In today’s digital age, the internet has become more than a luxury, but a necessity. Work, education, healthcare, or staying connected with family and friends—everything is now happening online. For families with limited incomes, affording internet can be a significant challenge. To address this problem, the US government has launched the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)—which provides affordable or even free internet access to low-income households.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The Affordable Connectivity Program, also known as the Affordable Connectivity Plan, is a Federal Benefit Program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Its purpose is to ensure that every American citizen, regardless of their financial status, has access to high-speed internet.
Under this program, the government makes direct payments to internet service providers to provide internet bill relief to eligible families. Additionally, the program provides financial assistance for the purchase of equipment (such as laptops, tablets, or computers).
The program will remain active in 2026 and will continue to connect millions of American families, seniors, and students to the digital world.
Benefits Under the ACP
Under the ACP, eligible households can receive the following key benefits:
- Discount of up to $30 per month on internet service
- Discount of up to $75 per month for families living on Tribal Lands
- One-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer, with applicants contributing between $10 and $50.
These benefits are paid directly to the internet service provider. This means you don’t have to file a separate claim or worry about reimbursement.
Who is eligible for ACP in 2026?
If your family income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for this plan. Additionally, you can apply if you participate in any of the following government assistance programs:
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- Free or Reduced-Price School Lunch/Breakfast Program
- Current-year Federal Pell Grant recipient
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)
- Lifeline Program
There are also additional eligibility criteria for tribal households, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs Programs, Tribal TANF, or other recognized tribal assistance programs.
When applying, you must provide proof of your income or participation in a government assistance program.
How to Apply for ACP?
The application process for ACP is very simple and free. To apply in 2026, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You can confirm your eligibility by visiting getinternet.gov or calling the ACP Helpline 877-384-2575.
Step 2: Apply Online or by Mail
- Apply by visiting the website AffordableConnectivity.gov.
- Or download the application form and mail it along with the required documents.
You will need to submit the following documents:
- Valid identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, or government ID)
- Proof of income or benefits (such as a payslip, tax return, or benefit letter)
- Social Security number or Tribal ID
Step 3: Contact your Internet provider
Once your application is approved, contact your preferred Internet service provider to activate your ACP discount.
Many major Internet providers in the US are part of this plan, including:
Comcast/Xfinity, AT&T, Spectrum, Verizon, Cox, T-Mobile, Frontier, and hundreds of regional providers.
You can also change providers if you wish to get better speeds or cheaper service.
Is ACP free internet?
Yes, absolutely! Many Internet companies offer plans where the internet becomes completely free after the ACP discount.
These plans typically include the following features:
- No Contract
- No Data Caps (Unlimited Data)
- Download speeds of 100 Mbps or more (depending on region)
However, plans and speeds vary by provider, so it’s beneficial to compare different options before applying.
Program Current Status and Future Plans
The Affordable Connectivity Program was launched under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which provided billions of dollars in funding to make the internet accessible to everyone.
Currently, funding for this program is expected to continue until 2026, but its future will depend on upcoming funding decisions by Congress.
If you’re already enrolled, your internet discount will continue as long as the program is active and you remain eligible.
Conclusion
AfThe Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is an initiative that is helping millions of American families break out of digital inequality. It’s not just a financial aid program, but a symbol of social change, opening up new opportunities in education, employment, health, and communication.
In 2026, as technology’s influence expands across every sector, programs like the ACP ensure that no citizen is left behind in the mainstream digital age.
FAQs
1. Is the ACP still available in 2026?
Yes, the program continues through 2026, subject to available federal funding.
2. How much can I save with the ACP?
Eligible households can save up to $30/month on internet bills or $75/month on Tribal lands.
3. Can I get a free laptop through ACP?
Yes, you can receive up to a $100 discount on a laptop, tablet, or desktop by contributing $10–$50.
4. How do I apply for ACP benefits?
Apply online at AffordableConnectivity.gov or send a paper application by mail with proof of eligibility.
5. Which internet providers participate in the ACP?
Major providers like Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, Spectrum, T-Mobile, and Cox are all participants.