ACP benefit for home internet service: How to apply for the affordable connectivity program 

Yolisa Motha
Internet Provider Comparisons

From desktop computers to tablets and smartphones, we're all connected to the world wide web in one way or another. With many jobs and schools needing an internet connection, the bills can rake up fast. Designed to help low-income families, the Affordable Connectivity Program offers a discount on your monthly internet bill. In this article, we're talking about what the ACP is, the criteria you need to meet to qualify for the ACP, how to enrol in the ACP as well as the frequently asked questions about ACP support.

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a government initiative that helps low-income households stay connected to the internet. ACP is a long-term program that was created after the emergency broadband benefit program ended. ACP provides extended relief to those who also qualify for the monthly service discount.

How does ACP benefit eligible households?

In today's highly connected world, having a reliable internet connection is vital. The ACP helps low-income families afford the internet connections they require for work-from-home jobs and online schooling by giving them a discount on their monthly bill.

How does the ACP work for home internet service?

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides a discount on your home internet. If you qualify, you can get up to $9.25 per month off your bill.

Who is eligible for the ACP?

To be eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you must:

- Have a household income that is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines

- Be a US citizen or legal resident

- Be living in the US

- Not already be receiving a Lifeline discount

What do I need to apply for the ACP?

In order to apply for the ACP, you will need to provide the follow documents with your application:

- Proof of income (e.g. tax return, pay stubs)

- Proof of residency (e.g. utility bill, lease agreement)

- A list of internet service providers in your area

You can find more information about what you need to apply for the ACP on the FCC website.

How do I apply for ACP?

To apply for the ACP, you will need to fill out an application form and submit it to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

1. Go to the FCC website and create an account.

2. Once you have created an account, log in and select "Apply for Affordable Connectivity Program" from the menu.

3. Follow the instructions on the application form and submit it to the FCC.

4. Once your application has been processed, you will be notified of your eligibility for the program.

5. If you are eligible for the ACP, you will need to choose an internet service provider that offers the discount.

6. Once you have chosen an internet service provider, you will need to sign up for service and provide proof of income to receive the discount.

Which internet providers participate in the ACP

AT&T, Verizon, and Spectrum. Not all internet providers participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program. To find out which internet providers in your area offer the discount, visit the FCC website.

How is ACP different from the emergency broadband benefit program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a long-term discount program that is available to eligible households. The emergency broadband benefit program is a short-term discount program that is available to eligible families who the pandemic has impacted.

Other ways to find affordable internet if you don't qualify

The Lifeline program provides a subsidy for your home internet. If you qualify, you can get up to $9.25 per month off your bill. The Connect2Compete program offers low-cost internet service to eligible households. Prices start at $10 per month. The Broadband Adoption Lifeline Credit is a refundable tax credit that is available to eligible households. If you qualify, you can get up to $100 back on your taxes.

Affordable Connectivity Program FAQs

How much is the ACP discount?

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides a discount of up to $9.25 per month.

How long does the ACP discount last?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a long-term discount program. You will need to reapply for the program every year.

What happens if I move?

If you move, you will need to update your address with the FCC. You will also need to provide proof of income to show that you still qualify for the program.

What do I need to do to keep my ACP discount?

To keep your ACP discount, you will need to reapply for the program every year. You will also need to provide proof of income to show that you still qualify for the program.

What if I'm not a US resident?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is only available to US residents.

What to do if you don’t qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program

If you don’t qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, there are other options available to help you stay connected to the internet. You can check out our list of the best cheap internet providers for low-income households. You can also contact your local library or community center to see if they offer free or low-cost internet access.

I'm having trouble applying for ACP. Who can I contact for help?

If you are having trouble applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can contact the FCC for help.

Which internet providers participate in the ACP?

Not all internet providers participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program. To find out which internet providers in your area offer the discount, visit the FCC website.

What if I have more questions about ACP?

If you have more questions about the Affordable Connectivity Program, contact the FCC.

Does ACP offer an internet device discount?

The Affordable Connectivity Program does not offer a discount on internet devices.

How do I apply online for ACP?

To apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program, visit the FCC website. You will need to provide your name, address, and proof of income to show that you qualify for the program.

What is the deadline to apply for ACP?

There is no deadline to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program.

How will I know if I am approved for ACP?

Once you have applied for the Affordable Connectivity Program, the FCC will review your application and contact you to let you know if you are approved for the program.

What if I am not approved for ACP?

If you are not approved for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can contact the FCC to find out why your application was denied.

How long does it take to get approved for ACP?

It usually takes about 2 weeks to get approved for the Affordable Connectivity Program. However, it may take longer if there is a backlog of applications.

When will I start receiving my ACP discount?

You will start receiving your Affordable Connectivity Program discount within 1-2 billing cycles after you are approved for the program.

Is the ACP limited to one person in your household?

No, the Affordable Connectivity Program is not limited to one person in the household. All members of the household who meet the income requirements will be able to receive the discount.

Do I need to have a computer to apply for ACP?

No, you do not need to have a computer to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program. You can apply for the program by phone as well as online.

Does the ACP help with my landline bill too?

No, the Affordable Connectivity Program only helps with your internet bill. Although there are other service providers offering landline and wireless internet packages at a discounted rate. Visit the HomeLinkd website to find out more.

What is the maximum income limit for ACP?

To qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, your household income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. For a family of four, this means an annual income of $33,475 or less.

Can I transfer your ACP benefit to another service provider if you want to change?

Yes, you can transfer your Affordable Connectivity Program benefit to another service provider if you want to change.

Will I receive the benefit even if my income changes?

ACP is designed to bring internet service for eligible parties. If your income changes and you no longer qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you will need to notify the FCC. The FCC will not longer apply the discount after your income exceeds the limit.

Does the ACP apply to those living on tribal lands?

Yes, the ACP provides an enhanced Tribal benefit for those living on qualifying tribal lands.

The ACP was created to help families with their internet service plan. If you believe ACP can help your family, we've covered the criteria you need to meet as well as the required documents you'll have to submit. If you have further questions, it's best to call the ACP support center. If you qualify, you can get this discount for as long as the program is offered. Other programs that offer assistance with getting home internet service include the Emergency Broadband Benefit program and the FCC’s Lifeline program. To read more about cheap internet plans and other options to get connected, visit the HomeLinkd website.

Written by:
Yolisa Motha
Senior Copywriter

Yolisa is a word artist who's on a quest to help businesses make an impact so powerful - it causes a ripple effect. If Yolisa isn't painting pictures with her words, you'll find her hiking up a mountain or soaking up the beach sun.

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