Nearly 23 million households enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program before it went dark — and a PR Newswire survey found that millions of Americans still can't afford necessary internet services after the ACP ended on June 1, 2024. If you're searching for help covering broadband costs, the Lifeline Program remains your strongest federally backed option, and understanding how to qualify and apply can make the difference between connected and cut off. For a broader look at reducing your monthly bills, check out our guide to low-cost home internet options. Let's get started!
Quick Answer
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended June 1, 2024, after enrolling nearly 23 million households. It provided discounts on broadband internet service for eligible low-income households. The program is no longer accepting applications. The Lifeline Program is now the primary federally backed option for qualifying households needing help covering broadband and phone costs.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline Program | Up to $9.25/month discount | Low-income households needing broadband or voice service | Visit Site |
| Lifeline Eligibility Requirements | Free to check | Anyone unsure if they qualify for federal assistance | Visit Site |
| Lifeline Application Process | Free to apply | Eligible households ready to enroll and activate benefits | Visit Site |
| Device Delivery Timeline | Free (via provider) | Approved applicants waiting on subsidized device shipment | See details |
| Provider Selection | Varies by carrier | Enrollees comparing Lifeline-participating internet providers | See details |
| Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no longer available | Ended June 2024 | Former ACP recipients seeking replacement assistance | Visit Site |
ACP Program 2026: Complete Guide to the Affordable Connectivity Program
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Lifeline Program
The Lifeline Program is the federal assistance initiative that directly preceded and overlapped with the ACP program, offering subsidized phone and internet service to low-income households. While the ACP provided up to $30/month toward broadband costs, Lifeline offers a separate $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service — meaning eligible households could stack both benefits simultaneously to maximize savings. Now that the ACP ended in June 2024, Lifeline remains the primary federal option for affordable connectivity support.
Key details:
- Up to $9.25/month discount ($34.25/month on Tribal lands)
- Covers phone, broadband, or bundled services
- Administered by the FCC through approved carriers nationwide
2. Lifeline Eligibility Requirements
Understanding Lifeline eligibility is essential for households previously enrolled in the ACP program who need continued connectivity assistance. Qualification mirrors many ACP criteria — income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance. Veterans may qualify through specific VA programs. One benefit per household applies, and households must recertify eligibility annually to maintain the discount. Those exploring other options can also review government benefits for seniors that may include additional connectivity support.
Qualifying programs include:
- Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Income-based: at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
3. Lifeline Application Process
Former ACP program participants can transition to Lifeline by applying through the National Verifier at LifelineSupport.org, the same government system used to verify ACP eligibility. The process involves submitting proof of income or program participation, choosing a participating carrier in your area, and completing identity verification. Most applications are approved or denied within minutes online. Unlike the ACP, which required enrollment through USAC, Lifeline enrollment is finalized directly with your chosen carrier after approval — making it a straightforward next step for households losing ACP benefits.
What you'll need:
- Government-issued ID and proof of eligibility (benefit letter or income docs)
- Apply at LifelineSupport.org, then select a participating provider
4. Device Delivery Timeline
When enrolled in the ACP program, understanding the device delivery timeline helped participants know when to expect their subsidized tablet or laptop. Most approved ACP providers shipped devices within 7–14 business days after application approval and benefit confirmation, though timelines varied by carrier and stock availability.
What to expect:
- Application approval: 1–5 business days via USAC's National Verifier
- Device shipment: 7–14 business days after enrollment confirmation
- Delays were common during high-demand periods or supply shortages
5. Provider Selection
Choosing the right internet service provider was one of the most important decisions ACP participants made, directly affecting service quality and savings. The program supported hundreds of participating carriers — including AT&T, Comcast Xfinity, T-Mobile, and Verizon — each offering different plans, speeds, and device options under the benefit structure.
Key selection factors:
- Coverage area availability (not all providers served every zip code)
- Plan speeds ranged from basic 25 Mbps to 1 Gbps fiber options
- Some providers offered free devices with enrollment; others did not
6. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no longer available
The ACP program officially ended in June 2024 after Congress did not approve additional funding, leaving an estimated 23 million households without their subsidized internet benefit. According to a PR Newswire survey, many former enrollees reported being unable to afford internet service after the program expired. Low-income households that relied on the $30/month (or $75/month on Tribal lands) discount have had to explore alternative assistance options such as Lifeline, local utility programs, or provider-specific low-income plans.
Current alternatives to consider:
- Lifeline program: Still active, offers up to $9.25/month toward phone or internet
- Provider low-income plans: Comcast Internet Essentials ($9.95/month), AT&T Access, and similar programs remain available
Final Words
Whether you need basic connectivity, premium data, or family plans, these six ACP program options make affordable internet genuinely accessible. Pick the provider that matches your household needs and apply today — and if you're exploring other assistance, check out free money programs that could help further.