The Internet is often called the “information highway” connecting you to stores, recipes, and more. Now there is a program to assist eligible households with the monthly cost of an Internet connection. If you are a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), this information is for you. Whether you receive $200 or $23 worth of SNAP benefits, you may be eligible for help with internet costs.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that helps connect families and households to more affordable internet service. This benefit provides up to $30 per month discount for internet service; up to $75 per month discount for households on qualifying Tribal lands; and a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet through a participating provider.
There are two ways to qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). First, households with income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines are eligible. Households who have a member that meets at least one of the following criteria are also eligible:- Participate in any of the following assistance programs: SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline.
- Participates in any of the following Tribal specific programs: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Tribal Head Start (income-based).
- Participates in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision.
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider's existing low-income internet program.
