Do You Qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program? 10 Questions to Ask Yourself

The Internet is one of the greatest inventions of our time. However, not everyone has access to Internet services, especially not reliable ones. This can be a huge problem that can lead to generational inequalities.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was designed by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) for rural, tribal and low-income households. Replacing the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program, the ACP discount provides households with access to the Internet so they can have the same opportunities and access to online resources, entertainment, and more. Candidates who qualify can receive up to $30 per month for their broadband.

How to Know If You Qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program

Affordable Connectivity Program eligibility can make a big difference for people across tribal lands and rural areas, as well as those with low-income. The ACP gives those who need it a huge boost in connectivity. This can create a bridge across the digital divide that way too many people are still up against. However, determining whether you qualify can be complicated.

Eligibility and enrollment requirements are outlined on the FCC.gov website. If you aren’t sure whether you’re eligible for the ACP, here are some questions you can ask yourself to get started.

1. Are You on SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides eligible households with credit toward their monthly food budget.

As one of the largest federal government assistance programs, there are many recipients. If you are among them, the ACP can give you a hand when purchasing broadband service.

2. Do Your Kids Receive Free/Reduced Lunch at School?

Low-income households can submit applications to their local schools to find out whether they qualify for the reduced-price school lunch program.

Those students in the school breakfast program or any other food assistance partnerships are eligible for reduced broadband prices through the ACP.

3. Are You on Medicaid?

Medicaid is a healthcare program offered through federal and state partnerships to ensure those with low household incomes have access to adequate care.

Those who are enrolled in any Medicaid programs will have access to the ACP’s financial support.

4. Are You at or Below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines?

The Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides guidelines for determining poverty levels across the United States.

Those who are formally recognized under this doctrine can get broadband funding through the ACP.

5. Did You Receive a Federal Pell Grant for the Current Award Year?

Undergraduate students who have yet to receive a bachelor’s or post-graduate degree and demonstrate financial need can be awarded a Federal Pell Grant to help with their tuition.

ACP funding is also available to students who have received the Pell Grant within the current award year.

6. Do You Receive Housing Vouchers?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, previously known as Section 8, provides eligible families with housing assistance for rent payments.

Individuals enrolled in federal public housing assistance will be able to access ACP benefits for their broadband services.

7. Do You Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides blind or disabled individuals with monthly payments for basic living expenses.

SSI recipients will be able to take advantage of the ACP’s affordable broadband options to improve their connectivity.

8. Are You on WIC?

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is meant to maintain healthy living standards for women, infants and children aged five and under.

ACP benefits will be accessible to individuals enrolled in WIC who need better Internet connectivity.

9. Do You Receive a Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits?

Veterans and their families are protected under an umbrella of benefit programs.

Veterans and survivors who need access to funding for better Internet may qualify for ACP funding.

10. Do You Live on Qualifying Tribal lands?

Individuals who receive any of the above benefits and live on qualifying tribal lands are eligible for the program.

This includes aid from the Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, income-based Tribal Head Start services and Affordable Housing Programs for American Indians, Alaska Natives or Native Hawaiians.

Get Connected with SmartMove

If you’re eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you need to know your options when it comes to Internet service providers. At SmartMove, we’re transforming how consumers get connected.

We’ll search for participating providers so you can find the service that fits your needs and budget.

Choose SmartMove and get connected with a lower Internet bill. Discover for yourself how SmartMove can find you the best Internet service plan. Call Now!