What Was the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program was a federal benefit program that helped low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices. It was the successor to the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program and ran from December 2021 through June 2024.
What ACP Offered (While Active)
- Internet discount: Up to $30/month off internet service (up to $75/month for households on qualifying Tribal lands)
- Device discount: A one-time $100 discount toward a laptop, desktop, or tablet (with a co-pay of $10â$50)
- Higher income limit: Households up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level qualified (vs. 135% for Lifeline)
- Broader qualifying programs: Included WIC, National School Lunch Program, school breakfast programs, Federal Pell Grants
Why Did the ACP End?
The ACP ended because Congress did not approve additional funding before the program exhausted its budget. The $14.2 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund that backed the program was depleted by early 2024. Despite lobbying efforts from consumer advocates and telecommunications companies, Congress did not pass the ACP Extension Act.
The FCC announced in early 2024 that the program would begin winding down, with the final benefits applied in May 2024 and the program officially ending June 1, 2024.
What Replaced the ACP?
As of 2026, the FCC Lifeline program remains the only active federal program offering communication service subsidies for low-income households. While Lifeline predates ACP and offers a smaller monthly discount ($9.25 vs. ACP's $30), it continues to connect millions of Americans with affordable service.
Several states have also launched their own replacement programs:
- California: Lifeline Home Broadband Pilot Program (2026) offering additional internet discounts
- New York: Enhanced state Lifeline supplement programs
- Other states: Check with your state's public utilities commission for local programs
â ACP Was (While Active)
- $100 device credit available
- $30/month internet discount
- 200% FPL income limit
- Broader qualifying programs
- WIC, NSLP qualified
â Now Unavailable
- Ended June 1, 2024
- No new applications
- No device credits
- No internet discounts
- Websites advertising it are misleading
Current Alternatives in 2026
Lifeline Program
The primary active federal program. $9.25/month discount. Many providers offer free tablets as enrollment incentives.
Learn About Lifeline âState Programs
Several states have launched digital equity initiatives to fill the gap left by ACP. Benefits vary by state.
View State Programs â