connectivity
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What to Consider When Applying to the Affordable Connectivity Program

Internet access is crucial to work, school, healthcare and more. The Affordable Connectivity Program helps eligible households pay for broadband service and devices. Check your eligibility with the National Verifier and apply. One discount per household. It is limited to the Internet only and doesn’t cover landline phones. Multiple internet providers are participating in the program.

Eligibility

You can get up to $30 off your monthly internet access with a partnering provider if you are an eligible citizen. You can also get a discount on an internet-connected item. The ACP is replacing the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB). You might be eligible for the ACP if your household’s income is less than 200 percent of the federal poverty limit.

On the ACP website, you can check your eligibility by providing your name, birthdate, and the last four digits of your social security number. The site will then display a confirmation that you qualify. You can also apply by visiting online through providers like Assist Wireless and completing an application. You can also use the ACP website to see your eligibility for other services.

The ACP site allows you to browse a list of qualifying programs, including the federal Lifeline program that makes phone and broadband internet service more affordable for low-income households. You can also check your eligibility for the state’s free phone program.

Requirements

The ACP ensures that all Americans can afford the connectivity they need for work, school, and health care in our ever-changing world. The program offers a one-time computer or tablet discount and a monthly credit per household for internet service and equipment.

Families need to make the required income to participate in the program. You can apply online through the FCC’s National Verifier website or call your service provider, and they will help you with the process. You will need to provide your name, address, phone number and email address, as well as information about the members of your household, their income, and whether they are part of a public assistance program.

Please note that if you are eligible for the ACP and Lifeline, your Lifeline benefit will take precedence over your ACP benefits. If you choose to apply for the ACP through the National Verifier website, you must wait 2 to 3 minutes before a screen will appear displaying your APPLICATION ID NUMBER. Write this down and save it when you sign up for broadband service.

Documents

The Federal Affordable Connectivity Program is a $14 billion program that replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit and helps households pay for internet service. It provides a monthly credit of up to $30 for services and devices or $75 for those on Tribal land. It is limited to one credit per eligible household and is only available through participating internet providers.

Once the application is approved, the participant will receive an application ID number to be presented to the internet service provider when signing up for internet service. The Internet service provider will then discount the household’s monthly bill.

Households must submit documents that prove their income and address. Pay stubs, bank statements, and utility bills are among the most typical paperwork. Those who do not have any of these documents can provide proof of income and residency through another source, such as a job application, utility bill, or tax return.

The Internet service provider may do a credit check, but the results of this check cannot be used to prevent a household from enrolling in the program. The Internet service provider will also ask for a copy of the Household Worksheet from the Federal Affordable Connectivity Program to determine whether or not the household is considered a single or joint.

A single household is defined as two or more people living at the same address and sharing all their money, expenses, and debts. A common household is defined as two or more people living together who each contribute to the cost of their shared residence.

How to Apply

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new government program that helps low-income households with their monthly Internet bill.  First, you must know whether your household can receive this benefit. You can determine if your income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

You can also use an online tool to check your eligibility. You must also provide proof of your identity and home address. You can provide a utility bill, pay stub, or other documents. You can apply for the ACP by visiting a participating internet provider and completing an online application. It is available in English and Spanish; you can complete it on your computer or smartphone.

Once you’ve completed the application, you must sign up for a service plan and a device. If you’re already enrolled in the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), you can transfer to the ACP to continue receiving your EBB credit. If you’re not yet registered in EBB, you can still apply to the ACP but must submit more documentation.

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