The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a vital program that helped millions of households across the country afford internet service. By providing a monthly discount on internet bills, the ACP made it possible for families to connect to work, school, healthcare, and vital resources. Unfortunately, due to a lack of additional funding from Congress, the ACP has officially ended. This means that as of June 1, 2024, the program is no longer providing discounts. Here’s what you need to know about what this means for you.
What Happened?
The ACP was created to help bridge the digital divide, making internet access more affordable for low-income households. The program was funded by Congress, but that funding has now run out. Despite efforts to secure more funding, no agreement was reached, leading to the program’s end on June 1, 2024.
Leading up to the end date, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took steps to make the transition as smooth as possible. Internet providers were required to send notices to ACP households about the upcoming changes.
Impact on Households
The most immediate impact is that your internet bill will likely increase. The amount of the increase will depend on the discount you were receiving through the ACP. If you were receiving the full $30 discount, you can expect your bill to go up by that amount. If you were receiving a lesser amount, your bill will increase by that amount.
Many internet providers asked ACP households if they wanted to continue their service after the program ended (this is sometimes called “opting in”). If you agreed to continue service, your internet will likely continue without interruption, but at the regular price. If you did not agree to continue service (opt out), your service may have been disconnected. If you are unsure about your status, you should contact your internet provider immediately.
It’s important to note that internet providers cannot charge you an early termination fee if you decide to cancel your service because of the end of the ACP.
What You Can Do Now
Even though the ACP has ended, there are still steps you can take to find affordable internet options:
- Contact your internet provider: The first thing you should do is contact your current internet provider. Ask if they have any low-cost internet plans or other programs for low-income households. Many providers offer special deals or discounts that you might qualify for.
- Look into the Lifeline program: Lifeline is another FCC program that offers discounts on phone and internet service for eligible low-income consumers. You can learn more about Lifeline and see if you qualify at lifelinesupport.org.
- Explore other resources: Some non-profit organizations and community centers offer low-cost or free internet access. Check with your local library or community resources for more information.
The Future of the ACP
There is still a possibility that Congress could provide more funding for the ACP in the future. If this happens, the FCC will release information about how the program will be reinstated. Keep an eye on the FCC website (fcc.gov/acp) for updates.
Conclusion
The end of the ACP is a significant change for many households. However, by taking the steps outlined above, you can explore other options for maintaining affordable internet access. Remember to contact your internet provider and look into alternative programs like Lifeline.
