Why Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Ending? What It Means for Affordable Internet Access

For millions of Americans, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been a lifeline – helping low-income households, students, and underserved communities stay connected without breaking the bank.

But here’s the reality: ACP is ending in May 2024, and many are asking why this essential affordable internet program is coming to a close and what happens next. Let’s break it down in simple terms and explore what you can do to stay connected in a post-ACP world.

Why the ACP Was So Important

The Affordable Connectivity Program wasn’t just about saving a few dollars – it was about closing the digital divide. From students attending online classes to seniors booking telehealth appointments and families working from home, ACP made high-speed internet accessible and affordable for those who needed it most.

By providing monthly discounts on broadband service, ACP helped:

• Low-income families stay connected.
  
• Students access remote learning.
  
• Job seekers search and apply for work.
  
• Underserved communities bridge the gap in digital access.

Why is the Affordable Connectivity Program Ending?

The short answer: funding ran out.

ACP was funded through a one-time allocation from Congress. While it was incredibly popular and successful, additional funding wasn’t approved. Without that continued financial support, the program simply can’t keep going.

It’s not about demand – millions were (and still are) eager to enroll – it’s purely about the money needed to keep it running.

What Happens When ACP Ends?

When ACP sunsets in May 2024, beneficiaries will lose their monthly discounts, meaning internet bills could jump by $30 or more.

That could impact:

• Students trying to keep up with online coursework.
  
• Families relying on affordable streaming and communication tools.
  
• Patients who use telehealth services.
  

For many, this could mean tough choices – like cutting back on internet speed, switching to a lower-tier plan, or even going without service.

Alternatives to ACP for Affordable Internet

The good news? ACP isn’t the only way to save money on your internet bill.

Here are some post-ACP affordable internet options to explore:

1. Lifeline Program – A long-running FCC initiative that offers a discount on phone or internet service for eligible households.
   
2. ISP-Specific Low-Income Internet Plans – Many providers, including Spectrum, Xfinity, AT&T, and others, offer discounted internet plans for qualifying customers.
   
3. Community Internet Programs – Some cities and counties offer local assistance or public Wi-Fi initiatives.
   
4. State Assistance Programs – Depending on where you live, your state may have its own broadband affordability program.

Conclusion

The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program is a big change for millions of households, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of affordable internet access.

By understanding why ACP is ending, what the impact will be, and what low-income internet options are available, you can take steps now to keep your home connected – without overspending.

The key is to act early: check with your internet service provider, explore Lifeline and other programs, and make a plan before ACP officially wraps up.

FAQs About the End of the Affordable Connectivity Program

• Why is ACP ending?
  ACP is ending because its initial funding from Congress has been exhausted, and no new funding was approved.
  
• What should ACP recipients do now?
  Look into alternative programs like the FCC’s Lifeline Program or discounted plans from your internet provider to keep costs low.
  
• How will ACP’s end affect internet bills?
  Most households will see their bills increase by the amount of the ACP discount they were receiving – typically up to $30 per month.