Affordability
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to help ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a program that provides monthly benefits to eligible households for internet access and computer devices. In Westmoreland County, more than 9,000 residents participate in the program.
What is the ACP Wind-Down?
Unfortunately, the ACP is projected to run out of funds in April 2024, causing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to initiate the ACP Wind-Down and stop accepting new applications as of February 8, 2024. Households that have already applied, been approved, and received ACP benefits before February 8, 2024, will continue to receive their ACP benefit until the funds run out, as long as they stay enrolled in the program
Wind-Down Resources from the FCC
Below is guidance based on the FCC’s ACP wind-down resources, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), and affiliates, which include important information and estimated dates.
FCC Materials on the ACP Wind-Down
- ACP Wind-Down Fact Sheet
- Frequently Asked Questions
- FCC ACP Website
- Contact the ACP Support Center
- Phone (877) 384-2575
- Email [email protected]
If you encounter any issues with your ACP provider, you can file a complaint here.
Key Facts
- ACP Enrollment Freeze
- The FCC enrollment freeze for the ACP program was on February 8, 2024. No new applications will be accepted, and benefits cannot be applied even if already approved.
- Status of ACP Funds
- ACP funds will end in April 2024. Households will receive the benefit until the end of the program or their withdrawal.
- Internet Service Provider Communication About ACP Plan Changes
- Providers are required to notify customers three times in writing
- Notice 1
- Notice 1 will inform households about the potential impact on their future bills if ACP is discontinued.
- Notice 2
- The FCC is expected to announce the last fully funded month of ACP mid-March.
- Notice 3
- Notice 3 will inform those with ACP benefits that final credits will be issued on the customer’s last bill or billing cycle.
- Notices 2 and 3 will contain the following details
- ACP discount will no longer be applied, and the date when the last bill with ACP discount will be issued.
- The household’s bill amount without ACP discount or a statement that the customer will be charged undiscounted rates per the ISP’s terms and conditions.
- Information will be provided on how households can change their service or opt out of continuing their service once the ACP program ends.
- Notice 1
- Providers are required to notify customers three times in writing
The FCC and USAC will increase awareness of the ACP Wind-Down and directly notify ACP households of the program’s end multiple times.
Find Free and Low-Cost Internet Plans, Computer Devices, and Digital Literacy Training
Many organizations offer free or low-cost internet access, computer devices, and digital skills training to meet the needs of households in unserved and underserved communities. We acknowledge that it can be challenging to determine which internet plans, computer devices, and digital inclusion services are best for an individual’s needs, as costs, eligibility, and service quality can vary significantly.
This guide aims to help people find free or low-cost internet options. Whether you’re a student seeking educational resources, a job seeker looking for employment opportunities, or want to stay connected with friends and family, this tool can assist you in learning about the available internet offers. It provides information to help you decide about your digital inclusion needs, from free Wi-Fi locations to low-priced internet plans.
Find Free or Low-Cost Example https://www.everyoneon.org/find-offers
To begin the process, please follow these steps:
- Step 1: Enter your zip code in the provided field to help us determine your location.
- Step 2: Check all the eligibility requirements for your household. Once you’ve selected, please scroll down to view the available offers.
- Step 3: After reviewing the offers, select the one that best fits your needs and follow the instructions to complete the signup process.
Additional Information
Please note that the advertised internet, computer devices, and digital training skills
may differ from the actual services provided due to various factors, such as the
availability of services in a particular area and other external factors.
Broadband technology used by service providers varies. Providers tend to offer the best
available technology, such as fiber or cable, where it is available. Providers may use
other technologies like fixed wireless internet in areas where these technologies are
unavailable.
Additional taxes and fees may apply to subscription plans and device purchases,
covering costs beyond the monthly payment. These could include one-time and
recurring costs, such as installation fees, taxes, and equipment rentals. Please read the
plan’s terms carefully, take note of any questions you may have, and contact the
organization for answers before signing up for a plan or purchasing a device or service.
Some plans may not be available everywhere. Use the “Sign Up” links to contact
providers to verify plan availability in your area.