The Affordable Connectivity Program:
What It Was, Why It Mattered, and What Comes Next
For millions of Americans, access to affordable and reliable internet is a necessity. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was an FCC-funded initiative that provided a vital monthly discount for over 23 million low-income households across America, with the goal of making digital connectivity accessible to all. Without it, previously-eligible households are struggling to stay connected in a fast-moving world.
What was the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a government assistance program sponsored by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) designed to provide high-speed internet for low-income households across the United States. Launched on December 31, 2021, the ACP offered a monthly discount of up to $30 for eligible households, and up to $75 per month for those living on qualifying Tribal lands.
Households qualified if their income was at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household received benefits from programs such as:
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Medicaid
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
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Federal Public Housing Assistance
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Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
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Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast programs
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Federal Pell Grant
Participation in certain Tribal-specific programs also qualified households on Tribal lands for additional benefits.
As of June 2024, the Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of federal funding and was discontinued.
Why was the ACP Important?
The ACP helped over 23 million households in the United States afford monthly internet service and played an important role in expanding internet access across the country. According to an FCC survey published in February 2024, over 2/3 of participants polled had inconsistent or no internet accessibility before enrolling in the ACP, largely due to monthly cost concerns. Universal Service Administration Co. statistics state that nearly half of those enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program were active or former military service members. Additionally, of the 23 million households enrolled, almost 5 million were over the age of 65.
For many American families, this support clearly meant the difference between being connected and falling behind. From work and remote learning to telehealth access, the end of ACP funding in June 2024 has disrupted daily life for countless families across the United States. The result? Kids struggling to complete homework assignments, job seekers unable to submit applications, and seniors who relied on the ACP for affordable internet struggling with unmanageable monthly bills. Competition among rural internet providers remains low as well, meaning prices stay high and options for affordable internet for low income households remain limited in these areas.
Will the ACP Return?
Currently, the future of the ACP is uncertain. While bills were proposed in 2024 to extend funding for the ACP, they failed to pass before the program’s funding ran out. Advocates are still urging lawmakers to renew the program or introduce a similar solution, citing its success in keeping underserved and rural communities connected. While there isn’t a firm timeline, bipartisan support remains for some form of ongoing internet affordability assistance.
Is There a Replacement for the ACP?
While entirely free internet through the ACP is no longer available, the Lifeline program remains a vital resource, offering financial relief by providing affordable internet to low-income households struggling to stay connected.
Lifeline’s internet discount isn't as large as the ACP’s, but it can still help save $9.25 per month on your internet bill ($34.25 for eligible households on Tribal land) and is worth enrolling in if you’re eligible. FreeConnect’s service check partners with major ISPs across the country that accept Lifeline’s discount, meaning we can help you find the lowest price in your area to combine with your Lifeline benefit.
For more information about the Lifeline program and how to apply, check out our dedicated article detailing the Lifeline program here.
The Bottom Line on Affordable Internet in 2025
As technology evolves, the demand for low-cost internet will only continue to grow. With the Affordable Connectivity Program’s future still undetermined, many are searching for new ways to lower their monthly broadband bills. Lifeline’s monthly discount can help, but it may not go far enough for households already paying too much for basic connectivity.
If you’re looking for affordable internet options available in your area, be sure to visit freeconnect.us to explore current deals in your area. Because staying connected isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Together, we can work toward a future where no one is left offline.