When Does the ACP Program End? - Complete Details

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a vital initiative launched to provide affordable internet access to eligible households, offering significant monthly discounts and one-time device discounts. The program officially ended on June 1, 2024, due to the lack of additional funding from Congress. This conclusion affects many households who relied on these discounts, prompting them to seek alternative assistance programs for affordable internet access. The termination underscores the ongoing need for accessible internet for education, work, and healthcare.

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Program Background

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was established to help low-income households afford broadband services. It provided up to $30 per month in discounts on internet bills, with up to $75 per month for those on qualifying Tribal lands. Additionally, the program offered a one-time discount of up to $100 for the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. This initiative aimed to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that more Americans had access to essential internet services for education, work, and healthcare.

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End Date and Reasons

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) officially ended on June 1, 2024. The primary reason for its conclusion was the lack of additional funding from Congress. This cessation means that households previously benefiting from the ACP will no longer receive the monthly discounts on internet services and device purchases. The end of the program highlights the critical need for ongoing support to ensure affordable internet access for low-income families, which is essential for education, work, and healthcare.

Notification and Transition

Households enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) received notifications about the program's end from their internet service providers and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). These notices included details about the termination date and information on how their service and billing would be affected. Households were advised to review these communications carefully and to contact their internet providers for more details. Additionally, they were encouraged to explore other available assistance programs to maintain affordable internet access.

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Impact on Households

The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has significant implications for enrolled households. Many will face increased internet costs without the monthly discounts and device purchase assistance previously provided by the ACP. This financial burden may lead to some households losing access to essential internet services, affecting their ability to engage in work, education, and healthcare activities. The termination of the ACP underscores the need for alternative support programs to ensure continued affordable internet access for low-income families.

Future Prospects

The future prospects of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) remain uncertain. There is potential for the program to be reinstated if Congress allocates additional funding. Advocacy groups and policymakers continue to discuss the importance of affordable internet access and are pushing for sustained or new initiatives to support low-income households. The ongoing need for accessible internet, especially for work, education, and healthcare, underscores the importance of finding long-term solutions to bridge the digital divide.

For more details, visit the FCC ACP page.