ACP/Lifeline

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline are federally funded programs from the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and are managed by the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC). These programs make cell phone and internet services more affordable for those who have an annual income below a certain threshold and/or rely on assistance from other government assistance programs.

What Is The ACP?

The ACP lowers monthly broadband costs by up to $30 (or up to $75 for those living in Tribal lands) for qualifying individuals. This also comes with a one-time $100 discount on a device used for accessing the internet, such as a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. Depending on the service provider, you may have to cover anywhere between $10 and $50 of the device you’re getting the discount on.

This program is not to be confused with EBB. In fact, the ACP is a completely different program that serves as the replacement for EBB.

Who Qualifies For The ACP?

You can qualify through income or if a member of your household receives government assistance through programs such as Social Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA).

Qualifying income is based on the household relative to the number of members in the household. It starts at $29,160 for one person and increases by $10,280 per additional household member (e.g., $39,440 for a household of two, $49,720 for a household of three, and so on).

What Is Lifeline?

Lifeline is a program that lowers monthly costs for cell phone, internet, and bundled services by $9.25 (or up to $34.25 for those living in Tribal lands). It is possible to have both ACP and Lifeline programs.

If you qualify for Lifeline or the ACP, Medicare Professionals can provide you with a free Android smartphone with free wireless internet services.

Who Qualifies for Lifeline?

Like the ACP, Lifeline eligibility is determined by income or whether a household member receives government assistance via programs like Medicaid, SSI, or FPHA.

The income requirements for Lifeline are different from those for the ACP. For Lifeline, the qualifying annual income starts at $19,683 and increases by $6,939 per additional household member (e.g., $26,622 for a household of two, $33,561 for a household of three, and so on).

Get Plans That Fit Your Budget

If you’re in the New York area and you qualify for the ACP or Lifeline, and the differences in ACP vs Lifeline, we’ll help you secure these programs to make your monthly phone and internet expenses lower than before. We’re just one call away. Call us today at (914) 620-7903.

We are committed to helping you realize your health and financial goals by making you aware of all your options so that you can make the best choice for yourself and your family.

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