Table of Contents

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024. Its internet and device discounts are no longer available, and new applications are closed. This is a completed shutdown, not an upcoming enrollment pause.

The completed timeline

The enrollment freeze began February 8, 2024. April 2024 was the final fully funded month, followed by reduced support in May. The FCC closed the program on June 1, 2024 after its funding ran out.

An old notice predicting a later shutdown or promising automatic continuation is no longer a reliable guide to a current account.

Check your bill and present plan

Ask your provider for the monthly price you are paying now, equipment charges, data allowance, and any promotional end date. If you previously had a bundle of ACP and Lifeline, confirm which services and credits remain on the account. The ACP discount did not automatically become a new Lifeline benefit.

Check separate Lifeline eligibility

Lifeline has separate eligibility rules: household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or participation in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or specified Tribal programs. Former ACP enrollment alone does not qualify a household.

Already receiving Lifeline? Keep up with its renewal and usage requirements. Applying twice does not provide another household benefit. If you need to apply, start with official Lifeline instructions.

Keep your number when changing carriers

Have the new carrier check device compatibility and number-transfer eligibility. Obtain the account details and transfer PIN required by your current carrier. Arrange the transfer before canceling your old service; canceling first can make keeping your number harder.

Alternatives if Lifeline does not fit

Compare internet providers’ own income-based plans, prepaid mobile plans, and library or school connectivity options. Prices and coverage depend on your address. Confirm the full bill and service limits rather than assuming an alternative matches the old ACP subsidy.

For a device, compare separate nonprofit programs and refurbished purchases. Lifeline is a service discount and does not restore the former ACP device credit.