What’s coming as a shock for many people is the fact that the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was only a temporary support opportunity. A lot of households thought that this support would be available similar to other government assistance programs like SNAP. However, that’s not the case. Federal funding for this support opportunity is coming to an end. Thankfully, that doesn’t mean the end of assistance to eligible households. Instead, households that have relied on ACP can benefit from opportunities that can provide similar perks like connectivity discounts and even free devices!

Assistance Opportunities for Bill Support (Without ACP)

Initiated in response to the COVID crisis, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) started with a funding of $3.2 billion in 2020, later escalating to over $14 billion. Its significant impact in lowering internet bills up to $30 monthly and offering a $100 discount for devices has been a substantial relief for many Americans. ACP’s collaboration with Lifeline further expanded its reach, including the opportunity for free devices. Despite its quick rise in popularity and an increasing number of beneficiaries, ACP now faces a lack of funds. With the FCC able to guarantee full funding only until April 2024, there’s uncertainty about future discount levels and provider reimbursements. This upcoming shift is a concern for households reliant on ACP, but fortunately, there are alternative support options in place to bridge the gap!

What Assistance is Available Instead of ACP

As the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) comes to an end, there’s a silver lining with numerous opportunities for continued assistance still available. Programs like Lifeline, backed by the FCC, are stepping in to offer bill discounts, ensuring connectivity support doesn’t stop altogether. Additionally, carriers including Safelink Wireless, AirTalk Wireless, and TruConnect are actively modifying their services in response to the conclusion of ACP. This shows their commitment to providing ongoing support. This available support from both programs and carriers means that households can still find valuable assistance even beyond the lifespan of ACP.

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline program offers a helping hand to low-income households across the U.S., providing discounts on phone and internet services. Eligibility is determined by household income, needing to be below 135% of the federal poverty level, and the program limits the discount to one service per household, usually at $9.25 per month.

Upon approval, consumers can select from various phone and internet companies that meet Lifeline’s strict standards on device usage, speed, and hot-spot features. Managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), Lifeline is more than just a discount program; it involves oversight of maintenance, data handling, and distribution of funds to support those in need.

Safelink Wireless

SafeLink’s ACP program presents an appealing choice for current ACP users with other providers, offering free monthly wireless service, unlimited talk and text, and data. For existing SafeLink customers, actions depend on your plan. Those enrolled in both Lifeline and ACP can remain at ease, as Lifeline benefits continue post-ACP. ACP-only users have the option to apply for Lifeline, while Lifeline-only clients need not take any further steps. Considering a switch to SafeLink? It’s a move that promises access to America’s top network, a complimentary smartphone, and the freedom of unlimited talk, text, and data.

AirTalk Wireless

For current AirTalk users, whether you’re enrolled in both ACP and Lifeline or just Lifeline, your services and benefits will continue without interruption. AirTalk ensures reliable coverage in over 50 states, maintaining seamless connectivity. Additionally, if you’re considering a switch from another ACP provider, AirTalk stands out as a viable option, offering attractive extras such as a free smartphone. This makes AirTalk an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable and enhanced telecommunication services post-ACP.

TruConnect

TruConnect is an accommodating carrier for both ACP recipients and those using Lifeline, providing a breadth of options to suit various needs. Joining TruConnect under the ACP program brings unlimited talk, text, and data usage, alongside an enticing bonus of two free months of Amazon Prime. Lifeline users receive even more benefits: up to 6 GB of high-speed data, unlimited talk and text, a complimentary SIM card, and endless international calls to select countries. This dual approach by TruConnect ensures that a wide range of users, whether on ACP or Lifeline, can find the support and services they need.

Summary

The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) may surprise many, but it’s not the end of assistance for households. Though ACP was temporary, options like Lifeline continue to offer support, providing phone and internet discounts to those in need. Carriers like SafeLink, AirTalk, and TruConnect are stepping in too, adapting their services to offer similar benefits. With free services, unlimited talk and text, and bonuses like no cost smartphones, these alternatives ensure continuous connectivity support. So, even as ACP wraps up, many other opportunities remain open for affordable and accessible communication.