What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal government initiative that provides financial assistance to help eligible households afford internet service and connected devices. Launched in 2021, ACP replaces and expands upon the previous Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program.
ACP is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and provides up to $30 per month toward internet service and up to $100 toward the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet computer.
ACP Benefits and Coverage
Monthly Internet Discount
- Up to $30/month discount on internet service
- Up to $75/month for households on Tribal lands
- Available for broadband internet service plans of at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload
- Discount applies to the lowest-cost eligible plan offered by the provider
Device Reimbursement
- Up to $100 reimbursement for connected devices
- Up to $200 for households on Tribal lands
- Eligible devices include laptops, desktops, and tablets
- Devices must be new or refurbished (not used)
- One-time benefit per household
Coverage Area
- All 50 states, District of Columbia, and US territories
- Rural and urban areas
- Tribal lands with enhanced benefits
- 1,000+ participating internet service providers
ACP Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for ACP if your household meets at least one of the following criteria:
Income-Based Eligibility
- Household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
- No income verification required for initial enrollment
- Self-attestation of income allowed
Program Participation Eligibility
- Participating in certain public assistance programs (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, etc.)
- Receiving Federal Pell Grants
- Receiving benefits from the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Participating in Tribal programs for nutrition assistance
- Veterans receiving VA compensation
Other Eligibility Criteria
- Household member has a disability
- Household includes a veteran who served in the US military
- Household includes someone experiencing homelessness
- Household includes someone who is a student in a school, college, or university
How ACP Works
Application Process
- Choose a Provider: Select an ACP-participating internet service provider
- Apply Online: Complete the ACP application through the provider or at GetInternet.gov
- Provide Information: Submit household information and eligibility details
- Get Approved: Receive approval notification (typically within 2-3 business days)
- Receive Benefits: Internet discount applied automatically; device reimbursement processed
Required Documentation
While income verification is not required initially, you may need to provide documentation if requested:
- Proof of participation in qualifying programs
- Recent pay stubs or income statements
- Tax returns or other income documentation
- Proof of address
ACP Device Options
ACP funds can be used toward the purchase of eligible connected devices:
Eligible Device Types
- Tablet computers (including e-readers)
- Laptop computers
- Desktop computers
- Smartphones (when bundled with internet service)
- Connected devices like smart home hubs
Device Requirements
- Device must be new or certified refurbished
- Device must be capable of connecting to the internet
- Device must cost at least $10 (after any discounts)
- Maximum reimbursement is $100 ($200 on Tribal lands)
Popular ACP Device Options
Finding ACP Providers
To find ACP-participating providers in your area:
Official ACP Website
Visit GetInternet.gov to:
- Search for providers by ZIP code
- Compare available plans and discounts
- Apply online for ACP benefits
- Find device reimbursement options
Provider Direct Enrollment
Many providers offer direct ACP enrollment:
- AT&T
- Verizon
- Comcast/Xfinity
- Spectrum
- CenturyLink
- And 1,000+ other providers
ACP Program Timeline and Funding
Current Status
- Program Start: December 2021
- Current Funding: $14.2 billion allocated through 2024
- Expected Extension: Program expected to continue with additional funding
- Enrollment: Over 15 million households enrolled
Future Outlook
The ACP program has been extended multiple times and is expected to continue. Congress has indicated support for maintaining affordable internet access as a priority.
ACP vs Other Programs
ACP vs Lifeline
- ACP: Up to $30/month internet + $100 devices
- Lifeline: Up to $9.25/month phone/internet + free devices
- ACP: Available to broader income levels
- Lifeline: Focused on lowest-income households
ACP Benefits
- Higher monthly discount ($30 vs $9.25)
- Device reimbursement option
- No income verification required initially
- More participating providers
Getting Started with ACP
Check Eligibility
Use our eligibility checker to see if you qualify for ACP benefits.
Find Providers
Search for ACP providers in your area using GetInternet.gov.
Apply Online
Complete the ACP application through your chosen provider.
Receive Benefits
Get your internet discount and device reimbursement.