Affairs programs and Tribal TANF. You will want to provide proof of participation or profits verification while you apply.
How to Apply for the ACP
The software manner is brief and free. Here’s the way to practice in 2026:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Visit getinternet.gov or name the ACP helpline at 877-384-2575 to verify your eligibility.
Step 2: Apply Online or by Mail
- Apply on-line at AffordableConnectivity.gov
- Or download a paper utility and mail it in with required documentation
Be ready to submit:
- A valid ID (driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID)
- Proof of income or benefits (pay stub, benefits letter, tax return)
- Social Security number or Tribal ID (for identity verification)
Step 3: Contact Your Internet Provider
After making use of, touch your selected internet company to sign up in the ACP discount. Many important agencies take part, consisting of:
- Comcast/Xfinity
- AT&T
- Spectrum
- Verizon
- Cox
- T-Mobile
- Frontier
- Hundreds of regional providers
You can switch providers if needed to get better service or pricing under the program.
Does ACP Offer Free Internet?
Yes, in many cases, vendors offer 100% free net plans after the $30 ACP discount is implemented. These plans usually encompass:
- No contract
- No data caps
- Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps in most areas
However, plans and speeds range by using company and vicinity, so it’s well worth shopping round to find the exceptional deal.
Program Status and Future Funding
The ACP changed into funded thru the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act with billions allocated to assist ongoing internet affordability. While investment is expected to last through 2026, long-time period continuation relies upon on destiny Congressional aid. If you’re already enrolled, benefits will hold with out interruption so long as investment stays active and also you meet the eligibility necessities.
Conclusion
While the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) changed into a effective tool to help low-income households come up with the money for internet get admission to, it’s far no longer accepting new candidates as of February 2024, and its advantages officially ended on June 1, 2024.
That means currently, there’s no manner to “practice” for the ACP in 2026 due to the fact this system is paused due to loss of investment. However, knowledge the software process is still precious in case the program is revived or changed later.
If the ACP returns, the process would involve:
- Verifying eligibility
- Gathering documents
- Applying online or by mail
- Selecting a participating internet provider
- Re-verifying annually
In the meantime, households have to discover opportunity applications (like Lifeline or ISP-based totally reductions), maintain their documentation geared up, and live alert for updates approximately any revival or new federal internet support initiatives.
FAQ’s
Is the ACP similar to the Lifeline application?
No. ACP is a separate application, however you can use each together. Lifeline provides a discount on cellphone service, and ACP covers net access.
Can I use ACP with any net provider?
Only vendors that take part in the ACP can offer the discount. Most main and local businesses are worried, however check with the FCC’s listing to confirm your issuer is eligible.
What if my profits is going up—will I lose my ACP benefit?
You should reconfirm your eligibility annually. If you no longer meet profits or program participation requirements, you may be eliminated from this program.