You can get connected at a reduced rate if you qualify with the Affordable Connectivity Program.

In an era where connectivity has become an essential part of our lives, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure affordable internet access for all Americans.  North Carolina Cooperative Extension-McDowell Center is working to build awareness about the Affordable Connectivity Program, a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Program.  ACP helps to ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more.

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides a discount of up to a $30 per month toward broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for qualifying households on qualifying Tribal lands.  The benefit also provides up to a $100 per household discount toward a one-time purchase of a computer, laptop, or tablet if the household contributes more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase through a participating broadband provider.

NEW

The federal government has secured 20 leading internet providers to offer ACP-eligible households a high-speed internet plan for no more than $30 per month. Eligible families who pair their ACP benefit with one of these plans can receive high-speed internet at no cost. Visit GetInternet.gov for more details.

Eligibility

A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household meets at least one the the criteria below:

• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income internet program.
• Participates in one of these assistance programs:

• Participates in one of these assistance programs and lives on Qualifying Tribal lands:

Eligible households can enroll by going to GetInternet.gov to submit an online application or print a mail-in application, or by contacting their preferred participating broadband provider and selecting a plan.  If you need a hard copy of the application, we can provide that for you.  You can also visit NC211 for a hard copy of the application and information about the program.

Call the ACP Support Center at 877-384-2575 (7 days a week, 9am-9pm) or via email at ACPSupport@usac.org.

Documentation you will need:

• If you participate in qualifying programs (listed above), provide a letter or official document as proof.
• If you qualify through your income you will need to provide a document that shows that your annual income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
• Documentation that verifies your identity (birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, green card, e.g.)
• Document that verifies your address (e.g. utility bill, lease statement, W-2)
• If you live with another adult who participates in the ACP, you will need to complete the ACP Household Worksheet.
• If you are an emancipated minor, you must include court documents or certificate of emancipation.

Don't let paperwork and the process get you down.  This program will save you money!

The Affordable Connectivity Program is not just about providing internet access; it is about empowering individuals and communities to seize opportunities, regardless of their economic circumstances. Whether it is accessing educational resources, seeking employment opportunities, or engaging in telehealth services, the program opens doors to a world of possibilities, promoting social and economic equality.