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The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024. Its internet and device discounts are no longer available, and new applications are closed. An alternative needs to meet your current need: home internet, mobile service, or a device. Those are separate costs and may require separate solutions.

If you need lower monthly service costs

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.

Read the USAC benefit explanation and compare participating companies at your address. The federal benefit is a service discount; whether a plan has a remaining bill depends on its price and any additional state assistance.

A former ACP provider may operate its own low-income plan or participate in Lifeline. Neither participation nor your eligibility carries over automatically. Ask for the current monthly rate and the qualification rules in writing.

If you need a laptop or tablet

For a computer or tablet, check PCs for People and Human-I-T. These nonprofits publish their own eligibility and pricing rules. Low-cost devices are not necessarily free; any donated-device offer depends on funding and stock.

A library or school may lend devices, which can help while you save for a purchase. Ask about loan length, replacement charges, available software, and whether internet access is included.

If you are changing providers

Confirm coverage, the plan’s high-speed data allowance, and device compatibility first. If keeping a phone number, ask the new carrier for transfer instructions before canceling the old account. A new plan is not guaranteed to have the same features or price as an old ACP bundle.

Avoid confusing old offers with current programs

ACP’s enrollment freeze began February 8, 2024. A current advertisement asking you to apply for that federal benefit is outdated or misleading. Use official Lifeline application instructions for Lifeline, and the organization’s own website for any separate device assistance.