The ACP Has Ended — Here's What to Do Now
What happened to the Affordable Connectivity Program, and how Lifeline can still help your household.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has ended. It stopped taking new enrollments in February 2024 and provided its last full monthly benefit in May 2024 after Congress did not renew funding. The Lifeline program was not affected and is still available.
What the ACP was
The ACP was a temporary FCC program that provided up to $30 per month toward internet service (up to $75 on Tribal lands) and a one-time device discount. It replaced the pandemic-era Emergency Broadband Benefit.
Monthly benefit comparison
ACP is no longer available; Lifeline is.
Sources: FCC ACP and Lifeline program rules.
What to do now
- Check Lifeline eligibility. Lifeline's rules are stricter than the ACP's — income at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines instead of 200%. Use our eligibility checker.
- Know which ACP programs don't carry over. WIC, free and reduced-price school lunch, and Pell Grants qualified you for the ACP but not for federal Lifeline. See our WIC and school lunch pages.
- Check your state. Some states, like California, run programs with broader rules.
- Apply for Lifeline with Free Link Wireless.
FAQs
Is the ACP coming back?
As of our last update, Congress has not restored ACP funding. We'll update this page if that changes.
I had ACP — do I automatically get Lifeline?
No. Lifeline is a separate program. You must meet Lifeline eligibility rules and enroll or confirm enrollment.
Can I keep the device I got through ACP?
Yes. Devices purchased with the ACP discount belong to you and can often be used with Lifeline service. See Bring Your Own Phone.
Ready to get your Free Government Phone?
Check eligibility in about two minutes, then apply online. No contracts, no credit checks.