ACP Program Status 2026
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) officially concluded in June 2024 due to a lack of additional federal funding. While this specific program is inactive, millions of former participants are now transitioning to other assistance options.
What Happened to ACP?
The ACP was a landmark federal initiative that successfully closed the digital divide for over 23 million American households before its conclusion.
Program Impact
Why Did ACP End?
Funding Exhaustion
Congress did not approve the requested $7 billion in additional funding required to keep the program operational through 2024 and beyond.
Unprecedented Demand
The program proved far more popular than initial projections, resulting in the allocated $14.2 billion being spent faster than anticipated.
Legislative Gridlock
While there was bipartisan support for the program's goals, disagreements over federal spending levels prevented a deal for renewal.
ACP Program Timeline
A look back at the program's journey from launch to final transition.
📅 December 2021
ACP Launched
Succeeded the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) to provide permanent support.
📅 January 2022
10 Million Milestone
The program rapidly reached 10 million enrolled households within weeks of launch.
📅 April 2024
Final Full Month
The FCC provided the last month of full program benefits to over 23 million households.
📅 June 2024
Program Concluded
Official termination of the ACP benefit after funding was fully exhausted.
What ACP Provided
Understanding the original scope of the program helps participants find comparable alternatives today.
Former Program Benefits
- $30/Month Discount: A direct credit toward high-speed internet or mobile data plans.
- $75/Month (Tribal): Enhanced support for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
- $100 Device Credit: A one-time discount toward the purchase of a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.
- Unlimited Connectivity: Allowed millions of students and workers to remain connected during and after the pandemic.
Available Alternatives 2026
If you were an ACP participant, you can still access these active assistance programs.
Lifeline
ActiveThe long-standing federal program provides monthly phone and internet discounts.
- Up to $9.25 monthly benefit
- Up to $34.25 for Tribal land
- Free smartphones available
State Benefits
VariesSeveral states have launched their own digital inclusion funds to fill the ACP gap.
- State-specific qualifying rules
- Additional device discounts
- Local non-profit support
Carrier Plans
MemberMany low-income internet plans starting at $10-$15/month remain active.
- Discounted home internet
- No-contract mobile plans
- Private corporate initiatives
For Former ACP Participants
What happened to your service?
Most participants were transitioned to their provider's standard low-cost plans or lost their monthly credit entirely in June 2024. If you are seeing higher bills, you have several direct options to reduce costs:
- Apply for Lifeline: If you qualified for ACP via SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI, you almost certainly qualify for Lifeline.
- Contact Your Provider: Ask specifically if they have a "social tariff" or a "low-income internet plan" that escaped the ACP's closure.
- Switch to Free Service: Look for carriers that bundle Lifeline with their own corporate connectivity funds.
Will ACP Return?
Tracking potential future programs and legislative efforts to restore the benefit.
Current Legislative Status
As of 2026, while multiple bills have been introduced in Congress to revive or replace the ACP, none have yet passed into law. Advocacy groups and hundreds of local mayors continue to lobby for a permanent "Digital Equity" funding solution.
Legislative Efforts
Various "ACP Extension Acts" are being discussed to restore $7B-$30B in funding.
Advocacy Continues
Organizations like CWA and Benton Institute remain at the forefront of policy reform.