Internet Subsidy Increased: Now $75/mo. for Residents in Challenging Connectivity Zones

 

To bridge the digital divide, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) introduced the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in early 2022. Its purpose was to ensure everyone can afford internet connections to meet their basic digital needs. With the ACP, eligible customers were able to get a $30 internet subsidy on their internet connection.

However, now, the FCC is increasing the internet subsidy to $75/mo. for households of tribal lands. But this puts pressure on internet providers to justify that a $30 internet subsidy would not be enough to cover the cost of the broadband network used to provide internet services in these areas.

About the Internet Assistance Programs

It is understood that the internet is imperative for the growth and development of society. The masses generally have convenient access to a variety of internet options. However, there are still a number of communities that do not have a decent internet connection. While infrastructure is a key determinant, income is another factor that plays its part. In light of this, there are different assistance programs to help people access the internet service they need.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The ACP is a state-run benefits program that aims to provide affordable internet plans to low-income households by partnering with various ISPs nationwide. Due to this program, high-speed internet connections are now more affordable for lower-income families. ACP internet funding makes the internet more accessible, empowering more people to get online.

Once you meet the ACP eligibility criteria, you will get a $30 discount automatically added to your monthly bill. For reference, this is what it will look like with different internet providers:

Spectrum Internet Subsidy

Here’s what Spectrum internet plans look like for eligible households and individuals. Learn more about Spectrum Affordable Connectivity Program here!

 

AT&T Internet Subsidy

Here’s what AT&T internet plans look like for eligible households and individuals.

 

Just like AT&T and Spectrum, you can benefit from Cox Internet subsidy, Kinetic by Windstream internet subsidy, and more. Just do your research and check if you are eligible.

Incentive for Tribal Lands

The tribal population is one of the most important in the country. Their roots trace back to the first inhabitants of the place we call home. To ensure they get access to the internet just as everyone else does, they qualify for a $75 monthly discount. This means if you reside on qualifying Tribal Lands, this federal internet subsidy could decrease your bill by up to $75/mo.

With this discount, you will be able to get subsidized internet connections for your homes. Plus, you can study online, run an online business, communicate with family and friends, and much more. With easy internet access, life becomes simple and hassle-free!

Is the Affordable Connectivity Program Good?

Well, yes. It comes as no surprise that the internet makes life easier and more convenient. Here is how low-income households in hard-to-serve and high-cost areas can benefit from easy internet access.

Ease of Communication

The internet paved the way for social media. Thanks to it, people were able to find friends, family, and old acquaintances—and the world became a smaller place. It allowed people to stay connected with their loved ones, create and scale businesses, and open new avenues for learning and growth. Stemming from this, we saw the evolution of instant messaging such as WhatsApp, iMessage, Slack, and Telegram among others. They allowed people to contact each other from all over the world using only an internet connection.

Living without these tools in the digital age sounds almost impossible. The convenience, speed, and utility that these tools provide are simply unmatched. Easy internet access unlocks this for everyone.

Workforce Development

Thanks to ACP, people from low-income households can add more value to their professional skillset. Using the internet, people can learn new skills, take advantage of remote working opportunities, and also create passive income sources. The possibilities are seemingly endless.

By adding more value for themselves, they can contribute to the workforce in a better way. A skilled individual is an asset that the right employer will cherish. This translates to financial growth for the communities involved.

Social Awareness

When given access to the internet, users are able to gather social awareness of the events going on around them. This could include social causes, community service, or learning opportunities. With so much knowledge and the ability to express, learning about the world around us becomes a breeze.

It becomes easier to raise a voice for a cause, be a part of a movement, or make a change. With one social media post, people all over the world can learn about something.

Quality Education

In a post-pandemic world, the internet and education have shown great promise. Remote learning allowed one professor to teach hundreds of people around the world at the same time. Universities have online degree programs making it easier for individuals to gain a worthwhile qualification.

When the internet becomes affordable, the doors for quality education swing open. This directly improves the conditions of people in low-income areas. Like dominos, each piece of the maze paves the way for the next.

Final Words

If you are living on a qualifying Tribal land, your household may be eligible for ACP’s enhanced internet subsidy, which gives up to a $75 discount on your monthly internet bill. All you need to do is check if you are eligible, provide the required documents, complete your application, and then choose your internet provider.

If you want to find affordable internet plans in your area, call 855-349-9328 to get advice and assistance from experts!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who qualifies for ACP internet subsidies?

Any household with income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline qualifies for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Or if a member of the household meets one of ACP’s eligibility criteria.

How do I apply for an ACP internet subsidy?

There are three ways to apply for ACP:

1. Online: Create your account and complete the ACP application
2. Mail: Print the ACP application, complete it, and then send it to ACP Support Center
3. Your ISP: Ask your ISP if it participates in ACP. If yes, it can help you apply.