Broadband is a necessity for work and school. But not everyone can afford it. The Affordable Connectivity Program is a FCC benefit program that helps financially struggling households get broadband internet. The benefit provides $30 towards the cost of your internet service if you are eligible. The benefit goes up to $75 if you live in qualifying Tribal lands. Each household can only get one monthly service discount for internet service. You can also get a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer through the program.
Eligibility for the Affordable Connectivity Program
According to the FCC, a household can qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program if its income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines OR if a member of the household meets one of the following criteria.
- Participates in assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline;
- Participates in Tribal specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations;
- Participates in the National 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; or
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income internet program.
How to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program
You can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program by filling out an application here. If you qualify for the benefit, your internet service provider will automatically reduce your monthly bill by $30.
Bottom Line
If you meet the income requirements, you can get a $30 subsidy for your internet service. The program also offers a one-time benefit of $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer.
