Affordable Connectivity Program: Eligibility, Status & Alternatives

This guide covers everything you need to know about affordable connectivity program. We compare available options based on speed, price, reliability, and coverage using data from FCC filings and independent speed tests. Topics include ACP internet discount and free internet program. Updated for 2026 with the latest plans and pricing.

The Affordable Connectivity Program was the largest broadband affordability initiative in U.S. history, providing up to $30/month discounts to over 23 million low-income households. When the program's funding expired in June 2024, millions of Americans faced the sudden return of full-price internet bills. This guide explains what happened to the ACP, what programs have emerged to fill the gap, and how you can find affordable internet in 2026.

What Was the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The ACP was a federal government benefit program launched in December 2021 as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It provided eligible households with discounts on monthly internet service and a one-time discount on a connected device. Key details of the program included:

• Monthly discount: Up to $30/month toward internet service ($75/month for households on qualifying Tribal lands)
• Device discount: One-time discount of up to $100 toward a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet
• Eligibility: Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or those participating in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, Federal Pell Grant, free school lunch, or Lifeline
• Enrollment peak: Over 23 million households enrolled before the program ended
• Total funding: $14.2 billion, which was exhausted by June 2024

Many internet service providers created ACP-specific plans priced at exactly $30/month, meaning qualifying households could get free internet. This was transformative for low-income families, seniors on fixed incomes, and rural communities struggling with broadband access.

Why Did the ACP End?

The ACP had a fixed budget of $14.2 billion, and the program proved far more popular than originally projected. By early 2024, the FCC warned that funds would run out within months. Despite bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress, legislation to extend the program's funding stalled amid broader budget disagreements. The last fully funded month of service was May 2024, with a partial benefit provided in June 2024 before the program officially ended.

Legislative efforts to revive the program continue, including the proposed Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, but as of February 2026, no new federal funding has been approved. Some members of Congress have included ACP restoration in larger spending packages under consideration.

Current Alternatives to the ACP

FCC Lifeline Program

The Lifeline program, which predates the ACP, continues to provide a $9.25/month discount on internet or phone service for eligible households. While the discount is smaller than the ACP's $30/month, it remains the primary federal broadband subsidy.

Eligibility is similar to the ACP: households at or below 135% of the federal poverty level or participating in qualifying federal assistance programs. You can apply at FCC's ACP page (Note: The ACP program ended in June 2024. Visit the FCC site for the latest information on successor programs.).

ISP Low-Income Programs

Many major internet service providers launched or maintained their own affordable internet programs following the ACP's expiration. These vary by provider but generally offer reduced-price plans for qualifying households.

State Broadband Affordability Programs

Several states have stepped in with their own broadband assistance programs to help fill the gap left by the ACP's expiration. Notable state programs include:

• California: The California Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program allocates state funds for low-income broadband access
• New York: The Affordable Broadband Act requires ISPs receiving state funds to offer $15/month plans to qualifying households
• Vermont: The Vermont Community Broadband Board subsidizes internet for low-income residents
• Maryland: The Maryland Emergency Broadband Benefit helps bridge the gap with state funding

Check with your state's broadband office or public utility commission to find programs available in your area. Many states are still launching new programs as federal BEAD infrastructure funds are deployed.

How to Find the Cheapest Internet in Your Area

Even without the ACP, there are strategies to reduce your internet costs significantly. Here is a practical approach to finding affordable broadband:

1. Check all available providers: Use our provider search tool to see every internet option at your address. Competition between providers often leads to lower prices.
2. Ask about promotional pricing: Most providers offer introductory rates that are 30-50% lower than standard pricing. Be prepared to negotiate or switch providers when promotions expire.
3. Consider 5G home internet: T-Mobile 5G Home Internet at $50/month is often cheaper than cable with no equipment fees or contracts. In some areas, this is the most affordable unlimited broadband available.
4. Evaluate your speed needs: Do not pay for more speed than you need. A household of 1-2 people with moderate usage can often get by with a 100 Mbps plan for $40-50/month. See our speed selection guide.
5. Buy your own equipment: Renting a modem and router from your ISP can cost $10-15/month ($120-180/year). Buying your own equipment pays for itself within a year. See our equipment guide.
6. Stack discounts: Combine ISP low-income programs with the Lifeline discount when possible. Some states allow stacking multiple programs for maximum savings.

Qualifying for Low-Income Internet Programs

Most affordable internet programs share similar eligibility criteria. You may qualify if your household meets any of the following conditions:

• Household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines (approximately $62,400 for a family of four in 2026)
• A household member participates in SNAP (food stamps)
• A household member receives Medicaid benefits
• A household member receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• A household member receives Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
• A household member receives WIC benefits
• A household member is approved for a Federal Pell Grant in the current year
• A child in the household participates in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program (NSLP)
• A household member receives Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit

Documentation requirements vary by provider, but typically include proof of program participation (a benefit letter or card) or proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, or a benefits verification letter).

The Digital Divide in 2026

The expiration of the ACP highlighted the persistent digital divide in America. While broadband infrastructure continues to expand through BEAD funding and private investment, affordability remains the primary barrier for millions of households. Key statistics paint a concerning picture:

• An estimated 15-18 million households lost their broadband discounts when the ACP ended
• Surveys indicate roughly 25-30% of former ACP households either disconnected from home internet or downgraded to cheaper, slower plans
• Low-income households pay a proportionally higher share of their income for internet (5-10%) compared to middle-income households (1-2%)
• Rural areas continue to face both availability and affordability challenges

Organizations like the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) and EveryoneOn continue to advocate for sustainable broadband affordability solutions and maintain databases of local programs and resources.

What to Do If You Cannot Afford Internet

If home broadband remains out of reach despite the programs listed above, several free or very low-cost options exist:

• Public library Wi-Fi: All public libraries offer free internet access, and many have extended their Wi-Fi range to reach parking lots and outdoor areas
• Community Wi-Fi programs: Many cities and nonprofits operate free community Wi-Fi networks, especially in underserved neighborhoods
• School and educational programs: If you have school-age children, many school districts provide free hotspot devices or subsidized internet for enrolled families
• Xfinity WiFi hotspots: Comcast operates millions of public Wi-Fi hotspots in its service areas. Internet Essentials customers get free access
• Mobile data plans: In some cases, an affordable unlimited mobile data plan ($25-35/month) can serve as a primary internet source for light users

Legislative Outlook

Several pieces of federal legislation aimed at restoring broadband affordability benefits are under consideration in Congress. While the political landscape remains uncertain, broadband affordability enjoys bipartisan support. Advocacy groups recommend contacting your representatives to express support for affordable internet programs. The FCC continues to explore options within its existing authority to promote broadband affordability.

How to Apply for Internet Assistance

Applying for low-income internet assistance is straightforward, though the process varies by program. Most programs require documentation proving your eligibility based on income level or participation in qualifying government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or free/reduced school lunch programs.

Start by checking if your household qualifies through the FCC's broadband assistance programs. You can apply online through the program's official website or in person at participating providers. The application typically requires proof of identity, proof of address, and documentation of qualifying income or program participation.

Many major providers also offer their own low-income programs separate from federal assistance. Xfinity's Internet Essentials, AT&T's Access, and Spectrum's Internet Assist programs provide basic internet service at reduced rates of $10-$30 per month. These programs often have separate application processes and may not require the same documentation as federal programs.

If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include incomplete documentation or not meeting the specific income threshold. Reapplying with updated or additional documentation often resolves the issue. Community organizations like libraries and community action agencies can help you with the application process.

Additional Resources for Affordable Internet

Beyond the major federal and provider programs, several additional resources can help you access affordable internet:

• EveryoneOn (everyoneon.org): A nonprofit that helps low-income families find affordable internet service and low-cost computers. Enter your zip code to see available programs in your area.
• PCs for People: Provides refurbished computers with built-in internet connectivity to qualifying individuals and families at low cost.
• Local libraries: Offer free internet access and Wi-Fi. Many libraries also lend mobile hotspots that you can take home for weeks at a time.
• School districts: Many school districts provide internet access or hotspot devices to families with students, regardless of which internet assistance programs they qualify for.
• State broadband offices: Each state has a broadband office that maintains a list of available assistance programs and upcoming broadband expansion projects in your area.

If you are a senior citizen, check with your local Area Agency on Aging for additional programs specific to older adults. Several nonprofits and government agencies offer discounted internet and digital literacy training for seniors.

2026 State-by-State Broadband Assistance Directory

With the ACP gone, state-level programs have become the primary source of broadband assistance for low-income households. Below is a comprehensive directory of active programs as of March 2026, organized by region. Eligibility requirements vary but generally mirror the former ACP criteria.

Northeast

Southeast

Midwest

West

Contact your state broadband office for the most current program details and application instructions. Many states are still deploying BEAD-funded programs through 2026-2027, so new assistance options may become available in your area. Use our provider search tool to find all available plans at your address, including low-income options.

How to Stack Multiple Discounts for Maximum Savings

One of the most effective strategies for reducing your internet bill is stacking multiple discount programs. Unlike the ACP era where a single $30 discount covered most or all of the bill, the post-ACP landscape requires combining several smaller benefits. Here is how to maximize your savings:

Step 1: Apply for Federal Lifeline ($9.25/mo savings)

Lifeline is available in all 50 states and can be applied to any participating provider's internet plan. Apply through the National Verifier at checklifeline.org or call 800-234-9473. Processing takes 1-5 business days.

Step 2: Enroll in Your ISP's Low-Income Program

Major ISPs maintain their own affordable internet programs that can be used alongside Lifeline:

• Xfinity Internet Essentials ($9.95/mo) + Lifeline = approximately $0.70/mo for 50 Mbps
• Spectrum Internet Assist ($17.99/mo) + Lifeline = approximately $8.74/mo for 30 Mbps
• AT&T Access ($30/mo for 100 Mbps) + Lifeline = approximately $20.75/mo

Step 3: Check State Programs

State broadband assistance programs (listed in the directory above) can sometimes be stacked with both Lifeline and ISP programs. California, New York, and Illinois explicitly allow triple-stacking of federal, state, and provider discounts. Check with your state broadband office for stacking rules.

Step 4: Negotiate Directly with Your Provider

Even after applying all available programs, call your provider's retention department and ask for additional promotional pricing. Mention competing providers' prices and your participation in assistance programs. Retention agents have the authority to apply discretionary discounts of $5-15/mo on top of program pricing.

Expert Verdict: The Best Path Forward After ACP

The expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program created a genuine crisis for millions of American households. While no single replacement matches the ACP's $30/month benefit, a strategic combination of available programs can bring most qualifying households within $10-15/month of free internet. Here is our recommended approach for different situations:

• Best overall value: Xfinity Internet Essentials + Lifeline = under $1/mo for 50 Mbps. This is the closest thing to free internet available in 2026 for qualifying households in Comcast's footprint.
• Best speed for the price: AT&T Access at $30/mo for 100 Mbps with no data caps. Add Lifeline for approximately $20.75/mo total.
• Best if no wired option: T-Mobile Project 10Million offers free wireless internet to qualifying families with school-age children. Otherwise, T-Mobile Home Internet at $50/mo with autopay discount to $45/mo is the most affordable unlimited wireless option.
• Best for seniors: Many local organizations offer digital literacy training bundled with discounted internet. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (find yours at eldercare.acl.gov) for programs specific to older adults.

The broadband affordability landscape continues to evolve as states deploy BEAD funding and Congress considers new legislation. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for updated program information and new assistance options as they become available.

2-Year Cost Projection: Affordable Internet Options

Understanding the total cost over a 24-month period helps you make the most informed decision. Below is a cost projection for the most popular affordable internet options available to qualifying households in 2026:

For qualifying households, combining ISP low-income programs with Lifeline delivers the lowest total cost over any timeframe. Even AT&T Access with Lifeline costs less over 2 years than a single year of standard-priced cable internet.